Two more of the Wampanoags were seen rolling on the earth, in the
death-agony.
The voice of Annawon was heard in the encampment, and at the next instant
the place was deserted.
During this startling and fearful moment, the four individuals near the
stream were inactive. Conanchet and his Christian friend stood to their
arms, but it was rather as men cling to the means of defence in moments of
great jeopardy, than with any intention of offensive hostilities. Metacom
seemed undecided. Accustomed to receive and inflict surprises, a warrior
so experienced could not be disconcerted; still he hesitated as to the
course he ought to take. But when Annawon, who was nearer the scene,
sounded the signal of retreat, he sprung towards the returned straggler,
and with a single blow of his tomahawk brained the traitor. Glances of
fierce revenge, and of inextinguishable though disappointed hatred, were
exchanged between the victim and his chief, as the former lay on the rock
gasping for breath; and then the latter turned in his tracks, and raised
the dripping weapon over the head of the white man.
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