The last rosy
light of the setting sun was dyeing the waters with a glowing tint when she
awoke; a soft blue haze hung upon the trees; the kingfisher and dragon-fly,
and a solitary loon, were the only busy things abroad on the river; the
first darting up and down from an upturned root near the water's edge,
feeding its youngings; the dragon-fly hawking with rapid whirring sound for
insects, and the loon, just visible from above the surface of the still
stream, sailed quietly on companionless, like her who watched its
movements.
The bustle of the hunters returning with game and fish to the encampment
roused many a sleepy brown papoose, the fires were renewed, and the evening
meal was now preparing,--and Catharine, chilled by the falling dew, crept
to the enlivening warmth. And here she was pleased at being recognised by
one friendly face--it was the mild and benevolent countenance of the widow
Snowstorm, who, with her three sons, came to bid her to share their camp
fire and food. The kindly grasp of the hand, the beaming smile that was
given by this good creature, albeit she was ugly and ill-featured, cheered
the sad captive's heart.
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