And yet it was easy to guess that something extraordinary was about to happen; for notwithstanding the early hour--the sun scarcely appearing above the horizon--the principal chiefs were assembled in the council lodge, where, judging from the grave and reflective expression of their countenances, they were about to discuss some serious question. This day was the last of those granted by Eagle Head to Eusebio. The Indian warrior, faithful to his hatred, and in haste to satisfy his vengeance, had convoked the great chiefs in order to obtain their authority for the execution of his abominable project. We repeat it here, in order that our readers may be perfectly convinced--Indians are not cruel for the pleasure of being so. Necessity is their first law; and never do they order the punishment of a prisoner, particularly a woman, unless the interest of the nation requires it. As soon as the chiefs were assembled round the fire of council, the pipe bearer entered the circle, holding in his hand the calumet ready lighted; he bowed towards the four cardinal points, murmuring a short prayer, and then presented the calumet to the oldest chief, but retaining the bowl of the pipe in his hand. When all the chiefs had smoked, one after the other, the pipe bearer emptied the ashes of the pipe into the fire, saying-- "Chiefs of the great Comanche nation, may _Natosh_ (God) give you wisdom, so that whatever be your determination, it may be conformable to justice." Then, after bowing respectfully, he retired. A moment of silence followed, in which everyone seemed meditating seriously upon the words that had just been pronounced. At length the most aged of the chiefs arose. He was a venerable old man, whose body was furrowed with the scars of innumerable wounds, and who enjoyed among his people a great reputation for wisdom. He was named Eshis (the Sun). "My son Eagle Head has," he said, "an important communication to make to the council of the chiefs; let him speak, our ears are open. Eagle Head is a warrior as wise as he is valiant; his words will be listened to by us with respect." "Thanks!" the warrior replied; "my father is wisdom itself. Natosh conceals nothing from him." The chiefs bowed, and Eagle Head continued.