"I will not deprive you," Davis, said, with a smile, "of the pleasure of recognizing them yourself."
The young Chief did not press the matter, for he knew the ex-slave dealer too well not to place the most perfect confidence in him. A few minutes later, according to his promise, Davis entered the jacal with his comrades; the Jaguar gave a start of joy at seeing them, and quickly walked up to offer his hand. These three men were Lanzi, Quoniam, and Black-deer.
"Oh, oh!" he exclaimed, "Here you are, then. Heaven be praised! I did not dare hope for your return."
"Why not?" Lanzi asked; "As we are still alive, thanks to God! You ought to have expected us."
"So many things have happened since our parting, so many misfortunes have assailed us, so many of our friends have fallen not to rise again, that, on receiving no news of you, I trembled at the thought that you might also be dead."
"You know, my friend," the American said, "that we have been absent a very long time, and are consequently quite ignorant of what has happened since our departure."
"Well, I will tell you all. But first one word."
"Speak."
"Where is Tranquil?"
"Only a few leagues from here, and you will soon see him; he sent me forward, indeed, to warn you of his speedy arrival."