“No,” replied Schonchin; “but Nate Beswick said we could have Hot Creek.”
“Hot Creek belongs to Fairchild and Dorris,” says Meacham. “We can see them about it, and if we can get it you may have it.”
“Take away your soldiers and give us Hot Creek, or quit talking. I am tired of talking. I talk no more,” shouts Schonchin in loud tones, and with eyes burning with passion.
The interpreter is rendering the speech, but, before it is finished, Captain Jack, who has returned to the group, and is standing a step behind Schonchin, gives a signal, and the Modoc war-whoop starts every one present to his feet (except Tobey, who lays close to the ground); catching the sound, and oh! the sight, too, of Barncho and Slolux coming with the rifles.
“Jack, what does that mean?” demands Meacham.
The answer came quickly. Captain Jack, thrusting his right hand under the left breast of his coat, draws a six-shooter, and shouts in a loud voice, “Ot-we-kau-tux!”—(“All ready!”)
The Assassination Scene.
1. General Canby. 2. Colonel Meacham. 3. Doctor Thomas. 4. Tobey Riddle, reclining. 5. Frank Riddle. 6. Mr. Dyer. 7. Captain Jack. 8. Schonchin. 9. Boston Charley. 10. Shacknasty Jim. 11. Hooker Jim. 12. Ellen’s Man. 13. Bogus Charley. 14. Black Jim. 15. Horse held by Riddle. 16. Horse held by Dyer. 17. Horse.