He comes from the Wholdaia country, beyond Lac la Ronge." "French ?" "Half French, half Cree." The factor resumed his steady gaze out into the white distance of the night, and Howland gave up his effort at conversation.

After a little his companion shoved back his chair and bade him good night.

The Crees and Chippewayan followed him, and a few minutes later the two white hunters left the engineer alone before the windows.
"Mighty funny people," he said half aloud.

"Wonder if they ever talk!" He leaned forward, elbows on knees, his face resting in his hands, and stared to catch a sign of moving life outside.

In him there was no desire for sleep.