"The Palefaces are our guests. There are fire and water here."
After these words, which ended the ceremony, all rose and retired without uttering a word, according to the Indian custom. Natah Otann then went up to the Count.
"Let my brother follow me," he said.
"Where to?" the young man asked.
"To the cabin I have had prepared for him."
"And my companions?"
"Other wigwams await them."
Bright-eye made a sign, immediately checked by the Count.
"Pardon, chief," he said, "but with your permission my comrades will live with me."
The hunter smiled, as a shade of dissatisfaction crossed the Indian's face.