"My brother is prudent," the Aucas Ulmen replied; "we can hear the propositions of the Apaches."
"Well, as you all wish it, I consent; but I feel certain that no good will come of this interview."
"Perhaps so," Shaw remarked.
"That is not my opinion," Don Pablo said.
"Koutonepi must not receive them here," Curumilla went on. "The Apache are very crafty; they have an extremely forked tongue, and the eyes of tiger cats."
"That is true," said Valentine; "let us go and see what they want."
He rose, making Curumilla a sign to follow him; and after assuring himself that his arms were in good condition, he walked to the end of the island. The Indians were still continuing their signals, and Valentine raised his hands to his mouth in the shape of a speaking trumpet.
"What do the Buffalo Apaches want?" he shouted.
"The chiefs have to speak with the palefaces, but they cannot hear them at such a distance. Will the palefaces promise them safety if the warriors come to them?"
"Come," Valentine replied, "but mind, only two of you."