what had
happened. He told us that he had thought of offering to accompany the
chief back to his home, that he might have an opportunity of seeing
Indian customs and manners.

"Any romantic opinions you might have entertained on the subject would
quickly have been dispelled," observed the judge. "I would advise you,
my friend, to keep out of their way, and live among civilised people."

Rochford, who made no answer, probably considered the judge prejudiced
against the Redskins.

Our kind host pressed us so warmly to remain another day, that we
consented. He promised that he would arrange for our conveyance back by
water the following morning, when Lejoillie and Rochford agreed to
accompany us.

In the afternoon Captain Norton returned. On hearing of the visit of
the chief, whose appearance was described to him, he exclaimed--

"Why, he is no other than Powell, or Oceola, as the Indians call him,
their great leader, and the most dangerous person in the country. I
believe that no Indian bears a more deadly hatred to the Palefaces, as
he calls us, than does that man. Notwithstanding all his promises, I
would not trust him. So violent was his behaviour while the other
chiefs were making the treaty at Payne's Landing, that General Thompson
caused him to be seized and carried off in irons, though he managed to
slip out of them, and to make his escape. He has since sent word that
he would agree to the treaty; but those who know him best mistrust him
most. What could have induced him to run the risk of coming to this
settlement, I cannot say; probably he supposed no one here was
acquainted with him, and evidently had some object in view."

"At all events, he saved my life when his countrymen were threatening to
take it," observed Rochford, stepping forward; "and I am deeply indebted
to him."

"My dear, sir, he may have had an object in saving your life; and
knowing you were a British subject, he would not hate you as he does
Americans. Am I wrong in supposing that you are an Irishman, though I
have not the pleasure of knowing your name?"

"Maulins Rochford," said my friend, bowing to the captain; "may I ask
yours?"

"Roger Norton, of the United States army. I am familiar with your name,
having some relatives of the same in the old country. May I ask if you
belong to the Rochfords of Killmallan?"

"Mr. Rochford of Killmallan is my uncle," answered Maulins.

"Then we may hail each other as cousins," said