"For my part, I see no reason. You are not looking for me, I suppose?"
"You are wrong, Tigercat! I came here on purpose to seek you."
"Me, and another person."
"You, first of all; for we have a long account to settle."
"We are losing time," said the Tigercat impatiently. "Listen, and try to understand me. Doña Hermosa is close by; she expects you, for I have promised to bring you together. She has charged me with certain messages to her father; and on that account I must go to your camp. But first, I will lead you to mine—a sad one: of all my followers, but four are left; the rest are dead."
"I know; I saw their bodies on the road. It is you who have slain them. Why did you lead them here?"
"Never mind. What is done cannot be undone. But time presses; will you follow me? I wish to deal openly with you."
"No! I do not trust you. Why have you come into this fearful place?"
"Did you not guess, my son? Merely to be sure that my prisoner was safe."
"You made a mistake, for I am here."