"As many as you please, Rita."
"Then I will make the whole village happy some day."
The ride to the fort was a somewhat hurried one, for Many Bears was in some fear lest all the presents should be given out before he could come for his share, and Murray was half in dread lest he should not be able to keep his own promise to the chief.
His first difficulty was removed almost at once, on his arrival, by his finding a trader who had bought a great many more ponies than he knew what to do with. Fifty of them were promptly secured and turned over to Many Bears. Even while that was being cared for Murray sought and obtained two or three important interviews. One was with the United States Army officer in command of the post, and from him he received the promise of all the help he might need.
"Still," said the gallant major, "it will keep the Indians in better humor if you pay as you agreed."
"I mean to exactly."
"It's a little the biggest romance I ever heard of. I'll tell you what: you'd better have the final transfer made in my presence."
"Thank you heartily. That will be just the thing."
Another of Murray's calls was upon the "post barber," the next upon the traders in boots, hats, clothing etc.; and when he finished the last one, Steve Harrison, who had accompanied him, making some purchases on his own account, exclaimed,
"Why, Murray, you don't look as if you were over forty. The major won't know you, nor the chief either."