animal had run away several times, his capture causing much delay,
trouble, and roiling of temper, they concluded that a change would
have to be made if they expected ever to reach their destination.

One afternoon, when Otto was riding considerably in advance of his
friend, he was fired upon by Indians, narrowly escaping with his
life. The incidents immediately following have already been told the
reader.

It was yet early in the evening when Deerfoot the Shawanoe acted
upon the request of Otto, that some more convenient spot should be
selected in which to continue their talk.

Inasmuch as the destination of the boys lay to the westward, it
seemed to Jack Carleton that, the wisest thing to do was to enter
the canoe, and allow the young Shawanoe to paddle them across; but
he held the gifts and skill of the wonderful warrior in such high
estimation that he feared a hint of the kind might not be received
with favor.

Deerfoot led the way through the wood until a depression was
reached, where considerable undergrowth grew. He came to a stop and
seemed to be looking around in the darkness, which to the others was
impenetrable.

"Let a fire be kindled," said he.

Only a few minutes were needed to gather all the fuel required. It
was heaped against the trunk of a tree, and as each carried a flint
and steel, a bright roaring blaze was soon under way.