Tyope could have killed the Navajo while close to him, for he had the advantage in weapons; but, although he really had no further use for the young man, he was not so angry as to take his life.
Still, under the circumstances, the greater the caution displayed the better.

Intimately acquainted with the character of the Dinne Indians, and that of Nacaytzusle in particular, Tyope had gone on this errand well armed.

Open hostility had resulted from the interview; it was useless to make any attempt at conciliation.

Speedy return to the Rito was the only thing left.

This return might become not only difficult, but dangerous, with the young Navajo concealed on the mesa.