Whilst pronouncing these words the trapper was, in a manner, transfigured; his countenance assumed an inspired expression, his eyes flashed fire, and his gestures were impressed with that nobleness which passion alone gives.
The general sighed deeply, a furtive tear trickled over his grey moustache.
"That's true," he said, sadly; "this life has strange charms for the man who has tasted it, and they attach him by bonds nothing can break. When you arrived in the prairies, whence did you come?"
"I came from Quebec, sir; I am a Canadian."
"Ah!"
A silence of a few minutes ensued, but it was, at length, broken by the general.
"Have you many Mexicans among your companions?"
"Many."
"I should like to obtain some information respecting them."
"There is only one man who could give you any, sir; and, unfortunately, that man is not at this moment here."