The bear growled, but it was a kindly, reassuring growl.

"I didn't mean to disturb you. I was looking for wood, not for bear."

Another growl, but of a thoroughly placid nature.

"Go wherever you please and I'll return to the camp with this fallen
sapling."

A third growl, now ingratiating.

"It's a cold night, with fire and shelter the chief needs, and you and
I wouldn't think of fighting."

A fourth growl which clearly disclosed the note of friendship and
understanding.

"We're in agreement, I see. Good night, I wish you well."

A fifth growl, which had the tone of benevolent farewell, and the
bear, dropping on all fours, disappeared in the brush. Robert, whose
fancy had been alive and leaping, returned to the camp rather pleased
with himself, despite the fact that about three hundred pounds of
excellent food had walked away undisturbed.

"I ran upon a big bear," he said to the hunter and the Onondaga.

"I heard no shot," said Willet.

"No, I didn't fire. Neither my impulse nor my will told me to do so.