190 THE CONSPIRACY. [1763. 



enemy of the English, and prime mover in the 

 plot. 



With the approach of spring, the Indians, com- 

 ing in from their wintering grounds, began to appear 

 in small parties about the various forts ; but now 

 they seldom entered them, encamping at a little 

 distance in the woods. They were fast pushing 

 their preparations for the meditated blow, and 

 waiting with stifled eagerness for the appointed 

 hour. 



