Finally,
however, she succeeded with them, and what appeared at one time to
threaten a serious termination was at length settled to the satisfaction
of all parties.

We promised, as soon as we could obtain them, presents of tobacco,
blankets, and beads for the squaws, and some arms and ammunition for the
braves, on condition that they would always use them in our service.

We were, of course, very eager to hear how Uncle Jeff had escaped. I
noticed, besides, that he looked fatigued and careworn, and had
evidently suffered much.

"I had a narrow escape from my pursuers, on leaving the farm," he said,
"for more than one bullet whistled close to my ears, while two entered
the sides of my brave Jack--who bore me, notwithstanding, for many a
mile, until I had left my enemies far behind. Then my gallant steed
sank down and died. As I was making my way northward on foot, I caught
sight of several parties of Arrapahas. This made me feel very anxious
on account of Clarice and her escort, who, I feared, might have fallen
into their hands. I myself had some difficulty in avoiding them, and at
length I found it necessary to take to the mountains, where, at the same
time, I should have a better chance of killing game. Unfortunately, for
the first time in my life I became very ill, and had to remain for
several days in a cave, hardly able to crawl out and get a draught of
water from a spring hard by. Recovering, I moved on again; but having
exhausted the few cartridges I possessed, I was reduced to hard straits
for food.

"I was making my way on when I heard a shot fired; and as I approached
the spot, I saw a young Indian girl who had just killed a small deer.
Her quick eye caught sight of me at the same moment. I made signs to
her that I was desperately hungry, and she in turn pointed to the deer;
so, as she appeared in no way alarmed at seeing me, I at once went up to
her. After exchanging a few words, it occurred to me that she must be
the daughter of our friend Winnemak; and on my asking her, she said that
such was the case. I then informed her who I was; upon which she
immediately cut up the deer, lighted a fire, and prepared such a meal as
I had not enjoyed for many a day. I soon felt my strength wonderfully
restored, and my spirits rose when she told me that Clarice and you were
safe. We accordingly at once set off for the camp, and I am thankful
that we arrived in time to settle matters amicably with our frie