There was a stir in the cellar. Alkali Pete, who was standing nearest the open trap, heard it, but the noise did not reach the ears of the Apache chief.
The lanky plainsman, controlling his excitement with an effort, flashed a warning glance at Buffalo Bill.
The king of scouts interpreted the meaning of the glance, and, therefore, made this response to the chief’s ultimatum: “Bring the girl to me.”
Thunder Cloud glued his keen eyes to the scout’s, as if he would read what was beyond them. But he made nothing from the searching scrutiny. Buffalo Bill was placidly smiling.
With a grunt, the Indian turned and walked toward the door. When he was gone, Alkali Pete stooped by the trap, and called out in a whisper: “Aire ye thar, Hickok?”
“Yes,” was the quick answer. “Come down, won’t you, and pass the word to Cody, if he is up there with you.”
The lanky plainsman raised his head and told Buffalo Bill what had been said.
“Go down,” was the reply, “and tell Hickok that I’ll follow presently. The chief will return in a minute, and I must be here when he comes in.”
Alkali Pete, without hesitation, lowered himself to the cellar. There was a heavy thud as he struck the ground, and at the same moment Thunder Cloud opened the door and pushed Sybil Hayden into the room.