d
come to our rescue just in the nick of time? I should also very much
like to know how you managed to tumble down that precipice unharmed, as
well as how you produced those flashes of light that scared the savages
so badly--me too, for that matter."

For answer the stranger only smiled gravely, pointed to his lips, and
shook his head.

"Oh!" exclaimed both Cabot and White, shocked by this intimation, and
the former said:

"I beg your pardon, sir. While I noticed that you didn't do much
talking, it never occurred to me that you were dumb. I am awfully
sorry, and it must be a terrible trial. At the same time, I am glad
you can hear me say how very grateful we are to you for getting us out
of a nasty fix in the splendid way you did. Now, I move we adjourn to
the cabin of the schooner, where we can make some hot tea and be rather
more comfortable than out here. That is, if you think those Indians
won't come back."

The stranger smiled again, and shook his head so reassuringly that the
lads had no longer a doubt as to the expediency of returning to the
cabin. There they started a fire in the stove, boiled water, made tea,
and prepared a meal, of which the stranger ate so heartily, and with
such evident appreciation, that it was a pleasure to watch him.

While supper was being made ready, the big man removed his outer
garments of wolf fur and stood in a close-fitting suit of tanned
buckskin that clearly revealed the symmetry of his massive proportions.

"If I were as strong as you look, and, as I know from experience, you
are," exclaimed Cabot, admiringly, "I don't think I would hesitate to
attack a whole tribe of Indians single handed. My! but it must be fine
to be so strong."

After supper Cabot, who generally acted as spokesman, again addressed
himself to their guest, saying:

"If you don't mind, sir, we'd like to have you know just what sort of a
predicament we've got into, and ask your advice as to how we can get
out of it." With this preamble Cabot explained the whole situation,
and ended by saying:

"Now you know just how we are fixed, and if you can guide us to the
nearest Mission Station or, if you haven't time to go with us, if you
will give us directions how to find it--we shall be under a greater
obligation to you than ever."

For a minute the stranger looked thoughtful but made no sign. Then,
dipping his finger in a bowl of water, he wrote on the table the single
word: "To-morrow." Havin