Chapter 30

Summary

Uncas enters. He is asked which tongue he speaks and he replies that apart from being a chief, he is also a descendent of the Delawares. Tamenund is affronted but when Uncas speaks in Delaware, he is appeased. But when Uncas insultingly speaks of the Delawares, he is given to the warriors who try to lead him to the stake. One of the warriors tears off his shirt, revealing a beautifully tattooed tortoise on his chest. Uncas then admits that he is the son of Chingachgook and the last of his people. Tamenund is overjoyed and feasts his eyes on Uncas. Uncas convinces the people who have accepted him as their own that Hawkeye is a friend. He also wins the release of the other prisoners.

Magua then sullenly asks for Cora. Uncas is forced to let her go as, according to the laws of the tribe, she is legally his prisoner. Cora is horror struck. Hawkeye bargains with Magua, even offering to trade places with her, but he is resolute. Uncas promises that he will soon be on Magua's trail. Magua leaves with Cora after insulting the Delawares.

Uncas enters and Tamenund marvels at the proud warrior's dignified carriage and proud spirit. Uncas proves his identity by the tattooed tortoise on his chest. He is marveled at and hailed by Tamenund, who is overjoyed to see him, as he is the last of the Mohicans. Tamenund is the oldest man in the tribe, who because of his vast age and experience is asked to mete out justice.

The tribe hails the return of Uncas, but Magua still very shrewdly manages to leave after taking Cora and insulting the Delawares. This scene also shows Magua's courage, for he abuses the Delawares in their own village.

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