The old man was all attention, and signified that he understood what was required and would carry out the orders.
'My revenge is near,' he said. 'They stole my people and made dogs of them, and they shall die.'
'We want to take them alive,' said Jim. 'Do not kill if you can secure them.'
Charlie struck his spear on the ground and said savagely,—
'Blood for blood, and we spare them not!'
Jim Dennis saw it was useless to argue with him, and he knew if any of Dalton's men fell into King Charlie's hands they would not have an easy death.
They rode back to their comrades, and King Charlie and his men advanced into the bush unseen.
'Back again so soon?' said Mr Dauntsey. 'Anything fresh to report?'
'The best of good luck has befallen us,' said Jim, excitedly. 'Charlie and his tribe are here. The old fellow heard from Sal what we had afoot, and came on here to help us and take his revenge. There's over a hundred of them, and they are by this time concealed in the bush at the back of the houses. When we advance in front and fire they will make a rush in the rear, and I promise you they will not be slow about it.'
'This is splendid,' said Mr Dauntsey. 'What do you say, sergeant?'