"Now then, I will ask our Araucano friends," Valentine went on, "if they still intend to follow us?"
"It is now a long time since my brothers quitted their village; they may have a desire to see their wives and children again."
"My brother has spoken well," said Trangoil-Lanec: "his is a loyal heart; when he speaks his heart is always on his lips, so that his voice comes to my ear like the melodious song of the maukawis. I am happy when I listen to him. Trangoil-Lanec is one of the chiefs of his nation. Antinahuel is not his friend! Trangoil-Lanec will follow his paleface friend wherever he may go."
"Thanks, chief; I was sure of your answer."
"Good!" said Curumilla, "my brother will say no more upon the subject."
"Faith, not I!" Valentine answered gaily; "I am but too happy to have terminated the affair."
Here Cæsar, who had been crouching comfortably near the fire, began to bark furiously.
"Hello!" said Valentine, "what is going to happen now?"
Everyone listened anxiously, whilst seeking his arms instinctively.
"To arms!" Valentine commanded in a low voice; "We know not with whom we may have to do, it is as well to be on our guard."