It must be the Onondaga, and I wish I knew what his smoke was saying." Captain Colden joined them, and they pointed out to him the trace across the sky which was now broadening, explaining at the same time that it was probably a signal sent up by Tayoga, and that he might be leading a force to their aid.
"What help could he bring ?" asked the captain.
Willet shook his head.
"I can't answer you there," he replied; "but the smoke has significance for us.

Of that I feel sure.

By sundown we'll know what it means." "And that's only about two hours away," said Captain Colden.

"Whatever happens we'll hold out to the last.

I suppose, though, that St.Luc's force also will see the smoke." "Quite likely," replied Willet, "and the Frenchman may send a runner, too, to see what it means, but however good a runner he may be he'll be no match for Tayoga." "That's sure," said Robert.
So great was his confidence in the Onondaga that it never occurred to him that he might be killed or taken, and he awaited his certain return, either with or without a helping force.