"What need to repeat it, as you do not understand Latin?"
"Suppose I do understand it?"
"Well, then, as you insist upon it, here it is—si vis pacem para bellum."
"Which means—" the Chief said, impertinently, while White Buffalo bit his lips.
"Which means—" the Count said.
"If you wish for peace, prepare for war," White Buffalo hurriedly interrupted.
"It was you who said it," the Count remarked, bowing with a mocking smile.
The three men stood face to face, like skilful duellists, who feel the adversary's sword before engaging, and who, having recognized themselves to be of equal strength, redouble their prudence before dealing a decisive thrust.
Bright-eye, though not understanding much of this skirmish of words, had still, through the distrust which was the basis of his character, given Ivon a side-glance, and both, though apparently inattentive, were ready for any event. After the Count's last remark there was a lengthened silence, which Natah Otann was the first to break.
"You believe yourself to be among enemies, then?" he asked, in a tone of wounded pride.