"The Deerslayer"

Hutter's "Muskrat Castle"

In Chapter 19, there is some of Cooper's finest descriptions. While Deerslayer is being held captive by the Hurons, Hutter, Harry, Hist, and Chingachook head back to the castle, but are by some concealed Hurons. A fight ensues, but prior to it, the author does a wonderful job of describing the lake as the sun rises. Simply beautiful writing.