"Sam," burst out Dick, whose attention had been caught by a word in his
companion's first speech, and whose mind had been running on it
throughout the ensuing discussion, "did you notice that girl? She's a
tearing little beauty!"




CHAPTER FOUR


By now it was nearly noon. The travellers carried the packs they had
made up down to the water-side where the canoe lay. Although the Indians
would not get under way until the following morning, it had been decided
to push on at once, thus avoiding the confusion of a crowded start.

In the course of the morning's business the news of their expedition had
noised abroad. Especially were they commiserated by the other runners
and post-keepers. During all the winter these men had lived under the
frown of the North, conducting their affairs confidently yet with
caution, sure of themselves, yet never sure of the great power in whose
tolerance they existed, in spite of whom they accomplished. Now was the
appointed time of rest. In the relaxation of the thought they found pity
for those ordered out of season into the Silent Places.

So at the river's bank Sam Bolton and Dick Herron, ready for departure,
found a group gathered. It was supposed that these men were to act as
scouts, to reconnoitre shrewdly in the Enemy's country, to spy out the
land, so that in the autumn the Company might throw into the wilderness
new posts, to be inhabited during the colder months.