“I congratulate you on your success; doubtless it had much to do with repulsing your enemies.” “Jethro told you the incident so as to force me to say that he picked off another of the redskins. Incredible as it may sound, it is true.” The man in the saddle looked down with renewed interest upon the burly African, who had set the stock of his rifle on the ground, folded his arms over the muzzle, and assumed a lolling attitude, as if the matter was of no concern to any of them. “Dat ain’t nuffin,” he said airily; “de sarpint furgot dat I was on de lookout fur him and as soon as he fired and missed, why, I plugged him; ’tain’t wuth speaking ’bout.” “Fortunate is that company which has two such sentinels as you,” commented the man, with something like a chuckle; “if we run into danger from Indians, shall we be able to borrow you two, or if your friends cannot spare both, can we have one?” “Who would be your choice?” asked Alden, entering into the spirit of the moment. “Jethro, as you call him; of course he’s the most valuable.” “Dunno ’bout dat,” said the African with dignity; “de wimmin folks and de children will blubber so hard when dey find I think ob leabin’ dem dat Shagbark won’t be likely to allow it; howsumeber, I’ll think it ober.” “Thank you; you are very kind.” During the conversation, which continued for several minutes longer, with nothing of moment said, the youth who accompanied the elder caller did not speak a word. He seemed to be peering from under his hat at Alden, as if studying him. “Well,” said the man, “we shall ride back to camp now and doubtless shall soon see you again. I need not assure you that you and your friends will be welcome at all times. My name is Garret Chadwick, and I have charge of the other company. My friend here is my nephew, Ross Brandley.” “Very glad to have met you. I am Alden Payne, and I am on my way from St. Joe to join my father, who left for California some months ago.” As Alden spoke he made a military salute to the two. The elder returned it, but his companion slightly nodded without speaking or saluting. The two then wheeled their animals and rode off at a walk. The incident showed there was nothing to be feared from hostiles for some time to come. Alden, therefore, did not scruple to linger for a few minutes with his sable friend. “Jeth, there was something familiar in that man’s voice.” “Ob course dere was; doan’ you remember him?” “No; do you?” “You hain’t forgot dat splendid fout you begun wid dat chap in St. Joe when he butted into you?” “Certainly not.” “Wal, dat’s de gemman dat pulled you apart.” “And that fellow with him is the one who struck me?” “Suah’s you’s born; he knowed you, if you didn’t know him; I seed him watching you mighty sharp, as if he was achin’ to get another chance at you; he’d done it, too, if his uncle hadn’t been wid him.”