Page:The last of the Mohicans (1826 Volume 1).djvu/242

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
226
THE LAST OF

CHAPTER XI.

—"Cursed be my tribe,
If I forgive him."—Shylock.

The Indian had selected for this desirable purpose, one of those steep, pyramidal hills, which bear a strong resemblance to artificial mounds, and which so frequently occur in the valleys of the American states. The one in question was high, and precipitous; its top flattened, as usual; but with one of its sides more than ordinarily irregular. It possessed no other apparent advantages for a resting place, than in its elevation and form, which might render defence easy, and surprise nearly impossible. As Heyward, however, no longer expected that rescue, which time and