scalp and burn, and the French scarcely raise a protest. It is said
that they speak with disgust of the barbarities of these savage
allies, but they do little or nothing to check them. That is why my
wrath often rises higher against the French than against the
Indians themselves. They know no better; but for white man to
deliver white man into their hands--that is what makes my blood
boil!"

The fire leaped up in Charles's eyes, and he had his tale to tell,
at hearing of which the Rogerses set their teeth and muttered
curses not loud but deep.

"Now will I tell you what we started forth to do," said the leader
of the band. "We have been busy all winter. Last month we skated
down the lake when it was clear of snow, passed Ticonderoga all
unseen, intercepted some sledges of provisions, and carried them
and their drivers to our fort. Now we are bent upon a longer
journey. We want to reach Crown Point, and make a plan of the works
for our brave Commander Winslow. We were a part of the way on our
route, when we fell in with Indians conveying provisions to the
French on these sledges. We took them from them and dispersed the
crew; but they must have scattered and got help, and they set upon
us, as you have seen. Now that we have three wounded and two
somewhat bruised and shaken, I am thinking it would be better to
send them back, with a few sound men as escort--for the provisions
will be welcome at the fort, which is not too well victualled--whilst
the rest of us push on, and see if we can accomplish our errand. Now
that we are thus reinforced, we shall be strong enough to do this."

The eyes of Stark and Fritz sparkled at the prospect.