"There is nothing more to be said," replied Castenada with haughtiness. "We are here in a strong position and you cannot take us."
He withdrew and Moore turned back with Ned and Obed.
"I don't think he ever meant this parley for anything except to gain time," said Moore. "He's expecting a fresh Mexican force, but we'll see that it comes too late."
Then raising his voice, he shouted to his command:
"Boys, they've chosen to fight, and they are there on the hill. A man cannot rush that hill with his horse, but he can rush it with his two legs."
The face of the Ring Tailed Panther became a perfect full moon of delight. Then he paled a little.
"Do you think there can yet be any new trick to hold us back?" he asked Obed anxiously.
"No," replied Obed cheerfully. "Time and tide wait for no Mexicans, and the tide's at the flood. We charge within a minute."
Even as he spoke, Moore shouted:
"Now, boys, rush 'em!"