The sound of the precipitate gallop of a numerous troop of horsemen was heard rapidly approaching, although, on account of the numerous windings of the path, it was impossible to perceive them.
"Rejoin your companions," hastily said the old chief, "and leave it to me to prepare your meeting."
"That will be the best," answered the young man.
And, after making a gesture of the hand to the Cougar, he re-entered the wood.
The old chief remained alone; his head fell upon his breast, and, for a few minutes, he appeared absorbed in thought; but he soon collected himself, casting around him a look of singular boldness and energy.
"It is not now that I ought to give way to weakness," murmured he, in a low and almost inarticulate voice. "The nearer the moment approaches, the more my will should become firm and immovable."
He soon found himself surrounded by Guaycurus warriors.
"Well," said the Gueyma; "why have you halted?"
"Because in this place we stay for the night."
"To camp already, when there are yet nearly two hours more daylight!" said the young chief.