In the opening chapters of our historical adventure INTO THE AMERICAS (A novel based on a true story) we describe as follows the arrival of young English blacksmith John Jewitt in Nootka Sound, Vancouver Island, in the early 1800s…
John and his crewmates returned their attention to shore as The Boston entered Friendly Cove. Nootka village came into view and the drumming sound that had heralded the brig’s arrival earlier intensified.
Mowachaht villagers could be seen drumming sticks against the exterior of their lodges. To John’s eyes, those employed in such a way appeared to be working themselves up into a frenzy.
On the sandy beach in front of the village, warriors were in the process of launching some of the twenty or so canoes resting there. John could see the Mowachahts were intent on approaching The Boston and he hoped they meant the brig’s crew no harm. The fact that all were armed and most carried muskets did nothing for his confidence.
Dorthy, who stood alongside John, noticed his assistant’s interest in the activity ashore. “Them the Mowachahts,” the armorer said. “Savages every one of ’em, so watch your scalp.”
John hoped Dorthy was joking. The expression on his face indicated he wasn’t.
INTO THE AMERICAS is available via Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YJKM51E/
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