"The Kiowas were all around the camp," said White Otter. "It was a great war party. I believe your people are in much danger."
The Cheyenne remained silent. For some moments he stared wildly into the eyes of the Ogalala. The Sioux watched him with pity. They knew that he was striving to master his grief before he spoke.
"When did you leave my people?" he asked, finally.
"Two suns have passed since we came away from your village," White Otter told him.
"It is bad, it is bad," Running Crow declared gloomily. "Come, we will go and tell my brothers about it."
"Who is the leader?" inquired Sun Bird, as they rode toward the Cheyennes.
"I am the leader," said Running Crow.
The Sioux found many old friends and allies among the Cheyennes. There was Red Crane, and Turns Around, and Black Beaver, and Sitting Bear and Fighting Wolf and several more. Some were unable to speak the Dacotah dialect, but they clasped hands with the young scouts and made it plain that they were glad to see them. Then Running Crow addressed his warriors.
"My brothers, I have bad words," he said. "There is little time to talk. Listen sharp. These brave Dacotahs came here to find us. Red Dog sent them. The Kiowas were all around our village. They say it was a great war party. Two suns have passed since the Dacotahs came away. I do not know what has happened to our people. Perhaps the Kiowas have killed them. Come, my brothers, we must ride fast to the camp."