"Oh!" she said, in horror.
"Let my sister listen," the Coras continued quickly; "now that I have told her my name, she must place confidence in me."
"Yes," she answered, eagerly, "for I know the nobility of your character."
"Thanks! I am here for my sister's sake alone. I have sworn to save her, and restore her to her father."
"Alas!" she murmured sadly, "that is impossible. You are alone, and we are surrounded by enemies. The bandits who guard us are a hundredfold more cruel than the ferocious beasts of the desert."
"I do not know yet in what way I shall set about saving my sister," the chief said, firmly; "but I shall succeed if she is willing."
"Oh!" she exclaimed with febrile energy, "If I am willing! Whatever requires to be done, I will do without hesitation. My courage will not fail me, be assured of that, chief."
"Good!" the Indian said with joy; "My sister is truly a daughter of the Mexican kings. I count on her when the moment arrives. Red Cedar is absent for a few days; I will go and prepare everything for my sister's flight."
"Go, chief; at the first sign from you I shall be ready to follow you."
"Good! I retire; my sister can take courage, she will soon be free."