"But, if that happen, it will be a general war," the hacendero said.
"Doubtless," Valentine continued; "that is what I wish to arrive at. Two days' march from where we now are there is a Navajo village; I have done some slight services to Yellow Wolf, the principal chief; we must proceed to him before Red Cedar attempts to see him, and insure his alliance at all risks. The Navajos are prudent and courageous warriors."
"Do you not fear the consequences of this delay?"
"Once for all, caballeros," Valentine answered, "remember that in the country where we now are the straight line is ever the longest."
The three men bowed resignedly.
"Yellow Wolf's alliance is indispensable to us: with his support it will be easy for us to—"
The sudden appearance of Curumilla interrupted the hunter. "What is the matter now?" he asked him.
"Listen!" the chief answered laconically.
The four men anxiously stopped talking.
"By Heavens!" Valentine said, as he hurriedly arose, "What is the matter here?"