For a long time Minnetaki had been ardently wooed by a powerful young chief named Woonga, whom she cordially detested, but upon whose favor and friendship depended the existence of her father's sway over his hunting-grounds.
With the advent of the young factor the bitterest rivalry sprang up between the two suitors, which resulted in two attempts upon Newsome's life, and an ultimatum sent by Woonga to Minnetaki's father.

Minnetaki herself replied to this ultimatum.

It was a reply that stirred the fires of hatred and revenge to fever heat in Woonga's breast.

One dark night, at the head of a score of his tribe, he fell upon Wabigoon's camp, his object being the abduction of the princess.

While the attack was successful in a way, its main purpose failed.