"An Indian, I'll wager a shilling," he murmured to himself, and raised his rifle. "More than likely he is waiting for a signal from the rascal we caught." And in this surmise the youth was correct.
The Indian outside passed behind some trees and was followed by a second red man and presently a third. Henry gave a low whistle, which brought his uncle to the spot once more.
"Saw three of 'em," said he. "They are back of yonder trees. It is too dark to get much of a look at 'em."
"Tony saw two," answered the trader. "Henry, I am afraid we are in for it," he continued, seriously. "Had you not found that rascal in the bundle we might have all been murdered by this time."
"I wish there was some way of letting the others know how we are surrounded."
"There is no way just now. One of us might try to go out toward sunrise—if we can keep them off that long. I presume they are waiting anxiously to hear from the fellow we have captured."
"To be sure. I think—There is another, and he is coming pretty close!" added Henry, excitedly.
"Wait—I'll talk to him. There is no use of our keeping silent any longer," said James Morris. He raised his voice. "Hold, there!" he shouted. "What do the red men want around this post at this hour of the night?"
The Indian addressed was evidently taken by surprise, for he stood stock still for fully a minute before replying.
"Who calls to Rain Cloud?" he asked at last.