Black, we must do him the justice to say, satisfied himself by signifying his approval by a gesture; but the worthy squatter, like a true American, was very careful not to say a word. As for Diana, fascinated by such disinterestedness, she gazed on the Count with eyes sparkling with gratitude, not daring to express aloud what her secret thoughts were about this noble and generous gentleman. Natah Otann raised his head.
"I will prove to my brother," he said, in a gentle voice, and bowing courteously, "that the Red men are as generous as the Palefaces. I sell him eight hundred acres of land, to be chosen where he pleases along the river, for one dollar."
"A dollar?" the young man exclaimed, in surprise.
"Yes," the chief said, smiling, "in that way I shall be paid, my brother will owe me nothing; and if he consents to stay a little while with me, it will be of his own accord, and because he likes to be with a true friend."
This unforeseen result to a scene which had for a moment threatened to end in blood, filled all persons with surprise. Bright-eye alone was not duped by the chief's courtesy.
"There's something behind it," he muttered to himself, "but I will watch, and that demon must be very cunning to cheat me."
The Count was affected by this generosity, which he was far from expecting.
"There, chief," he said, handing him the stipulated dollar, "now we are quits; but be assured that I will not be outdone by you."
Natah Otann bowed courteously.
"Now," the Count continued, "a last favour."