“We’ll try to, Sandy. I only wish that there was some way that we could talk to the chief’s son and explain matters to him. If we hurry away he may think that we don’t appreciate his kindness.”
Sandy gazed thoughtfully at his chum for a few moments, then rose decisively to his feet.
“Well, it can’t be helped. Let’s go over to the village and see if we can find Toma. He’s right in his element now. It would tickle him pink if we would decide to remain here for the rest of the summer.”
Dick laughed as he swung into step beside his friend.
“You’re wrong there. Toma may enjoy a day or two of this, but the novelty would soon wear off. He’s on the job day and night. Besides, he’s troubled with a secret ambition.”
“What is it?”
“He hopes some day to become a mounted police scout like Malemute Slade. It’s about all he lives for. He’ll be the proudest mortal in seven kingdoms and fourteen republics if they ever decide to give him a chance.”
“And he’d make good, too,” said Sandy.
“I know it. In some respects he’s almost as clever as Malemute Slade right now. Corporal Richardson and Inspector Cameron are keeping an eye on him. It’s hard to get good scouts for the mounted.”
The subject of this short but complimentary appraisement came suddenly in view, accompanied by the chief’s son. Both were smiling in great good humor as they approached.