“You told me,” Little Bear began when they were stopped at noon, “that stolen Sioux horses not recaptured within three days belong to whoever takes them after that time.”
Great Bear glanced towards the string of horses.
“That is right.” He nodded.
“Then all of these horses belong to us,” Little Bear insisted.
“They do.” Great Bear nodded again. “However, when hunters or warriors return from a successful raid, they should give presents to the poor and to their friends.”
“We should give half of our meat to Lone Eagle’s widow and her children,” Little Bear suggested.
“That will be good.” Grandfather smiled. “Half of it is a generous gift. I am proud that you are generous.”
They were silent for some time. Little Bear had the odd feeling that Grandfather was not quite pleased with him. Grandfather had said that he was proud, but something was lacking.
“And our friends?” Grandfather asked after a time.
Little Bear looked towards the horses. He turned his eyes towards Grandfather, but the old warrior was looking off to the west.