which he had left the Delaware and the manner in which the canoe
had been obtained.

When those who had been left behind had heard the explanations of
Jasper, a profound stillness reigned among them, each listening
intently in the vain hope of catching some clue to the result
of the fearful struggle that had just taken place, if it were not
still going on in the water. Nothing was audible beyond the steady
roar of the rushing river; it being a part of the policy of their
enemies on the opposite shore to observe the most deathlike stillness.

"Take this paddle, Jasper," said Pathfinder calmly, though the
listeners thought his voice sounded more melancholy than usual,
"and follow with your own canoe. It is unsafe for us to remain
here longer."

"But the Serpent?"

"The Great Sarpent is in the hands of his own Deity, and will live
or die, according to the intentions of Providence. We can do him
no good, and may risk too much by remaining here in idleness, like
women talking over their distresses. This darkness is very precious."

A loud, long, piercing yell came from the shore, and cut short the
words of the guide.

"What is the meaning of that uproar, Master Pathfinder?" demanded
Cap. "It sounds more like the outcries of devils than anything
that can come from the throats of Christians and men."