When he reflected that, in all probability a rifle-barrel was leveled through those bushes, ready to do its deadly work, he was not ashamed to halt and allow the Huron to proceed alone.

But, no fear seemed to enter the head of the Indian.
He strode straight forward, as if he had discovered something which he was about to pick, and, reaching the bushes, he parted and stepped among them.

The astonished soldier saw him stoop and lift some dark object, and then throw it down upon the ground again.
Lieutenant Canfield now came forward.

Great was his amazement to recognize, in this dark object, the negro, Cato! He lay upon his face, as lax and motionless as a piece of inanimate matter.
"What is the matter with him ?" asked the soldier.

"Is he dead ?" "Scart near to def'-- make b'lieve dead." Such undoubtedly was the case.