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Rh none in his opinion of the savages since you left us, David.” Nathan Lindall smiled  dryly.

“But how came he to accompany you, father? I had not thought ever to see him bearing a musket and going a-soldiering!”

“An I mistake not, lad, he is as surprised to find himself where he is as you or I! He has no liking for this work, but came out of  love for you and devotion to me, David. I think could he have had his way he would  have marched alone into the Wachoosett  country so soon as you were stolen, and  sought your rescue! If, as I believe, it be the rarest courage to do what you fear to do,  then is Obid the bravest man I know. He is convinced beyond all argument that he is  doomed to be scalped and so spends much  time each day in the nice arrangement of  his hair. But now tell me of how affairs stand at Brookfield. Has this Sagamore-John indeed joined up with Philip, as ’tis rumored?”

“Of him I have heard naught, father, but I believe that all the Nipmucks in that part  of the country have gathered to Philip’s aid  or will do so shortly unless they be taught  a speedy lesson.”