He was still humming the air when he came back to the fire, and saluting Willet politely, tendered a canteen each to him and Tayoga.
"Sir David Willet, baronet and general," he said, "I have the honor to report to you that in accordance with your command I have found the water, spring water, fine, fresh, pure, as good as any the northern wilderness can furnish, and that is the best in the world.

Shall I tender it to you, sir, on my bended knee!" "No, Mr.Lennox, we can dispense with the bended knee, but I am glad, young sir, to note in your voice the tone of deep respect for your elders which sometimes and sadly is lacking." "If Dagaeoga works well, and always does as he is bidden," said Tayoga, "perhaps I'll let him look on at the ceremonies when I take my place as one of the fifteen sachems of the Onondaga nation." While they ate their venison and some bread they had also brought with them, they discussed the next stage of their journey, and Tayoga made a suggestion.

Traveling would remain difficult for several days, and instead of going directly to Albany, their original purpose, they might take a canoe, and visit Mount Johnson, the seat of Colonel William Johnson, who was such a power with the Hodenosaunee, and who was in his person a center of important affairs in North America.

For a while, Mount Johnson might, in truth, suit their purpose better than Albany.
The idea appealed at once to both Robert and Willet.

Colonel Johnson, more than any one else could tell them what to do, and owing to his strong alliance, marital and otherwise, with the Mohawks, they were likely to find chiefs of the Ganeagaono at his house or in the neighborhood.
"It is agreed," said Willet, after a brief discussion.