Chapter 5 Summary

Hutter shares his concerns over his daughters' safety in the dangerous area. Harry and Deerslayer both offer their assistance in protecting the girls from whatever might happen concerning the enemy Native Americans.

The presence of the tribe has given Hutter other, less noble ideas. He proposes that they attack the tribe to get their scalps, for which the local colonial government will pay a reward. Deerslayer refuses to help and declares it to be an immoral action. He is further disgusted when Hutter suggests scalping the women and children of the group as well. This prompts a discussion among the men about the morality of seeking revenge, which Deerslayer says is wrong.

The group eats dinner together. After the meal, Hetty sits at her father's feet and sings hymns. She pleads with him not to go scalping, but he disregards her opinion. The...