He arrived in a
canoe with a breed; and sent him back. Nick and Hooliam went outside the
camp, and talked by themselves. I listened from behind a willow bush.
Nick Grylls knows a lot more Cree than I do, and I couldn't understand
everything; but I got the gist of it. Nick was giving Hooliam hell all
around--first for making him paddle all night--it seems Hooliam ought
to have waited for him at that point where we spelled this morning--and
then for bringing me. That was the sorest touch; for Nick knows I
understand Cree. He said it upset all his plans."

"It was a mighty good thing for Natalie and me, that we had you to-day!"
Garth put in.

The boy blushed with pleasure.

"Go on," Garth said.

"Grylls was pretty mum about these plans of his," Charley continued. "I
guess he only lets Hooliam know part. I caught just a word or two. One
thing was clear; you are his mark. I made out there was to have been a
row at the point, and you were to have been put out of business, so you
couldn't keep on with this journey. Then Nick was to happen along as if
by accident; you were to be sent to the half-breeds at Swan river to
be taken care of, and Nick was going to do the friendly act, and help
Natalie on her way. I bet she never would have got there! In some way
Nick has learned all about Natalie; for he seems to know where she's
going; and what for. Anyway, you put his scheme to the bad by winning
over the boys; and he is hot.

"He acted queer, too," Charley went on. "The first thing he asked
was, if Natalie was well; and his voice sounded crying-like. Say,
he's changed altogether from the hearty old sport, that used to travel
through the country like a lord, handing out cigars. He's losing
flesh. I think he's a bit touched."

When the boy finished, Garth took a turn, breathing deeply; and finally
returning to the fire, sought that trusty counsellor, his pipe. "I'm
glad he's turned up," he said coolly. "This is more like fighting in the
open. And thanks to you, I'm well warned."

He smoked a while in silence. "I suspect I'll have my work cut out for
me to-morrow," he resumed reflectively. Presently he gripped Charley's
shoulder, and searched the boy's face. "I'll be damn thankful to have
you along, old fellow," he said. "But I don't think I have any right
to let you in for this. This man is very powerful in the country; and
he can spoil all your chances. You had better go back with Phillippe.
Neither Natalie nor I would ev