It's lucky we've got our strength again." They scaled a lofty summit once more, fortunately being able to climb among rocks, where they left no trail, and, crouched at the crest in dense bushes, they saw two bands meet in the valley below, evidently searching for the fugitives.

There was no white man among them, but Robert knew a gigantic figure to be that of Tandakora, seeking them with the most intense and bitter hatred.

The muzzle of his rifle began to slide forward, but Willet put out a detaining hand.
"No, Robert, lad," he said.

"He deserves it, but his time hasn't come yet.

Besides your shot would bring the whole crowd up after us." "And he belongs to me," added Tayoga.