The hint was understood.

He laid his weapons on the ground, and, when he and the padre were within speaking distance, the _padre_, who appeared very much disturbed, said the cacique desired to have speech of me.

Not to be outdone in magnanimity I opened the door and stepped outside.
The cacique doffed his skull-helmet and made a low bow.

I returned the greeting, said I was delighted to make his acquaintance, and asked what I could do to oblige him.
"Give up the maidens," he answered, in broken Spanish.
"I cannot; they are in my charge.

I have sworn to protect them, and, as you discovered just now, I have the means of making good my word." "It is true.