As he did so he held his pony ready to send him flying over the prairie at break-neck speed.
But his heart was thrilled almost in the same second by a reply, which he knew came from no lips except those of the boy himself.
Yes; Melville had recognized the call, and sending back the reply, he shouted—
"That's Red Feather! Come, father; I know he's got Dot!"
In a twinkling, as may be said, the chief found himself in the middle of the band of Nat Trumbull and his rangers, where he was overwhelmed with congratulations. Although Dot was asleep, her father could not be restrained, and caught her in his arms and pressed her to his heart with tears of joy and thanks to Heaven for its mercy in restoring her to him unharmed.
It must be said that Dot was disposed to be cross at being awakened in this summary fashion; but when her little brain came to understand all that had taken place, and she saw that it was her own father who was caressing her, she laughed and shouted, and wanted to kiss and embrace every one of the party, who were just as much pleased to fondle the child as though each had a proprietary interest in her.
Since it was evident the Sioux could not be brought to book, Nat Trumbull turned about and headed for Barwell, which the whole party reached before the morning sun appeared. Red Feather kept them company, and I must say that I doubt whether the President of the United States himself could have received a warmer welcome when the whole truth became known to the pioneers.
The outbreak of the Sioux was repressed before it had time to assume serious proportions, and, inasmuch as every one who had taken any part in it was anxious to clear himself, the leaders envied the position of Red Feather, who had faced about so early that no suspicion could attach to him. He was re-established in the good graces of his people, and since that time has acted in such a manner that no one will question his right to be considered a good Indian.
Transcriber's Note:
The frontispiece illustration above has been taken from a scan provided by The Internet Archive American Libraries. The illustration in the copy of the book scanned for the preparation of this ebook does not appear to belong to this text. It has been included below for preservation purposes.