"Pale-face squaw want moccasins?" she asked, holding out a pair decorated with beads and quills.
A strange thrill went through Helen as she felt the touch, and saw the dark, fierce face of the Indian woman so close to hers. But with an effort she controlled herself and answered:
"Yes, I want moccasins. These will fit me. How much are they?"
"Waupatheca not know. Pale-face tell her," said the squaw throwing up her hand.
"What shall I give her?" Helen asked of Harold, who turning from his men watched the scene with amusement.
"A piece of cloth, some needles and thread would be better than money," he said.
"But I haven't them with me."
"Give the moccasins back and tell her you will come again this afternoon. The Indians must not come to the house. Not so soon at any rate."
A dissatisfied expression came into the squaw's face; but she nodded and turned away, as her daughter, also unsatisfied, pulled at one of the strings of Helen's bonnet.
"Little Moon want it!" she exclaimed eagerly.