They were within fair view of the spot where the brave had met his death, although, of course, ignorant of that fact, and had the fugitives deemed it prudent, they could easily have sent a brace of rifle-bullets into the little crowd. But, as long as the savages did not molest them, Travers was willing to do likewise, now that a helpless woman was under his protection.
Though he did not greatly fear the result of a collision with the six, he did not deem it prudent to invite such, under the circumstances. A random shot might work incalculable harm.
Clara shuddered convulsively as a peculiar sound met her ear, from where Delaware Tom was crouched. She knew he was scalping the dead brave, although she could not see the action, as the thick-matted screen of bushes effectually shut out the light of the moon.
With a grunt of satisfaction, Delaware Tom affixed the reeking trophy to his girdle, and then turned toward the soldier. Side by side, they peered out upon their foes in the valley.
“Big fools plenty skeered,” chuckled Tom, as he noted the irresolute air of the enemy. “Little more mek ’um run like de debble. S’pose shoot one, two time, dey run way off. Git scalp, too. Kin hit ’um from dis,” he added, eagerly fingering his rifle as though longing to begin the affray.
“No, Tom, you mustn’t do it. It would not be safe. Were we alone, I wouldn’t care how soon you began it, but now we have another to look out for, besides ourselves. She might get hurt.”
The Delaware did not reply, but he was evidently dissatisfied. He had tasted blood, and it had aroused all the worst passions of his half-tamed nature.
The savages appeared to be undecided as to the course best for them to pursue, and for several minutes conversed earnestly together, closely watched by their hidden foes. But then there was a decided move on the part of the former.
One of their number moved toward the horses, and, mounting, rode rapidly off up the valley, soon disappearing from view.
Travers and Toni exchanged glances. Right well they divined the meaning of this move, and it evidently caused them not a little uneasiness.