"I supposed his breakfast was intended to last the week.

We shall need a fleet of boats to provision the fellow if he keep us company long.

How is it, friend Benteen, are we to enjoy the pleasure of associating with this human alligator, or do we now part company ?" "That is not yet determined," I replied, smiling at the look of consternation with which he regarded him.

"I will sound the man on the subject, while he appears in good humor." I crossed the narrow plat of grass to where our guest sat facing the remains of his late feast, a look of satisfaction visible upon his withered countenance.
"My good friend," he exclaimed, observing my approach, "there seems an over-preponderance of spices in this cured meat; otherwise it meets my cordial approbation, although your Southern cookery has a peculiarly greasy flavor to one of my taste in food." "I failed to observe your refraining from any on account of that objection," I retorted, deeply amused by his words.

"But if you are completely satisfied, you may be willing to turn a moment to matters of business, and inform us what you propose doing.