noon
The fat little papooses crawled timidly near to inspect the mysterious strangers and scrambled away squealing with delicious terror . The hours passed and the verdict was delayed . Two young braves stole away into the pine woodland on some errand , at the behest of the chief . It was after noon when they returned . With them came a dozen Yemassee warriors from another hunting camp , strong , quick-footed men in light marching order who were armed with long bows and knives . The chief spoke a few words and mustered his force . All told he had more than thirty picked followers .