CHAPTER XIX.
DEERFOOT'S WOODCRAFT.
Neither Deerfoot nor the trapper wished to engage in the trial of skill suggested by Burt Hawkins. Crumpet feared that if such a test took place he would be worsted, in which event he would never hear the last of it from his friends. He might well shrink, therefore, from such a contest.
The Shawanoe knew he could surpass the trapper if he exerted himself, as he most certainly would do. Crumpet's ill-nature would be embittered, and matters were likely to take an unpleasant shape. When Hawkins turned toward him, therefore, expecting him to bound to his feet and invite the challenge, he shook his head:
"Deerfoot's arrows are few, and he saves them for game or his enemies."
"And therein is wise," added Kellogg, shrewd enough to see the situation in all its bearings.
Crumpet said nothing, but was greatly relieved, while Hawkins gave a sniff of disgust.
"Some folks are very free with their tongues, but when you come down to business they ain't there; howsumever, let that go; we've got our extra rifle, and I s'pose we might as well keep up the tramp toward St. Louis. Deerfoot, can't you go with us?"
He shook his head, and said:
"Deerfoot is hunting for two friends who are lost; he must not sleep nor tarry on the way."