But the Mandans were evidently disposed to be friendly. They lacked the fierce disposition of the Sioux, with whom they were constantly at war, though they could fight, and bravely too, when they had to.
Once in the Indian village, the boys saw a thousand things of interest around them; for this was the first opportunity they ever had had to roam about among the lodges of a large Indian camp. But they were in a fever of suspense concerning Jasper Williams; for surely the scout would have shown himself at their approach, had he been there.
Captain Lewis, knowing the anxious state of their minds, had promised to ask the chief concerning the scout in his first interview; and they hung around the wigwam which, by its gay markings, they knew must be the council chamber, and into which both the captains had been led half an hour before.
“Here he comes!” announced Roger, finally, in a gleeful tone.
Dick did not answer, for he could see that Captain Lewis looked serious, as though he had rather disappointing news for them; and his heart seemed to almost cease beating for a brief interval as the leader of the explorers advanced toward the spot where he and Roger stood awaiting him.
CHAPTER XXVI
STRANGE SIGHTS
“Dick, he looks as if he was bringing us bad news!” exclaimed Roger, quickly. “Oh! I hope nothing has happened to Jasper Williams! What if he should be dead! All our long journey would be for nothing; and we would not be able to save the homestead property after all.”
“Hold on,” said Dick, laying a hand on his cousin’s arm. “I hardly think it can be as bad as that. At the worst I think we’ll learn that he has gone out again to scout around. They say he can’t keep quiet for an hour; I guess he’s built on the same plan as you are, Roger. But here’s the captain.”