vered that the retiring Indians had turned into
the buffalo road and, almost as if they were attempting to make their
trail still more evident, it was noticed that they had chopped many of
the trees, on either side with their hatchets.

Boone shook his head when he discovered these indications of apparent
carelessness in the band they were following.

"My opinion is," he said soberly to Colonel Todd, "that Girty is trying
to lead us on. Just as our men ran into their trap on the way to
Bryant's Station, I am afraid now that they will be led into another."

"But it is too late to go back," said Colonel Todd.

"Yes, I am afraid our men will not go back now. My only word of advice
to you is to go ahead cautiously."

"Will you be one of the advance guard?"

"If you so desire."

"At least you are not afraid, and you will not see what is not there."

"I shall do my best," said Boone quietly.

As Peleg, who was standing nearby and had heard the conversation, looked
into the face of his friend he became aware that the years of anxiety
had left their mark upon his rugged countenance. There was, however, a
deeper expression of gentleness on the face of the great scout which in
no way detracted from the impression of strength which his entire body
still produced.

Orders were soon given to camp for the night in the forest, and on the
following day the little army arrived at the Lower Blue Licks. Just as
the force, proceeding without any form of order, arrived at the southern
bank of the Licking, some of the men saw several Indians climbing the
rocky ridge on the opposite side. The red men halted when the
Kentuckians appeared, looked at them intently a few minutes in silence,
and then, as calmly and leisurely as if no enemies were near,
disappeared over the top of the hill.

A halt of the white men was made at once, and several of the officers
held a consultation.

Apparently there were differences of opinion among the leaders, for
after a few minutes had elapsed Colonel Todd summoned Daniel Boone and
inquired his opinion as to what had best be done. All the officers were
now very serious.

The great scout, leaning upon his rifle, spoke in the deep, quiet tones
he usually used: "My opinion is that our situation is critical and
difficult. The force before us without question is ready for battle and
outnumbers us largely."

"Why do you think that?" inquired Colonel Todd.

"Because of the easy and slow retreat of th