The latter, long accustomed to the mode of action of the redskins, remained in appearance impassible, awaiting the result of their bold coup de main.
"My pale brothers," the chief said, "are full of wisdom, though their hair is black; they are acquainted with all the stratagems familiar to great warriors; they have the cunning of the beaver and the courage of the lion."
The two men bowed in silence, and Eagle Head continued,—
"As my brother Loyal Heart is in the camp of the Comanches of the great lakes, the hour has at length arrived for dispersing the clouds which have arisen between him and the redskins. Loyal Heart is just; let him explain himself without fear; he is in the presence of renowned chiefs, who will not hesitate to acknowledge their wrongs, if they have any towards him."
"Oh! oh!" the Canadian replied with a sneer; "Eagle Head has quickly changed his sentiments with respect to us; does he believe he can deceive us with vain words?"
A flash of hatred sparkled in the savage eye of the Indian; but, with an extraordinary effort, he succeeded in restraining himself.
Suddenly a man stepped between the interlocutors.
This man was Eshis, the most highly venerated warrior of the tribe.
The old man slowly raised his arm.
"Let my children listen to me," he said; "everything should be cleared up today; the pale hunters will smoke the calumet in council."