Mahaska folded up the letter and concealed it in her bosom. For a few moments she yielded herself to the reflections called up by this new opening for her schemes of vengeance. She, however, soon aroused herself and turned toward the half-breed.
“Can you come to my lodge to-night for the answer?” she asked.
“Yes, lady.”
“But if you are seen you will be scalped before I can interpose.”
“Rene can skulk like a fox,” he said; “there is no danger.”
“Then come after midnight; you will find me at the entrance and will carry the letter I shall give you to the English Governor without loss of time.”
He bowed in silence; she gathered up the reins and galloped swiftly back toward the village.
CHAPTER VI.
THE EMBASSY AND THE MIRACLE.
It was a beautiful night, several weeks after the interview with Rene, in the wood. The moon was full, the air singularly pleasant and soft, and the whole scene so full of tranquil beauty, in spite of its wildness, that it seemed impossible it should not bring repose to the most troubled heart. On the morrow Gi-en-gwa-tah was to lead Queen Mahaska to her new mansion, and the whole village had retired early to rest in anticipation of the coming festivities, given in honor of the completion of the royal structure.
During the day, old Meme had stolen up to the rise of ground close by the lake where the stone dwelling stood, to see if Mahaska’s words had been fulfilled. She went through the different rooms, but there was nothing to be seen except the gifts which the Indian chief, her son, had brought there. The old woman was greatly disappointed, but said nothing, and for the rest of the day the dwelling was left deserted and silent.