The Indians had their backs turned and did not appear to notice Brad and Dan.
Eagle Feather was completing a grocery purchase. He had bought bacon, flour, matches and items one might need if embarking on an extensive camping trip.
Now that they were in the store, Brad and Dan hesitated to speak to the two Indians.
The Cubs were not actually afraid of the strangers, but their appearance seemed less friendly than at the meeting by the cliff. Eagle Feather and White Nose were grimly intent upon their purchases.
“Go ahead,” Dan urged Brad in a whisper, giving him a nudge. “Ask ’em.”
Brad moved closer to the counter. Both Indians now saw the boys, but stared at them without friendly recognition.
For an instant the boys were taken aback, wondering if they had made a mistake.
But a second glance reassured them that the Indians were the same pair they had met at the cliff.
“Good afternoon,” Brad began politely.
“Yah eh tah!” responded Eagle Feather.