Chapter 16 Summary

Deerslayer and Chingachgook go to rescue Wah-ta-Wah. Judith tries to convince Deerslayer not to go, but he is loyal to his friend.

They arrive on the shore, but Wah-ta-Wah is not there. Deerslayer goes back to the canoe to do a survey of the area while Chingachgook waits for Wah-ta-Wah on the shore. Deerslayer watches the encampment. Most of the warriors are gone, although one of the chiefs and all of the women and children are there. Wah-ta-Wah appears under guard. Deerslayer returns to Chingachgook to tell him what he saw. The two approach the edge of the encampment.

The warriors are deep in conversation about the elephant chess pieces, as is the group of women. Chingachgook gives a secret signal to Wah-ta-Wah to inform her that he is there. An opportunity presents itself when Wah-ta-Wah's guardian, an old woman, is sent to...