at my best course would be first to get Stonhawon's
permission to accompany the party, and, if possible, induce him to
intercede for me with the old medicine man.

To the lodge of this redoubtable chief I accordingly bent my steps, and,
on approaching it, found him seated without, engaged in conversation
with several of the older warriors. Not daring to interrupt their
conference, I remained at a little distance until the interview was
ended. From the few sentences I overheard I concluded that the chief was
unfolding his plans or some portion of them to the principal warriors of
his party. Directly the council seemed to be over, and the warriors
separated, leaving the chief seated as before at the entrance to his
lodge. I was about to approach him and proffer my request, when
Hissodecha, the renegade, suddenly made his appearance, and walking
directly up to Stonhawon addressed him as follows:

"My brother is going on the war-path?"

"Yes, Hissodecha," said the chief; "I am weary of this idleness, and my
young men are impatient and clamor to be led against the Arapahoes, who
have invaded our territory and cut off several of our hunting parties. I
have therefore determined to take out a strong party and strike a blow
that will teach these cowardly horse thieves a lesson!"

"Stonhawon," said Hissodecha, "it is my wish that we should be friends,
and that the ill-feeling which has existed between us and our young men
should cease. For this reason I have come to offer you my services on
your expedition as a volunteer, and if you accept my offer, I will join
your party with my entire band and serve under your orders. Let my
brother speak. I await his decision."

While Hissodecha was speaking, I observed a gratified expression upon
the countenance of Stonhawon, and I saw that he would gladly avail
himself of the renegade's offer. But why Hissodecha should make so
unusual a proposition puzzled me extremely, and I waited anxiously to
hear the remainder of their conversation.

As the renegade ceased speaking, Stonhawon arose in silence, filled and
lighted his pipe and passed it to Hissodecha, who took a few whiffs and
returned it to the chief. The latter followed his example, and then,
emptying the pipe, he returned it to its case of fawn skin, gaily
decorated with the quills of the porcupine stained in bright colors, and
spoke as follows:

"Hissodecha, your words are good; you are a great brave, and you shall
ride with me