“Here, Sicum. Good old Sicum.”
The dog with a yelp of joy leaped upon them, but uttered a low growl as he saw Rex.
“It’s all right, old fellow. He’s one of us,” Bob said as he took Rex by the hand.
Thus assured the intelligent animal crouched at Rex’s feet and allowed him to place his hand on his head.
“Sicum doesn’t take readily to strangers but if he once accepts you he’s a friend for life,” Jack explained. “You’re in good with him now and he’ll never forget you.”
Old Kernertok was standing in front of his cabin as they approached.
“Hello, there, Kernertok,” Jack shouted.
“How,” the Indian replied.
“Fine as silk, and you?”
“Injun heap well.”