Horror-stricken the Red Wizard fell upon his knees. Here was one who was greater than himself, and to whom he must bend his knee. Many of the Indians followed his example, for they thought that when their Wizard was scared, it was time for them to be humble.
CHAPTER V.
TWO QUEER MEN.
Chauncy heard a commotion in the village shortly after daybreak. Soon the door of the lodge was opened and a couple of men who had their hands tied behind them just as he did, were thrust in.
They did not see Chauncy, who was standing in a corner of the lodge. They had just come in from the light, and could not see in the dim room for several moments. Chauncy could see them plainly, however, and he saw that there was a slight difference in size between the two men. One was about six feet three, while the other could not be over five feet at the most.
The first was a trapper, being dressed in tanned buckskin, while the second man was clothed in a suit of broadcloth.
Who were these two men, who seemed so entirely opposite?
Chauncy did not ask the question. There was no need of it, for as the little man entered the lodge, urged on by the foot of the Indian guard, he immediately staggered and fell on his back. Struggling to his feet he turned his back to that of his comrade.
“Sacré,” cried the little man, in unmistakably French accents. “It is von shame to throw a citizen of la belle France about in that vay. I s’all complain to de Emperor an’ he will adjust de difficulty. If you please, monsieur, I would be much obliged if you give my back von leetle scratch. It feels itchy.”
“Why, you frog-eating Parley Voo. D’ye think I’m a scratchin’-post? I didn’t hire out fur that. Ye ought to know Ralph Bison better nor that. Go an’ scratch yer pesky back ag’in’ the side o’ the lodge,” exclaimed the other, in a sour tone.
“Diable, your advice is good, monsieur, and I s’all follow out von glorious idea. I may rub a hole through the vall an’ we s’all escape,” and the little Frenchman was about to do what he said, despite the laughter of his comrade, when the voice of Chauncy made one straighten his face and the other forget the itch in his back.