in winter, gently babbling in summer, and flooded in
springtime from its own countless tributaries.

The Indians had recently returned from their various hunting grounds,
and were enjoying life to the full in their wild, uncouth way when
Keith entered the settlement. A lean, skulking cur gave the alarm,
which was taken up by scores of his companions, who rushed upon the
stranger, yelping and snarling in the most ferocious manner. From
dozens of lodges men, women and children suddenly poured, and,
beholding the cause of the disturbance, joined the dogs in their wild
clamour. The rifle was wrenched from his hand by a large Indian, who
was soon fighting with half a dozen more for the control of the prize.
Everything that Keith possessed was stolen; his knapsack, in which he
kept a few treasures; the cap was torn from his head, while rough hands
laid hold upon the very clothes he wore. He was hustled and pushed
first one way and then another. At times he stumbled and fell, though
endeavouring to maintain as dignified a mien as possible.

In the confusion his buck-skin shirt was parted at the neck, and the
locket exposed to view. Instantly a scramble ensued for the trinket.
Then Keith's blood was aroused. They might lay hands upon anything
else, but not upon that. Straightening himself up, he drove blow after
blow at his dusky assailants with his clenched fist, knocking down two
or three, and compelling the rest to fall back a few paces.

Seizing the opportunity which the lull in the storm afforded, he
addressed a few words to them in the Tukudh tongue, which, although
somewhat different from their own language, they were able to
understand.

"Quelchies!" he shouted, above the din of the yelping dogs, "listen to
what I have to say! I have a great message for your chief. Take me to
him."

A yell of derision was the only response, and the savages were about to
renew the onset when a strong, clear voice was heard commanding them to
desist. The effect was magical, and looking around for the speaker,
Keith beheld a stalwart Indian of more than ordinary height, with grace
of movement and fine, intelligent face, advancing toward him.

In this man he thought he recognized his rescuer, one who had the power
to save him from the surging horde.

"Great warrior!" he cried, addressing the stranger, "keep back the
Indians! Take me to your chief. I have a message to deliver."

For a time the native maintained a dignif