Not a word had been spoken among them until the smoke floated away, and did not reappear.
Then the chief said something in a low tone, wheeled his horse straight toward the hill, and his warriors followed in silence.
As they neared the base of the hill they stretched out into a line and so approached the pines, peering closely into every covert.
But suddenly a horseman rode out into view upon the hill-top, and though it was a pale-face, and naturally to be expected, a foe, they did not seem to so regard him, for the chief went toward him at a canter, his braves following, while not the slightest preparation was made for battle.
As he approached the steeper part of the hill the chief dismounted, and went on foot, his warriors following his example.
Then amid the pines he found Herbert Bernard, and the latter said:
"I am glad the Red Hatchet has come, for I was seeking for him."
"The Red Hatchet is glad to see his brother. He was going on the trail to see if the pale-face foes of the Sioux were still pressing upon his people."
"He will find that the soldiers are still marching forward to surround the Bad Lands; but the Sioux are safe there, for no soldiers can drive them away. But I would ask a favor of my red brother?"