The old pioneer sized up the two, as they stood, then, addressing Rolf, said: "Air you an Injun ?" "No, sir." "Air you half-breed ?" "No, sir." "Well, let's hear about this business," and he turned his piercing eyes full on the lad's face.
Rolf told the simple, straight story of their acquaintance with Hoag, from the first day at Warren's to their arrival at the Falls.

There is never any doubt about the truth of a true story, if it be long enough, and this true story, presented in its nakedness to the shrewd and kindly old hunter, trader, mill-owner and magistrate, could have only one effect.
"Sonny," he said, slowly and kindly, "I know that ye have told me the truth.

I believe every word of it.

We all know that Hoag is the meanest cuss and biggest liar on the river.

He's a nuisance, and always was.
He only promised to give ye the canoe and the rifle, and since he don't want to, we can't help it.