The chiefs were astounded at the indifference the major displayed for numbers thrice their force; and the Apache warrior replied:
"And my father is not frightened at the number of warriors united under one chief?"
The wonder of the sachems had not escaped the major.
"Why should I be frightened? Has not my nation conquered greater numbers?"
"It is possible," said the chief, biting his lips; "but this time you will not conquer."
"Who can tell? Is that what you came to parley about, chief? If so, you might have spared yourself the trouble."
"No; it is not that. Let my father be patient."
"Speak, then, and have done with it. One never knows how to get on with all your Indian circumlocutions."
"The army of the great nations is camped before the presidio to obtain satisfaction for all the wrongs the palefaces have done the Indians, since they first set foot on the red man's territory."
"What are you talking about? Explain yourself clearly; and, first of all, what is your pretext for thus invading our frontiers, without previously declaring war? Have we broken the treaties we made with you? Have we not always been generous to the Indians who claimed our protection? Answer!"