These sounds told Tyope that a severe engagement had commenced in that direction.

At the same time it struck him that the main body of the Tehuas were probably south and east of his forces, and that consequently by moving swiftly westward he could interpose himself between the Tehuas and their homes, cut off their warriors from their village, and secure complete triumph.

But before he could order such a change of tactics he ought to know something definite from the quarter where the fight had begun.

To send a runner seemed unadvisable, for he thought it unsafe to lessen the forces around him, if only by a man.

Several of his companions had approached, startled by the sudden noise.