"What is the fellow's name?" the hunter asked, sharply, evidently annoyed at his verbiage. "Blue-fox!" said Lanzi. "Ah," Tranquil said, ironically and with a dark frown, "I have known Blue-fox for many years, and you, Chief?" he added, turning to Black-deer. The name of the Apache Sachem had produced such an impression on the Pawnee, that the hunter was startled by it. The Indians retain under all circumstances an apathetic mask, which they consider it an honour not to remove, whatever may happen; but the mere name of Blue-fox, pronounced as if by accident, was sufficient to melt that indifference, and cause Black-deer to forget Indian etiquette. "Blue-fox is a dog, the son of a coyote," he said, as he spat on the ground disdainfully; "the gypaètes would refuse to devour his unclean carcase." "These two men must have a mortal hatred for each other," the Canadian muttered, as he took a sideglance at the inflamed features and sparkling eyes of the Indian Chief. "Will my brother kill Blue-fox?" the Pawnee asked. "It is probable," Tranquil answered; "but in the first place, let us try to play this master rogue a trick, who fancies us stupid enough to be caught in the clumsy snares he lays in our path. Be frank, monk, have you told us the truth?" "On my honour." "I should prefer any other oath," the Canadian said ironically, in a low voice. "Can you be trusted?" "Yes." "Is what you said to us about your return to honest courses sincere?" "Put me on my trial." "That is what I intend to do; but reflect ere answering. Do you really intend to be of service to us?" "I do." "Whatever may happen?" "Whatever may happen, and whatever the consequence may be of what you ask of me." "That will do. I warn you that, in all probability, you will be exposed to serious perils." "I have told you that my resolution is formed; speak, therefore, without further hesitation." "Listen to me, then." "I am doing so. Have no fear of finding me recoil, so cut it short." "I will try to do so." CHAPTER X. THE LARCH-TREE HACIENDA. Though the report made by Quoniam was in every respect true, the Negro was ignorant of certain details of which we will now inform the reader, because these events are closely connected with our story, and clearness renders it indispensable that they should be made known. We will, therefore, return to the Larch-tree hacienda. But, in the first place, let us explain the meaning of this word "hacienda," which we have employed several times in the course of this narrative, and which several authors have employed before us, without understanding its significance.