human
Young soldier, said she,
gpt
I know nothing, said I,
human
Are the Mohawks out?
gpt
Have I not said I do not know?
human
Yes, sir.... But I should have escort by the shortest route to Cayadutta----
gpt
You talk like a child, said I, sharply.
human
And you seem scarcely more,
gpt
Soldier,
human
Go fill your tubs against fire-arrows, said I.
gpt
Why do you loiter?
human
Because I have great need to return to Caughnawaga. Will you guide me the shortest way by the woods?
gpt
Do you not hear that bell?
human
Yes, sir, I hear it. But I should go to Cayadutta----
gpt
And I should answer that militia call, said I impatiently.
human
Go in and lock the house, I tell you!
gpt
I am servant to a very old man, she said, twisting her linked fingers.
human
I can not abandon him! I can not let him remain all alone at Cayadutta Lodge. Will you take me to him?
gpt
And if I were free of duty, said I,
human
I would not take you or any other woman into those accursed woods!
gpt
Why not, sir?
human
Because I do not yet comprehend what that bell is telling me. And if it means that there is a painted war-party out between the Sacandaga and the Mohawk, I shall not take you to Caughnawaga when I return from Stoner's, and that's flat!
gpt
I am not afraid to go,