Muro was sure, however, that there were no white captives among the Osagas, and this information added another mystery to the situation.
“My knowledge of Chief’s attitude toward us is sufficient to justify us in going boldly into the camp of the Osagas. I do not believe he will harm us, and it may be the quickest way to solve the whole matter.”
Blakely and the boys questioned the wisdom of such a course, but as John insisted on going himself, and his judgment had in the past proven correct, in all matters of this kind, his views prevailed.
“I will undertake this mission myself, and will give you some instruction to follow in certain emergencies. My mission must be to them during the daytime, so that as soon as possible in the morning I will enter their camp. I intend to carry with me a gun, and one of the pistols will be concealed. They will, without doubt, disarm me, and I shall have to depend on my ingenuity to keep the pistol for the purpose of warning you.”
“If you hear the pistol shot, it will be the signal for you to attack; but do not attempt that under any circumstances, unless you get that warning from me. Each one must be provided with two of the guns, for this purpose, and the six of you can, no doubt, strike terror into them.”
“There is one thing we must consider,” said Blakely, “and that is the attitude, and probable action, on the part of the Berees.”
“I was coming to that. The Osagas will know that the attack is on the part of my people, and the onslaught by you will be more of a mystery to the Berees than anything else. I am counting on the commotion caused by the firing, to effect my escape, and I can do this, if at all, before the Berees have time to collect their wits, and determine on a course of action.”
A hurried breakfast was prepared, and John made all his arrangements for the projected visit. Angel was in a tree, which was at the rear of the wagon, and as John was about to start, he came down and began the telltale chatter which betokened an alarm.
George was at his side the moment he reached the ground, and Angel again ascended and pointed to the north.
“Who are those coming in from the north?” cried out George, in excitement.