Mr.Stuart was by no means pleased with this recognition of his steed, nor disposed to admit any claim on the part of its ancient owner.

In fact, it was a noble animal, admirably shaped, of free and generous spirit, graceful in movement, and fleet as an antelope.

It was his intention, if possible, to take the horse to New York, and present him to Mr.Astor.
In the meantime, some of the party came up, and immediately recognized in the Snake an old friend and ally.

He was, in fact, one of the two guides who had conducted Mr.Hunt's party, in the preceding autumn, across Mad River Mountain to Fort Henry, and who subsequently departed with Mr.Miller and his fellow trappers, to conduct them to a good trapping ground.

The reader may recollect that these two trusty Snakes were engaged by Mr.Hunt to return and take charge of the horses which the party intended to leave at Fort Henry, when they should embark in canoes.
The party now crowded round the Snake, and began to question him with eagerness.