Trebon went out and returned with two soldiers bearing them.
"I don't like the look of things," he said in a low voice.

"The number of men in the village has trebled since we arrived, and they still keep coming in.

None of them show arms at present, but no doubt they are hidden close at hand.

I believe the chief is only keeping us in conversation till he considers that a sufficient force has arrived to make sure of us." "We can't break it off now," Malchus said, "and must take our chance.

It would not do to ensure a failure by showing suspicion." The chief examined the presents with great care and announced his satisfaction at them.