He seemed to exemplify the truth of his own declaration that all the impulses bottled up in four or five generations of Quaker ancestors were at last bursting out in him.

He talked more than all the others combined, and he rejoiced in the freedom of the wilderness.
"I'm a spirit released," he said.

"That's why I chatter so." "Perhaps it's just as well, Will, that while you have the chance you should chatter to your heart's content, because at any time an Indian arrow may cut short your chance for chattering," said Carson.
"I can't believe it, Hugh," said Wilton, "because if Providence was willing to preserve us, when we camped squarely among the Indians, put out no guards, and fairly asked them to come and shoot at us, then it was for a purpose and we'll be preserved through greater and continuous dangers." "There may be something in it, Will.

I notice that those who deserve it least are often the chosen favorites of fortune." "Which seems to be a hit at your superior officer, but I'll pass it over, Hugh, as you're always right at heart though often wrong in the head." Although the young officers talked much and with apparent lightness, the troop marched with vigilance now.

Willet and Tayoga, and Colden, who had profited by bitter experience, saw to it.