They were silent a minute or so, in the hope that, he would explain
his meaning, but he did not, and even Otto saw that he had no right
to question him further.

Aware that his friends were waiting for him to add something,
Deerfoot continued:

"The path of my brothers is straight, and they will not get down on
their knees to look for the trail. There are no Shawanoes among the
trees to fire when they are not looking, and Deerfoot can may no
words that will do good."

"It is not that which causes us to hope for your company," replied
Jack, who was standing several feet away from the youthful warrior
and looking in his serious countenance; "but it is because we like
you, not only for what we have heard from others, but for what we
have seen with our own eyes, and for what you have done for us, that
we are loath to part with you."

"Deerfoot will go part of the way," the Indian hastened to say,
perceiving the feeling of his friends, "but it cannot be long."

"Far be it from me to question what you do; no right belongs to me,
but I could not let you go without telling bow much we appreciate
what you have done for us, and how much we admire your noble
character."

It was one of the peculiarities of Deerfoot that he never accepted
the most pointed compliment. When forced to reply to a direct one,
he turned it aside with an indifference which showed he placed no