Ke-ne-ha-ha, followed by the two chiefs, sought the lodge where Boone was confined.
As the Indian had said, three braves guarded the door.
In answer to Ke-ne-ha-ha’s question they replied that all had been still as death within the wigwam of the prisoner.
Feeling reassured, Ke-ne-ha-ha was about to return to his own wigwam, when a sudden fancy took possession of him to see the white captive and so personally assure himself of the safety of the prisoner.
Taking a brand from the smoldering fire, the chief entered the lodge. The other warriors remained outside.
Ke-ne-ha-ha’s tall form had hardly disappeared within the hut, when a cry of surprise broke upon the Indians’ startled ears. It came from the lodge and was uttered by the lips of Ke-ne-ha-ha.
Astonished, the Indians rushed into the lodge.
In the center of the wigwam stood the chief.
The lodge was dimly lighted by the burning brand that he carried in his hand.
The prisoner had disappeared.