All this was done without ostentation, but in a way that
left Deerslayer fully acquainted with, and equally disposed to
appreciate, the motive. When all was ready, both returned to the
side of Judith and Hetty, neither of whom had moved from the spot
where the young hunter sat.
"The best fri'nds must often part," the last began, when he saw
the whole party grouped around him - "yes, fri'ndship can't alter
the ways of Providence, and let our feelin's be as they may, we
must part. I've often thought there's moments when our words dwell
longer on the mind than common, and when advice is remembered, just
because the mouth that gives it isn't likely to give it ag'in. No
one knows what will happen in this world, and therefore it may be
well, when fri'nds separate under a likelihood that the parting may
be long, to say a few words in kindness, as a sort of keepsakes.
If all but one will go into the Ark, I'll talk to each in turn, and
what is more, I'll listen to what you may have to say back ag'in,
for it's a poor counsellor that won't take as well as give."
As the meaning of the speaker was understood, the two Indians
immediately withdrew as desired, leaving the sisters, however, still
standing at the young man's side.
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