language to use towards the Indians; but the boldest is generally the best policy on such occasions. Moreover, Cameron felt that, being armed with rifles, while the Indians had only bows and arrows, the trappers had a great advantage over them.
The Indian who had spoken before now rose and said he was sorry there should be any difference between them, and added he was sorry for a great many more things, but he did not say he was sorry, for having told a lie.
“But, before you go, you must deliver up the horses and goods belonging to these men,” said Cameron, pointing to Joe and Henri.
This was agreed to. The horses were led out, Joe’s goods were strapped upon them, and then the trappers turned to depart. The Indians did not move until they had mounted; then they rose and advanced in a body to see the Pale-faces go away. Meanwhile Joe spoke to Cameron, and the men were ordered to halt, while the former dismounted and led his horse towards the band of savages.
“Peigans,” he said, “you know the object for which I came into this country was to make peace between you and the Pale-faces. I have often told you so when you would not listen, and when you told me that I had a double heart and told lies. You were wrong when you said this; but I do not wonder, for you live among nations who do not fear God, and who think it right to lie. I now repeat to you what I said before. It would be good for the Red-men if they would make peace with the Pale-faces, and with each other. I will now convince you that I am in earnest, and have been speaking truth.”
Hereupon Joe Blunt opened his bundle of goods, and presented fully one-half of the gaudy and brilliant contents to the astonished Indians, who seemed quite taken aback by such generous treatment. The result of this was that the two parties separated with mutual expressions of good-will. The Indians then returned to the forest, and the white men to their camp among the hills.
