"You lads are looked upon in the settlement only as boys, and yet already
have two of your number shown that they could stand steady, facing the
gravest danger without flinching. Now is the time when you may prove
yourselves men, as I believe you are in courage and ability. If you are
called upon to confront the enemy, remember that there is nothing more
glorious than to die in defence of your homes and your country. There is
no way by which you can earn more honor than to have it said of you, 'He
gave up his life for those he loved.' Better be shot down at the opening
of an action, than to live through it in such a manner that your neighbors
can point the finger of scorn at you, saying, 'There goes a coward!'"

The old man ceased speaking abruptly, turned about without word or sign,
and plunged into the thicket, Jacob and I following close at his heels.




Chapter IV.

On the Oriskany



As we three plodded wearily on day after day, all our senses quickened by
knowledge of the many dangers with which we were surrounded, it seemed to
me that we had begun our work in behalf of the Cause backward--as if this
going to and fro over the same ground was a wilful waste of time when
every hour was so precious.

I said to myself again and again, that if General Herkimer really needed