human
They have got their own notions, too, about faith and want of faith. If you are quite friendly with them--altogether--out and out--they'll hold fast enough to their word with you; but a very little turning, or shaking, or doubting, will make them think themselves free from all engagements; and then take care of your scalp-lock. If I am quite sure, when I meet an Indian, that, as the good Book says, '_my_ heart is right with _his_ heart;' that I have never cheated him, or thought of cheating him; that I have not doubted him, nor do doubt him--I can lie down and sleep in his lodge as safe as if I was in the heart of Albany. But I should not sleep a wink if I knew there was the least little bit of insincerity in my own heart; for they are as 'cute as serpents, and they are not people to wait for explanations. Put your wit against theirs at the back of the forest, and you'll get the worse of it.
gpt
But have we cheated, or attempted to cheat, these poor people?
human
Why, the less we say about that the better, major, replied Woodchuck, shaking his head.
gpt
They have had to bear a good deal; and now when the time comes that we look as if we were going to the wall, perhaps they may remember it.
human
But I hope and trust we are not exactly going to the wall, pursued the other, with his colour somewhat heightened;
gpt
There has been mismanagement enough, major, replied Woodchuck;
human
I fear so, indeed, replied his host with a sigh;
gpt
And whose fault is that? demanded Woodchuck, somewhat warmly;