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48 “’Tis as I have told all along,” declared Obid, his thin voice more than ever like a  rusted wheel in his excitement. “None is safe in his bed so long as these naked murderers be allowed to dwell in the same country ! Think you I shall stay here to have my scalp lifted? I give you notice, Master Lindall, that so soon as the porridge be cooked in the morning I take my departure. The dear Lord knows that ’tis little enough hair  I have left at best, and that little I would  keep, an it please Him! To-morrow morning, Master Lindall! Say not that I failed to give you full notice.”

“Be quiet a moment,” replied the master calmly. “I must think what best to do. Master Vernham should be acquainted with this so soon as may be, for if it prove true  that this Wachoosett sachem means mischief  ’tis Master Vernham chat, being nigher, they  will first assail. Methinks I had best go over there at once and give him warning. You will go with me, Obid? ”

Nathan Lindall’s eyes twinkled. Obid turned a dour face toward him. “Not I, in sooth, master! The forest has no liking for me since I have heard David’s tale.”

“Then David shall come and you shall re-