CAPTURED BY BROWN BEARS. 
227 
cut the thongs that bound poor Hugh, who staggered 
stiffly to his feet, rubbing his joints, and groaning in spite 
of himself at the twinges the change of position caused 
him. 
"No!" said Peeschee, firmly. "Both must go free. 
And if the Bears should refuse, then will the storm come 
upon their village, as it did yesterday, and destroy every 
woman in the tribe for the evil done to the white 
strangers ! " 
Whatever effect Peeschee's speech might have had, Mr. 
Button added the last straw by producing a small pocket- 
mirror, which he handed to Peeschee. The latter held it 
carelessly so as to let the light reflect from it, straight into 
the eyes of first one, then another of the delighted squaws. 
As with one accord, two or three of them freed their 
coveted bridegroom, and again stretched out their hands 
for the gifts. 
"Not yet," said Peeschee, solemnly. "When the sun 
shall touch the trees on yonder hill, and all the tribe of 
the great white medicine-man shall have gone their way 
toward the land of fire, then shall you have both gifts, 
and some of the white man's tea to cheer your hearts. 
Farewell!" 
With these words, all four started on the return trip to 
the camp, not without misgivings that some squaw might 
repent, and select their backs for targets. Instead of this, 
however, the women began a strange chant, swaying to 
and fro, and waving both arms, until the travellers were 
