"Lost our way!" the hunter exclaimed, with a start of surprise, almost of anger; "no, no, it is impossible. I guarantee that within a week we shall be on Lake Itasca."
"The Mississippi really runs from that lake?"
"Yes; for, in spite of what is asserted, the Missouri is only the principal branch of that river: the savants would have done better to assure themselves of the fact, ere they declared that the Mississippi and Missouri are two separate rivers."
"What would you have, Bright-eye?" the Count said, laughingly. "Savants are the same in all countries; being naturally indolent, they rely on one another, and hence the infinity of absurdities they put in circulation with the most astounding coolness."
"The Indians are never mistaken."
"That is true; but then the Indians are not savants."
"No; they see for themselves, and only assert what they are sure of."
"That is what I meant," the Count replied.
"If you will listen to me, Mr. Edward, we will remain here a few hours longer to let the great heat pass off, and when the sun is going down we will start again."
"Very good; let us rest then. Ivon appears to be thoroughly of our opinion, for he has not stirred."