CHAPTER IV

SHOT FROM BEHIND


The canoe was coming directly toward them. In a moment it touched the
shore, and as its occupant stepped lightly out the boys with one
accord exclaimed:

"Injun Jake! 'Tis Injun Jake!"

And so it proved. The greeting he received was hearty enough to leave
no doubt in his mind that he was a welcome visitor. Perhaps it was the
heartier because of the relief the boys experienced in the discovery
that the lone canoeman was not, after all, the wraith of Long John,
but was their friend Indian Jake in flesh and blood.

When his packs had been removed, Indian Jake lifted his canoe from the
water, turned it upon its side and followed the boys to the fire,
where Doctor Joe awaited him.

"Just in time!" welcomed Doctor Joe, as he shook Indian Jake's hand.
"We've finished eating, but there's plenty of stew in the kettle.
Andy, pour Jake some tea."

Indian Jake, grunting his thanks, silently picked up David's empty
plate and heaped it with stew and dumpling from the kettle without the
ceremony of waiting to be served.