Snowdrop looked in the direction in which he pointed and saw as many as two hundred painted warriors but a short distance away, all well-mounted and apparently ready for charge.
Jehiel was in despair, but it was quickly changed to joy by the exclamation of Snowdrop.
"They are Blackfoot braves! My own people, come to look for me!"
She gave a shrill cry, which instantly changed the hostile attitude of the savages, and bidding Jehiel ride close to her, and not be afraid, she rode on to meet the war-party.
The war-party was led by a young warrior, who saluted Snowdrop, and asked:
"Who is this pale-face, and where do you come from?"
"He is the Long Hunter—the friend of White Panther. I was in the hands of the Pawnees, and he got me away," replied the girl.
"Where is the chief, Gray Eagle?"
"The Sioux have got him. I was going to the village of my people for warriors to help White Panther get him away. White Panther stayed to watch the Sioux, and keep them from burning my father."
"There are enough Blackfeet here to save your father without any help from an accursed pale-face!" exclaimed the warrior.