"I am certain of it," added the son.
Bright-eye had nothing to say to so positive an assertion. He silently bowed his head.
"We have done all in our power to come here quickly, knowing we should meet you," went on François Berger; "we are only too happy to be in time."
"In time to do what?" asked Oliver.
"We will explain," said the elder of the two men; "when Tom Mitchell comes we shall receive him."
"But that is our business?" cried Bright-eye.
"I know the message was addressed to you," said his father; "I am well aware of it that it is our business, and, in fact, it is more proper it should be so. At all events we have decided that it is to be so, so that you will keep out of sight until the affair is finished."
"But," said Bright-eye, with considerable hesitation, "supposing there was treachery?"
"My son," sententiously observed the old man, "prudence is wise, but suspicion in certain cases is an insult. Think of that. Believe me when I say that your father and I know better what we are about than you do."
"We shall certainly obey you," said Oliver, in the name of all. "We shall remain at a distance during the interview, and only interfere when called upon."