CHAPTER XV
THE RESCUE OF FIVE CAPTIVES
The question for the moment nettled John. Here was a prisoner, powerless in his hands, imperiously demanding of his captors what they wanted. It may not have occurred to him that such a question was out of place.
John drew himself up, and with that piercing glance which he could give, leaned forward, and slowly, but with terrible emphasis, answered: "Nothing."
It was now the chief's turn to show a look of surprise. He looked at John, and his eyes wandered to Uraso and Muro. Neither indicated the slightest curiosity at the answer. Not another word was said as John kept his eye on the chief.
Then seeing that he had a different kind of creature to deal with than any he had heretofore met, addressed John in an entirely different tone of voice:
"Why have you captured me and my warriors, and why do you intend to destroy my village and take my women and children?"
"Because that is what you have been doing all your life. We do not ask you to give us anything. We have taken everything you have and shall not ask you for permission in anything we do. We have no desire to injure you or your people, and whether we shall do so will depend on your ac[p. 188]tion. If you will give us certain information it may make it easier for you, but if you do not tell us it will go hard with you."