The fears of the family were therefore greatly quieted by
the reports of the scouts, all of whom agreed in the opinion that no party
of savages, that could be at all dangerous to a force like their own, was
lying near the valley; and some of whom, the loudest of which number being
stout Eben Dudley, boldly offered to answer for the security of those who
depended on their vigilance, with their own lives. These assurances had,
beyond a doubt, a soothing influence on the apprehensions of Ruth and her
handmaidens; but they somewhat failed of their effect, with those
unwelcome visiters who still continued to cumber Wish-Ton-Wish with their
presence. Though they had evidently abandoned all ideas connected with the
original object of their visit, they spoke not of departure. On the
contrary as night approached, their chief entered into council with old
Mark Heathcote, and made certain propositions for the security of his
dwelling, which the Puritan saw no reason to oppose.
A regular watch was, in consequence, set, and maintained till morning, at
the palisadoes.
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