"Does he say he will die?"
"Yes, he will die."
"Well, then, great chief, will you let me examine the youth, I am a doctor, too, and perhaps I can do something to help your son."
Before an answer could be given, the Medicine Man leaped before the missionary and in wild rage gave vent to his fury. He danced, screamed, and denounced the pale-face stranger in the most violent terms.
For a time this was permitted, and then into Shrahegan's face came a look of determination. With one grip of his powerful hand he seized the conjurer by the arm, shook him like a rat, and sent him tumbling out of the lodge.
The Indians within the room looked aghast at such a move, and half expected the house to collapse, or something terrible to happen. It was a thing unknown for any one to meddle with the "doctor," and of this Shrahegan was well aware. But it seemed to disturb him not in the least. He turned quietly to the missionary.
"Examine the sick boy," he said. "Shrahegan gives you permission to look at his brother."
"Is it the will of the great chief of the Quelchies?" asked Keith, turning towards the old man.
Receiving only a nod in reply, he at once stepped to the side of the prostrate lad, and made a careful examination of his condition.
"He is very sick," he quietly remarked.