The redskin's hand dropped from Merriwell's arm and the old fellow stared at the white man in uncomprehending amazement.
"Why so?" he asked. "Paleface squaw she hate you, she is your enemy. Now she have something to think a heap of, and no time to make trouble for Strong Heart. He should have a great happiness that it is so. Why does he hurry to the bad white squaw? Is it to laugh at her? Is it to see her weep and cry?"
"No, Crowfoot; it is to find out, if possible, what has happened to the girl, just as I said a moment ago, and to return her to her mother."
The Indian shook his head.
"Waugh! No understand!" he declared. "Strong Heart him much strange."
"Joe, will you go with us? You shall have a good horse. I may need your aid. Will you go?"
"Joe him go. No understand; him go, all same."
"Then hustle, fellows!" cried Frank. "We'll be off soon!"
He rushed from the cabin.