"We've come out here to
protect the settlers on the border, and give them a place of
refuge. Instead, it looks as if we'd pass the winter fighting for our
own lives."
"I think I have a plan," said Robert, who had been very thoughtful.
"What is it?" asked Colden.
"I remember something I read in our Roman history in the school at
Albany. It was an event that happened a tremendously long time ago,
but I fancy it's still useful as an example. Scipio took his army over
to Africa to meet Hannibal, and one night his men set fire to the
tents of the Carthaginians. They destroyed their camp, created a
terrible tumult, and inflicted great losses."
Tayoga's eyes glistened.
"Then you mean," he said, "that we are to burn the camp of the French
and their allies?"
"No less."
"It is a good plan. If Great Bear and the captain agree to it we will
do it."
"It's fearfully risky," said Colden.
"If Great Bear and I can go out once and come back safely," said
Tayoga, "we can do it twice."
The young captain looked at Willet.
"It's the best plan," said the hunter. "Robert hasn't read his Roman
history in vain."
"Then it's agreed," said Colden, "and as soon as another night as dark
as this comes we'll try it.
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