The work upon which the boys were engaged passed unnoticed by the Indians, who were too much absorbed by the enjoyment of the new discovery to pay any attention to other matters.

The bows and arrows had been given to them, as anything else in camp for which they had a fancy would have been given; but beyond that, none had observed what was being done.
There were, then, many exclamations of astonishment among them, when Ned and Tom issued from their hut in the morning to join the hunting party, carrying their new weapons.

The bows were, of course, unstrung; and Ned handed his to the chief, who viewed it with great curiosity.

It was passed from hand to hand, and then returned to the chief.

One or two of the Indians said something, and the chief tried its strength.