"Sun Bird, you have done a big thing," declared Feather Dog. "You are a great war leader. I will tell our people about it."
The Sioux laughed gleefully as they heard the Crows signaling far away toward the west. Then they turned toward the east to find their tribesmen. They rode steadily through the night and at daylight came upon the entire Minneconjoux war party at the waterhole which marked the boundary of the Minneconjoux hunting grounds. They were within a short day's travel of the great Sioux camp. The long war journey was almost at an end. Success seemed assured. The Sioux were elated.
"My brothers, we have come together again," said Sun Bird. "I see you have kept the ponies. Now we are close to our village. Pretty soon we will be with our people. It is good."
CHAPTER XX
SAFE AT LAST
The Sioux waited until the ponies had recovered somewhat from their fatigue and then they set out for the Minneconjoux camp. They rode gayly across the plain, talking and laughing and singing their war songs. Their task had been accomplished. Their fears had vanished. The wearying suspense was at an end. They were eager to reach their people, for they knew that a royal welcome awaited them. The day had almost ended, however, when they finally came in sight of the Minneconjoux village.
"See, there are the lodges of our people," said Sun Bird. "Pretty soon some one will see us. We must get ready to ride into the camp."
"You are the leader, you must go ahead," said Feather Dog.