largely the result of a nomadic life and tribal strife, hence, their
duplicity. Superstition influences them greatly, as it does all savage
races. In one respect they are at least superior to some of our own
people--I refer to their treatment of their children. Their
lovingkindness is pathetic. Contact with civilization, as you may
discover, develops at first all their bad qualities, for they are apt
imitators, so when the pagan Indian meets a trader without a
conscience--and there are some, you know--why, he is not slow to adopt
the bad Christian's methods."

[Illustration: BROCK'S COCKED HAT]




CHAPTER XI.

LITTLE YORK, NIAGARA, AMHERSTBURG.


In common with most great men, Brock found distraction in trifles. For
weeks prior to leaving Quebec all kinds of gayety prevailed. A visit
from Governor Gore of Upper Canada, and the arrival of the fleet from
Guernsey and two frigates from Portsmouth, gave a fillip to society.
Races, water-parties and country picnics were the order of the day. Our
hero's contribution consisted of a banquet and grand ball. He had his
own troubles, however, that even the versatile Dobson could not
overcome, and he roundly scolded his brother Irving for not sending him
a new cocked hat.[2]