We waited with what patience we might until his long
speech of welcome was finished, when, in as few words as
possible, Rolfe laid before him our complaint against the
Paspaheghs. The Indian listened; then said, in that voice that
always made me think of some cold, still, bottomless pool lying
black beneath overhanging rocks: "My brothers may go in peace.
The Paspaheghs have washed off the black paint. If my brothers go
to the village, they will find the peace pipe ready for their
smoking."
Rolfe and I stared at each other. "I have sent messengers,"
continued the Emperor. "I have told the Paspaheghs of my love for
the white man, and of the goodwill the white man bears the Indian.
I have told them that Nemattanow was a murderer, and that his
death was just. They are satisfied. Their village is as still as this
beast at my feet." He pointed downward to a tame panther
crouched against his moccasins. I thought it an ominous
comparison.
Involuntarily we looked at Nantauquas. "It is true," he said. "I am
but come from the village of the Paspaheghs. I took them the word
of Opechancanough."
"Then, since the matter is settled, we may go home," I remarked,
rising as I spoke. "We could, of course, have put down the
Paspaheghs with one hand, giving them besides a lesson which
they would not soon forget, but in the kindness of our hearts
toward them and to save ourselves trouble we came to
Opechancanough.
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