“As good as it was, the site of the new post is better,” answered Tony Jadwin. “In fact, I think that the new spot is the finest in this section of the country.”
“And I suppose that is why Jean Bevoir wishes to get possession of it,” went on the trader, with a trace of bitterness in his tones.
“Jean Bevoir knows a good thing when he sees it,” said Peaceful Jones. “He’s about ez wise ez he is wicked.”
“I think his party must have passed this way,” put in Pomeroy, who had been walking around. “Thar’s been a camp in yonder trees not long ago—I kin tell it by the fresh-burnt sticks.”
“Perhaps some Indians have been here,” said James Morris. “Bevoir and his followers must have reached the trading post long ago.”
“Not if they were stopped on the way.”
At this remark a sudden hope sprang into the breast of the trader.
“It would be a fine thing if he had been stopped and we could get there first!” he cried. “But I am afraid that is hoping for too much. However, let us not linger here, but move forward at once.”
The others were willing, and without delay the journey down to the Ohio was resumed. Every foot of the way was familiar to all of the party, and one or the other took the lead, over trails which their feet had trod in times of war as well as in peace.
“The Ohio at last!” said James Morris, at noon of the next day. “I am glad to see this broad stream once more.”