hat appeared to be a
scowling phiz to him might seem only the natural expression to be found
upon the dusky faces of these Saskatchewan dwellers of the woods, when
viewed by Owen.

As he drew near the Indian made certain mysterious motions with his
hands, which Cuthbert understood must be the peace signs, and he began
to imitate the other, not wishing to be outdone in politeness.

"How," said the copper-colored intruder, with a rising inflection.

"How," repeated Cuthbert, in just the same tone of voice.

"You camp boss?" pursued Mr. Lo, keenly eyeing the young fellow, as
though he might be dubious concerning this fact.

"Well, perhaps you might call me that, seeing this is my outfit; but
just say that I'm an Easy Boss, and let it go at that. Now, what can I
do for you?" remarked the explorer, who was as yet unknown to fame, but
who had aspirations.

"Huh, you got um coffee--we smell um good--can stand no more--s'pose you
give Injun drink, him be glad, much so--no have coffee many moons--set
um up in other alley--how?" was what followed, much to the amusement of
both Cuthbert and Eli, for evidently the fellow had seen a bowling alley
in Winnipeg, or some other city.

"Well, I like your nerve, my copper-colored friend, which I see you
carry with you all the time; but after all I don't know that I can blame
you asking, for the smell of good coffee is enough to set any chap wild.
What is your name, may I humbly inquire?" ventured Cuthbert, keeping a
very straight face, though he could hear Eli chuckling, and wanted to
laugh outright himself; for it was evident that while music is said to
have "power to soothe the savage beast," the aroma of the subtle coffee
bean in the process of cooking seemed capable of subjugating the savage
man himself, and bringing him to "eat humble pie," as Eli put it.

"Name all same Springing Elk--son of Chief Wolf-killer, him same head of
Crees on big river Saskatch. You say we have coffee--ugh, much good, and
we not forget," and not waiting to receive additional assurance he
raised his hand to his mouth and gave vent to a series of sharp barks
or yelps that must have been an eagerly awaited signal conveying good
news to his mates, for immediately the whole bunch started for the
campfire of the three boys.

Cuthbert, in an aside, asked Owen if they need fear any danger from the
Crees; but the young Canuck shook his head in the negative, answering
back:

"Not at all. The only failing