"How shall we know you will keep your word?"
Muro held up his hand, as he spoke: "Ask the Kurabus whether the White Chief keeps his word."
Before he could reply, John added: "The White Chief keeps his word. He believes the people here will keep their word if they know the others will do so. He has armed the tribes who have allied themselves with him, because he believes in them, and we do not want to make you captives, or offer sacrifices of your brave men."
"The White Chief speaks wisely," said Muro.[p. 104] "He does not believe in making sacrifices. The Great Spirit has told him that is wrong."
Still the chief pondered, and, slowly raising his head, said: "I believe the white man, and what he says. I will tell my people."
He turned and moved toward the village, John and Muro remaining there, as an indication that they expected an immediate answer.
"He will yield," said Muro, "and according to custom, will first tell his people what his decision is."
Muro was right. Within a half hour the chief advanced at the head of his warriors, the latter of whom had left their bows and spears at the circle, and the two stood ready to receive them.
As the two chiefs appeared the warriors lined up behind them.
"I have brought my warriors here to show you that we will be friends." And John advanced and took the hand of the chief.