“Among the Siwanois only.” “That is strange,” I muttered. “I have never before seen a Siwanois. Where could I have seen a Siwanois? Where?”

But he only shook his head.

Boyd and Mount had pricked forward; I still lingered by the Mohican. And presently I said:

“That was a brave little maid who bore our message to you.”

He made no answer.

“I have been wondering,” I continued carelessly, “whether she has no friends — so poor she seems — so sad and friendless, Have you any knowledge of her?”

The Indian glanced at me warily, “My brother Loskiel should ask these questions of the maid herself.”