The dark figure bent and bit his fingers. That heavy sound recalled to memory many things; chiefly a home and connections in the 'Spirits' Province.' He too was reminded of the bleak prospect which lay behind any further delay. So he merely put the question, 'You're sure the boat leaves in the morning?'
'Yes; Angus told me. I have never known her to leave in the night except once. They were afraid of the ice.'
'It's cold enough now to scare them.' He drew a deep breath and beat his hands together. Then he muttered, 'I mustn't lose sight of him again.'
'What are you talking about?' said Menotah, with a short laugh.
The other started. 'You heard, eh? No matter, girl; it's all my racket.'
She shook her small head with a puzzled air. This man was certainly an enigma, with his strange conduct and general silence. He wished to be avenged on someone who had done him a great wrong. Before the departure of each boat he had never failed to ask her for the names of those going in her. Even then, unsatisfied by her declaration, he would steal secretly to the point, and, crouched behind the willow scrub, would scan the black monster as she passed. The keen-eyed girl had watched him closely, and learnt much, though not the one matter which was alone of vital importance.
Such thoughts as these she now put into words. But the response obtained was merely, 'Nobody saw me moving about, except you?'
'And old Antoine,' she added; 'you know the evening you came upon us both? It was just after Muskwah's death.'
The remark, made carelessly, had an invigorating effect upon her companion. A look of utter incredulity passed across his worn face. 'You don't tell me he's dead?' he cried.
'Of course,' she returned, somewhat unfeelingly 'Surely I told you that?'