"The sun has run two-thirds of its course, Black-deer will warn the warriors to proceed each by himself, to the mountain of the Blackbear, one hour after sunset. In this way they will seem to be going hunting separately, and excite no suspicion. No one will see them depart, and if the enemy, as is probable, have spies in the camp, they cannot suppose that these hunters, starting one after the other, are sent off to surprise them. When the sun has disappeared on the horizon, in the sacred cavern of the Red Mountain, my brother the Pale hunter and myself will mount our horses and join the Redskins. Have I spoken well? Does what I have said please my brother?" While Loyal Heart was thus explaining the plan he had instantaneously conceived, the Indian Chief gave marks of the greatest joy, and the most lively admiration. "My brother has spoken well," he answered; "the Wacondah is with him; his medicine is very powerful, though his hair is black; the wisdom of the Master of Life resides in him. It shall be done as he desires; Black-deer will obey him; he will follow out exactly the wise instructions of his brother, Loyal Heart." "Good; but my brother will take care: Blue-fox is very clever!" "Blue-fox is an Apache dog, whose ears Black-deer will crop. My brother the hunter need not feel alarmed; all will happen as he desires." After exchanging a few more sentences to come to a full understanding, and make their final arrangements, Black-deer withdrew. "You will come with me, I suppose, Tranquil?" the young man asked the Canadian so soon as they were alone. "Of course!" the other replied; "Did you doubt it? What the deuce should I do here during your absence? I prefer accompanying you, especially as, if I am not mistaken, there will be a jolly row." "You are not mistaken. It is evident to me that the Apaches would not have ventured so near the village, unless they were in considerable force." "Well, in that case, two hundred men are as nothing; you should have asked for more." "Why so? In a surprise the man who attacks is always the stronger; we will try to get the first blow, that is all." "That is true, by Jove! I am delighted at the affair; I have not smelt powder for some time, and feel myself beginning to rust; that will restore me." At this outburst, Loyal Heart began laughing, Tranquil formed the chorus, and they spoke about something else. CHAPTER XIV. TWO ENEMIES.