"Explain yourself, brother," said Joshua, sulkily.
"Well, you think yourself very far from all white folk. You are very much mistaken. Learn, then, that though we are in the centre of the most warlike tribes of Indians, you have new forts not very far off, including a fur station."
"Can it be possible?" exclaimed Joshua.
"And my friend and brother, are you aware what magnificent river runs at your own door? The Missouri!"
Joshua bowed his head on his chest and was silent, while Samuel rubbed his hands and smiled slyly.
"What do you think of the information?" he said at last.
"If you are certain of what you say, it is excellent."
"Then you give up the idea of your journey?"
"Certainly not. Admitting that all you tell me be true, it is of the highest importance for me to visit the fur station and all other settlements above and below us on the river, in order to become friendly, and prevent rivalry."
"What rivalry?" half screamed Samuel.