"Thou art welcome," said Oliver again, entirely lost as to just what was expected of him.
Chupurosa left the blanket which he used as a saddle. It was the signal for all to dismount, and like a troop of cavalry the Showut Poche-dakas left their horses. They tied them to fenceposts and trees out of respect for the landowner's rights in the matter of grass.
"Is all in readiness?" asked the ancient chief.
"Er—" Oliver paused.
A hand gripped his arm. "Yes," Jessamy's voice breathed in his ear.
"All is in readiness," said Oliver promptly.
Jessamy then stepped forward and offered her hand to Chupurosa.
"Hello, my Hummingbird!" she caroled mischievously in English.
"The light of the moon takes nothing from the Señorita's loveliness," said the old man gallantly.
By this time the Showut Poche-dakas had formed a semicircle before the cabin.