One morning, as the sun crept lazily over the mountains that border Apache-land, the riders reached their journey’s end.
Boldly they rode into the great Apache village, amid demonstrations of joy, for the renegade’s rich clothing had caused his recognition, and Tarantulah had bidden his braves receive him as a great ally.
The council-square swarmed with savages of all ages and conditions, and when the twain drew rein, a loud shout of triumph broke forth.
But, suddenly, Wolf Eyes uttered a low but terrible cry of terror, and drawing back, he threw his horse upon his haunches.
The cause of the Pawnee’s agitation was easily discoverable.
A young chief, whose head-dress consisted of a single feather, dyed to an ocherous tint, was fitting an arrow to a bowstring, and his dark eyes were riveted upon Tom Kyle’s red comrade.
Tarantulah saw the action and sprung forward with a sharp, quick cry of command, to arrest the frenzied arm.
Wolf Eyes still forced his horse back; but when he discovered that stalwart Indians blocked his way, he tried to shield his heart with Mabel Denison.
But the shaft left the bow as he threw the murdered agent’s daughter before his brawny breast, and he fell from his horse with a loud cry!
Gold Feather complacently unstrung his bow, while he watched Tarantulah snatch Mabel from under the mustang’s feet.