Page:The Indian History of the Modoc War.djvu/142



dog, why did you come back to me for after you and the other three dogs deserted me and your families? I can not look upon you men as friends any more. How do you expect me to consider you my friend? You come here today with a fine, big horse and nice cavalryman's carbines. Who do you intend to run down with that horse? Who do you intend to shoot with that gun? Now tell me, can you explain yourself to me so that we may avoid bloodshed that is between you and me? Charley, if ever I meant anything in my life, I mean just what I am saying right now. Come, answer me."

The other braves said not a word. Every one was anxious to hear .Scarface Charley reply. Curley Headed Doctor said : "Charley, you have heard what Black Jim said. I want to say I feel just the same as Jim, so you had better study good before you ans\ver us. You know who we are. Do not tempt us."

Charley jumped to his feet and poked the fire saying: "Men, put on some more wood as I want Black Jim and the Doctor to have a good, strong light to shoot me by." Then he turned and faced his two enemies saying, "Look, men, I want you both to understand that I am black, but not a dog. I am a man. If you want me to tell you what I am going to do w 7 ith that big, fat horse and gun, I will tell you. I will run you men down on that horse and shoot you with this gun if you do not do as I want you to do. I know who you are. I was raised with you. You are both cowards. You know it. Your threats don't amount to nothing. What I have done is best for all of us. It is good for our old people and child- ren. The soldiers will never quit us. This country is big, but it is small for the white people. We can not go any plac'e and hide and escape the white man, for they are many; they are like the running waters. It is well enough for us to say that we are not afraid of death. I have often said that, but I tell you when I take the matter up, I see I used my words in too much haste. Life is sweet. I know it. You all know it. You can't deny it. The soldiers and Bogus Charley, Hooker Jim and Shaknasty Jim will be here tomorrow to take you all to Fairchild's Ranch. I will help them. It is best for all