“But Roger is not here; he is far away. If your people attack the settlement, thinking to find him they will be disappointed. When are they coming? Does Charles know of it?”
“No, no. They not dare come, if he knew,” said Nadjii. “I tell you, he with the other white nation. My people revenge.”
“And when are they going to attack us?” said Loïs, trying to speak calmly.
“To-night,” answered Nadjii.
“My God!” said Loïs, burying her face in her hands.
“No hurt you,” said the Indian gently. “Nadjii watch over you.”
“What do I care for myself!” exclaimed Loïs passionately. “It is my poor mother, the children, the whole settlement! Oh, how can Charles let them!” and she wrung her hands.
“He not know,” said Nadjii. “Great chief sent for him to help, he go. Indians promise no hurt you, but Roger kill; Ominipeg angry, they kill too.”
“And you say they will attack us to-night?” said Loïs.
“Ugh,”[2] said Nadjii. “I walk all night to tell you, brothers other end of forest.”