“It would be deserting my people,” he finally replied. “My father and mother and sister are living. I thank you for the––the kindness. I hope you will permit me to go to them. My people are at peace with your people.”
“The palefaces speak words of peace but their deeds are war.”
There was silence for a few moments and then the old chief spoke with Rodney’s captor. They talked in the Indian tongue. Little Louis, standing by, evidently knew what they were saying, for, as the Indian who claimed Rodney spoke more loudly, he interrupted, claiming, as afterward appeared, that the prisoner was his, that he had first seen him and wanted him for a playmate.
The old Indian did not speak for a time, evidently being puzzled what to do. Then, addressing Rodney, he said: “Young paleface will not be the Indian’s brother; he cannot find his way to the big river. He may share the Indian’s lodge and meat.” Saying this he turned and entered his lodge.
“Come.”
It was Louis who spoke and, taking Rodney by the hand, he led him away, while Caughnega, with a sullen look on his face, went his way.
Louis was a handsome little fellow, affectionate in his manner and delighted with his success in obtaining a new playfellow. As they went along they met one that at first Rodney thought to be an Indian but on closer inspection decided was a white man; the fellow was, in fact, none other than Conrad, whose capture has already been related.
“Ah, Conrad! mon ami. I have a new friend,” exclaimed Louis.
“I suppose you are one of his old ones,” remarked Rodney with a smile. Conrad made no reply, but looked inquiringly while Louis rattled off an account of the events of the morning.