He stopped and shook his head mournfully.
"Finish the sentence," the young man quickly exclaimed.
"For what end?" he answered; "Who am I that I should impose on you a line of conduct which you would probably despise, and advice which would prove unwelcome? It is better to be silent."
"Tranquil!" the young man said, with an emotion he could not master, "For a long time we have known each other, you are aware of the esteem and respect I hold you in, so speak; whatever you have to say, however rude your reproaches may be, I will listen to you, I swear it."
"Nonsense; forget what I said to you; I was wrong to think of meddling in your affairs; on the prairie, a man should only think about himself, so let us say no more."
The Jaguar gave him a long and profound glance. "Be it so," he answered; "we will say no more about it."
He rose and walked a few yards in agitation, then he brusquely returned to the hunter.
"Pardon me," he said, "for not having thought of offering you refreshment, but breakfast time has now arrived. I trust that your comrade and yourself will do me the honour of sharing my frugal meal."
While speaking thus, the Jaguar bent on the Canadian a most meaning glance.
Tranquil hesitated for a second.