"Eh!" the She-wolf said, not replying to the squatter. "The Frenchman has been diligent."
"What do you mean?"
"I will explain all that presently; for the present you need only offer your hospitality to these good people."
"Hum!" Black said, doubtingly. "I shall be glad to do it, but must know who they are, and what they want of me."
"They are Americans; like yourself. I asked the commandant of the fort where they are stationed to send them here."
"What fort and what garrison are you talking of, my good woman? On my soul! I do not know what you mean."
"What! have you not learned to know your neighbours since you have been here?"
"What! have I neighbours?" he said, in an angry tone.
"About ten miles off is Fort Mackenzie, commanded by a brave officer, Major Melville."
At this explanation the squatter's face was unwrinkled; it was not a rival, but a defender he had as neighbour, hence all was for the best.