"Poor Joe!" she exclaimed, "His face is not a good passport, but he is not to blame for that."
"I do not blame him for that, certainly," returned the Englishman, "and I do not say that is sufficient grounds for mistrusting him."
"You would make a mistake in that case, Señor Dearborn," said the Mexican, becoming serious. "He's a fine fellow, and I place my confidence in him."
"What do you think, Miss Maclan?"
"I agree with my friend; she has the proof in her hands that the Carcajieu stays near her to help her in case of dire need."
"Yes, but how and why? Do you mean to say he is placed near you by someone?"
"By that Mr. Ridge, perhaps?" suggested Miss Maclan.
"That may be," answered Rosario, contemplatively.
"Ridge is an extraordinary man," said Ranald, thoughtful himself. "He has a wonderful influence over the white trappers and hunters, wild Indians, and these Red River Half-breeds, who hate the Canadians and Americans alike, and yet respect him. They tell me that important quarrels have been decided by his plain word, and never any murmuring from the party who lost."
"But to return to the lieutenant," said Ulla.