All this was understood by both parties, and it is
probable the arrangement never could have been completed, had not
the honest countenance and manner of Deerslayer wrought their usual
effect on Rivenoak.
"My brother knows I put faith in him," said the latter, as he
advanced with Hutter, whose legs had been released to enable the
old man to ascend to the platform. "One scalp - one more beast."
"Stop, Mingo," interrupted the hunter, "keep your prisoner a moment.
I have to go and seek the means of payment."
This excuse, however, though true in part, was principally a fetch.
Deerslayer left the platform, and entering the house, he directed
Judith to collect all the arms and to conceal them in her own room.
He then spoke earnestly to the Delaware, who stood on guard as
before, near the entrance of the building, put the three remaining
castles in his pocket, and returned.
"You are welcome back to your old abode, Master Hutter," said
Deerslayer, as he helped the other up on the platform, slyly passing
into the hand of Rivenoak, at the same time, another of the castles.
"You'll find your darters right glad to see you, and here's Hetty
come herself to say as much in her own behalf.
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