“And what is wrong with that?” another warrior asked. “If it stops us going hungry.”

The third warrior showed his teeth. “It is the destiny of boys to become warriors. How can they prove themselves men unless they have known war? Peace will be the ruin of our nation. If young warriors are not given opportunity to test themselves in combat, they will lose their manhood and turn into women.”

“If we strike against the Yan-kees now,” another warrior put in, “perhaps they will think twice about coming.”

This statement was also met by muttering – though this time slightly more in agreement, Hawkwood thought – as well as a couple of thin smiles.

“But if we extend the hand of friendship to the Yan-kees, will they not leave us in peace?” Sonachshowa enquired.

“That is what the Jesus Delawares said,” Cageaga cut in sharply. “And look what happened to them. The Yan-kees destroyed their village and killed their women and children.”

“Many years have passed since then,” the sedate elder said.

“That does not mean we should forget,” Cageaga said. “The Yan-kees are not to be trusted. Remember Tippecanoe.”

Hawkwood listened to the exchanges and held up his hand. “Have I permission to address the council?”

The murmurs subsided. Hawkwood glanced at Tewanias. Tewanias nodded.

“Some of you may know my name,” Hawkwood began. “I am Kahrhakon:ha, adopted son of Tewanias. As my father has told you, my friend and I are soldiers for the Great King beyond the Water and we are being hunted by the Yankees. We were making our path to Canada when we were attacked by scouts of the Oneniotèá:ka. Had it not been for my brother Cageaga, our scalps would, even now, be hanging from the lodge walls of the Yankees’ general.”

He had their attention.

“What Tewanias says is true; the Yankees will come.”

“Even if we do not take up our weapons against them?” the sedate elder repeated.

“It will make no difference,” Hawkwood said.

“What if we were to side with the Yan-kees? What then?” someone asked.

The question was met with several sharp intakes of breath.

Tewanias shifted uneasily on his haunches. “We would be shamed for ever in the eyes of our brothers in Canada.”

Hawkwood shook his head. “From what my father has told me and from what I know, whether you fight for the Yankees or the Great King will make no difference. The Yankees will take your land whether they win or lose. If they defeat the English, they will take not only Kanièn:keh but also the land of the Kanien’kehá:ka in Canada. If the English win, they will not take Anówarakowa Kawennote back from the Yankees. That means the Yankees will still be free to take Kanièn:keh and they will send you to live on reservations.”

At the mention of the word, heads lifted. Hawkwood saw foreheads crease and eyes darken.