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A Friend to the Pilgrims

“I speak English.” When the Pilgrims (清教徒前辈美洲移民) heard these words, they were very surprised. The words came from Squanto, a Native American (印第安人). But how did he learn to speak English? As the Pilgrims would soon find out, this happened to be a long story.

In 1605, George Weymouth, an English captain (船长), was exploring America. People from England were interested in the Native Americans of this new land. When Weymouth came to Squanto’s village, he captured (俘获) five men. Squanto was not among them, but the little boy was curious (好奇的). He volunteered to go with Weymouth to England.

In England, a friend of Weymouth’s took good care of Squanto. But after nine years, Squanto felt homesick. In 1614, two English captains, John Smith and Thomas Hunt, asked Squanto to help them explore America. They promised to take Squanto to his home village after the trip. Squanto was happy and agreed to go. But after the trip, Captain Hunt broke his promise. Instead of bringing Squanto to see his family, he sold him to Spain as a slave (奴隶).

In Spain, some monks (僧侣) saved Squanto and looked after him for three years. Then, he joined another trip to North America. The trip was to Newfoundland. This was still far from Squanto’s home. Squanto returned to England in the end.

By now, Squanto had known many important men in England. They liked Squanto and wanted to help him. Finally, Squanto went back to his home village in 1619 with the help of them. But sadly, the village was empty. All of the villagers had died from an illness.

When the Pilgrims arrived in America in 1620, winter would soon come. They needed help. Squanto happened to be living close to their houses. He offered to help. Knowing the language and customs of Englishmen, Squanto helped the Pilgrims in many ways, including teaching them how to catch fish. The Pilgrims were really lucky to have such a good friend!