So long as Umballa lived, a dread menace hung above Kathlyn's head.

So, then, Umballa must die.
Bala Khan was for beginning the warfare at once, but Bruce argued him out of this idea.

Let them first learn what Umballa intended to do.
There was no need of shedding blood needlessly.
"You white people must always talk," grumbled the Khan, who was a fighting man, born of a race of fighters yet to bow the head to the yoke.

"It is better to kill and talk afterward.

I have given my word to protect you, and the word of Bala Khan is as sound as British gold." "For that," said Bruce, "thanks." "Keep your men from the walls," cried Kathlyn, "and bring me the white elephant.