p snarl broke from one of them, and he sprang to his
feet and walked round his neighbour in a hectoring fashion. Ralph just
glanced up from his work, his attitude expressing indifference. The
second dog rose leisurely, and a silent argument over some old-time
dispute proceeded in true husky fashion. They walked round and round
each other, seeming almost to tiptoe in their efforts to browbeat. Their
manes bristled and their fangs bared to the gums, but never a sound came
from their deep-toned throats. And such is ever the way of the husky,
unless stirred to the wildest fury. The other dogs paid no heed; the
smell which emanated from Ralph's cooking-pot held them. Those who
wished to fight could do so; their indifference plainly said so.

Ralph went to the shed and returned with some fresh logs. As he reached
the fire he paused. The disputing dogs had attracted his attention. A
quick spring in and out, a slash of the bared fangs, and the shoulder of
one dog was laid open. The other brutes were on their feet in an
instant. The scent of blood had greater attraction for their wolfish
senses than the smell of cooking food. They gathered round with licking
lips. Ralph stepped back from the fire and raised aloft one of the logs
he had brought. The next moment it was hurtling through the air. It took
the combatants somewhere in the midst. They parted, with a howl of pain,
and the spectators hurriedly returned to their contemplation of the
fire. In a moment temporary peace was restored. Ralph stood to see that
hostilities were definitely postponed, then he went on with his work.

Suddenly, up out of the valley came the sound of Nick's voice. It
trolled harshly up the hillside, giving out strange echoes which
confused the melody he essayed. The listening man recognized the words
of "The Red River Valley," but the tune was obscured.

The unusual outburst held Ralph silent, wondering. Nick was not given to
singing at any time, and the events of the last few days were not likely
to inspire him. What had caused the change?

The voice sounded nearer. In spite of the tunelessness of the song,
Ralph thought he detected a joyousness in the tone which was unusual. A
shiver passed down his back, and his thoughts flew at once to Aim-sa.

Gazing down the hill he saw Nick emerge from the forest and face the
slope at a swinging pace. His powerful limbs moved easily, with a
springiness of stride that was not natural to a man accustomed to the