had ceased; and the several chiefs, with the exception
of their leader and two others, were now seen quitting
the bomb-proof to join their respective tribes. One of
those who remained, sprang upon an elevated fragment of
the ruin, and uttered a prolonged cry, the purport of
which,--and it was fully understood from its peculiar
nature,--was to claim attention from the fort. He then
received from the hands of the other chief a long spear,
to the end of which was attached a piece of white linen.
This he waved several times above his head; then stuck
the barb of the spear firmly into the projecting fragment.
Quitting his elevated station, he next stood at the side
of the Ottawa chief, who had already assumed the air and
attitude of one waiting to observe in what manner his
signal would be received.

"A flag of truce in all its bearings, by Jupiter!" remarked
Captain Erskine. "Ponteac seems to have acquired a few
lessons since we first met."

"This is evidently the suggestion of some European,"
observed Major Blackwater; "for how should he understand
any thing of the nature of a white flag? Some of those
vile spies have put him up to this."

"True enough, Blackwater; and they appear to have found
an intelligent pupil," observed Captain Wentworth. "I
was curious to know how he would make the attempt to
approach us; but certainly never once dreamt of his having
recourse to so civilised a method. Their plot works well,