The Oak-Openings (Volume 1-2) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1852. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... passed away, and by turning a point, the fugitives were effectually concealed from all who did not actually approach the river at that particular point. Here it was, however, that the swamp commenced, and the ground being wet and difficult, no one would be likely to do this. The stream flowed through this swamp, having a dense wood on each side, though one of no great extent. The reach, moreover, was short, making a completely sheltered haven of the Kalamazoo, within its limits. Once in this wooded reach, Peter tossed an arm, and assumed an air of greater security. He felt infinitely relieved, and knew that they were safe, for a time, unless some wanderer should have taken to the swamp, a most improbable thing of itself. When high enough, he led the way across the stream, and entering below, he soon had all the canoes in their place of concealment. "Dis good place," observed the great chief, as soon as all were fast; "bess take care, dough. Bess not make track too much on land; Injin got sharp eye, and see ebbery t'ing. Now, I go and talk wid chief. Come back by-'emby. You stay here. Good-bye." "Stop, Peter--one word before we part. If you see Parson Amen, or the corporal, it might be well to tell them where we are to be found. They would be glad to know." Peter looked grave; even sad. He did not answer for fully a minute. When he did, it was in a low, suppressed voice, such as one is apt to use when there is a weight felt on his mind. "Nebber know any t'ing ag'in," returned the chiei "Both dem pale-face dead." "Dead " echoed all within hearing. "Juss so; Injin kill him. Mean to kill you, too--dat why I run away. Saw medicine-priest die. What you t'ink, Blossom?--What you t'ink, Bourdon?--Dat man die asking Great Spirit to do good to Injin " "I can beli...