Unicorn had no need of provisions at this moment, for his camp was choked with them, hence he displayed a praiseworthy politeness and gallantry to his cousin Bruin. He bowed to him, and spoke to him for some minutes in the most affectionate way, while the bear continued to sway about, apparently not attaching great importance to the chief's remarks, and rather annoyed than flattered by the compliments his cousin paid him. The chief, internally piqued by this indifference in such bad taste, gave a parting bow to the bear, and went on. The little party advanced for some time in silence.
"I do not care," Valentine suddenly said; "I do not know why, but I should have liked to have your cousin's hide, chief."
"Wah!" Unicorn answered, "there are buffaloes in camp."
"I know that very well," Valentine said, "so that is not my reason."
"What is it, then?"
"I don't know, but that bear did not seem to me all right, and had a suspicious look about it."
"My brother is jesting."
"No; on my word, chief, that animal did not seem to me true. For a trifle, I would return and have it out."
"Does my brother think, then, that Unicorn is a child, who cannot recognise an animal?" the sachem asked, haughtily.
"Heaven forbid my having such a thought, chief; I know you are an experienced warrior, but the cleverest men may be taken in."