e bad.

"Young braves will not always obey their chiefs," was the rather
evasive reply of the old man, and the boy instinctively felt he had
not displeased Ahneota by his bold speech.

"Ahneota has one brother. He left the palefaces and is an Indian."

The boy understood this to mean that he might, by forsaking his
people, find safety as a member of the tribe. Every tie of affection
bound him to his own people. He knew, moreover, that if an adopted
member of the tribe ever deserted it the offence was regarded as a
most serious one; that on the contrary he would be expected, if need
be, to fight against his own people. He made no reply.

"Will paleface be Ahneota's brother?"

Thought of home almost brought tears to the boy's eyes. He gulped down
his emotion, for he knew the Indians look with contempt on any display
of one's feelings.

"It would be deserting my people," he finally replied. "My father and
mother and sister are living. I thank you for the--the kindness. I
hope you will permit me to go to them. My people are at peace with
your people."

"The palefaces speak words of peace but their deeds are war."

There was silence for a few moments and then the old chief spoke with
Rodney's captor. They talked in the Indian tongue. Little Louis,
standing by, evidently knew what they were saying, for, as the Indian
who claimed Rodney spoke more loudly, he interrupted, claiming, as
afterward appeared, that the prisoner was his, that he had first seen
him and wanted him for a playmate.

The old Indian did not speak for a time, evidently being puzzled what
to do. Then, addressing Rodney, he said: "Young paleface will not be
the Indian's brother; he cannot find his way to the big river. He may
share the Indian's lodge and meat." Saying this he turned and entered
his lodge.

"Come."

It was Louis who spoke and, taking Rodney by the hand, he led him
away, while Caughnega, with a sullen look on his face, went his way.

Louis was a handsome little fellow, affectionate in his manner and
delighted with his success in obtaining a new playfellow. As they went
along they met one that at first Rodney thought to be an Indian but on
closer inspection decided was a white man; the fellow was, in fact,
none other than Conrad, whose capture has already been related.

"Ah, Conrad! _mon ami_. I have a new friend," exclaimed Louis.

"I suppose you are one of his old ones," remarked Rodney with a smile.
Conrad made no reply, but