The moon lighted up the whole scene. There was no appearance of
tumult or excitement. The sound of the drum and the whooping of the
warriors were not accompanied by any demonstration of activity by
those within the community. Probably some war party or hunting
party had returned with spoil, and they were celebrating the event
by a banquet and a dance.

The soldiers were bidden to move onward, but very cautiously. It
was necessary that they should make the descent of the rugged path
before the moon set, and it was abundantly evident that the Indians
had at present no idea of the presence of the enemy.

Slowly and cautiously the soldiers crept down the steep path, doing
everything possible to avoid a noise; but suddenly the sound of a
peculiar whistle sounded from somewhere below, and there were a
movement and a thrill of dismay through all the ranks; for surely
it was a signal of discovery!

Only Fritz was undismayed, and gave vent to a silent laugh.

"That is not an alarm," he whispered to the Colonel; "it is but a
young chief signalling to some squaw. But the place is not asleep
yet; if we go much nearer we shall be seen. Those bushes would give
us cover till all is quiet. We could crouch there and rest, and
when the time has come spring out upon the village unawares."

The Colonel approved the plan, and the weary men were glad enough
of the rest before the battle should begin. All were full of hope
and ardour; but in spite of that, most of them fell asleep crouched