The captain seemed deeply touched by the consideration which Meli-Antou paid to the character he was invested with, and resolved to profit by his host's good temper to sound him cleverly as to what he desired to know as to the presence of Diego, Tahi-Mari, and the young ladies in the city. Still, in the fear of arousing the Indian's suspicions, he waited till the latter furnished him with the opportunity to question him.
An hour about had elapsed, and Leon had not yet been able to approach the question without danger, when an Indian presented himself in the doorway.
"Agriskoui rejoices," said the newcomer.
"My brother is welcome," said Meli-Antou; "my ears are open."
"The great council of the Ulmens is assembled," the Indian said, "and awaits my brother Meli-Antou."
"What is there new then?"
"Tcharanguii has just arrived with his warriors, his heart is full of bitterness, and he wishes to speak to the council."
"Tcharanguii returned!" exclaimed Meli-Antou, in surprise; "that is strange."
"He has just arrived in the city."
"Was he in command of the warriors who arrived about an hour ago?"