Tranquil looked at the warrior in surprise. He smiled.
"Black-deer has no secret from his brother," he said, softly; "the Pale hunter will wait; soon he shall know all."
"My brother is free to speak or be silent; I will wait."
The conversation ceased here. The Sachem had wrapped himself in his buffalo robe, and did not appear disposed, to give any further explanation at present. Tranquil, restrained by the duties of hospitality, which in the desert prohibit any interrogation of a guest; imitated the Chiefs reserve; but the silence had lasted but a few minutes, when the hunter felt a light hand laid on his shoulder, while a soft and affectionate voice murmured in his ear:—"Good morning, father."
And a kiss completed the silence.
"Good-morning, little one," the hunter replied, with a smile; "did you sleep well?"
"Splendidly, father."
"And you have rested?"
"I no longer feel fatigued."
"Good; that is how I like to see you, my darling girl."