Running Water's face assumed an expression of sorrow.
"My brother, then, will not pardon an unhappy mistake, at which he sees his friend broken-hearted."
"Come, come, chief, let us say no more about it; there was more noise than hurt. I am glad to see you at liberty again, and, according to appearances, in good case. You have not taken long to procure weapons."
"The chief is on his own territory," the Indian answered, with a flash of pride.
"Very good, I admit that, although I fancy you venture rather close to the Spanish border."
"I am not alone."
"That is probable. I do not wish to know the motives that bring you to these parts; that is your business, although I suspect a hearty Indian revenge behind it."
An evil smile played round the chief's thin lips.
"Vengeance is the virtue of the red men," he answered in a hollow voice; "they never forget kindness and never pardon wrong."
"I am aware of that, chief, and I cannot blame you, for every man acts according to his instincts."