They were simply a big family, far away from anybody else, and the woods, which curved around them for so many hundreds of miles, held them together.
The men talked more than usual that night, but they did not tell stories; instead they asked many questions of the guide about the country two days' journey farther on, which, Ross said, was so good, and it was agreed among them that they should settle there near the banks of a little river.
"It's the best land I ever saw," said Ross, "an' as there's lots of canebrake it won't be bad to clear up for farmin'.

I trapped beaver in them parts two years ago, an' I know." This seemed to decide the men, and the women, too, for they had their share in the council.

The long journey was soon to end, and all looked pleased, especially the women.

The great question settled, the men lighted their pipes and smoked a while, in silence, before the blazing fires.

Henry watched them and wished that he too was a man and could take part in these evening talks.