She knew that
they might not be able to attack the Indians directly they came up,
for they could not be a very strong party, whereas the Indians were
several hundred strong; but she believed that sooner or later, in
some way or other, her father and brothers would come to her
rescue. Ethel from that time forward did not doubt for a moment.
Trusting thus firmly in her friends, she gained confidence and
courage; and when the troops halted at nine in the morning, after
nine hours' riding, Ethel was able to look round with some sort of
curiosity and interest.
It was here that an incident occurred, which, although she knew it
not at the time, entirely altered her destination and prospects.
She was sitting upon the ground, when a man, who by his bearing
appeared to be the principal chief present, passed in earnest talk
with another chief. In the latter she recognized at once one of the
wounded Indian prisoners.
"Tawaina," she said, leaping to her feet.
He paid no attention to her call, and she repeated it in a louder
tone.
The principal chief stopped; Tawaina did the same. Then he walked
slowly toward the captive.
"Save me, Tawaina," she said, "and send me back again home."
Tawaina shook his head.
"Not can," he said. "Tawaina friend.
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