"That is true, I forgot it."
"And stay, when you speak of the devil—here is our man."
The hunters rose quickly, seized their rifles, and hid themselves behind a rock, so as to be ready for any event.
The rapid gallop of a horse became audible, approaching nearer and nearer; ere long a rider emerged from the gorge, and pulled up calmly and haughtily at about two paces from the hunters.
The latter rushed from their ambuscade, and advanced toward him, with the right arm extended, and the palm of the hand open in sign of peace.
The horseman, who was an Indian warrior, responded to these pacific demonstrations by letting his buffalo robe float out; then he dismounted, and without further ceremony, shook the hands offered him.
"You are welcome, Chief," John said; "we were awaiting you impatiently."
"My Pale brothers can look at the sun," the Indian answered; "Blue-fox is punctual."
"That is true, Chief; there is nothing to be said, for you are remarkably punctual."
"Time waits for no man; warriors are not women; Blue-fox would like to hold a council with his Pale brothers."