human
She's a chip off the old block, said Burwink, with a laugh.
gpt
She doesn't seem to have much fear of you, Jabez.
human
I am hopeful she will feel different when she grows older,
gpt
I'd like to know what you build your hope on,
human
I expect to have her a good deal under my care, and I shall do all I can to instruct her aright. This morning she knelt with us in prayer. You must remember she is very young, and has heard little, if anything, of Christianity.
gpt
It's born in 'em, and you can't get it out.
human
But, Mr. Zitner, you will not deny that we have a good many Christian Indians. There are plenty of them at Gnadenhutten, and the Moravian missionaries have been the means of turning hundreds from darkness to light. If they can do that with full grown warriors and women, may we not hope for the best from those of tender years?
gpt
I don't know about that, was the dogged reply.
human
I never believed in this conversion business.
gpt
What can you mean by such a remark?
human
I mean, religion is good enough for white people, but don't work with Injins. They will pretend they're good, but are only waiting for a chance to do mischief.
gpt
The converted Delawares have never taken part in the wars against us. You know that as well as I.
human
How about Omas?
gpt
He makes no pretence of Christianity.
human
And therefore has no claim on our indulgence.
gpt
No one has said he has, observed Ben, coming to his mother's help;
human
Where is he now? He brought you over the river, but seems to have deserted you.
gpt
He left because he didn't think we had further need of his aid; we can get along without him.
human
Now, see here, added Zitner, straightening up on the log and slapping his knee;
gpt
I'll tell you what I've made up my mind to do. I am willing to give in to Mrs. Ripley that far, that I won't harm that youngster--that is, I will leave it to her father whether I shall or shan't.
human
I'm going to take her with us as a hostage. We're not clear of the varmints yet. I believe Omas himself ain't far off, and the rest will be on our heels all the way to Stroudsburg. If they get us in a tight place, I'll let 'em know we've got the gal of Omas with us, and if they harm a hair of our heads it'll be all up with her. We'll take her clean to Stroudsburg, and then turn her loose, for we won't have any further need of her; but she must go with us.
gpt
Jabez Zitner, said Ben Ripley--