Scarcely had they been five minutes again concealed among the spruce fir-trees, when they heard a distant whoop from the woods on the other side of the lodges.
“They are now coming on,” said Martin; “that is their signal.”
One of the Indian women from the lodges returned the whoop.
“Yes, sir, they are coming,” said Malachi. “Pray, Captain Sinclair, be quiet and sit down; you will ruin all our plans.”
“Down, Sinclair, I beg,” said Alfred.
Captain Sinclair, who was very much excited, nevertheless did as he was requested.
“Oh, Alfred!” said he; “she’s so near.”
“Yes, my good fellow, but if you wish her nearer, you must be prudent.”
“True, very true,” replied Captain Sinclair.
In about half an hour more, the Angry Snake and his party were soon seen to emerge from the woods, and it was perceived that four of the Indians carried a litter made of branches between them.