It's the first time my true nature has had a chance to come out, and I'm making the most of the opportunity.

Oh, I'm developing! In the spring you'll see me the gayest and most reckless blade that ever came into the forest." The deep snow lasted a long time.

More snowshoes were made, but only six or eight of the soldiers learned to use them well.

There were sufficient, however, as Willet, Robert, Tayoga and Black Rifle were already adepts, and they ranged the forest far in all directions.

They saw no further sign of French or Indians, but they steadily increased their supply of game.
Christmas came, January passed and then the big snow began to melt.