"That's the whole trouble, lad. The United States didn't treat them right in the first place, and we are bound to suffer in consequence. But in the end the Injun will be wiped out completely."
As night came on, countless stars shone in the sky, making the trail fairly light. Old Benson rode in advance, with Darry next and Joe bringing up the rear.
Presently the old hunter drew rein, and motioned the others to do the same.
"Somebody ahead," he said in a low voice. "Four or five men on hossback. If I aint mistaken they're Injuns, too."
"Indians!" exclaimed Joe. "Do they come this way often?"
"No, lad. Fact is, they haven't any right over here, so close to the fort. It's against Colonel Fairfield's rules."
"Then what can they be doing here?"
"That's for us to find out."
Old Benson led the way to a side trail, and then into the shelter of a number of trees.
He quickly passed the pelt over to Darry.