While the adventurers watched and wondered, the king or chief issued an
order to his attendants, who ran to the corners of the square and called
it aloud. Then he raised his great spear, and every captain blew upon
his horn, making a deafening sound.

Now the enemy stood still for a while, staring towards the stones,
and the three medicine-men drew near to the chief in the centre of the
square and talked with him, as though debating what should be done.

"This is our chance," said Juanna excitedly. "If once they attack us it
will be all over; a single volley of arrows would kill every one of us.
Come, Otter."

"No, no!" said Leonard. "I am afraid of your venturing yourself among
those savages. The danger is too great."

"Danger! Can the danger be more than it is here? In a minute we may all
be dead. Nonsense! I _will_ go! I know what to do and have made up my
mind to it. Do not fear for me. Remember that, if the worst comes to the
worst, I have the means to protect myself. You are not afraid to come,
are you, Otter?"

"No, Shepherdess," said the dwarf. "Here all roads are alike."

Leonard thought awhile. Bitterly did he reproach himself in that he had
been the cause of leading his ward into such a position. But now
there was no help for it--she must go. And after all it could make no
difference if she were killed or captured five minutes hence or half an
hour later. But Francisco, who could not take such a philosophical view