"I mean," explained Colina, "will you come and tell his judges that he did not lead the Kakisas into trouble?"
Nesis, by vivid signs, informed Colina that Ambrose had been a prisoner among the Indians.
It occurred to Colina as strange, since she could understand English, that she should use signs. "I know he was a prisoner," she said. "Will you come with me and tell the police that?"
Nesis turned and with a despairing gesture called Colina's attention to the gathering Indians who would prevent her. Not a sound issued from her lips.
"Never mind them," said Colina scornfully. "Are you willing to come?"
Nesis lifted her eyes to Colina's—eyes luminous with eagerness and emotion—and quickly nodded again.
"Why doesn't she speak!" thought Colina. Aloud she said: "All right. Tell them I am going to take you. Tell them anybody that interferes does so at his peril." She pointed to her rifle.
To Colina's astonishment, the girl lowered her head and flung an arm up over her face.
"What's the matter?" she cried. "I'll take care of you." She drew the arm down. "Speak to them!" she said again.
Nesis slowly raised her head. Her eyes crept to Colina's, humble and unspeakably mournful. She opened her mouth and pointed within.