Page:Gray Eagle (1927).pdf/148

 wrapped himself in frigid dignity which effectually rebuffed the Commissioner's advances and soon strained his good humor to the breaking point. At last, flushed with anger, Sir Alexander reined in his horse.

"Faith, Gilyan!" he exclaimed, as the main body of the caravan came up, "the man's a lump! There's no sense or courtesy in him. You say he understands our English speech, but if so he has forgot how to wag his tongue. I give no thanks to the Cherokee king for sending so unmannerly a minion to escort me to his kingdom!"

Fergus Gilyan, who had watched the play with grim amusement, smiled.

"Corane the Raven is no friend to the English, Sir Alexander," he said slowly. "He is longerheaded than most of his breed and he knows what the coming of the white man means to his people. He does not favor this treaty which you will offer the Cherokee chiefs. If he could have his way, there would be war, not peace."

Twining ripped out an oath.

"I guessed as much," he said. "We had best watch him, then, lest he lead us into some ambush. D'ye think Moytoy plans treachery?"

Gilyan shook his head.

"No fear," he replied. "Gifts and flattery from Charles Town have blinded Moytoy's eyes. He has