"Would you be afraid to undertake to fight these strange women?" they asked, when they saw that the guides were unwilling to accompany them.
"No, we are not afraid, but we are enjoined to let them alone. None of us would ever think of disturbing them. They are very fierce, and will kill any man that they do not like."
"A FLOWER OFFERING"
"But you could easily conquer women warriors," urged the Spaniards, now eager to commence the journey.
"It would not be so easily done as you imagine," said the guides, shaking their heads doubtfully. "The Great Ladies wear thick shields and cover their clothes with metal discs which turn away an arrow point."
"We can easily overcome that protection with our guns, and we are not commanded to respect them," replied the Spaniards.
"You will find that they have deep underground retreats to which they fly in times of danger, and they are known to be excellent shots."