"I swear it," resumed Oliver.
"We shall henceforth be two to fight the battle of the world."
"I thank heaven we have met."
"Never to part again. You have no family. I will find you one, brother, and this family will love you," he added.
"Heartily accept my thanks, Bright-eye," exclaimed Oliver; "life already seems changed, and I feel as if happiness were yet possible in this world."
"There can be no doubt about it. Believe me, it depends on yourself. Look upon the past only as a dream, and think only of the future."
"I will do so," returned Oliver, with a sigh.
"And now to business. Young as I am, you will soon find that I enjoy a certain amount of reputation among the Indians and trappers. Very few would dare to attack me. I was educated in an Indian village, and, as I believe I have already told you, I am here to keep an appointment with a young Indian, my friend and relative. This Indian I now expect every moment, and I shall introduce you to him. Instead of one friend, you will have two devoted brothers. Now then," he added, laughing, "are you not fortunate?"
"I am convinced of it," said Oliver.
"When we have finished our business in these parts—and you may help us in this business—we will return to my tribe, of which you shall become a member."