Battles were of rare occurrence; the gipsies watched for opportunities and executed raids, the shepherds retaliated, and thus the endless war continued.

The shepherds invariably posted sentinels, and sent forward scouts to ascertain if the way were clear.

Accustomed to the horrid scenes of war from childhood, they could not understand Felix's sensitiveness.
They laughed, and then petted him like a spoilt child.

This galled him exceedingly; he felt humiliated, and eager to reassert his manhood.

He was willing to stay with them there for awhile, nothing would have induced him to leave them now till he had vindicated himself in their sight.