Hawkwood could see minds at work. Avenging the murders of friends and loved ones was difficult in peacetime, but in times of war it was considered a legitimate enterprise.

“But we are too few in number,” another elder interjected. “The Yan-kees are many. We are surrounded.”

“You would not be facing the Yankees on your own,” Hawkwood said.

Lawrence leaned in close to Hawkwood’s side. “Would it be all right for me to speak to them, if you translate my words?”

“Speak slowly and I’ll try.” To the gathering, Hawkwood said, “My friend, Lawrence – Roren – wishes to address the council. He speaks for the Great King beyond the Water.”

A few of the elders swapped glances but no voices were raised in objection.

“You have the floor, Major,” Hawkwood said.

Lawrence eased his crossed legs into a more comfortable position and looked around at the warriors gathered before him. He took a calming breath.

“The Great King knows well that the Mohawk are fearless warriors who have fought bravely on the side of the English soldiers against the French and the Americans.” He paused, allowing Hawkwood to relay the message. “That was many years ago. Once again the Great King is asking for help from his Mohawk brothers, against an old enemy who now seeks to drive both the English and the Mohawk from their homes. The Great King believes that if our peoples fight together, as one army, we will defeat the Americans. In exchange for your help, the Great King will see you rewarded with food and clothing, as well as blankets, hunting supplies and tools—”

“And guns?” The query came from a hard-faced warrior with a silver nose ring and a shell gorget around his neck.

“Yes, and guns, too. The army will also pay wages to any warrior who fights for the Great King. War chieftains will be given the rank of captain and receive officers’ stipend.”

“The English have smooth mouths,” Cageaga cut in. “We have heard white men’s promises before.” Speaking in Mohawk, he glanced towards Hawkwood. “Why should we trust the English any more than we trust the Yan-kees? Did they not betray us when they placed their mark upon the last treaty?”

Hawkwood did not react, knowing that in posing the question, Cageaga, despite his clear allegiance to Hawkwood and by association Lawrence, was playing devil’s advocate, and in the process cementing his reputation as a sceptic, in case Hawkwood’s request for help was rejected. It was a shrewd move.

Hawkwood translated Cageaga’s words into English.