The king did not seem annoyed.
“If we do not succeed to-day, we will to-morrow,” he prophesied, with cool assurance. “For to-morrow I shall go to the battle myself, and carry with me our greatest Chieftain, known as the Crooked One.”
“May we go, also?” I inquired, eagerly.
He considered the request thoughtfully. Then he replied:
“It would seem best to drown you both this evening, before I leave for the fight. The Crooked One has advised that, and his wisdom is great. But I wish to be taught more of your knowledge, so I will let you live until my return.”
“But why must we stay here?” I asked.
“Would you assist me in defeating your people, if I took you with me?”
“No,” said I.
He took my hand and touched it lightly to his breast.
“What I like in the pale-skins,” he said, “is the truth-tongue. You do not try to deceive me. That is why I have let you live to teach me. From a lying teacher I would gain but little knowledge.”