"Well, considering that I have owned I was a brute," growled Bright-eye, "are you not satisfied?"
"Perfectly!" said the guide.
Numank-Charake had in the meantime undertaken the office of cook, an office he filled effectively.
A few minutes later all were eagerly devouring slices cut from a quarter of venison which had been broiled upon the hot embers.
Then the gourds were opened and passed joyously from hand to hand.
These brave young men had walked all night through impracticable paths which only hunters could overcome. They were literally famished.
But now they entered into the spirit of the thing rarely. Soon everything had disappeared. All was eaten.
When the last mouthful had been washed down, and the very last drop of brandy absorbed, each man in his turn gave a deep sigh of satisfaction.
"Now, then," remarked Bright-eye, looking obliquely at his companions, "I think we may talk."
"Well, I am of opinion," said Keen-hand, gaily, "that after a hearty meal, two things are agreeable—a pipe and talk."