Page:The last of the Mohicans (1826 Volume 1).djvu/91

 through the trees like any frightened deer."

"It will not do. He may be innocent, and I dislike the act. Though, if I felt confident of his treachery"—

" 'Tis a safe thing to calculate on the knavery of an Iroquois," said the scout, throwing his rifle forward, by a sort of instinctive movement.

"Hold!" interrupted Heyward; "it will not do we—must think of some other scheme;—and yet, I have much reason to believe the rascal has deceived me."

The hunter, who had already abandoned his intention to maim the runner, at the orders of his superior, mused a moment, and then made a gesture, which instantly brought his two red companions to his side. They spoke together earnestly in the Delaware language, though in an under tone, and by the gestures of the white man, which were frequently directed towards the top of the sapling, it was evident he pointed out the situation of their hidden enemy. His companions were not long in comprehending his wishes, and lay-