He understood that the savages had been cruelly playing with him, and enjoying his state of horrible suspense.

Though a scoundrel, Overton was brave, and had too much of the red blood within him not to wish to disappoint his foes--he resolved to allow himself to be burnt, and thus frustrate the anticipated pleasure of his cruel persecutors.

To die game to the last is an Indian's glory, and under the most excruciating tortures, few savages will ever give way to their bodily sufferings.
Leaves and dried sticks soon surrounded and covered the log--fire was applied, and the barbarians watched in silence.

But Overton had reckoned too much upon his fortitude.

His blood, after all, was but half Indian, and when the flames caught his clothes he could bear no more.