"
"You did? Good! Good!" cried Colonel Zane, heartily. "By George,
that's great! Tell me--but wait until you are more comfortable. Your
packs came safely on Jeff's raft, and you will find them inside."
As Joe followed the colonel he heard one of the other men say:
"Like as two peas in a pod."
Farther on he saw an Indian standing a little apart from the others.
Hearing Joe's slight exclamation of surprise, he turned, disclosing
a fine, manly countenance, characterized by calm dignity. The Indian
read the boy's thought.
"Ugh! Me friend," he said in English.
"That's my Shawnee guide, Tomepomehala. He's a good fellow, although
Jonathan and Wetzel declare the only good Indian is a dead one. Come
right in here. There are your packs, and you'll find water outside
the door."
Thus saying, Colonel Zane led the brothers into a small room,
brought out their packs, and left them. He came back presently with
a couple of soft towels.
"Now you lads fix up a bit; then come out and meet my family and
tell us all about your adventure. By that time dinner will be
ready."
"Geminy! Don't that towel remind you of home?" said Joe, when the
colonel had gone. "From the looks of things, Colonel Zane means to
have comfort here in the wilderness. He struck me as being a fine
man."
The boys were indeed glad to change the few articles of clothing the
Indians had left them, and when they were shaved and dressed they
presented an entirely different appearance.
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