such services as we could render, it would have been better had we
remained with him, rather than spend so many days and be forced to such
severe labor as was required for the march to Cherry Valley and back.

We had accomplished nothing of importance by going home. Colonel Campbell
knew even more regarding Brant's movements than we could tell him, and it
was by no means necessary he should be informed immediately as to the
result of General Herkimer's interview with the Mohawk sachem.

As the days passed, and our every effort was needed to enable us to
advance without absolutely running into the arms of the savages, for it
seemed as if they were everywhere in the wilderness, Jacob became more
resigned, or so it appeared, since he ceased to insist that this or that
impracticable move be made. I did not suppose he no longer mourned for his
father, but believed and hoped he had come to understand we could not do
anything toward effecting a rescue until all the circumstances were
favorable.

One day's march was much like another, and many passed before we were with
General Herkimer again. We always camped in a thicket, taking good care
not to leave a trail leading up to the place, and in this last task we did
not consider the time spent as wasted, for on every hand could be seen
signs of the enemy, therefore the utmost precaution was needed.

All of us gave ourselves over to slumber as soon as we were stretched out
on the ground, for however careful a watch might have been kept, it would
not have availed if the enemy was bent on surprising us.

In the early light of the new day either Jacob or I went out in search of
small game, for it goes without saying that we could not have brought from