me, little Lois. And let the Sagamore perform the rite at once.”

“Betroth myself, Euan?”

“Yes, under the Rite of the Hidden Children. Will you do this — so that my Indians can lay your hands upon their hearts? Else they may turn from you now — perhaps prove hostile.”

“I had desired to have you take me from my mother’s arms.”

“And so I will, in marriage — if she be alive to give you.”

“Then — what is this we do?”

“It is our White Bridal.”

“Summon the Sagamore,” she said faintly.