treated the others with contempt, excepting the Illyas, whom they
respected only because they were the most powerful.

"They are having a warm time discussing the situation," remarked John,
as he noted the surging inhabitants. That there was indecision became
apparent, and the condition of the Krishnos more precarious, as light
began to give them a more decided glimpse of the activities in the
village.

Soon warriors were noticed rushing to and from the large circle within
which the Krishnos sat. Bows and spears were hurriedly grasped.

"What does it mean?" asked John.

"It is likely they know they are surrounded, and have decided to defend
themselves," answered Muro.

A warrior of distinguished appearance emerged from the circle, and
advanced toward the position occupied by John. Muro beckoned to John,
and together they moved into the open. The warrior saw the two
approaching, and he halted.

Turning to his band he spoke a word, and another no less distinguished
stepped from the rank and moved toward him.

"The first one is the chief, and the other one he called to follow is
the next in rank. As there are two of us, so must there be two on his
side."

John and Muro advanced without halting, and as they neared each other
the chief, in the most haughty manner, addressed Muro as follows:

"Why do you come to make war on my people?"

Muro, taking his cue from John's previous attitude, rose to his full
height and replied: "You have always been the aggressor against the
other people, and you have within the last moon killed and taken two
Brabos in captivity, and we demand their return."

"That I will not do."

"Then the White Chief will speak to you."

John advanced and began the conversation. "The white people do not
desire war. You captured two of my people and I took them from you with
only four men. All the tribes but you and the Illyas have united to
compel you to submit, and you shall not again be free to murder and
injure other people.

"If you want war, we are prepared to fight you. Your village is
surrounded, and we have the fire guns which will compel you to yield. If
you will surrender, we will see to it that you and your people shall not
be harmed, but if you resist you will be killed. You cannot escape."

The chief was stunned, and could not answer. John saw the impression the
address had made, and proceeded: "What did the Krishnos tell you? Did
they not tell you to surrender? Did they not te