The two warriors captured by Muro were brought before John, after he had made a survey of the place, and by the aid of Uraso one of them was instructed to carry information as to their intention to the Illyas.
This was to the effect that in the event no reply was received before noon no other effort would be made to open communications. It was distinctly impressed on the warrior that the Illyas must give up all the captives, and that an agreement must be entered into by them not to leave their own boundaries in the future, and John also offered protection and a safe return of any messenger who might be sent back with the answer.
The captive was released, and, bounding forward, was soon within the line of earthworks which surrounded the village. The message gave a full two hours for them to decide. There was not a sign of an Illyas until near the time limit, when the same one which conveyed their message was noticed approaching the line of the allies.
He came directly to John, and conveyed this information:
"The chiefs do not intend to do as the White Chief says. They are entitled to the captives, and intend to keep them. If the village is attacked the white chiefs and the tribes will be destroyed. We do not fear him and his fire weapons."
John motioned to the warrior to depart. For a moment he looked at John in amazement. Judging the actions of the white man by the ethics of the savage, such a message would have meant his death. He glanced around stealthily.
Uraso saw why he hesitated, and remarked to him: "You are free to go. No one will injure you, because the White Chief has given his word to protect you. He is not like the Illyas. He does not lie."