"We will buy," said Father Chaumonot, knowing the savage's cupidity.

"Two belts of wampum."

The Corn Planter made a negative sign.

"Ten beaver skins," said the priest.

"The daughters of Onontio are worth a thousand beaver skins."

"Well, then," said leather Chaumonot, reaching down and taking a musket

from the ground, "this with powder and ball to go with it."

The Corn Planter wavered. He took the gun and inspected it, turned it

over to his companions that they might also pass judgment upon it; and

they whispered among themselves for a space.

"Corn Planter accepts the thunderer for himself and ten beaver skins

for his brave warriors," and the barter was consummated.

It was now that madame saw four familiar faces beyond the fire. These

men, these men; even here, in the heart of the wilderness! With an odd

little smile she extended her hands, swayed, and became limp upon

Brother Jacques's arm.




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