The party halted. The runner returned, and John sent back a messenger to Uraso, advising him to come forward at once. Within fifteen minutes the messenger returned with the startling information that the natives were between them and Uraso.
This was, indeed, surprising. Either they were experts at stalking enemies, or they had been fortunate enough to bring up a force in such a position as to make Uraso's escape a most hazardous one.
"We must make the best of the situation," said John. "Let us prepare to receive them, if they are determined to attack us."
"But what shall we do about Uraso?" asked Harry, in some consternation.
"I think Uraso knows how to take care of the situation. He is shrewd enough to outwit them, and if there is any danger from that quarter, he will let us know."
"But how can he let us know if his messenger cannot get through?"
John smiled, as he looked at George, and responded: "You have evidently forgotten that Uraso has the best signaling instrument in the world, the gun."
"Certainly; I had forgotten that. But what shall we do if—" His voice was cut short by a shot from the direction of Uraso's position.
"There it is," said Harry. "Two more shots!"
The scout from the rear now came in on a leap. "They are coming this way," he hurriedly informed John.