"Very well," said the major coolly. "And if the governor refuses, what will my brothers do?"
"The sachems," replied the Apache, emphatically, "have determined to resume the ownership of their territory. If the palefaces refuse to restore it, their village shall be burnt, their warriors put to death, their wives and children carried away as slaves."
"Ah!" said the major; "Before you obtain that result, all the whites in the presidio will have been killed in its defence. But it is not for me to discuss the matter with you. I will carry your demands to the governor, precisely as you have made them; and tomorrow, at sunrise, you shall have your answer. Hostilities must be suspended until then."
"No; it is for you to stop them. We cannot stay here inactive; so be on your guard."
"Thanks for your frankness, chief," replied the major. "I am happy at meeting an Indian who is not altogether a rascal. Good-bye, till tomorrow."
"Farewell," said the chiefs courteously.
All were struck with admiration at the coolness of the veteran.
The major retired as slowly as he had come, without manifesting apprehension.
The colonel awaited him at the barricade with the greatest anxiety. The long interview had filled him with uneasiness. He had prepared himself to avenge any insult that might be offered to his envoy. When the major reached the barricade, he hastened to join him.
"Well?" said he impatiently.