But Jim's observation was true. Blakely early discovered this in treating with the natives, and it did not take long to make them understand that by working together for the common defense they could be made far more effective than by permitting each to do as his own impulse dictated.
Thus, by constant association with the head men in the different tribes, he early learned who were the best runners, and the most skillful scouts, and who were particularly reliable for the different branches of the service.
Sutoto, as stated, was the most valuable factor, and the Professor grew to love him. One day he came in great haste, and said: "I have news for[p. 33] you. The tribes are directly north of us, and appear to be moving to the east."
"Do you know how large a force they have?"
"Fully three hundred."
"Have you any theory why they have not attacked us before?"
"I think they are sending for more warriors."
"How many more can they depend on from their tribes?"
"Not more than one hundred and fifty or two hundred."
"Do you think it is possible, Blakely, that they have learned of the force which we have sent to the Cataract?"