"Musq'oosis!" cried Sam, recoiling. Fearful of other surprises, he hastened to look in the wagon-box. There was nothing more in it save their bedding and grub.
Musq'oosis clambered down and shook hands with Sam and Ed.
"Tell them to unhitch," said Sam, mindful of the duties of hospitality.
Musq'oosis shook his head. "Got go back," he said. "Got sleep to-night on Little Prairie. Home to-morrow night."
Sam felt relieved. His ordeal was not to be long continued then. Whatever colour might be given it, he knew what Musq'oosis had really come for.
Ed, out of a sentiment of delicacy, retired to finish unloading his wagon. Musq'oosis sent the two breed-boys to help him. Musq'oosis himself squatted in the grass, while Sam stood caressing the horses.
"Then you not comin'," said Musq'oosis, a quarter of an hour later. He had spent his best efforts in vain.
Sam gloomily shook his head.
"I moch sorry," said the old man.