"I welcome you," said the Professor. "I know we can be friends."
The chief was overcome by the greeting words. It was plain that he had prepared for an entirely different kind of meeting. He did not answer, but sat there with eyes riveted on the Professor, and the latter continued:
"I hope my warriors have treated you right, and that they have not injured any of your people."
When Oroto had recovered from his surprise he responded:
"Why do you call me your friend?"
The Professor smiled, and he answered: "Are you my enemy?"
This was a question which was unexpected. What manner of man was this? The Professor saw the struggle in the chief's mind, as he tried to frame a reply.
"I was your enemy; but I do not see why I should be. I was told that you were a terrible chief."
"Who told you so?"
"The wise men."