Pine Coulee stood motionless as the fair-haired girl drew rein beside her. Never had she shown her Indian blood more clearly than in the stolid awaiting of her rival. Danvers drew nearer, fearing results.
"Do you speak English?" Pine Coulee was asked. "I think that you want to speak to me. What is it? What can I do for you?" The look of dejection on the dark face touched even Miss Thornhill.
Silence.
"What a big baby!" was Eva's next effort to gain good-will.
She was sure that the squaw could, at least, understand English; and the gleam of motherhood, kindling at her praise, confirmed her belief.
Silence.
"What is the baby's name?"
Silence prolonged. Eva turned away, impatient that her advances should be met so churlishly. Then, swift, malignant, Pine Coulee spoke:
"Him name Robert Burroughs! Robert Burroughs!" The words came with startling distinctness.
Eva's surprise was great. She shuddered uncontrollably.