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Cooper, James Fenimore, 1789-1851

"Oak Openings"

Le Bourdon had
brought the two canoes together; and the Chippewa, at his request,
now translated such parts of the discourse of their enemies as he
deemed worthy of communicating to the females.
"Say, now, nobody dere!" commenced the Indian, coolly. "T'ink he no
great way off--mean to look for him--t'ink dog uneasy--won'er why
dog so uneasy."
"Them dogs are very likely to scent us here in the canoes, we are so
near them," whispered le Bourdon.
"S'pose he do, can't catch us," coolly answered the Chippewa--
"beside, shoot him, don't take care--bad for dog to chase warrior
too much."
"There is one speaking now, who seems to have authority."
"Yes--he chief--know he voice--hear him too often--he mean to put
Pigeonswing to torture. Well, let him catch Pigeonswing fust--swift
bird do that, eh?"
"But what says he?--it may be of importance to learn what the chief
says, just now."
"Who care what he say--can't do nuttin'--if get good chance, take
HIS scalp, too."
"Aye, that I dare say--but he is speaking earnestly and in a low
voice; listen, and let us know what he says. I do not well
understand at this distance."
The Chippewa complied, and maintained an attentive silence until the
chief ceased to speak.


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