Miantonimo, still encircling Tom with his arms, turned his head, and in the Indian language, said:
“Save him, my father, let him be my brother.”
“The Great Spirit has spoken through my son,” said Wanuka, the chief, gravely.
“Then shall he live?”
“He shall live. No harm shall come to him,” said the chief. “Unbind him. He shall stay with us, and be brother of Miantonimo.”
This decision seemed to please the Indian braves, who murmured in approval.
Two of them, at a signal from Wanuka advanced, and loosened the ropes that confined the boy prisoner.
Peter Brush and Lycurgus B. Spooner looked on with joy, not unmingled with amazement.
“It is wonderful!” ejaculated Brush.