I find that this dust is strongly impregnated with niter; from niter we obtain saltpeter and from saltpeter we make gunpowder.

We need not send to Virginia for our powder, we can make it here in Kentucky for ourselves." "Do you truly think so, Mr.Pennypacker ?" asked Mr.Ware, doubtfully.
"Think so! I know so," replied the schoolmaster in sanguine tones.

"Why, what am I a teacher for if I don't know a little of such things?
And even if you have doubts, think how well the experiment is worth trying.
Situated as we are, in this wild land, powder is the most precious thing on earth to us." "That is true! that is true!" said Mr.Ware with hasty emphasis.
"Without it we shall lie helpless before the Indian attack, should it come.

If, as you say, this cave dust contains the saltpeter, the rest will be easy." "It contains saltpeter and the rest _will_ be easy!" "Then, you must go for it.

Ross and Sol and a strong party must go with you, because we cannot run the risk of losing any of you through the Indians." "I am sure," said Mr.Pennypacker, "that we shall incur no danger from Indians.