Who are you, and where are you going ?" The man's domineering manner amused me, yet I replied civilly to his words.
"A wandering hunter, Senor, from the Illinois country, homeward bound.
I was not aware this territory had fallen into Spanish hands, supposing it still to be under French control.

You are then a soldier of Spain ?" "Ay," he returned ungraciously, eying me in his irritating way, "of the battalion of Grenada." He was evidently in doubt whether to believe my word, and I rejoiced to mark such indecision, accepting it as proof he had not gained a glimpse of De Noyan, for whom he was in eager search.
"It may be, fellow," he consented to say at last, "you speak truth, and it may be your tongue is false as hell.

These are times of grave suspicion, yet there are means of discovery open to men of action.

I just noted the position of your camp yonder, and have sufficient men within easy reach of my voice to make it mine if need arise.

So I warn you to deal fairly, or accept the consequences.