Page:The last of the Mohicans (1826 Volume 3).djvu/94

 boasted a descent from men that knew no cross of blood. Accordingly, he trusted to the withes and ligaments with which he had bound his captives, and pursued his way directly towards the centre of the lodges.

As he approached the buildings, his steps became more deliberate, and his vigilant eye suffered no sign whether friendly or hostile, to escape him. A neglected hut was a little in advance of the others, and appeared as though it had been deserted when half completed—most probably on account of failing in some of the more important requisites; such as of wood or water. A faint light glimmered through its cracks, however, and announced, that notwithstanding its imperfect structure, it was not now without a tenant. Thither, then, the scout proceeded, like a prudent general, who was about to feel the advanced positions of his enemy, before he hazarded his main attack.

Throwing himself into a suitable posture for the beast he represented, Hawk-eye crawled to a little opening, where he might