Page:The last of the Mohicans (1826 Volume 3).djvu/71

 racter! the animal itself might have been shamed by the representation."

"Lord, major," returned the flattered woodsman, "I should be but a poor scholar, for one who has studied so long in the wilderness, did I not know how to set forth the movements and natur of such a beast! Had it been now a catomount, or even a full sized painter, I would have embellished a performance for you worth regarding! But it is no such marvellous feat to exhibit the feats of so dull a beast; though, for that matter too, a bear may be over acted! Yes, yes; it is not every imitator that knows natur may be outdone easier than she is equalled. But all our work is yet before us! where is the gentle one?"

"Heaven knows; I have examined every lodge in the village without discovering the slightest trace of her presence in the tribe."

"You heard what the singer said, as he left us—'she is at hand, and expects you.' "

"I have been compelled to believe he alluded to this unhappy woman."

"The simpleton was frightened, and