Startled
by the report, which they had half inclined to imagine
produced by the discharge of one of their own guns, the
half slumbering officers had quitted the chairs in which
they had passed the night in the mess-room, and were soon
at the side of their more watchful companions, then
anxiously listening for a repetition of the sound.
The day was just beginning to dawn, and as the atmosphere
cleared gradually away, it was perceived the fire rose
not from the hut of the Canadian, but at a point
considerably beyond it. Unusual as it was to see a large
fire of this description, its appearance became an object
of minor consideration, since it might be attributed to
some caprice or desire on the part of the Indians to
excite apprehension in their enemies. But how was the
report which had reached their ears to be accounted for?
It evidently could only have been produced by the discharge
of a cannon; and if so, where could the Indians have
procured it? No such arm had recently been in their
possession; and if it were, they were totally unacquainted
with the manner of serving it.
As the day became more developed, the mystery was resolved.
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