Raven Wing and Hawk Eye watched the canoes for some time. When the last frail craft had turned the bend in the river, Raven Wing said to Hawk Eye, "Let us make the trip also, and take our pelts to the trading post."
RAVEN WING AND HAWK EYE WATCHED THE CANOES FOR SOME TIME.
"Will your stepfather allow you to go on so long a trip?" asked Hawk Eye.
"I can but ask him," answered Raven Wing.
"We will go, you and I, if he agrees," said Hawk Eye. "I have no father to ask permission of. Besides, I am two years older than you. My mother I know will give her consent."
Presently both boys were on their way to their lodges. Bending Willow, Raven Wing's mother, looked up as her son stood before her.
"I would like to take the pelts I have cured from my winter's hunting to the trading post. Hawk Eye plans to go also and we can make the journey together," he announced in a low voice.
Bending Willow regarded the tall, strong boy for several minutes before she answered him.
"I have no objection, son," she answered quietly. "But you must receive permission from your stepfather."