ping a look-out on every side; while
several of his men were acting as scouts, so as to give us timely notice
of danger.

At night we encamped as before, keeping a strict watch; while the
prisoner was bound in a way which would have rendered it difficult for
him to escape even had he possessed strength enough to run off. Our camp
being pitched in a sheltered position, we lighted a fire, which even at
that time of the year was pleasant, if not absolutely necessary; and
there was but slight risk of its position betraying our presence to any
passing foe.

[Illustration: WINNEMAK'S CAMP.]

The next morning we proceeded as before; and I was thankful when at
length, just as evening was approaching, the chief told me that we were
not far from the camp. I looked out eagerly ahead for the first sight of
it, for I hoped to meet Clarice and Uncle Jeff there, and to have my
anxiety at last set at rest.

The sun was just tinging the southern side of the snowy mountains on our
left, ere it sank below them, when I caught sight of the wigwams of the
Kaskaskias, on the slopes of a pine-covered hill. The camp as we drew
near did not present a very attractive appearance. The wigwams were such
as are only used in summer--a few poles, covered with buffalo hides, or
deer skins, more to afford shelter from the heat of the sun, or from a
downfall of rain, than protection from the cold. A number of squaws were
seated about, some inside the tents nursing pappooses, others tending
large pots of broth boiling over fires. A few braves were standing
about, and others looking after the horses of the tribe, which they had
apparently just driven in from pasture; while a pack of dogs, the most
ill-favoured of mongrels ever seen, were squatted about, watching for
the offal which might be thrown to them, or ready to rush in and seize
any of the meat which might for a moment be left unguarded.

The women, continued at their various employments, but the braves, as we
approached, advanced to meet us. The chief halted and addressed them,
but I could not follow him. I judged, however, by the intonations of his
voice, that he was telling them of his defeat, and the loss of so many
of their people. Meantime, I was looking about eagerly for signs of
Clarice, Uncle Jeff, and Manley, but nowhere could I see any. Still, I
knew it would be contrary to Indian etiquette to interrupt the chief by
inquiring for them.

On hearing of the various disasters which had