how to such any great confidence,
or love."

"It is the way of man," returned the Captain; "and it is probable they
are not wanting in any of his natural qualities."

"No, no; it is little that they want, that natur' has had to give. But
as little does he know of the temper of a Red-skin, who has seen but one
Indian, or one tribe, as he knows of the colour of feathers who has only
looked upon a crow. Now, friend steersman, just give the boat a sheer
towards yonder, low, sandy point, and a favour will be granted at a
short asking."

"For what?" demanded Middleton; "we are now in the swiftest of the
current, and by drawing to the shore we shall lose the force of the
stream."

"Your tarry will not be long," returned the old man, applying his own
hand to the execution of that which he had requested. The oarsmen had
seen enough of his influence, with their leader, not to dispute his
wishes, and before time was given for further discussion on the subject,
the bow of the boat had touched the land.

"Captain," resumed the other, untying his little wallet with great
deliberation, and even in a manner to show he found satisfaction in the
delay, "I wish to offer you a small matter of trade. No great bargain,
mayhap; but still the best that one, of whose hand the skill of the
rifle has taken leave, and who has become no better than a miserable
trapper, can offer before we part."

"Part!" was echoed from every mouth, among those who had so recently
shared his dangers, and profited by his care.

"What the devil, old trapper, do you mean to foot it to the settlements,
when here is a boat that will float the distance in half the time,
that the jackass, the Doctor has given the Pawnee, could trot along the
same."

"Settlements, boy! It is long sin' I took my leave of the waste and
wickedness of the settlements and the villages. If I live in a clearing,
here, it is one of the Lord's making, and I have no hard thoughts on the
matter; but never again shall I be seen running wilfully into the danger
of immoralities."

"I had not thought of parting," answered Middleton, endeavouring to
seek some relief from the uneasiness he felt, by turning his eyes on the
sympathising countenances of his friends; "on the contrary, I had hoped
and believed that you would have accompanied us below, where I give
you a sacred pledge, nothing shall be wanting to make your days
comfortable."

"Yes, lad, yes; you would do your endeavours; but what a