Elysée turned a stern but still moist eye on him. "Enough crying, then. Tell me everything you have seen and done since the trial."
Auguste described his journey to Washington City and the meeting with Andrew Jackson.
Woodrow, dressed now for riding, lingered to listen as Auguste repeated Black Hawk's speech to Jackson. Then he solemnly shook hands with Auguste and left.
"Be careful out there," Auguste called after him.
Elysée said, "President Jackson, what sort of man is he?"
"His nickname, Old Hickory, is apt. He's hard, very hard."
Auguste told about his refusal of Jackson's offer of a post and being cut out of Black Hawk's touring party.
Elysée shook his head doubtfully. "To take a position in the government might have opened up an excellent career for you."
Auguste shook his head. "I knew what Jackson wanted to use me for. The Bear spirit would tear my heart out if I ever consented."
Elysée raised an eyebrow. "You still believe in such things—bear spirits and all that?"