Anxious to obtain even a
momentary view of those whom he deemed himself fated
never more to mingle with in this life, he raised himself
upon his feet, and stretched his neck and bent his eager
glance in the direction by which Wacousta had approached;
but, so closely were the dark warriors grouped among the
trees, he found it impossible. Once or twice, however,
he thought he could distinguish the gleaming of the
English bayonets in the bright sunshine, as they seemed
to file off in a parallel line with the ravine. Oh, how
his generous heart throbbed at that moment; and how
ardently did he wish that he could have stood in the
position of the meanest soldier in those gallant ranks!
Perhaps his own brave and devoted grenadiers were of the
number, burning with enthusiasm to be led against the
captors or destroyers of their officer; and this thought
added to his wretchedness still more.
While the unfortunate prisoner, thus strongly excited,
bent his whole soul on the scene before him, he fancied
he heard the approach of a cautious footstep. He turned
his head as well as his confined position would admit,
and beheld, close behind him, a dark Indian, whose eyes
alone were visible above the blanket in which his person
was completely enveloped.
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