I wish to call first a friend of mine, an Indian--although you say there are no Indians in the forest--a most excellent friend of ours.

Tayoga, come!" The Onondaga appeared silently in the circle of light, a splendid primeval figure, drawn to the uttermost of his great height, his lofty gaze meeting that of Wilton, half in challenge and half in greeting.

Robert had been an impressive figure, but Tayoga, owing to the difference in race, was even more so.

The hands of several of the soldiers moved towards their weapons.
"Did I not tell you that he was a friend, a most excellent friend of ours ?" said Robert sharply.

"Who raises a hand against him raises a hand against me also, and above all raises a hand against our cause.