"That needs not astonish you, madam," he said, with the most exquisite politeness; "I am the intimate friend of Stronghand. Without entering into any details that might justly offend you, my friend told me that you might perchance come and ask for him at our campfire."
"He knew it, then," she murmured, in a trembling voice; "but how did he learn it?"
Though these words were uttered in a whisper, Whistler heard them.
"He doubtless hoped it would be so, without daring to credit it, madam," he answered.
"Good heavens!" she continued, "What does this mean?"
"That my friend, in his eager desire to be agreeable to you, and foreseeing the chance of your coming during his absence, warned me, in order to spare you a very difficult search, and thus induce you to grant me a little of that confidence you deign to honour him with."
"I thank you, sir. Now that you know me, would it be taxing your courtesy too greatly to ask you to guide my companion and myself to your bivouac?"
"I am at your orders, madam, and believe me that you will receive a proper reception, even though my friend does not happen to be there at the moment."
"What!" she said, suddenly checking her horse, "Can he be absent?"
"Yes, but do not let that cause you any anxiety; he will soon return.