As they came within bowshot of the village they heard a company of horsemen riding to meet them. They drew in the ponies, and listened in trying suspense. Had they encountered friends or foes? They determined to take no chances. Drawing their bows, they waited for the riders to approach. They had stopped. They, too, were suspicious and cautious.
"Ho, Cheyennes, we are Dacotahs," cried White Otter. "We have come to help you."
They heard the murmur of voices. A pony called. Then all was still. The Sioux waited impatiently. Many moments passed. They became suspicious.
"I believe it is the Kiowas," said Sun Bird.
As he spoke a voice sounded from the darkness. It addressed them in the Sioux dialect.
"Ho, Dacotahs, tell us who you are," it said.
"Watch out, perhaps the Kiowas are trying to catch us," said Sun Bird.
"I am White Otter; ask your chief Red Dog about me," White Otter called out.
"Ho, my brother, we will come to meet you," said the stranger.
"Wait," cried White Otter. "First tell me who you are."