d forward to the
very brink of the chasm. The serapes that had shrouded them were
removed, and they stood exposed in their usual costumes before the eyes
of the Indians. Dacoma still wore his helmet, and the queen was
conspicuous in the rich, plume-embroidered tunic. They were at once
recognised!

A cry of singular import burst from the Navajoes as they beheld these
new proofs of their discomfiture. The warriors unslung their lances,
and thrust them into the earth with impotent indignation. Some of them
drew scalps from their belts, stuck them on the points of their spears,
and shook them at us over the brow of the abyss. They believed that
Dacoma's band had been destroyed, as well as their women and children;
and they threatened us with shouts and gestures.

In the midst of all this, we noticed a movement among the more staid
warriors. A consultation was going on.

It ended. A party were seen to gallop toward the captive women, who had
been left far back upon the plain.

"Great heavens!" cried I, struck with a horrid idea, "they are going to
butcher them! Quick with the flag!"

But before the banner could be attached to its staff, the Mexican women
were dismounted, their rebozos pulled off, and they were led forward to
the precipice.

It was only meant for a counter-vaunt, the retaliation of a pang for it
was evident the savages knew that among their captives were the wife and
daughter of our chief. These were placed conspicuously in front, upon
the very brow of the barranca.

CHAPTER FORTY FOUR.

THE FLAG OF TRUCE.

They might have spared themselves the pains. That agony was already
felt; but, indeed, a scene followed--that caused us to suffer afresh.

Up to this moment we had not been recognised by those near and dear to
us. The distance had been too great for the naked eye, and our browned
faces and travel-stained habiliments were of themselves a disguise.

But the instincts of love are quick and keen, and the eyes of my
betrothed were upon me. I saw her start forward; I heard the agonised
scream; a pair of snow-white arms were extended, and she sank, fainting,
upon the cliff.

At the same instant Madame Seguin had recognised the chief, and had
called him by name. Seguin shouted to her in reply, and cautioned her
in tones of intreaty to remain patient and silent.

Several of the other females, all young and handsome, had recognised
their lovers and brothers, and a scene followed th