squeness and
anxious to appease. "Did Mrs. Cameron come with you?"

"She did."

"Indeed. That is a long drive for a lady to make, Cameron. Too long a
drive, I should say. I hope she is quite well, not--eh--over-fatigued?"

"She is quite well, thank you."

"Well, she is an old campaigner," said the Superintendent with a smile,
"and not easily knocked up if I remember her aright. But I ought to
say, Cameron, how very deeply I appreciate your very fine--indeed very
handsome conduct in volunteering to come to our assistance in this
matter. Very handsome indeed I call it. It will have a good effect upon
the community. I appreciate the sacrifice. The Commissioner and the
whole Force will appreciate it. But," he added, as if to himself,
"before we are through with this business I fear there will be more
sacrifice demanded from all of us. I trust none of us will be found
wanting." The Superintendent's voice was unduly solemn, his manner
almost somber. Cameron was impressed with this manifestation of feeling
so unusual with the Superintendent.

"Any more news, sir?" he inquired.

"Yes, every post brings news of seditious meetings up north along the
Saskatchewan and of indifference on the part of the Government. And
further, I have the most conclusive evidence that our Indians are being
tampered with, and successfully too. There is no reason to doubt that
the head chiefs have been approached and that many of the minor chiefs
are listening to the proposals of Riel and his half-breeds. But you
have some news to give, I understand? Dickson said you would give me
particulars."

Thereupon Cameron briefly related the incidents in connection with the
attempted arrest of the Sioux Chief, and closed with a brief account of
the burning of his home.

"That is most daring, most serious," exclaimed the Superintendent. "But
you are quite certain that it was the Sioux that was responsible for the
outrage?"

"Well," said Cameron, "he met my wife on a trail five miles away,
threatened her, and--"

"Good God, Cameron! Threatened your wife?"

"Yes, nearly flung her off her horse," replied Cameron, his voice quiet
and even, but his eyes glowing like fires in his white face.

"Flung her off her horse? But--he didn't injure her?" replied the
Superintendent.

"Only that he terrified her with his threats and then went on toward the
house, which he left in flames."

"My God, Cameron!" said the Superintendent, rising in his excitement.