James Fenimore Cooper: The Deerslayer

11. Chapter XI. (continued)

"What for no break open chest?" put in Hist. "Life sweeter than old chest -scalp sweeter than old chest. If no tell darter to break him open, Wah-ta-Wah no help him to run away."

"Ye know not what ye ask - ye are but silly girls, and the wisest way for ye both is to speak of what ye understand and to speak of nothing else. I little like this cold neglect of the savages, Hurry; it's a proof that they think of something serious, and if we are to do any thing, we must do it soon. Can we count on this young woman, think you?"

"Listen -" said Hist quickly, and with an earnestness that proved how much her feelings were concerned - "Wah-ta-Wah no Iroquois - All over Delaware - got Delaware heart - Delaware feeling. She prisoner, too. One prisoner help t'udder prisoner. No good to talk more, now. Darter stay with fader - Wah-ta-Wah come and see friend - all look right - Then tell what he do."

This was said in a low voice, but distinctly, and in a manner to make an impression. As soon as it was uttered the girl arose and left the group, walking composedly towards the hut she occupied, as if she had no further interest in what might pass between the pale-faces.