While Robert sat with his friends in the shade of a grove, awaiting the result of the deliberations in the tent, his attention was attracted by a strong, thick-set figure in a British uniform. "Colonel Johnson!" he cried, and running forward he shook hands eagerly with Colonel William Johnson. "Why, Colonel!" he exclaimed, "I didn't dream that you were here, but I'm most happy to see you." "And I to see you, Mr. Lennox, or Robert, as I shall call you," said Colonel Johnson. "Alexandria is a long journey from Mount Johnson, but you see I'm here, awaiting the results of this council, which I tell you may have vast significance for North America." "But why are you not in the tent with the others, you who know so much more about conditions on the border than any man who is in there?" "I am not one of the governors, Robert, my lad, nor am I General Braddock. Hence I'm not eligible, but I'm not to be neglected. I may as well tell you that we are planning several expeditions, and that I'm to lead one in the north." "And Madam Johnson, and everybody at your home? Are they well?" "As well of body as human beings can be when I left. Molly told me that if I saw you to give you her special love. Ah, you young blade, if you were older I should be jealous, and then, again, perhaps I shouldn't!" "And Joseph?" "Young Thayendanegea? Fierce and warlike as becomes his lineage. He demands if I lead an army to the war that he go with me, and he scarce twelve. What is more, he will demand and insist, until I have to take him. 'Tis a true eagle that young Joseph. But here is Willet! It soothes my eyes to see you again, brave hunter, and Tayoga, too, who is fully as welcome." He shook hands with them both and the Onondaga gravely asked: "What news of my people, Waraiyageh?" Colonel Johnson's face clouded. "Things do not go well between us and the vale of Onondaga," he replied. "The Hodenosaunee complain of the Indian commissioners at Albany, and with justice. Moreover, the French advance and the superior French vigor create a fear that the British and Americans may lose. Then the Hodenosaunee will be left alone to fight the French and all the hostile tribes. Father Drouillard has come back and is working with his converts." "The nations of the Hodenosaunee will never go with the French," declared Tayoga with emphasis. "Although the times seem dark, and men's minds may waver for a while, they will remain loyal to their ancient allies. Their doubts will cease, Waraiyageh, when the king across the sea takes away the power of dealing with us from the Dutch commissioners at Albany, and gives it to you, you who know us so well and who have always been our friend." Colonel Johnson's face flushed with pleasure. "Your opinion of me is too high, Tayoga," he said, "but I'll not deny that it gratifies me to hear it." "Have you heard anything from Fort Refuge, and Colden and Wilton and the others?" asked Robert.