"It is needless, chiefs," Valentine replied. "The buffalo is the friend of the redskins: the Comanches know all its stratagems. I should like to ask a question of my brother."
"The hunter can speak; my ears are open."
"How long will the chief remain on the hunting grounds with his young men?"
"About a week. The buffaloes are suspicious: my young men are surrounding them, but they drive them in our direction before four or five days."
Valentine gave a start of joy.
"Good," he said. "Is my brother sure of it?"
"Very sure."
"How many warriors have remained with the chief?"
"About four hundred: the rest are scattered over the plain to announce the approach of the buffaloes."
"Good! If my brother likes I will procure him a fine hunt within three days."