HILDE HAROLD.

When Arundel awoke after that fierce night, Sassacus had already left
his couch and was preparing their breakfast. The young man stepped to
the door-way of the lodge, and looked out upon the sylvan scene.

Nothing to remind of what had occurred was visible. A shower had
fallen at daylight, and obliterated all traces of violence. The rays
of the early sun were shining in the rain drops glistening on the
leaves or falling in showers to the ground, as the branches were
agitated by the breeze, or shaken by a bird flying from one perch to
another. No sounds other than those made by the feathered musicians,
or the rattling drops, disturbed the tranquillity of the forest. After
gazing round a few moments, while the contrast betwixt the serenity of
Nature and the passions of man forced itself on his mind, he threw
himself down by his red friend, and together they shared the morning
repast. The curiosity of Arundel induced him to inquire, what had
become of the Indians, who had rendered so timely a service the night
before.

"The breath of Sassacus," replied the chief, "called them out of the
ground, and his breath bade them depart. My brother will forget what
he saw in the dark. It will be to him like a dream."

Arundel understood by this, that he was desired to be silent
respecting what had happened, and indeed no caution was necessary. He,
therefore, said, in answer:

"None shall know the exploits of Sassacus till he tells them himself."

"If Soog-u-gest asks, my brother may tell. He and Sassacus lie under
one skin."

Thus betrayed itself the simple vanity of the savage, who, with all
his caution, was unwilling that his prowess should remain concealed;
yet preferred its announcement from some tongue other than his own. It
was the first intimation to Arundel that the Knight and chief were
acquainted, though Sassacus had once before spoken of Sir Christopher.
But the words of the Pequot implied more, viz: that an intimacy
existed between them, and this stimulated his curiosity. The anxiety
of Sir Christopher that the Indian should be warned of the danger
which threatened him, was now explained. They were friends, but why
should the Knight conceal the fact?

"Has my brother been long acquainted with Soog-u-gest," inquired
Arundel.

"Ne-ka-tunch nee-zusts," (six moons), replied the Indian, holding up
six fingers.

"Will the chief tell me what he pleases about him?" said the young
man, whose ingenuou