In the day it was much easier to see the approach of an enemy, but by night one must be very vigilant indeed to detect the approach of a foe so silent as the Indian.
The two did not yet mention a division of the watch.

Neither was sleepy and they were content to remain awake much longer.

Moreover, they had many things of interest to talk about and also they indulged in speculation.
"Do you think it possible, Tayoga," asked Robert, "that the garrison, hearing of the great cloud now overhanging the border, may have abandoned the fort and gone east with the refugees ?" "No, Dagaeoga, it is not likely.

It is almost certain that the young men from Philadelphia have not heard of General Braddock's great defeat.
French and savage runners could have reached them with the news, could have taunted them from the forest, but they would not wish to do so; they seek instead to gather their forces first, to have all the effect of surprise, to take the fort, its garrison and the people as one takes a ripe apple from a tree, just when it is ready to fall." "That rout back there by Duquesne was a terrible affair for us, Tayoga, not alone because it uncovers the border, but because it heartens all our enemies.

What joy the news must have caused in Quebec, and what joy it will cause in Paris, too, when it reaches the great French capital! The French will think themselves invincible and so will their red allies." "They would be invincible, Dagaeoga, if they could take with them the Hodenosaunee." "And may not this victory of the French and their tribes at Duquesne shake the faith of the Hodenosaunee ?" "No, Dagaeoga.