He had hardly spoken, when a noise, as of the dipping of a paddle, was heard, and the next moment a canoe shot out from the bank and headed directly toward them.

This being the case, it was impossible to determine the number of savages in it, although there must have been several.
"Would it not be best to move to prevent discovery ?" asked the Lieutenant, as he watched the approaching Shawnees with considerable anxiety.
"Won't land here--go 'low us." A moment later the head of the canoe turned down-stream.

It was then seen to be of considerable size.

Five savages were seated within it.
Oonomoo bent his head, took one earnest glance at them, and then said: "Ain't Shawnees--Miamis." "Friends or foes ?" "Jes' as bad--take scalp--kill white people--take your scalp--see you." Lieutenant Canfield by no means felt at ease at the indifference with which his friend uttered these words.

It certainly was no pleasant prospect--that of having these bloodthirsty Miamis for such near neighbors, and he expressed as much to Oonomoo.
"Won't come here--keep quiet--won't git hurt," replied the imperturbable Huron.
Considerably relieved at this assurance, he said no more, but watched the canoe.