again, leaving the expression of his countenance in its usual state
of quiet melancholy. As vehicle after vehicle left the place of the
encampment, he noted the change, with increasing attention; seldom
failing to cast an enquiring look at the little neglected tent, which,
with its proper wagon, still remained as before, solitary and apparently
forgotten. The summons of Ishmael to his gloomy associate had, however,
as it would now seem, this hitherto neglected portion of his effects for
its object.

First casting a cautious and suspicious glance on every side of him, the
squatter and his companion advanced to the little wagon, and caused it
to enter within the folds of the cloth, much in the manner that it had
been extricated the preceding evening. They both then disappeared behind
the drapery, and many moments of suspense succeeded, during which the
old man, secretly urged by a burning desire to know the meaning of so
much mystery, insensibly drew nigh to the place, until he stood within
a few yards of the proscribed spot. The agitation of the cloth betrayed
the nature of the occupation of those whom it concealed, though their
work was conducted in rigid silence. It would appear that long practice
had made each of the two acquainted with his particular duty; for
neither sign nor direction of any sort was necessary from Ishmael, in
order to apprise his surly associate of the manner in which he was to
proceed. In less time than has been consummated in relating it,
the interior portion of the arrangement was completed, when the men
re-appeared without the tent. Too busy with his occupation to heed the
presence of the trapper, Ishmael began to release the folds of the cloth
from the ground, and to dispose of them in such a manner around the
vehicle, as to form a sweeping train to the new form the little pavilion
had now assumed. The arched roof trembled with the occasional movement
of the light vehicle which, it was now apparent, once more supported its
secret burden. Just as the work was ended the scowling eye of Ishmael's
assistant caught a glimpse of the figure of the attentive observer of
their movements. Dropping the shaft, which he had already lifted from
the ground preparatory to occupying the place that was usually filled
by an animal less reasoning and perhaps less dangerous than himself, he
bluntly exclaimed--

"I am a fool, as you often say! But look for yourself: if that man is
not an enemy, I will disgrace f