The curiosity of the Governor and his friends was now directed to the strange-looking package that lay on the ground.  On examination, they found the envelope to be composed of a dried snakeskin, which was quickly opened, and disclosed several Indian arrows.  Squanto gazed on these with a significant look; and on being questioned by Bradford as to the meaning of so singular an offering, he informed him that it was the native mode of declaring war.

The well-known enmity of the Narragansetts towards the Wampanoges—­the friends and allies of the settlers—­rendered this hostile declaration no surprise to the Governor and his council.  But the fact of its being conveyed by Coubitant, who had so lately, in the character of a subordinate Narragansett chieftain, subscribed the written acknowledgement of King James’s supremacy, excited no small astonishment.  It was a source, also, of regret, as it proved how little dependence could be placed in the professions of the natives.  To enter on a war with the numerous and powerful tribe of the Narragansetts, was likewise far from being desirable in any point of view; for the Pilgrims were little prepared either to meet such formidable antagonist’s in the field, or to resist the continual attacks and aggression’s that constitute the greatest share of Indian warfare.

A consultation was therefore held as to the best method of replying to the challenge of the Narragansett Sachem; and it was finally determined that the most prudent and effectual course would be to show a resolute appearance, and give no cause to the native’s to suppose that they dreaded their enmity.  A bold acceptance of the challenge might, it was urged both by Squanto and Hobomak, strike terror into the savages, and deter them from prosecuting their present hostile intentions.

Bradford, therefore, adopted the Indian method of communicating this reply by expressive signs; and, taking the arrows—­which appeared to be poisoned—­from the snakeskin, he placed some gunpowder and balls in the significant wrapper.  He then inquired who among his trusty warrior’s would volunteer to take the packet to the dwelling of Cundincus,[*] the Chief of the Narragansetts.  Several offered their services; and, among those, none was so eager to be employed as Rodolph Maitland.  He felt an earnest desire to see and speak with Coubitant once more:  and no fear of the personal risk that he might incur in the expedition could deter him from thus making another attempt to obtain some certain information respecting his lost son.

[Footnote:  Afterwards called by the settlers, ‘Canonicus.’]

Had the President known how much reason there was to fear that treachery might be exercised towards Maitland, he would surely not have suffered him thus to risk his valuable life.  Rut he was ignorant of all the peculiar circumstances that had occurred to show that he was a special mark for the vengeance of Coubitant:  and the confidence he felt in his courage and ability led him—­on this occasion, as on many others—­to select him as his ambassador.  Two companions were assigned to him, and Squanto was desired to attend the party as interpreter.