Had the mysterious spy, or some of his people, waylaid and killed him?
Neither of the hunters had a desire to leave camp during the fourth day.
Trapping was exceptionally good now on account of the scarcity of animal food and since the big storm they had captured a wolf, two lynx, a red fox and eight mink.

But as Mukoki's absence lengthened their enthusiasm grew less.
In the afternoon, as they were watching, they saw a figure climb wearily to the summit of the hill.
It was Mukoki.
With shouts of greeting both youths hurried through the snow toward him, not taking time to strap on their snow-shoes.

The old Indian was at their side a couple of minutes later.

He smiled in a tired good-natured way, and answered the eagerness in their eyes with a nod of his head.
"Found fall.

Fift' mile down mountain." Once in the cabin he dropped into a chair, exhausted, and both Rod and Wabigoon joined in relieving him of his boots and outer garments.