"
The hunter reddened under his tan.
"It was forced upon me, colonel," he said.
Colonel William Johnson laughed heartily.
"And he who forced it did not live to regret it," he said. "I've heard
that French officers themselves did not blame you, but as for me,
knowing you as I do, I'd have expected no less of David Willet."
He laughed again, and his laugh was deep and hearty. Robert, looking
closely at him, thought him a fine, strong man, and he was quite sure
he would like him. The colonel glanced at him and Tayoga, and the
hunter said:
"Colonel Johnson, I wish to present Tayoga, who is of the most ancient
blood of the Onondagas, a member of the Clan of the Bear, and destined
to be a great chief. A most valiant and noble youth, too, I assure
you, and the white lad is Robert Lennox, to whom I stand in the place
of a father."
"I have heard of Tayoga," said Colonel Johnson, "and his people and
mine are friends."
"It is true," said Tayoga, "Waraiyageh has been the best friend among
the white people that the nations of the Hodenosaunee have ever
had. He has never tricked us. He has never lied to us, and often he
has incurred great hardship and danger to help us.
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