s utmost speed. And well did the most famous runner of
the Mohawks maintain that day the fame that he had won in so many a
hard-contested race. He sprang forth with the strength and activity of
the wild stag, and scarcely a blow from the multitude alighted upon his
shoulders. When he had passed unharmed through the whole line, he would
have succeeded in making his escape altogether, had not several Oneidas,
posted for that purpose, flung themselves upon him, and securely
pinioned his limbs. Thus firmly bound, the Mohawk was led to the fatal
stake, and secured with thongs to the upright posts, while large bundles
of dried saplings were heaped around him by his persecutors. The whole
party of the Oneidas then assembled around him in a circle, to enjoy his
dying agonies. The brave youth now gave himself up for lost, and threw a
hasty glance on the blue sky that bent its dome above him, and over the
green woods that nestled with all their leaves in the summer breeze, as
on lovely objects which his eyes were never more destined to look upon
again.

The torch was lighted, and a grim chief was advancing to apply it to the
pile, when the light step of Monega anticipated his approach. As she
issued from the crowd, she implored the privilege of whispering a few
words to him who was about to die. So highly was she held in the
estimation of the tribe, that leave was readily granted her, and,
thrusting aside the dry heap of the sacrifice, she stood beside the
captive. She spoke not a word, however, but hastily passed a sharp knife
over the thongs that secured him, and instantly freed his limbs in
liberty.

"Now, fly, fly, I beseech thee," she whispered; "you are free--once more
free! Fly with the speed of the wind."

"I will do my best endeavor," said he, hurriedly; "and if I escape,
shall await you at the great Waterfall; and so, farewell." And, with one
vigorous bound, he sprang through the ring of his foes, overthrowing
some three or four of them to the earth. And bravely did he stretch away
his sinewy limbs in the flight for life and liberty; and though fifty
active runners followed in pursuit, yet soon did he outstrip them all,
and effected his escape.

He was shortly rejoined at the foot of the great falls by his faithful
Monega, who accompanied her lover in his flight, and became his bride,
and the chief woman of the Mohawk nation.

THRENODIA.

WRITTEN FOR THE INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE,

BY MRS. KIMBALL.