"Openly, in the sight of all; they call themselves ambassadors." "Ambassadors! And who is the Chief that marches at their head?" "Blue-fox." "Blue-fox is a great brave. He is a terrible warrior in fight; his arm has raised many scalps belonging to my sons; his hand has robbed them of many horses. But his presence is disagreeable to the Comanches. What does he want?" "To enter the Medicine lodge, and explain to the Sachems the mission with which he is entrusted." "It is well," said Black-deer, giving an enquiring glance to the members of the council. The latter replied by a nod of assent. Loyal Heart rose-- "My Pale brothers, I must not be present at the deliberation that is about to take place," he remarked; "will the Chief permit me to retire?" "Loyal Heart is a son of the Comanches," Black-deer answered; "his place is among us, for, if he be young in years, his experience and wisdom are great. But he can do as he pleases--the Pale hunters can retire. If the Chiefs require Loyal Heart, they will request his return." The young man bowed ceremoniously, and withdrew, followed by the hunters, who, we must confess, were delighted at getting away from the Medicine lodge, for they felt the need of rest after the fatigue they had undergone in making a long journey by almost impracticable roads. CHAPTER VIII. HOSPITALITY. We have said that some callis had been got ready for the hunters. These callis, built like those of the Indians, were, however, comfortable enough for men who, accustomed to desert life, despise the superfluities of towns, and are contented with what is strictly necessary. On quitting the Medicine lodge, Loyal Heart led the travellers to two callis communicating with each other; then, making Tranquil a sign to follow him, he left the four hunters to make themselves as jolly as they could. "As for you, my friend," he said to Tigrero, "I hope you will accept the hospitality my modest abode permits me to offer you." "Why put yourself to trouble for me?" the Canadian replied, "the slightest thing suffices me. I assure you that I should be all right with my comrades." "I do not put myself out at all; on the contrary, I feel a real pleasure in giving you a place at my fireside." "As it is so, I no longer insist: do what you please with me." "Thanks! Come on then."