"Indeed, we are as friendly as the grizzly bear and the jaguar."
"Which means?—"
"That we have measured our claws; and, as we find them at present of the same strength and length, so we stand on the defensive."
"Do you feel any malice against him?"
"I? not the least in the world. I do not fear him more than he does me; we are only distrustful because we know each other."
"Oh, oh!" the young man said, with a laugh; "that conceals, I can see, something serious."
Bright-eye frowned, and took a scrutinizing glance around. The Indians were galloping on about twenty paces in the rear; Ivon alone, though keeping at a respectful distance, could hear the conversation between the two men. Bright-eye leant over to the Count, laid his hand on the pommel of his saddle, and said, in a low voice—"I do not like tigers covered with a fox's skin; each ought to follow the instincts of his nature, and not try to assume others that are fictitious."
"I must confess, my good fellow," the young man replied, "that you are speaking in enigmas, and I cannot understand you at all."
"Patience!" the hunter said, tossing his head; "I will be clear."
"My faith! that will delight me, Bright-eye," the young man said, with a smile; "for ever since we have again met the Indian chief, you have affected an air of mystery, which bothers me so, that I should be charmed to comprehend you for once."