He interpreted it as a covert thrust.

But as he bethought himself of the charges which Hayoue had uttered against the delegate from Shyuamo, a whole series of ideas rose within him so suddenly, and so far from pleasant or comforting to himself, that he forgot the conversation and inclined his head in thought.
Say Koitza was too much absorbed by her work to notice the change in her husband's manner at once.

After a few moments of silence she reiterated her question.

Zashue appeared to wake up; he started, saying,-- "I don't know; but why do you ask this ?" The woman realized that her inquiry might have been imprudent, but with great assurance explained,-- "Because he is nashtio, and a great one at that.

Shyuamo is a strong hanutsh, and what it wants will be done.