disastrous outcome as this had been far from their minds. The Indians
now realised that they had been led into a trap, and their hearts were
full of rage, more against their leaders than their captors. But
Flazeet and Rauchad were not in the least repentant. Their eyes and
faces expressed their anger and hatred as they watched Davidson coming
toward them.

"What is the meaning of all this?" the purveyor asked.

"It's none of your business," Flazeet replied with a savage oath.

"I've made it my business, though, and so have the men with me." A
smile lurked about the corners of Davidson's mouth as he watched the
confounded rebels. "You didn't expect this, Joe, did you?"

"And why should I? Why can't we meet here without being disturbed?
What right have you to come upon us like this? What do you want,
anyway?"

"I want you and a few others, and you know very well what for, so don't
begin any nonsense."

"This is an outrage," Flazeet stormed. "I always thought this was a
free country, where men can meet together if they want to without being
held up like this."

"It is a free country, Joe, and we are trying to keep it so. But when
men start plotting against peaceable people, they must be restrained.
That is the reason why we are here."