CHAPTER XXIV

TIMON OF THE WILDERNESS

Jean awoke the next morning much refreshed after the good night's rest.
She slept upon a liberal supply of blankets which Kitty had prepared
for her upon the floor. This was a treat after camp-life, and when she
opened her eyes the Indian woman was cooking breakfast. It was not yet
daylight, but the room was quite bright from the dancing flames of the
fire-place. It felt nice to lie there with a roof above her and no
weary journey ahead for that day, at least. She recalled the events of
the previous day, and wondered how the injured man had passed the
night. She had fallen asleep thinking about him, and the mystery of
his life. Whoever he was, she was thankful that he had known her
parents, and that for their sake he was willing to send food to the
Loyalists. The Indians were to start that morning, so she must be
ready to assist them in selecting the supplies.

About a quarter of an hour later Sam entered the room. He did not
knock, for such etiquette was not in his simple code of Indian manners.
He merely looked to see what his wife was cooking, and then turned
toward Jean.

"Beeg chief want see babby," he announced.

"How is he this morning, Sam?"