The old soldier returned from his interview with General Herkimer at about
the same time our newly made friend finished his recital of what had been
done in and around Johnson Hall, and, observing the look of satisfaction
on the sergeant's face, I understood, even before he spoke, that his
mission had been, at least in a certain degree, successful.

"It is all right, lads," he said, seating himself by my side. "The general
will do what he can; but whether that be much or little depends upon the
way in which Thayendanega receives him."

"Are we to march with this command to the village?" Jacob asked.

"Ay, an' remain with it so long as suits our purpose."

It seemed to me we could not in reason ask for anything more; that we
were now in the best possible position to learn what Brant's purpose was,
and at the same time to aid Peter Sitz, therefore I laid down to rest,
contented in mind as I was wearied in body; but poor Jacob, feeling as if
he might in some way wrong his father by seeking repose, paced to and fro
near the camp-fire until my eyes were closed in slumber.

The soldiers were astir at an early hour next morning; but before the
column could be set in motion an Indian strode gravely into the encampment
waving a bit of white cloth, and, on being questioned by the sentinels,
announced himself as a messenger sent by Thayendanega with words to
General Herkimer.

The fact of his early arrival was sufficient to prove that the wily sachem
had known of the movements of the soldiers for a certain length of time,
--perhaps several days,--and this might explain why his march from Cherry