"My brother can continue his journey," Unicorn said to Valentine; "the Apache dogs have fled with the feet of antelopes."
"Oh, we do not fear them," the hunter replied, disdainfully.
"Before the eighth sun, my brother will see me again," the chief continued.
"Good."
"Farewell."
And they separated. The Comanche warriors entered the forest; for a while the sound of their footsteps and the tinkling of the bells fastened to their dogs' necks re-echoed under the gloomy arcades of the forest; then silence was gradually re-established, and the hunters found themselves alone. They were six resolute and well-armed men, who feared no danger; they could continue their journey in perfect safety.
"Are we still far from the island where Red Cedar's band is encamped?" Valentine asked the Sachem of the Coras.
"Scarce four leagues," Eagle-wing answered. "Were it not for the countless turnings we shall have to take, we should reach it in an hour; but we shall not arrive till the last song of the maukawis."
"Good; you and Don Pablo will go on ahead with the squarer's daughter."
"Do you fear anything?" Don Pablo asked.