1 Squanto lifted his head to take a drink of water. William Bradford helped the sick man to lie back down after taking a sip.
2 "Are you feeling up to telling me your story?" Bradford asked.
3 "Yes, I am rested now. Thank you for the water," Squanto replied, his voice weak from the fever.
4 "Then please, begin," Bradford encouraged.
5 "I am from the Patuxet. My village stood here where you have settled," Squanto began. "Many years ago I was fishing for our evening meal with my friend when we spotted a large boat in the harbor. Our sense of adventure overtook us, and we rushed back to the village to meet the strange visitors. As we arrived, the men from the ship were rowing to shore in their long boats. They greeted the chief and handed him a shining, steel knife. The chief was pleased with the gift and welcomed the men to their village." Squanto paused for a moment and closed his eyes.
6 "Are you tired, my friend?" asked Bradford.
7 "This fever does exhaust me," the Indian replied. "But I will continue. While they were with us in the village, the English traded combs, jewelry, and mirrors for the furs we offered. I was intrigued with the men and followed them everywhere. When it was time to leave, the English captain invited me to come with them. I readily agreed. At first, I was uneasy with the rolling deck, but after we sailed I became used to it. After many days at sea, we arrived in England. Looking around at the strange buildings, the bustling streets of the city, and the oddly dressed women I felt out of place and homesick. The English took me to live in an elaborate mansion owned by Sir Ferdinando Gorges. I was treated well and taught the English language to help interpret on future trading trips to the New World." Squanto paused again and took a deep breath.
8 "Should I call the doctor?" asked Bradford.
9 "No, I will be fine. Let me rest just a minute," Squanto sighed, as he closed his eyes.
10 William Bradford's brow furrowed with worry. Leaning back in his chair he waited until Squanto was ready to resume his story.
11 After a few minutes, Squanto opened his eyes, smiled weakly at his friend and continued, "Where was I?"
12 "You had just gone to live with Sir Gorges," Bradford reminded.
1 Squanto lifted his head to take a drink of water. William Bradford helped the sick man to lie back down after taking a sip.