Answer/Letter:
Dear Uncle,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. I know you must be very worried about me, but I want to assure you that I am safe and well. I have been staying with the Indians who rescued me from the river, and they have been very kind and generous to me. They have treated me like one of their own, and I have learned a lot from them.
You may wonder why I did not return to you as soon as possible, but let me explain what happened. You remember that day when we were crossing the rapids in our canoe, and how the water was so rough and swift. I was holding on to the side of the canoe, but a big wave hit us and knocked me overboard. I tried to swim back to you, but the current was too strong and dragged me away. I thought I was going to drown, but then I saw a canoe coming towards me. It was the Indians who live on the other side of the river. They saw me struggling in the water and came to help me. They pulled me into their canoe and brought me to their village.
They gave me dry clothes and a warm blanket. They fed me and tended to my wounds. They made me feel welcome and comfortable. They did not ask for anything in return. They are not savages or thieves, as some people say. They are good and noble people, who respect nature and each other. They have a rich culture and history, which they have shared with me. They have taught me their language and customs, their songs and stories, their crafts and skills. They have shown me their fields and forests, their animals and plants, their ceremonies and celebrations. They have become my friends.
I know you may not understand or approve of my decision, but I have chosen to stay with them for a while longer. I want to learn more from them and experience their way of life. I also want to show them my gratitude and appreciation for saving my life. They have offered to take me back to you whenever I wish, but they have also invited me to join their tribe if I want to. They have given me a new name: Singing Bird. They say it suits me because I have a sweet voice and a cheerful spirit.
Please do not be angry or disappointed with me, Uncle. I love you and I miss you, but I also feel a connection with these people and this place. I hope you can respect my choice and trust my judgment. I am not in any danger or trouble here. On the contrary, I am happy and fulfilled. I hope you can be happy for me too.
I will write to you again soon, and let you know how I am doing. Maybe one day you can come and visit me here, and see for yourself how wonderful these Indians are. Until then, please take care of yourself and do not worry about me.
Your loving niece,
Caroline (Singing Bird)