2nd Chief. The young white sachem was Alaska's friend, many moons ago, when Alaska was wounded and sick.—He must revenge young Siganaw, but he must keep his faith to his white friend, too.
1st Chief. Ah, but I know where the horse is hidden and the paper. When the tomahawks flash here, and the war-cry is loudest, we will steal away. Come, and I will share the prize with you.
2nd Chief. No, I will tell my brother chief that Manida is a treacherous friend.
1st Chief. You cannot. It is too late. Hist! Quick, lower—lower—
[They crouch among the trees.
(Another Soldier emerges from the wood-path, singing.)
"Then march to the roll of the drum,
It summons the brave to the plain,
Where heroes contend for the home
Which perchance they may ne'er see again."
(Pausing abruptly.) Well, we are finely manned here!
(1st Soldier re-enters.)
2nd Sol. How many men do you think we have in all, upon this hill, Edward?