Stands Strong smiled at the lad. "You must trust your heart in these matters. If you have looked into my heart, and, having witnessed what is there, you now feel you might trust me, do not question what it is you sense, because this goes beyond the physical. But, do not trust another man too quickly. Wait, watch and be on your guard always, because a man can hide behind sweet words and many gestures of friendliness that are not meant."
George was quiet for a long while. At last, however, he asked, "Mr. Stands Strong, will you teach me how to survive here? And, also will you help me to learn how to protect my family?"
"Áa,I am glad you have asked this of me, and I will agree to do it, but only if you give me your promise about one other matter," said Stands Strong.
"Oh? What is it you wish me to vow?" The youngster pulled away from him and frowned.
"Only this," answered Stands Strong. "You must be patient with yourself in the learning. I am twenty-three snows old, and I have lived in this land all my life. I have been taught about life on the prairie first by my own father and grandfather, and then by my almost-father and my almost-uncles and -cousins. Truly, I havebeen learning about this world and about the secrets our mother, the earth, holds since I was six winters old. Remember, once you begin this journey, take pride in each new skill you learn."
"Oh, I think I understand. All right. I can do what you ask. Is this all?"
"Almost. There is one more promise I would seek from you before I begin to teach you."
Stands Strong watched as George lifted up one eyebrow and slanted him a wary glance. The look amused him, if only because the young man appeared to be so serious. But, Stands Strong knew he didn't dare laugh. Instead, he calmly stated, "You must vow to me that you will practice every skill I show you, and you must further vow to never give up trying until you have conquered the skill you seek."
"Never?" asked George.
"Never," answered Stands Strong.
"Then, I shall give you my word of honor. I will practice those skills you teach me, and I shall not stop practicing them until I have learned them so well I know I can do them," promised George. "I swear it."
