But why worry him?
In my judgment, no poorer choice could be made for so serious a task as you propose.

He is a mere French courtier,--brave enough, and rash, I grant, yet without knowledge of Indian ways and treachery.

Might not I answer better as his substitute ?" "You ?" "Ay! and why not?
I am frontier-bred, long trained in woodcraft and savage ways, and surely far better fitted for such a task than is this petted darling of the courts.

Were it a flirtation, now, the post might be truly his." "'T is true, you would be my choice; but do you realize the peril involved ?" "Fully, my friend, yet scarce think it so desperate as you imagine.

It is my judgment the savages yonder are seeking bigger game than so small a party would afford, and will therefore allow us to go free.