Page:Hugh Pendexter--Kings of the Missouri.djvu/221

 hesitate to kill 'em when he 'lows he won't git caught—bad devil.

"Ten in his family. Three are grown-up sons—all bad. They trail round with another breed outfit—Jack Rem's family.

"The A. F. C. made a great mistake when they brought those cusses to the Missouri to act as interpreters to the Assiniboins an' Crees. Young Phinny better keep his eyes open if he travels much with a Deschamps."

Papa Clair was astounded and much displeased when Lander broke the news to him. Finally his old face lighted and his frosty blue eyes began to sparkle.

"It can be done!" he rejoiced. "Name of a knife! It will work out after the wish of one's heart. He is here. You want your satisfy. He must challenge you. I will see that he does. This time it shall be with cold steel."

"But there's no cause," protested Lander.

"There is; he is alive. You suffered much, thinking him dead. You were attacked and forced to flee. He is responsible. Leave it to me."

"No, no, Papa Clair. No more duels for me. I'm mighty glad he is alive. He's glad too.