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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of In the grip of the Mullah, by F. S. Brereton
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
-almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
-re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
-with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license
-
-
-Title: In the grip of the Mullah
-       A tale of adventure in Somaliland
-
-Author: F. S. Brereton
-
-Illustrator: Charles M. Sheldon
-
-Release Date: June 4, 2013 [EBook #42874]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: ASCII
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IN THE GRIP OF THE MULLAH ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by sp1nd, Mary Meehan and the Online Distributed
-Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
-produced from images generously made available by The
-Internet Archive)
-
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-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-                     IN THE GRIP OF THE MULLAH
-
-                _A TALE OF ADVENTURE IN SOMALILAND_
-
-                     BY CAPTAIN F. S. BRERETON
-
-    Author of "One of the Fighting Scouts" "The Dragon of Pekin" "With
-    Rifle and Bayonet" etc.
-
-
-    _ILLUSTRATED BY CHARLES M. SHELDON_
-
-
-    NEW YORK
-    CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
-    1903
-
-    Copyright, 1903, by
-    CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS
-
-    _Published September, 1903_
-
-
-    THE CAXTON PRESS
-    New York City, U. S. A.
-
-
-
-
-[Illustration: THE LEADING MAN FELL TO THE DECK.]
-
-
-
-
-CONTENTS
-
-
-    CHAPTER                               PAGE
-
-        I. THE CASTAWAY                      1
-
-       II. OFF TO ADEN                      16
-
-      III. THE GUN-RUNNERS                  31
-
-       IV. IN DISGUISE                      49
-
-        V. A DESPERATE ENCOUNTER            66
-
-       VI. ON AFRICAN SHORES                84
-
-      VII. THE "MAD" MULLAH                101
-
-     VIII. PREPARING TO ADVANCE            120
-
-       IX. AGAINST HEAVY ODDS              137
-
-        X. FIGHTING THE TRIBESMEN          155
-
-       XI. A MARCH INTO THE DESERT         172
-
-      XII. IN TOUCH WITH THE MULLAH        190
-
-     XIII. THE WHITE PRISONER              207
-
-      XIV. HEMMED IN BY THE ENEMY          223
-
-       XV. A CLEVER RUSE                   239
-
-      XVI. THE LAST DARING ATTEMPT         255
-
-     XVII. A DASH FOR LIBERTY              271
-
-    XVIII. IN THE GOLD MINE                287
-
-      XIX. A STRATEGIC RETREAT             305
-
-       XX. BACK TO THE COAST               323
-
-
-
-
-ILLUSTRATIONS
-
-
-                                                                  PAGE
-
-    THE LEADING MAN FELL TO THE DECK                    _Frontispiece_
-
-    THE NATIVES CROWDED ABOUT THEM WITH THREATENING
-    GESTURES                                                        50
-
-    MAP OF SOMALILAND                                              108
-
-    "FIRE!" SHOUTED JIM. "EMPTY YOUR RIFLES INTO THEM!"            148
-
-    JIM KEPT HIS REVOLVER STEADILY LEVELLED                        218
-
-    JIM SPRANG UPON THE MAN                                        266
-
-    THE WARRIORS HAD HALTED UPON THE PATH WITHIN A
-    FEW PACES OF THE FUGITIVES                                     292
-
-
-
-
-IN THE GRIP OF THE MULLAH
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER I
-
-THE CASTAWAY
-
-
-"Perim!" shouted Colonel Hubbard, placing his hand to his mouth, and his
-lips close to the ear of his friend Major Bellamy. "The island of Perim,
-or I am much mistaken. It lies in the Strait of Bab-el-Mandeb, and has
-proved the destruction of more than one fine vessel. I can tell you
-that, on this dark night and with this fierce gale blowing, we are lucky
-to have caught even a glimpse of the light, and still more fortunate to
-have slipped by in safety. Now we leave the Red Sea, and run into the
-Gulf of Aden, where we shall feel the full force of the wind and waves.
-However, what does that matter? Better plenty of water all round, even
-though it is lashed into frenzy, than a lee shore close at hand, a dark
-night, and no bearings to steer by. Halloa, there's the flash of the
-light again!"
-
-Clinging with one hand to the rail which ran round the saloon, the
-speaker pointed eagerly into the darkness. Aided by the faint gleam of
-the electric lamp which was suspended from the spar deck above their
-heads, his comrade, Major Bellamy, followed the direction of his
-finger, and having watched for a few seconds, suddenly exclaimed:
-
-"Yes, colonel, you're right! I could have sworn that there was nothing
-but inky blackness over in that direction. But there's no doubt about
-the matter. The light is flashing in that quarter, I'll stake my word
-upon it. Won't our skipper be joyful! I heard him saying, an hour or
-more ago, that our safety depended upon his sighting the island; and
-there it is, sure enough. Well it's a great relief, and now I can turn
-in with some degree of assurance. I'm not nervous, you know, colonel,
-but, by Jove, a storm like this, and a pitch dark night such as we are
-experiencing, make one a little anxious in spite of one's self. Now, if
-it were on land, and we were in an enemy's country, I should feel far
-more at my ease. I'd double the pickets, of course, so as to give the
-boys a little more courage, don't you know; for even a soldier feels
-queer when posted a couple of hundred yards away from his fellows,
-especially if he knows that a score or more of niggers are probably
-crawling round like ghosts, ready to fall upon him at any moment. Yes,
-I've had experience of that, and I well remember how fidgety I was, for
-we were fighting on the West Coast, and knew well that the natives of
-Ashantee were as cruel and as cunning as they make 'em. So I'd double
-the pickets, colonel, and I'd make a point of going round to inspect
-them, and at the same time to encourage them, every quarter of an hour.
-Depend upon it, nothing like letting Thomas Atkins know that his officer
-is at hand, taking an interest in him, and ready to help him at any
-moment."
-
-"Just so," responded the colonel, clinging the while with all his
-strength to the rail, for the steamer was rolling and plunging heavily.
-"Quite right, Bellamy; I'd do the same. But what can our poor skipper
-do? He can't send out sentries, and if he could they would be useless on
-a night like this. He must just trust to his eyes, and to his skill as a
-navigator. But, thank Heaven, we are out of the Red Sea and well on our
-way for India. Heigho! I'm sleepy, and, like you, want to turn in.
-Good-night! Let's hope the sea will have gone down by morning."
-
-With a nod, they separated, and, still taking advantage of the rail,
-went along the slippery and deserted deck to their quarters. This was no
-easy matter, for every now and again their progress was impeded by the
-plunging of the vessel, which caused them to halt and cling frantically
-to their support till they saw a favourable opportunity to proceed.
-
-"Good-night!" shouted the major, who reached the companion first,
-turning to wave his arm to his friend; but his words were caught by the
-wind and whisked into space. Then he dived below. The colonel never saw
-him again.
-
-Colonel Hubbard and his friend Major Bellamy were on their way to India
-to rejoin their regiments, both having for the past two years been
-engaged in special work in South Africa. At another time the ship would
-have been full to overflowing with troops, going to the East to replace
-those who had completed their term of service there, but, owing to the
-fact that all Indian reliefs had practically been suspended during the
-South African war, there were only a few other officers on board.
-
-The steamer had sailed from Liverpool ten days before, and had made a
-fine passage to the Suez Canal. But now a change had come over the
-weather, the glass had fallen with surprising swiftness, and a fierce
-gale had sprung up. Navigating his vessel with all possible care, the
-captain had at length the satisfaction of piloting her past the island
-of Perim, and had breathed more freely as he steered a course into the
-Gulf of Aden, _en route_ for the Indian Ocean.
-
-"We're safer here, at any rate," he remarked in tones of satisfaction to
-the first mate, as the two stood poring over a chart in the deck-house
-on the bridge. "We've our bearings, and can go straight ahead till dawn.
-But we shall have to be careful to take into account the set of the
-gale. I reckon that we are making a knot or more to leeward for every
-five we advance. So keep her helm well up, Farmer, and send to wake me
-if you have any doubts. If I were at all anxious, I'd keep at my post
-till morning; but now that we're in the open sea, there can be nothing
-to fear. A bright look-out, then, and good-night."
-
-The captain gave vent to a loud yawn, and wearily left the chart-house;
-for he had resolutely kept at his station on the bridge ever since the
-ship entered the canal, and was now completely worn out. Groping his
-way, he descended to the spar deck, and disappeared into his cabin. Ten
-minutes later the gleam of light from his porthole was suddenly cut off,
-and the deck outside was plunged into darkness.
-
-For three hours the fine ship plunged forward, ploughing deep into the
-waves and rolling heavily every minute. But no one suspected danger. Why
-should they indeed? What harm could come to such a powerful vessel in
-this open sea? Evidently the mate, as he kept watch upon the bridge, had
-no qualms, for he even hummed the refrain of a popular London air as he
-clung to the chart-house table, and pricked off the course run during
-the night. Danger! Why, not a soul expected such a thing, for if they
-had, would the passengers have been lying below in their bunks, vainly
-endeavouring to snatch a few moments' sleep? Certainly not. They would
-have been cowering in the open, a prey to terror, expecting every moment
-to bring some dire catastrophe.
-
-"We're in the gulf, and safe," murmured the colonel, thrusting a pillow
-between his shoulders and the edge of his bunk, so that he might retain
-his position more easily. "We've a capable skipper and crew, and, so far
-as I can see, we have nothing to fear. So here's for a snooze till
-morning."
-
-With that he turned on his side, and, covering his head with the
-clothes, settled himself for slumber.
-
-Crash! The shock threw every sleeper from his bunk, and even brought the
-steersman to the deck. Crash! Suddenly arrested in her onward progress,
-the ship drew back for a moment, and then hurled herself with awful
-force against the obstruction. For the space of a few seconds she
-remained firmly fixed, and then, to the accompaniment of rending iron
-and timber, and the crash of the waves as they beat against her side,
-she slid into deep water once more, and wallowed there, as if undecided
-how to act. But there was no pausing with that sea raging all about her,
-and with such a gale forcing her onward. Heaving her stern high into the
-air, she rushed upon the unknown reef for the third time, seeming to
-leap at it eagerly in the vain hope of surmounting it. A moment later
-her keel fell upon the rock with a sickening bump, and breaking asunder
-in the bows, she disappeared in the raging sea.
-
-It was a frightful calamity, and Colonel Hubbard, as he clung to a
-portion of the wreck, could scarcely believe that he was awake--could
-hardly realize that this was not some terrible dream, a nightmare for
-which the storm and its attendant discomforts was to blame.
-
-"Wrecked?" he wondered, shaking his head to clear his eyes of water, and
-shifting his grasp so as to obtain a more secure position. "Am I awake,
-or is this only imagination? No; I am wet and shivering. It is all too
-real."
-
-At this moment a monstrous wave bore down upon him, and clinging
-desperately to the tangled seaweed with which the rock was thickly
-covered, he braced himself to withstand the strain to which he was about
-to be subjected. Taking a long breath, he had just time to close his
-eyes when the mass of water was upon him. Clasping him in its cold
-embrace, it tore him from his hold as if he were weaker than a child,
-and then, bearing him onward, it hurled him against a piece of floating
-wreckage, and left him there, breathless, gasping for air, and almost
-unconscious. But the instinct of self-preservation soon asserted itself,
-and ere a minute had passed he was astride the floating woodwork,
-clinging to it with all his strength.
-
-"If this is torn from me," he gasped, "I shall be washed away and
-drowned. But it shan't be, I'll see to that, for I don't mean to die
-yet. Things look black enough, but I won't give in."
-
-Clenching his teeth, the gallant colonel clung to the wreckage gamely,
-and, though frequently submerged beneath the huge masses of green water
-which rolled and tossed about him, contrived to maintain his hold.
-Breathless, and shivering--for it was the winter season, and a
-piercingly cold wind blew through the gulf--he rode his strange steed
-through the remainder of the night, and just as the dawn was breaking,
-and the dark clouds in the east were beginning to light up with the rays
-of the rising sun, he espied a low bank of sand lying directly before
-him. Shading his eyes with his hands, he looked long and eagerly, and
-then gave vent to a shout of joy. Yes, though he had lost the best
-friend he ever had during the night, and had to mourn the death of every
-one of the crew and passengers of the ill-fated liner, yet so strong is
-the love of life to the average healthy individual, that Colonel
-Hubbard's spirits were raised to the highest by this piece of good
-fortune.
-
-"Land, land!" he shouted excitedly, sitting up upon the baulk of timber
-to obtain a better view. "I reckon it is two hundred yards away, and
-getting closer every minute. I'm a bit done, or I'd make nothing of the
-swim. But I mustn't forget that the gulf has a reputation for its
-sharks; they are said to swarm everywhere, and to be only too ready to
-snap up everything that comes within their reach. Ugh, I won't give 'em
-a chance!"
-
-Shivering at the thought, the colonel turned once more to the land, and
-watched it closely as the light of the dawning day disclosed its various
-features.
-
-"A long rolling sandbank," he said thoughtfully, "with blue hills in the
-distance, and scarcely a patch of vegetation to be seen. Now, what shore
-can it be? The gale has been from the northeast, and therefore it must
-be the northern coast of Africa, and, I fear, a desolate, uninhabited
-region altogether. But I mustn't begin to grumble when Providence has
-watched over me so carefully. I must just make the best of matters, and
-be thankful that my life is saved."
-
-Cheering himself with these thoughts, and with the reflection that, once
-ashore, the greater part of his troubles would be ended, the colonel
-began to paddle with his hands and kick out with his feet. By now, too,
-he had the satisfaction of finding that he was in smooth water, though a
-line of hissing surf in front of him, and the dull boom of breakers
-falling upon the sand told him clearly that he had still some danger to
-contend with. But what was it, after all, when compared with the storm
-he had outlived that night? He asked himself the question, and for
-answer prepared to leave the piece of wreckage which had proved his
-salvation, and strike out for the shore.
-
-"I should be a fool to stick to it longer," he said. "Once in those
-breakers it would be twisted and turned in every direction, and if it
-did not stun me by a blow upon the head, it might very well roll over me
-and crush the life out of my body. So here goes!"
-
-Slipping gently into the water, he struck out for the shore, firmly
-determined to do battle with the breakers. Almost before he thought it
-possible he reached the broad white line, and was engulfed in a moment.
-And now, indeed, his powers of endurance were put to the test, for
-whereas a green wave had frequently covered him for the space of a
-minute whilst in the open sea, now the seething water bubbled and
-frothed about his mouth and ears continually. Then, too, caught by the
-fierce wind which was blowing, a sheet of spray covered the tops of the
-breakers, making breathing almost an impossibility. But the colonel was
-no chicken, and now that he had come through so much danger, was
-determined to reach the shore alive. Undaunted, therefore, and with
-never a pause, he struggled manfully onward.
-
-At length, worn out with his exertions, he reached shallow water, and
-though the receding waves did their utmost to drag him backwards, he
-contrived to escape their fatal embrace, and to reach a belt of dry and
-glistening sand upon which he threw himself at full length, for he was
-utterly exhausted. A quarter of an hour later he sprang to his feet,
-and, turning from the sea, set out for the interior.
-
-"I shall starve if I stay here," he said, "for there's not a living soul
-in sight, and not a tree or green bush to be seen. I'm done, and I want
-food and drink badly. Perhaps I shall find both over that line of
-sandhills, and in any case by climbing to the top I shall have a better
-opportunity of looking about me to see how the land lies. Perhaps I
-shall see a village in the distance, or a shepherd's hut, and if so I'll
-go straight on and give myself into the hands of the inhabitants. It'll
-be risky, I know, but I must just chance it."
-
-Trudging onward through the sand, which often rose above his ankles, he
-at length reached the summit of a low range of dunes which the wind,
-during centuries of ceaseless energy, had blown into position.
-
-"Ah!" No wonder the colonel gave vent to an exclamation of astonishment,
-for when he reached the top he saw immediately before him a native camp.
-It was composed of numerous shelters of coarse linen or tattered
-camel-hide, which were dotted about the sand in regular order. Farther
-off were herds of sheep and goats and of camels, browsing upon the grass
-which here cropped out in every direction. There were also many horses,
-and natives were standing about, watching the animals as they fed. But
-what attracted his attention most and filled him with a feeling of
-dismay, was the sight of some thirty or forty armed men who sat on
-horseback in the midst of the camp. They were wild-looking natives,
-swarthy of feature, tall, and not ungainly, and clad from head to foot
-in flowing robes of white. Some were armed with guns, while a few
-carried long spears and shields, which they waved frantically above
-their heads. Then, at a shout from one of them who had suddenly caught
-sight of the colonel, they set their horses in motion, and came
-galloping at a headlong pace towards him. In a few moments he was
-surrounded, and very soon he was bound hand and foot, a prisoner of
-these fierce warriors of Somaliland.
-
-Two hours later the camp was struck, and the natives began to march
-into the interior, driving their herds before them. The colonel's legs
-were freed, and he was ordered by signs to rise and follow his captors.
-To attempt to disobey was useless, and therefore, with downcast head and
-spirits at the lowest, he trudged onward beside the horsemen, a native
-with particularly brutal countenance riding close behind him. The
-colonel noted at a glance the long double-handed sword with which this
-ruffian was armed, and straightway he banished from his mind all
-thoughts of resistance or escape. For a week the caravan pushed onward,
-accomplishing, however, only short marches each day, for the pace was,
-of course, regulated by that of the herds which accompanied them. On the
-seventh day they reached their home, which consisted of a collection of
-mud hovels, and thereafter settled down to enjoy the loot which they had
-taken from the tribes inhabiting the coast. Colonel Hubbard was handed
-over to the wife of the Sheik, as the headman of the tribe was known,
-and at once became hewer of wood and drawer of water, a hateful and
-laborious employment for a man who had fought so well for his country,
-and who had commanded one of His Majesty's smart regiments.
-
-Of the passengers and crew of the ill-fated ship which had come to grief
-in the Gulf of Aden not another soul escaped. The colonel, who was thus
-carried off into captivity, was the only survivor.
-
-       *       *       *       *       *
-
-"Come in, my lad," said the head master of a large school situated in
-the Midlands, turning in his chair, as a knock sounded on his door. "Ah,
-come in and sit down there, Hubbard. I'm grieved, my boy, terribly
-grieved at this sad news. If only we knew for certain what had happened,
-it would make this trouble easier to bear; but the doubt, the hope that
-one dare not indulge in, is most trying. But you've come to see me. Have
-you any more news?"
-
-As he spoke he sprang to his feet and crossed the floor to meet the
-youth, who was no other than the son of the officer whose fortune we
-have been following. Like his father, the lad was tall, and by no means
-devoid of good looks. His features, indeed, had a close resemblance to
-the colonel's. There was the same square chin, the same open, steady
-look, and a similar air of resolution.
-
-"News, sir," responded James Hubbard, eagerly, declining the proffered
-chair in his excitement, "yes, I have; look at that!"
-
-Thrusting his hand into his pocket, he produced a yellow envelope, and
-offered it to his master with trembling fingers.
-
-"Good news, sir," he cried; "here is a telegram from my uncle which
-gives me more hope. After all, father may not have gone down with the
-ship. He may have been washed ashore. He may have had the good fortune
-to secure a life-belt, which would have kept him afloat. Why should this
-news not refer to him?"
-
-Snatching the telegram from him with equal eagerness, the head master
-dragged the paper from the envelope and scanned the contents.
-
-"More news to hand," ran the telegram. "A native arrived last week at
-Aden, having come from the Somali coast, and reports that, on the
-morning following the night upon which the station at Perim sighted a
-steamer passing east, a white man was cast upon the coast fifty miles
-east of Berbera. He was at once pounced upon by a marauding band of
-Somali warriors, despatched to the coast by the Mullah for the purpose
-of obtaining loot and prisoners. This is the only news, except that
-pieces of wreckage have been washed up close to Aden, while a
-homeward-bound steamer picked up a portion of a stern rail bearing the
-name of the ill-fated vessel."
-
-"Hum, it is certainly news," said the head master, doubtfully. "This
-telegram proves beyond doubt that the ship upon which your father sailed
-met with a catastrophe. But, my dear lad, anxious as I am to give you
-hope, I feel bound to tell you that you must not jump to conclusions.
-This man who was cast upon the coast, and who fell into the hands of
-that fanatic known as the Mullah, may have been a stoker, a greaser, or
-an able seaman aboard the ship. I do not wish to discourage you, of
-course. God knows, if it were only possible, and certain news had been
-received that it was your father and no one else who reached the shore,
-I would rejoice with you, and do my utmost to aid you in obtaining
-further information. But it is hopeless. Whoever it was who lived
-through that night and safely reached the African shore, would have been
-far happier, far more fortunate, had he perished like the rest."
-
-The head master paused for a few moments, and stood looking at the young
-fellow before him. There was no doubt that he was full of sympathy for
-his loss, and anxious to help him. But what could he do? To advise the
-lad to hope on would have been cruel in the circumstances. Better, far
-better, to put the facts plainly before him, even though in doing so he
-should cause him bitter grief. Yes, that was the best course to pursue,
-for to hold out the hope that his father still lived, simply upon the
-strength of this news just received, would have been madness--indeed,
-the greatest unkindness possible. Why, the man who fell into the hands
-of the Mullah was more surely dead than all those others who had sunk to
-the depths of the ocean.
-
-"Don't think, my lad, that I am lacking in sympathy," he went on, taking
-a pace forward, and placing his hand encouragingly on Jim's shoulder. "I
-wish to help you to bear this trouble, and I feel that, when I tell you
-to extinguish all hope, I am giving you the best and the most
-considerate advice. There, tell me that you will take it in this way.
-Try to absorb yourself in work, and so forget your loss. Do not let this
-hideous uncertainty prey upon your mind, but banish it, for that is far
-the best course to pursue."
-
-He pressed his hand more firmly upon Jim's shoulder, and looked
-earnestly into his face, as if to help him in coming to a decision. But
-the young fellow scarcely seemed to be aware of his presence. His eyes
-were fixed upon some distant object visible through the window, and his
-thoughts were evidently still farther away. His head was bowed upon his
-breast, and he looked for the moment as though this trouble, which had
-come upon him at such an early age, was crushing him. But suddenly his
-eye brightened, and a more cheerful expression overspread his face. He
-straightened himself, and, raising his head, looked steadily at his
-master.
-
-"Thank you, sir," he said. "I know how kind you are, and that in
-speaking to me in this way, and in giving me the benefit of your
-experience and of your advice, you have acted with the sole purpose of
-assisting me. But I cannot believe that my father is dead; I cannot,
-indeed. Something tells me that he has survived the wreck, and that this
-white man referred to in the telegram is none other than he. Until I
-prove this or the contrary, I can never rest, and never settle to my
-work. I am thankful now that my mother is not alive to feel this grief.
-I am an only child, and my father is my best and kindest friend. I
-cannot, and will not, forsake him. I don't know now how I shall act, but
-I feel that if the necessity arises, as, indeed, it must, I will
-willingly make my way into the heart of Somaliland, into the midst of
-the Mullah's bands, and there clear up this doubt. If I find that it was
-not he who was washed ashore and captured by the natives, then I shall
-be far easier in my mind, and besides, sir, I might have the good
-fortune at the same time to bring help to this poor captive. If he were
-only a stoker, it would be sufficient reward to have rescued him from
-such an horrible fate."
-
-"But your examination, my lad. Will you permit yourself to miss it
-altogether?" exclaimed the head master. "Think what it means to you. You
-have now been reading hard for a year, and in two months, if only you
-are successful, as I fully believe you will be, you will have won a
-commission in the Army, and will be on the high-road to success, to
-follow in the footsteps of your worthy father."
-
-"I will give it up, sir," replied Jim, emphatically. "Everything must be
-put aside for the sake of my father. I would rather lose this
-commission, and spend the remainder of my days upon an office-stool,
-than leave this doubt unsettled. It haunts me, and though I know how
-hopeless the matter is, I will go through with it till I am sure of my
-father's fate. But, in spite of everything, I feel that he still lives,
-and, perhaps, is even now wondering whether his son will take up his
-cause and set out for the purpose of rescuing him. There, sir, forgive
-me for saying that my mind is firmly made up, and that I must act
-contrary to your advice. In any other matter I would, as you know, have
-instantly fallen in with your wishes. But here it is different, for my
-father's life may be at stake, and both his happiness and mine depend
-upon my exertions. Therefore, I ask you to let me leave at once and go
-to my uncle. I will talk the matter over with him, and I feel sure that
-he will help me in every way."
-
-Involuntarily Jim's hand left the pocket in which it had been reposing,
-and went out to meet his master's. And there together they stood for the
-space of a minute exchanging a firm and cordial clasp.
-
-"You are a credit to me!" exclaimed the head master, enthusiastically.
-"A credit, I say, and your comrades here will be even prouder of you
-than I am. I have put the position plainly before you. And, without
-wishing to discourage you, have endeavoured to point out how hopeless it
-is. You must know as well as I do what dangers and difficulties will
-have to be faced in this undertaking, for your father and the many books
-you have read will have given you some idea of life in Africa. Knowing
-all this, and with a full knowledge that if you persevere in your search
-you must undergo privation and exposure, and may even lose your life,
-you tell me that you will sail for that country; that you have firmly
-made up your mind to go through with it all for the sake of your father?
-Then leave us, my lad, and may Heaven help you, for you are a brave
-young fellow, and deserve the utmost success. There, go to your room and
-pack your boxes. A cab will be at the door in half an hour; that will
-enable you to catch the next train for London. There, leave me now. I
-wish to think over the matter quietly before I say farewell."
-
-Once more the two shook hands in silence, and then, turning about, Jim
-went hurriedly from the room, and hastened to prepare for his journey.
-An hour later he was in the train, and that evening had arrived at his
-destination, leaving his friends at the school to mourn the loss of as
-fine and good-hearted a young fellow as had ever entered its portals.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER II
-
-OFF TO ADEN
-
-
-Jim Hubbard was a young gentleman of decidedly prepossessing appearance.
-Broad of shoulder, and particularly well set up for a lad of a little
-more than seventeen summers, he looked for all that far too young to
-have such troubles thrown upon his shoulders, to be called thus early in
-his life to face a difficulty which might well prove too great for a man
-of mature years and experience. But just as the colonel was endowed with
-the pluck and perseverance which had enabled him to live through that
-wild night in the Gulf of Aden, so also was his son gifted with a spirit
-and tenacity that helped him now to make up his mind to face any danger
-and difficulty in accomplishing the task he had set himself.
-
-"It is clearly my duty," he said, as he trudged along from the London
-terminus of the railway to his uncle's residence in Kensington, "to see
-this matter through to the end. I have spent hours and hours in thinking
-about it, and have always come to the same conclusion. Until this doubt
-is absolutely settled, I can never rest, and never be sure that my
-father is not living. I will show him and all those who are interested
-in him that I am no fair-weather friend, and that I am prepared to stick
-to him and to his cause until further search is useless. I cannot
-imagine anyone placed in similar circumstances coming to any other
-determination, and if I were to hesitate now and allow imaginary dangers
-to frighten me, I should be a coward at heart, and unfit to bear my
-father's name. I'll put the facts before Uncle George, and I'm sure he
-will do his utmost to help me. Ah, there is his house opposite."
-
-Crossing the street, James mounted the steps of a handsome dwelling, and
-pulled the bell vigorously. A moment later the door was thrown open by a
-footman, who had scarcely taken possession of his bag and ushered him
-into the hall before a short, stout old gentleman, with grey whiskers
-and hair and a florid countenance, bustled forward to greet him. Mr.
-George Hubbard was, in fact, some ten years the colonel's senior, and
-was of decidedly comfortable appearance. Indeed, whereas his younger
-brother had led an active life, going hither and thither to all parts of
-the world, wherever the duties of a soldier called him, George could
-scarcely boast that he had ever left the shores of old England.
-
-"I'm a regular stay-at-home, and never feel better, nor more contented,
-than when I am engaged in my business in London," he had often said,
-with no small amount of satisfaction and pride. "I confess that a
-soldier's life never had any attraction for me, though, like all
-civilians, I can and do admire the man who goes out to face death at the
-call of his country."
-
-As he advanced towards Jim with outstretched hand, his fat,
-good-humoured face showed the concern he felt for his young nephew.
-
-"My dear, dear boy, welcome!" he exclaimed. "I don't know what to say to
-you, or how to help you in this distressing affair. Both your aunt and I
-have done nothing but talk the matter over, and have, indeed, spent
-sleepless nights in endeavouring to come to some conclusion, but without
-success. It is the most cruel, the most unhappy misfortune that I have
-ever experienced. But come upstairs. Your aunt would never forgive me if
-I kept her waiting."
-
-Wiping the moisture from his forehead, and coughing as though the effort
-of speaking had been almost too much for him, George Hubbard turned and
-led the way upstairs. Jim followed him closely, and a minute later was
-in his aunt's presence. Then sitting down, the three discussed the
-matter fully, Jim telling his relatives to what decision he had come.
-
-"You know the facts as well as I do, uncle," he said, "and I am going to
-ask you to do all you can to help me, and not to try and thwart me. I
-know how hopeless my mission must seem to you, and that many would think
-I was undertaking a wild-goose chase. But, as I told the head master at
-school, I feel sure that the man cast up upon the African coast was my
-father, and if that is the case, he surely needs my help. I have been
-thinking the matter over as I came up in the train, and bought a map
-specially to help me. By it I see that my best course will be to take a
-steamer direct to Aden, and from there I shall be able to get a trader
-to Berbera. Meanwhile, I shall telegraph to the News Agency which
-supplied the information sent me this morning, and will endeavour to
-arrange that the man who saw this survivor of the wreck land upon the
-coast, and afterwards fall into the hands of the Mullah's Somali
-warriors, shall be in waiting to receive me. Then, with him as guide, I
-shall make my way to the actual point where the incident happened, and
-from there we shall turn our faces inland. It may happen that I shall be
-able to join some shooting expedition, for one reads occasionally in the
-papers that English gentlemen take caravans into that part of Africa for
-the purpose of big game shooting. If not, I shall endeavour to hire a
-few followers, and take up the search alone. I know it sounds a big
-thing to attempt, uncle; but wouldn't you do the same in a similar
-case?"
-
-George Hubbard gasped. He was a man of peace, and though well read and
-thoroughly sensible, he had, nevertheless, an exaggerated idea of the
-wildness and dangers to be met with in Africa. Nor could he be blamed
-for that, for weeks past the papers had been filled with accounts of
-Somaliland, and of the doings of the Mullah. And now to sit there in a
-comfortable armchair before his open hearth, and hear his young nephew
-calmly propose to sail for Africa, and make his way into the very heart
-of the Somali country, was quite enough to make a man of his disposition
-do more than gasp. He sat forward in his chair staring at Jim with a
-horrified expression on his face, and with eyes which threatened to fall
-out of his head.
-
-"Go to Africa! March into the interior, and probably meet the Mullah
-face to face!" he exclaimed, mopping his forehead with his handkerchief.
-"Good gracious, you will be killed, you will lose your life to a
-certainty!"
-
-"I may, uncle," responded Jim, calmly. "On the other hand, there is a
-possibility of my succeeding, for many men have made their way into
-Somaliland and returned to tell the tale. Think of the joy it would be
-to rescue father."
-
-"But it is madness, Jim! Because one single white man out of some two or
-three hundred who left England on that unlucky ship contrived to reach
-the shore alive, you fly to the conclusion that it must have been my
-poor brother. It is utter folly to argue in this way, though I cannot
-help but admire the brave thought which prompts you. Still, I am a
-matter-of-fact man, and I say, without hesitation, that the dangers are
-too great, and the end too uncertain, to justify your taking the risks.
-However, no efforts and no money shall be spared to obtain further
-information, and should it turn out, as I trust and hope it may, that
-this survivor is indeed my brother, then you shall go. Indeed, so
-deeply do I feel his loss, that I am tempted to say that I, too, would
-join you in the search. But that would be foolish, considering what I
-am, and how utterly unfitted for such exertions."
-
-He rose from his seat, and turning, stood facing Jim, with a comical
-look of despair upon his features. For some minutes there was silence,
-and then, just as he was about to begin a long and telling argument,
-with the object of dissuading Jim from an attempt which, to his uncle,
-appeared worse than madness, a knock sounded on the door, and a footman
-entered.
-
-"A telegram, sir," he said.
-
-With an agile spring, which was wonderful considering his unwieldy
-proportions, George Hubbard left his position by the fire, and darted
-across the room. Taking the telegram from the footman, he tore it open,
-and then began to read it aloud, while Jim and his aunt jumped to their
-feet and looked over his shoulder.
-
-"From the News Agency!" he cried excitedly. "I gave them instructions to
-spare no expense in obtaining information, and here is the result."
-
-"Read it!" exclaimed Jim and his aunt, impatiently. "What does it say?"
-
-"Listen!" answered Mr. Hubbard, holding the paper so that the light
-should fall upon it. "'In accordance with your instructions, we have
-questioned native who gave information. He states that surviving white
-man was tall, with dark hair, getting grey at temples, grey moustache,
-and muscular body. Not quite certain, owing to distance, but thinks he
-caught a glimpse of a bangle about his wrist. If not that, it was a
-piece of cloth tied there, perhaps to cover a wound.'"
-
-"That is father!" shouted Jim, unable to restrain his excitement. "I am
-certain it is he, for the description tallies exactly with his
-appearance, and, moreover, he was in the habit of wearing a watch
-bracelet upon his wrist."
-
-"Tall, dark hair getting grey, and grey moustache," repeated Mr.
-Hubbard, as if to assure himself that he had read the telegram aright.
-"There can be no doubt that this is my brother. I quite agree with you,
-Jim, for, though it is possible, and even very probable, that many men
-aboard the ship would have answered to that description, the fact that
-the survivor wore a dark bracelet upon his wrist is, in my opinion, an
-absolute confirmation. I am glad, my boy--more than glad. Indeed, I
-cannot tell you how much this good news rejoices my heart."
-
-Turning to his nephew, he grasped his hand and shook it till the lad's
-fingers ached, patting him meanwhile upon the shoulder with his other
-hand.
-
-"Yes, delighted; pleased beyond measure," he continued earnestly. "Now
-you may rely upon the fact that your uncle is wholly on your side."
-
-As for Mrs. Hubbard, she had a tender heart, and gently pushing her
-husband aside, threw herself into Jim's arms with tears of joy in her
-eyes.
-
-"You deserve the good news, my dear boy," she said, kissing him
-affectionately. "It went to my heart to see your silent grief, and how
-bravely you had determined to clear up this uncertainty. It was horrible
-to feel that your father might be dead, and still more trying to hear
-that there was just a possibility that he was still alive, a captive in
-the hands of this man they call the Mullah. The uncertainty was more
-than I could bear, and I feel sure that, had I been a man, I should have
-followed the same course, and gone to Africa, so as to set the matter
-for ever at rest."
-
-"And now let us discuss the question," interposed Mr. Hubbard, pacing
-restlessly up and down the room. "There must be no delay in setting out
-to rescue my brother, and as we in England can do little, seeing that we
-are so far from Somaliland, I advise that you at once take ship for
-Aden. It happens that my firm have business relations with a man living
-there. He exports camels to that part of Africa ruled over by the
-Italians, and gathers in his warehouses every description of merchandise
-which comes from the interior of the country. If anyone can help you he
-is the man. Now, let me see, a ship will leave the London Docks for the
-Mediterranean and Egypt to-morrow evening; we will telephone at once to
-obtain a berth for you. That done, we will set about getting you a kit,
-for it is absolutely necessary that you should go well provided, and in
-that respect the utmost attention must be paid to weapons. That reminds
-me, a gentleman of my acquaintance who has visited Africa for purposes
-of sport happens to live close at hand. We will go in and see him at
-once, for it is more than likely that he will be able to give us
-valuable advice."
-
-It was wonderful to see the energy displayed by Mr. Hubbard. Now that
-there was no doubt that it was his brother who had survived the wreck,
-he was like a schoolboy in his eagerness to set about his rescue, and
-took the matter up in a manner which showed that he was determined to do
-as much for the cause in his own way as was his nephew. Hastening from
-the room, he and Jim quickly donned their coats and hats, and hurried to
-the nearest telephone station. As it was late in the evening, the
-instrument was disengaged, and within five minutes a passage was booked
-upon a steamer that was to leave England the following evening. Jim and
-his uncle now hailed a cab, and were quickly transported to the
-residence of the gentleman of whom the latter had spoken.
-
-"Glad to be of service, I'm sure," he said, when Mr. Hubbard had
-explained the reason of his coming. "Indeed, had it been possible, I
-should willingly have undertaken to accompany your nephew, in which case
-my experience of life in Northern Africa would have been of some help to
-him. Aden is certainly his first point of call, and as you already have
-an agent there, the difficulty of obtaining a passage over to Berbera,
-and of getting together the necessary followers and camels for transport
-purposes, will be easily overcome. I strongly advise him to engage a
-'shikari,' or head hunting-man, to accompany him and take charge of the
-natives; and if he applies at the British Consul's at Berbera, it is
-possible that he will be able to obtain the services of a man called Ali
-Kumar, a civilized Somali warrior, who accompanied me on an expedition
-two years ago, and who proved invaluable. Now as to kit. A couple of
-suits of rough cloth, with leather gaiters and good marching boots, will
-be the best. A felt hat would be worse than useless as a head-covering
-out there, for in the hot season the sun pours down with a fierceness
-that cannot be imagined, and can only be fully understood when actually
-experienced. Three or four water-tanks, so constructed as to be capable
-of being easily slung upon camels, should be procured, for this
-gentleman known as the 'Mad' Mullah has his happy hunting-grounds some
-two hundred miles inland, and to reach him it is necessary first to
-cross a range of hills, and then to face the Hoad, or waterless desert,
-which stretches for quite a hundred and fifty miles without a break.
-That is always a most trying ordeal, but you will have to face it, for,
-until the Hoad is passed, there will be no prospect of obtaining more
-than the most meagre news of your father."
-
-"That will, indeed, be a terrible difficulty," interposed Mr. Hubbard.
-"One often hears of whole caravans lost in the attempt to cross these
-waterless tracts, and I suppose, in the case of this one which you call
-the Hoad, such a fatality is not unknown."
-
-"I will not say that accidents have not happened," was the answer, in
-reassuring tones; "but so well is this desert known, and so accustomed
-are the natives to crossing it, that they think lightly of its dangers.
-But your raising the question reminds me to speak of animals. A good
-supply of transport camels will be required, and, in addition, a dozen
-or more of the trotting variety will be absolutely necessary. Then,
-supposing our young friend happens to obtain some piece of important
-news, he will be able to leave his caravan, and make a dash to any given
-point. Horses, too, he must have, and he will find no difficulty in
-getting as many as he requires. A small case of drugs is another item
-that should prove of use, and I strongly advise him to take some rolls
-of strong barbed wire. The additional weight that will have to be
-carried will be fully compensated for by the feeling of security that
-the wire will give."
-
-"But how? I do not follow your point," said Mr. Hubbard dubiously. "I do
-not see how this wire will help my nephew."
-
-"Then I will explain. He will march in the early morning, and if the sun
-is not too hot, will continue to do so for the greater part of the day.
-Sometimes he will cover only a few miles, and will then halt, for his
-powers of getting about the country will depend greatly upon the
-condition of his transport animals. Again, he will occasionally have to
-make forced marches, for the water-holes are often separated by long
-distances, which it is absolutely necessary to cover.
-
-"But to come to the barbed wire. When he halts at night, he will form a
-zareba, sending out his followers to cut thorn-bushes with which to
-build a hedge. A few posts driven into the ground at intervals along the
-outside of the zareba, with wire stretched between them, will
-effectually stop a rush of the enemy, and will give timely warning in
-case of attack. In South Africa miles and miles were used between the
-blockhouses, and proved of great service."
-
-"I see your point," exclaimed Jim, who had followed his words closely,
-"and I should imagine that if the posts and wires were hidden amongst
-the thorns, the surprise and alarm of the enemy would be even greater.
-Numbers might easily become entangled, and then we should be able to
-teach them a lesson with our rifles."
-
-"Quite so. I fully agree with you," was the answer. "And, speaking of
-weapons, reminds me that I have not yet dealt with that subject."
-
-For a few moments the speaker buried his face in his hands, and sat
-there thoughtfully.
-
-"There is no doubt," he suddenly continued, "that this is a most
-important matter. I take it that you are not bent upon big game
-shooting, and that if you come upon lions or elephants you will leave
-them severely alone. For your purpose the Lee-Enfield rifle will be the
-best, and should it turn out, as it very well may, that you are attacked
-by the beasts I have mentioned, then you must trust to slay them by
-means of a volley, for it is hopeless to expect that a single one of
-these small-calibre bullets will prove fatal. If it were to strike a
-vital spot it certainly would, but that is a piece of luck which you
-must not count upon, for, remember, you cannot afford to take
-unnecessary risks. So you should equip your party with the rifles I have
-mentioned, and, in addition, a hunting knife and a brace of good
-revolvers would be useful possessions for yourself. A pair of
-field-glasses and a tin water-bottle should complete your equipment. I
-need hardly mention the advisability of carrying an abundant supply of
-ammunition.
-
-"And now, my lad, it only remains for me to wish you the best of luck. I
-admire your pluck immensely, but I shall give you a few last words of
-advice. Be always cautious, never omit to post sentries at night and
-visit them yourself, and, above all, be ever on the look-out for
-treachery. The Somali natives have the reputation of being cunning
-rogues. Plunder seems to be their sole object in life, and camels have a
-peculiar attraction for them. They would think nothing of killing you,
-if by doing so they could obtain possession of your transport animals."
-
-Thanking him heartily for his kindness, and exchanging a cordial shake
-of the hand, Jim and his uncle left their friend, and returned home at
-once.
-
-"We shall have to be busy to-morrow," said Mr. Hubbard, as they took
-their seats once more in front of the fire. "In the first place, we must
-get your clothing and revolvers, with a few strong trunks in which to
-carry them. The rifles and any other items we may happen to think of can
-be purchased during the week, and I shall see that they follow you out
-to Aden. You will want to have means of drawing money, and for that
-purpose I shall write full instructions to our agent. His name, by the
-way, is Andrews, and you will find him an extremely obliging gentleman.
-I shall tell him to supply you with anything you may ask for, and I may
-say now that, though I do not desire that you should be extravagant, no
-expense that may help to the recovery of my dear brother shall be
-spared. And now to bed, my dear Jim, for to-morrow you have much to do."
-
-Early on the following morning Mr. Hubbard's house in Kensington was
-astir. There was an air of subdued excitement about the servants, who in
-some mysterious way had contrived to hear full details of all that was
-occurring. Mrs. Hubbard took her place at the breakfast-table, assuming
-as cheerful a look as she could, though her heart was full of misgivings
-for the safety of her nephew. But she was wise enough to know that he
-needed encouragement and help, and therefore determined that he should
-not guess what her thoughts were. As for Jim, he appeared with smiling
-countenance, for now that he felt sure that his father had really
-escaped the wreck, he was quite light-hearted, and though fully aware of
-the difficulties and dangers before him, was prepared to face them
-without hesitation.
-
-"I know it's going to be a job," he had said to himself, as he lay awake
-during the night, "and I must be prepared to spend months, and even a
-year, in accomplishing it. But it has to be done, and if only I make up
-my mind from the beginning that nothing shall beat me, then my chances
-of success will be good."
-
-Breakfast over, he said good-bye to his aunt, and then, entering a cab
-with his uncle, drove off to a firm in the city, from whom he was able
-to obtain a complete outfit of clothing. Trunks were bought at the same
-place, and directions given to have them packed at once.
-
-"We'll call for them in an hour," said Mr. Hubbard, "and I shall be
-obliged if you will arrange to have everything ready for us, so that
-there shall be no delay."
-
-Entering their cab again, they drove to a gunsmith's, where a couple of
-big Webley revolvers were purchased, together with a strong hunting
-knife contained in a sheath, which was so arranged as to be slung in a
-belt. A small case of drugs in tabloid form was obtained at another
-establishment, and then, armed with their purchases, James and his uncle
-returned for the clothing.
-
-Within five minutes the luggage was on the cab, and they were on their
-way to Fenchurch-street Station. An hour later James was safely
-installed in his cabin, and shortly afterwards took leave of his uncle.
-
-"You may rely upon my sending the other things promptly," said Mr.
-Hubbard, as he moved towards the gang-way. "They should reach you within
-a week of your arrival in Aden, and so that there shall be no difficulty
-about importing the arms, or about transhipping them to Africa, you had
-better go to the Governor at Aden, and tell him all the facts. I will
-visit the Foreign Office in London, and I am sure that every effort will
-be made to help you. Good-bye, and may you be successful."
-
-That afternoon the steamer put out into the river, and by night was well
-at sea. Running down Channel, she made a good passage to Ushant, and was
-soon in the Bay of Biscay, which, to the delight of all the passengers,
-was comparatively smooth.
-
-Jim was enchanted with this new experience, and before very long began
-to feel quite at home. Indeed, so quickly are friendships made upon an
-ocean-going steamer, that within a day or two he felt as though he had
-known all the passengers for quite a lengthy period.
-
-After coasting along the Portuguese shore, the ship steered to the east,
-and entered the Mediterranean. Gibraltar was sighted, and signals
-exchanged, so as to let the folks at home know that a safe passage had
-thus far been made.
-
-A week later they were in the canal, and in due time reached Aden. Here
-Jim's baggage was put ashore, and he himself followed, feeling somewhat
-forlorn amongst so many strangers.
-
-"Mr. Hubbard, I think?" said a cheery voice at his elbow, causing him to
-turn round with a start, to find that a short, bearded man, with a
-pleasant face, was addressing him. He was clad in white from head to
-foot, and wore an enormous "topee," or pith helmet, upon his head. "I am
-making no mistake, I think?" he continued. "I am Mr. Andrews."
-
-In a moment they were shaking hands, and then Jim's new friend called
-loudly to some Indian porters, and gave them instructions concerning the
-baggage.
-
-"Everything here is done by natives from India," he said, noticing a
-look of inquiry on Jim's face. "In fact, Aden is, officially, part of
-our Eastern possessions, and boasts of no other coin than the rupee. But
-I will tell you all about that later. We'll drive to my place now. Hi!
-gharri!"
-
-At his shout an open carriage, drawn by two "tats," as the small native
-ponies are known, dashed up to them, and when they were seated drove off
-along the main street of Aden at a pace which in London would have been
-considered furious. Leaving the town, they took another road which led
-to the right, into a part occupied by many bungalows, and at one of
-these they finally alighted.
-
-"Aden itself is a horrible place," said Mr. Andrews, apologetically,
-waving his hand towards the town. "It is, as you see, little more than a
-wide volcanic plain, with nothing in the way of vegetation to relieve
-its barrenness. Out here, however, we have contrived to arrange a little
-oasis, in which we Europeans live. But come in, Mr. Hubbard, and I'll
-show you the room you are to occupy while staying with me. Then we'll
-have tiffin (luncheon), and afterwards we'll sit on the verandah and
-talk this matter over. I believe I've excellent news for you, which you
-shall hear in good time."
-
-"About father? Does it concern him?" asked Jim, eagerly, pricking up his
-ears at the mention of news, for he had been without any for more than a
-week. "Perhaps he has been rescued? But that is expecting too much."
-
-"No, it's not that," was the answer, in reassuring tones; "but it's
-remarkably good news, I can tell you, for I have ascertained that a
-certain gentleman is bound upon a similar expedition, or rather, is
-about to go into the Mullah's country for the purpose of obtaining
-intelligence of his movements. Hearing that you also contemplated
-penetrating into the interior, he asks leave to accompany you, and I
-have no doubt you will be delighted to take him."
-
-"I shall, indeed," answered Jim, eagerly. "I was quite prepared to
-undertake the journey alone, but a companion will make all the
-difference, and I willingly agree to his joining my expedition."
-
-"Then, that's settled; and now for tiffin."
-
-Leading the way through a wide compound, laid out like an English
-garden, Mr. Andrews mounted the steps of a shady verandah, and entering
-a doorway in front of which hung a curtain of reeds, ushered his
-companion into a delightfully cool inner room, in which, on a table
-placed in the centre, was spread a snowy white cloth, littered with
-sparkling glass and silver. Silent-footed natives salaamed and prepared
-to wait upon them, and at once the two sat down and began their meal.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER III
-
-THE GUN-RUNNERS
-
-
-"Now come out to the verandah," said Mr. Andrews, taking James by the
-arm as soon as tiffin was finished. "I have a couple of comfortable
-chairs there, in which we can lounge, for just now is the hottest part
-of the day, and no European ventures abroad unless compelled to by
-unforeseen circumstances."
-
-Leaving the airy dining-room, the two stepped on to a broad paved
-verandah, which entirely surrounded the bungalow, and took their seats
-in a shady nook.
-
-Above their heads was a thickly thatched roof, the eaves of which
-projected so far beyond the supporting posts as to make a broad stretch
-of shadow beneath. But as they lay in their chairs, Jim and his new
-friend could easily see beneath it. For the moment they sat there in
-silence. Indeed, Jim was lost in admiration, for Mr. Andrews had created
-for himself a perfect English garden. Glancing between the pillars,
-about which clung roses, jasmine, and honeysuckle, and many another
-creeper, he looked out upon beds of brilliant flowers, laid out in
-orderly array, and flashing gorgeously in the rays of the Eastern sun.
-
-"I've only to forget the bungalow, and imagine myself in old England
-again," said Mr. Andrews. "That garden is just one of the luxuries I
-allow myself, and which helps to make life more pleasant here. Some day
-I hope to end my exile and return home, for, however fascinating bright
-and continuous sunshine may be, to return to one's native country is
-always a pleasure to which we who live out here look forward. But here
-is someone coming through the gate. Ah, I see, it's the gentleman of
-whom I was speaking."
-
-He sprang from his seat and went toward the steps to greet his visitor.
-As for Jim, he watched with some interest to see what kind of man this
-stranger should prove to be.
-
-"I hope I shall like him," he said to himself, "for it would be
-disastrous to our expedition if we were to fall foul of each other. But
-here he is, and--yes, he looks a good fellow, and I am sure we shall be
-excellent friends."
-
-As this passed through his mind the visitor mounted the steps, and Jim
-obtained a clear view of his features. He was tall and thin, with fair
-hair and clean-shaven face, and, as far as one could guess, was about
-twenty-five years of age.
-
-"Ah, how do, Andrews?" he exclaimed cheerily, springing with one bound
-on to the verandah. "Glad to see you, my dear fellow. I heard that the
-ship had arrived, and so came along to have a chat, and to meet the Mr.
-Hubbard of whom you were speaking."
-
-"There he is, then," cried Mr. Andrews, turning to Jim; "and he, too, is
-anxious to make your acquaintance."
-
-A moment later the two were shaking hands, each greeting the other with
-a steady look, which seemed to say, "I want to know what sort of a chap
-you are, and how we are likely to get along together."
-
-"Glad to meet you, and I hope we shall be good friends. My name is
-Dixon--Tom Dixon; Tom for short."
-
-"And mine is James--James Hubbard, you know," said our hero, with a
-friendly smile. "Mr. Andrews tells me that you, too, are bound for
-Somaliland, and have suggested accompanying me. I need not say that I
-shall be delighted, for it would be dreary work to go alone. But I
-would do it if necessary, for my father's life depends upon my going."
-
-"Quite so, and that is just where we shall agree," was the ready answer;
-"for you must understand that I am a secret agent, an Intelligence
-officer, as we are often called, and----But one minute. Are we alone,
-Andrews? For my news is of great importance, and if your native servants
-were to obtain an inkling of it, the tidings would fly at once, and
-reach the ears of the Mullah in an incredibly short space of time. It is
-a fact," he continued, noticing the look of surprise with which Jim
-greeted his remark. "Our dusky friend has a perfect system of espionage,
-which would shame that of many a European country. Tales of a coming
-expedition told across the dinner-table in these bungalows are whispered
-in the native bazaars before a day has gone, and I speak only the truth
-when I say that the first ship for Berbera or the Somali coast, whether
-it be a steamer, a native dhow, or a rascally gun-runner, bears a man
-whose duty it is to pass on his information to the Mullah. Why, he knows
-well that the British Government is now buying camels here and training
-and equipping a native levy at Berbera. Our camp there is full of spies,
-and I do not exaggerate when I tell you that the movements of our troops
-are known by the Mullah almost before they are by our officers. So, take
-my advice, and go about with your lips closed and your eyes very wide
-open."
-
-Tom Dixon spoke in the most earnest manner, and lifted his finger, as if
-thereby to impress Jim with his warning. And, indeed, he was making no
-erroneous statement, and telling only the truth when he described the
-extraordinary manner in which news is conveyed into the heart of
-Somaliland.
-
-"Make your mind easy, Tom," said Mr. Andrews, reassuringly, stepping
-across the verandah to look into the dining-room. "The servants are all
-on the other side of the bungalow, and out of earshot, so that you may
-speak here without fear of the consequences, and chat this matter over
-to your heart's content. But your warning is a timely one, and, indeed,
-has only forestalled by a few minutes the advice I was about to give our
-young friend. Ever since this matter cropped up, I have kept it a dead
-secret between myself and the British Governor, you, of course, being
-also included. I have gone so far as to set aside a certain number of
-camels of the trotting and of the transport variety, and have also
-engaged some fifty followers. They were despatched from here a month ago
-for the service of the Government. But this is a more urgent matter,
-and, with the Governor's permission, I have arranged that you shall have
-them. When you arrive at Berbera, you will find them all encamped
-outside the town. Ali Kumar, a shikari of noted reputation, and a
-trustworthy fellow, will be there to head the followers and guide you
-through the country, while some twenty miles along the coast is a
-village in which lives the man who gave information about the survivor
-of the wreck. I have purposely refrained from engaging him in any
-capacity, but my agent at Berbera has seen him, and has informed him
-that a relative of the survivor will come to speak with him. That means
-reward, or 'backsheesh,' as these Somali fellows know it, and you may be
-sure that he will not fail you."
-
-"Splendid!" exclaimed Jim. "Then, thanks to your kindness and
-forethought, there will be little or no delay, and, so far as I can see,
-the weapons and ammunition which are coming from England are the only
-things that can keep us waiting, and my uncle promised that they should
-be here within a few days of my arrival. What luck, too, to have got
-hold of Ali Kumar, for he is the very man I was told to engage."
-
-"I know him well, and can tell you that he is a capital fellow,"
-answered Mr. Andrews. "But to continue my story. All these preparations
-have been made in the quietest and most secret manner possible. Once you
-and Tom arrive at Berbera, you have only to ride out to this camp. Then,
-when night falls, you can slip away and march along the coast. There is
-a headland, forty miles east of Berbera, where you had better camp for a
-few days, keeping a bright look-out for a certain native dhow, which
-will bring you your rifles, ammunition, and stores. By acting in this
-way, you will be able to leave the coast for the interior without anyone
-being aware of your intentions--at least, I hope you may. Tom and I have
-talked the matter over, for he is as anxious as you to get away without
-the news reaching the Mullah's ears."
-
-"Just so," interposed Tom. "You see, Hubbard, your search will carry you
-into the very heart of the Mullah's country, and as I am anxious to
-obtain full information of his doings, I, too, am bound in that
-direction. If he had the slightest notion of our intentions, you may be
-sure that he would do his utmost to murder the whole lot of us, and so
-it is of great importance to keep him in ignorance. This is your
-expedition, but I propose that we share expenses, and the command also,
-if you like. You see, I have spent many years on the coast, and speak
-the language like a native--a useful accomplishment for the job we have
-in hand. But I'm not a bit of a soldier, and when it comes to fighting I
-shall have to look to you to pull us through. Nominally, you will be in
-charge of the expedition, but I think that by putting our heads together
-we shall get along with greater success."
-
-"I quite agree with you," responded Jim, thoughtfully; "the fact that
-you speak the language will be of the greatest service, and as this
-expedition is to suit your purpose as well as mine, I feel sure that we
-shall not fall out when difficulties arise. But there is one thing I
-wish to say. I must not have my movements hampered in any way, for it
-may turn out that news of my father will reach us as soon as we get into
-the interior. Perhaps, even, we may have the good fortune to rescue him
-at once, and in that case, my mission being ended, I should return to
-the coast immediately."
-
-"And I should not attempt to dissuade you," said Tom Dixon, with a
-smile. "If by that time I had not obtained information of the utmost
-value, it would be my own fault entirely; and besides, supposing you
-were to rescue your father, I think there is but little doubt that we
-should find it necessary to retire at once--in fact, to make a bolt for
-our lives, for the Mullah has a reputation for fierceness, and would not
-easily forgive our boldness.
-
-"But I have something else to tell you, which may cause you to prick up
-your ears. It has come to my knowledge that a rascal here is about to
-ship a load of guns across to Somaliland. Would you care to join me in
-an attempt to capture him? It would be a risky business, I tell you
-candidly, but if we are successful, it would be a glorious adventure.
-You need not be afraid that it will delay us, for my plan is to ship
-aboard as a hand, and wait until close to the African coast. Then
-matters must depend upon circumstances. I shall endeavour to give
-warning to one of the British gunboats stationed in these waters, and in
-that case should allow myself to be taken prisoner without saying a
-word. But it is just possible that I may be unable to ascertain the
-exact destination for which we are bound, and in that case should have
-to take my chance of capturing the dhow single-handed, or of looking on
-quietly while the guns were handed over to the Mullah's emissaries. If
-you were with me, we could make a grand fight of it, for these dhows
-seldom have more than four men aboard. Sometimes, of course, they carry
-a bigger crew, and if it were to turn out like that, we should have to
-alter our plans."
-
-"But how am I to be smuggled aboard?" asked Jim, eagerly, delighted at
-the thought of such an adventure. "I don't speak the language, and
-should certainly be spotted the very moment I set foot upon the vessel."
-
-"I don't think so," responded Tom Dixon, emphatically. "The natives in
-these parts do all sorts of curious things, and it has just struck me
-that, by pretending that you have made a vow, you can get over this
-difficulty. We'll give it out that we come from some Somali tribe which
-is friendly to the Mullah, and that we are willing to lend a hand in
-loading and unloading the dhow in return for our passage. I shall say
-that you have sworn never to speak until you have made a pilgrimage to
-Mecca. That is no uncommon vow, and amongst these fanatical people will
-raise you to their highest estimation."
-
-"It sounds a likely story," cried Jim, "and I'll come with you. When do
-you propose to start? And when are we likely to arrive on the Somali
-coast?"
-
-"That I cannot say, but I believe the dhow will sail within a couple of
-days, and two more should take us across the water. Then much depends
-upon how matters turn out."
-
-"It's a risky business," said Mr. Andrews, who had listened attentively
-all the while. "But I won't try to dissuade you, Hubbard, for the danger
-is no greater than you will encounter in Somaliland, and I think the
-experience you will get will help you in your search. It may turn out
-that by going upon this dhow you will come across a native who knows of
-your father. In that case the risk will not have been taken for nothing,
-for you can rely upon it that Tom will worm his secrets out. Our friend
-is a thorough native, and I only tell you the bare truth when I say that
-his get-up and behaviour are marvellous. You see, his father was
-stationed here for many years, and Tom has made the most of his
-opportunities."
-
-"That is so," said Tom. "I used to be awfully fond of dressing up as a
-native and going down to the bazaar. Once or twice my disguise was
-discovered, and if I hadn't taken to my heels, I should have come in for
-some rough handling. But that is a very old tale, and I have played the
-trick so often now that, when in native costume, I feel and act the part
-with assurance. Indeed, I often forget that I am an Englishman, so
-absorbed do I become, and many and many a time have I come from the
-bazaars primed with a piece of information that has proved of service to
-our Governor. And it is on that account that I have been employed as an
-Intelligence officer. But you'll come, then, Hubbard? That is splendid,
-for, with you to help me, I shall hope to bag these fellows. I propose
-that you remain here till this evening, and then, when the servants have
-retired after dinner, walk down the garden to the gate. I'll be there to
-meet you, and together we'll go to my place. Mr. Andrews will look after
-your things here, and will send them over in the ship he spoke of."
-
-Tom Dixon now rose, and, after chatting for a few moments with his
-friends, departed. For more than an hour Jim and Mr. Andrews sat on the
-verandah, talking in low tones, for there were many points to be
-arranged. Then Jim went to his room, and wrote a long letter to his
-uncle, telling him all that was about to occur, and describing the
-preparations which Mr. Andrews had made for his expedition.
-
-"And now, as weapons will be required, I'll look to my revolvers," he
-said to himself. "I am very glad that I spent the time on board ship
-practising, for until then I had never fired anything but a toy pistol.
-Now, however, I can feel fairly sure of putting a bullet into a man at
-ten yards' range, and, as they are heavy revolvers, that should be quite
-enough to stop him. I have heard that these natives are very hardy, and
-will stand far more knocking about than the average individual, but I've
-a notion that if I were to hit the hardiest of them plump with one of
-these big bullets he would not require any more."
-
-Unpacking his revolvers, he set to work to clean and thoroughly overhaul
-them. Then wrapping them in a towel, together with a small box of
-ammunition, he placed them in one of his trunks until it was time to
-join Tom Dixon. Then he set to work to look through his possessions, and
-so absorbed did he become in the occupation that he did not notice the
-time slipping by, and, when dinner was announced, could scarcely believe
-that it was already evening.
-
-An hour later, having said good-bye to Mr. Andrews, he left the
-bungalow, with his bundle under his arm. When he emerged from the gate
-of the compound, he was joined by Tom Dixon.
-
-"That you?" asked Tom, in a low voice.
-
-"Yes; here I am," answered Jim.
-
-"Then come along, old chap. We had better walk along silently, for I
-know these natives well, and caution in such matters pays. For instance,
-it's quite likely that someone is following you, just to see where you
-are going. The natives are the most curious people under the sun, and
-will take no end of trouble over a little matter like this. But we'll
-soon see. Come down here."
-
-Catching Jim by the sleeve, Tom Dixon suddenly drew him into the deep
-shadow of a palm which grew close at hand, and whispered to him to
-crouch low upon the ground. Ten minutes later their caution was
-rewarded, for a dusky figure crept silently past them, and disappeared
-in the darkness.
-
-"We'll give him five minutes to get well away," said Tom, "and then
-we'll move off in the opposite direction, and get to my place by a
-different route. I dare say all this secrecy seems unnecessary to you,
-but you've heard my warning."
-
-"It does seem strange," Jim agreed, in a whisper. "Coming from old
-England, where everything is so free and open, one is at first at a loss
-to understand the need for all this secrecy; but after what you have
-told me, I can fully believe that our plans might easily be ruined,
-unless we kept them to ourselves. That fellow creeping after us just now
-is an object-lesson which I shall not easily forget."
-
-When sufficient time had elapsed to make it certain that there was no
-fear of detection, the two rose to their feet again, and leaving the
-shadow of the tree, went off in the opposite direction. In some twenty
-minutes' time they arrived at the outskirts of the town of Aden, and,
-pausing to make sure that they were unobserved, entered a narrow
-doorway, which led to the interior of a native house.
-
-"Ten paces to your front, and then stop," whispered Tom. "Now follow me
-closely, and take care that the door does not bang in your face."
-
-There was the creak of rusty hinges, and the snap of a lock being pushed
-back. Then, guided by Tom's hand, Jim found himself descending a flight
-of rickety stairs, which groaned beneath his weight, and threatened to
-deposit him with more swiftness than was quite agreeable in the room
-below. A minute later a match flickered before his eyes, and he saw Tom
-applying it to a candle, which quickly burned up and allowed him to take
-note of his surroundings. To his astonishment he found himself in a
-comfortably-furnished room, with a tiny bed in one corner. There was a
-washhand-stand against the wall, and a couple of basket-chairs, while a
-big chest stood beneath a tiny window, which admitted light and air to
-the room during the day, but which was now curtained with thick
-material.
-
-"Not exactly a model dwelling, or the kind of place that a European
-would choose for his residence in this hot climate," said Tom, with a
-laugh, "but it has the great advantage of obscurity. This is really part
-of a disused building, and it was whilst consorting with a gang of
-rogues, whose secrets I was endeavouring to ascertain, that I
-accidentally discovered it. I at once saw that it was the very place for
-me, and promptly set about putting it in order. You see, I am supposed
-to be a kind of clerk to the Governor, though my duties in that way are
-purely nominal. As a matter of fact, I turn up every now and again with
-bundles of papers in my hand, and have an audience with my chief. But
-the official-looking documents are a fraud, and my conversation has no
-reference to them. But to return to this room. I've the share of a
-bungalow elsewhere, and when about to undertake one of my spying
-adventures, I slip away from there during the night, for all the world
-like a thief, and find my way to this place. That chest is full of
-disguises, stains, and paints, and it takes but little more than an hour
-to transform myself into a worthy Parsee, a race of men engaged in trade
-in Aden. More often I leave this place as a simple coolie, and at times
-I have appeared in more disreputable attire, such as is worn by the
-budmashes, or criminal class of the town. Look here!"
-
-Taking the candle with him, he went across the room to where the chest
-stood, and slipped in a key. Throwing open the lid, he disclosed a
-neatly packed interior, with a shallow tray at one end, which contained
-a number of wigs and hirsute adornments for the face.
-
-"My stock-in-trade," said Tom, with some degree of pride. "It has taken
-me a long time to collect them, and so important do I consider the
-question of wigs, that I've gone to enormous trouble to provide myself
-with all those you see. After all, clothes are easily purchased. One has
-merely to go into the bazaars, and one will easily find every variety of
-garb worn by the natives in these parts. With the hair it is a different
-matter, and to obtain exactly what I wanted I have been compelled to
-make every one of those little articles myself, for the slightest
-mistake in get-up would lead to discovery, and most likely to death. But
-take a seat, and let us decide how we are going to act."
-
-Throwing himself upon the bed, Tom motioned Jim to one of the chairs,
-and then lay at full length, his hands behind his head, and his eyes
-fixed upon a patch of dingy light thrown by the flickering candle upon
-the ceiling above. As for Jim, he sat back in his chair, lost in
-wonderment. Indeed, when he came to think the matter over, he could
-scarcely believe that less than three weeks had passed since the first
-news of the wreck had reached his ears. Then he was just a schoolboy, on
-the threshold of life, with no higher aim than to go up for his
-examination, and win a commission in the Army. In the meanwhile no worry
-troubled his mind, and all his spare hours were taken up in an
-endeavour to excel in games, for he was passionately fond of exercise in
-any form. And now, in a moment it seemed, he had been transported into a
-different life--into a different world indeed. Who could have dreamt
-that those few short days would have made such a difference to him,
-would have brought him all those miles across the sea, to face dangers
-and difficulties the extent of which he could scarcely conceive!
-
-"And here I am, a regular conspirator," he said to himself, looking
-about the room, "and bound upon an adventure which, from all I can
-gather, will afford considerable excitement. But I've thought the matter
-out carefully, and believe that I am justified in entering upon it, for,
-who knows but that it may turn out an advantage in the end! If these
-gun-runners are in league with the Mullah, it stands to reason that they
-know something of his movements, and as white prisoners are seldom or
-never taken, the fact that the survivor of the wreck fell into his hands
-will have reached their ears. Perhaps, too, they are even aware of
-father's exact whereabouts, and if only Tom can worm the secret out of
-them, we shall be saved enormous trouble, and very likely a large
-proportion of risk; for, in that case, we should march into the interior
-as rapidly as possible, choosing night for our movements, and hiding up
-amongst the sand-dunes and hills during the day. Then, when we got
-within striking distance, we should mount our trotting camels, and make
-a dash for the place. If we were successful, I should abandon the
-transport animals and our baggage, so as to enable us to retire to the
-coast at all speed.
-
-"But that is hoping for too much," he continued. "This business is going
-to be no ordinary affair, and before we are successful we shall be
-compelled to face no end of difficulties. But all the better, if in the
-end we are able to carry out our purpose."
-
-For quite five minutes Jim sat there silently, lost in thought, while
-Tom lay upon the bed, still staring at the dingy ceiling, as if, indeed,
-he could see there a plan which would be likely to prove of service when
-endeavouring to capture the dhow.
-
-"I can see my way quite easily," he said aloud, as if addressing himself
-to no one in particular. "At first, of course, I shall have to find out
-where the dhow lies, but an hour or two spent in the bazaar will soon
-set the matter at rest. That done, we shall have to obtain a passage
-aboard her, but there again I fancy things will be easily arranged. I'll
-get into casual conversation with some fellow who seems to know the
-destination of the craft, and I'll drop, as if by accident, a few words
-which will let him know that I am a friend of the Mullah. These natives
-are well aware of the risk they incur in these gun-running expeditions,
-and I've no doubt that hands are difficult to obtain. If that is the
-case, they will jump at our services, and we shall soon find ourselves
-installed upon the dhow. After that the outlook is uncertain."
-
-"Bound to be!" exclaimed Jim, emphatically. "That's just where the risk
-comes in. But it would be a fine thing to hold them up, and to capture
-the vessel and its contents."
-
-"By George, it would! You're right, Jim, and we will do it," cried Tom
-enthusiastically, swinging himself into a sitting position. "Look here,
-I've been going over all the points, and I've come to the conclusion
-that our best plan will be to do as I have just said. Just you lie down
-there and have a snooze, while I get into the proper togs and go out to
-the bazaar. Then we shall be able to start for the dhow to-morrow
-morning, without delay."
-
-"I'd like to come, too, if it could be arranged," said Jim eagerly. "You
-see, I have to get used to the dress of a native, and shall feel far
-more sure of myself if my first attempt is made while it is dark."
-
-"Then come along. Just hop out of your things as quickly as you can,
-while I do the same. Then we'll apply the stain to our bodies, and dress
-ourselves in the robes usually worn by natives from the interior of
-Somaliland."
-
-Both at once proceeded to undress, and that done, Tom dived to the
-bottom of the chest, and produced a carefully stoppered jar, and a big
-brush, composed of the silkiest hair. With this he at once proceeded to
-paint Jim from head to foot, and when that operation was concluded, the
-latter took the brush and did the same for his companion. Another dive
-into the chest produced an earthen pot. This contained a dark, oily
-liquid, which was freely applied to the hair and eyebrows.
-
-"Hum! Doesn't smell over-pleasant," remarked Jim, with a grimace. "It
-has a most peculiarly pungent odour."
-
-"Oh, you'll get used to it in time," was the laughing rejoinder. "But I
-can assure you that it is very necessary, and quite typical of the
-Somali people. There are your sandals. Slip your toes into the tags, and
-walk across the floor. No, not that way, but like this, shuffling
-along."
-
-Slipping a pair on to his own feet, Tom strode swiftly up and down the
-room, imitating a native, and would not be satisfied until Jim was able
-to do precisely the same.
-
-"Now watch me put on this head-gear," he said, taking a long fold of
-snowy linen, and beginning to wrap it about his temples. He then
-produced a light belt of webbing, to which two holsters were made fast,
-and proceeded to buckle it about his waist, tossing a second to Jim for
-his own use. A minute or two later he had wound a long cloak of linen
-about his body, contriving, however, to leave one arm and half his
-breast bare, while his legs were visible from the knee downwards. Then
-revolvers were placed in the holsters, a small pouch filled with
-ammunition, and a long and spiteful dagger thrust through the belt, and
-arranged so that the handle just peeped out through the clothing. A
-second and shorter weapon was attached to the inside of the left arm,
-and thus equipped, Tom placed himself before a wide strip of
-looking-glass which was nailed against the wall, and having put the
-candle in position, so that its light fell full upon him, began to
-survey himself critically.
-
-It was evident that he was satisfied, for he smiled at his own image,
-displaying a set of teeth which looked particularly white, now that his
-features were stained.
-
-"And now for you," he said. "I want you to dress yourself from head to
-foot just as I have done, for, remember, you may have to do so before
-the natives, and if you bungled, then you would certainly be
-discovered."
-
-Twenty minutes later the candle was extinguished, and the two crept up
-the creaking staircase and went out. Then, with long, shuffling strides,
-which carried them quickly over the ground, they made their way towards
-the native bazaar.
-
-"Remember your role," whispered Tom, as they approached the line of
-squalid huts and booths which formed the native market. "Not a sound is
-to escape your lips. If you are addressed, make no answer, but turn away
-angrily, waving your arm. Should the man persist, turn upon him, but
-beware that you do not touch your weapons, for to do so would be fatal.
-Of course, if you are discovered, you must make a fight of it; but
-we'll hope that it is not coming to that."
-
-Walking side by side, the two were soon in the midst of the bazaar, and
-Jim was interested to see how these Eastern people behaved. Lights
-twinkled in the various booths, and dusky natives were gathered in knots
-here and there. Some sat silently, but the majority were conversing in
-the most excited and voluble manner. Indeed, they might very well have
-been engaged in a squabble, so exaggerated were their movements.
-Suddenly, on turning a corner, the two adventurers came upon a circle of
-men squatting about a brazier, and singing a weird song to the
-accompaniment of a tom-tom. As they came into the firelight, one of the
-natives caught sight of them, and called loudly to them.
-
-"Come hither and join us, brothers," he shouted. "Here we shall make
-room for you."
-
-He shuffled to one side, those who were close at hand doing the same,
-until a sufficiently wide gap was left in the circle.
-
-"Come on," whispered Tom; and straightway, shouting his pleasure, he
-went towards the place, Jim following closely upon his heels. To
-hesitate would have been to arouse instant suspicion, and therefore,
-watching closely to see how his comrade acted, our hero joined the
-circle and squatted in native fashion. It was a trying ordeal for a lad
-who had but recently left school, and though he fought against the
-feeling of excitement, almost of fear, which assailed him, he was
-nevertheless well aware that his heart was beating like a sledge-hammer
-against his ribs, and that his pulses were throbbing almost painfully.
-But he was not the lad to show the white feather, and remembering his
-determination to go through with the adventure, he sat stolidly, staring
-into the glowing brazier.
-
-"A song, brother! Allah has willed it that you should join us this
-night, and we would hear your voice," shouted one of the group,
-stretching out a lanky arm and touching Jim upon the knee.
-
-There was no answer, and, to the astonishment of all the natives
-gathered there, the stranger who had been bidden to join them as a guest
-still kept his eyes fixed upon the brazier. That he had heard they were
-certain, for an involuntary turn of the head had betrayed that fact. At
-once shouts of anger arose, and the man who had spoken sprang to his
-feet.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER IV
-
-IN DISGUISE
-
-
-For the moment it looked as though the expedition upon which Jim and his
-friend had set out was doomed to early disaster, for there was no
-denying the fact that they had unwittingly aroused the anger of the
-natives. And yet, what could they do? Passing through the bazaar in
-their search for information, an evil chance had brought them into
-contact with this gathering, and they had found themselves compelled to
-accept the unwelcome invitation to join the circle which sat about the
-brazier. And now, at the very beginning, indeed, within less than a
-minute they were engaged in an altercation with them. Deeply did Jim
-regret the fact that he could not speak the language, for had he been
-able to do so, there would have been no need for silence, and no need to
-ruffle the feelings of the gathering.
-
-It was a dilemma, and, puzzle his brains as he might, he could not come
-to any solution that would help him. Instead, therefore, he sat there
-stolidly, his eyes now fixed upon the brazier, and then turning for the
-space of a second to the man who confronted him.
-
-"Insolent! How dare you to insult us so?" shouted the native, thrusting
-his hand into the folds of his waistcloth, to withdraw it a moment later
-clasping the handle of a dagger. "Dog!" he continued, springing forward.
-"Speak, or I will bury this blade in your flesh."
-
-Meanwhile the other natives who formed the gathering had sprung to
-their feet, and crowded about the two young Englishmen with threatening
-gestures.
-
-[Illustration: THE NATIVES CROWDED ABOUT THEM WITH THREATENING
-GESTURES.]
-
-"Yes," they shouted angrily, "answer, or we will kill you now, and throw
-your bodies into the gutter."
-
-It was wonderful to see the coolness with which Jim and his companion
-acted. Had they lost their presence of mind, and sprung to their feet
-with the intention of escaping, they would have been instantly cut to
-pieces, for they were entirely surrounded. Indeed, there was no doubt
-that this was a situation demanding cunning more than anything else, and
-both recognized that fact fully. Seated, therefore, side by side, as if
-they were unaware of the commotion raging about them, Jim still looked
-nonchalantly into the flames, as if, indeed, he had no other interest in
-life, while Tom stared at the circle of angry faces with the utmost
-calmness.
-
-"Are we, then, guests or dogs?" he demanded quietly, letting his eyes
-wander from one to the other. "Was it not you who bade us join your
-circle? Then why do you grumble if one of us is a man who will keep his
-vow, whatever befalls? My friend and I have come here from Somaliland,
-bound upon an expedition to Mecca. But ill fortune fell upon us, and now
-we return to our country to replenish our funds. For my part, I confess
-that I am disappointed, but my comrade is grieved beyond expression. His
-lips are closed, and his ears deaf, until the day when he completes his
-pilgrimage. He has sworn it by Allah, and by Allah he shall keep to his
-oath, even though thousands attempt to dissuade him. Take your places,
-then, again, I beg of you, and let us be friends, for we are deserving
-of your kindness."
-
-The words, spoken quietly as they were, acted like oil upon troubled
-waters. Scarcely had they left Tom Dixon's lips, when the excitement of
-the angry natives disappeared even more rapidly than it had arisen.
-For a moment only they looked incredulously at one another, and then,
-saluting Jim with the utmost respect, they took their places again
-shamefacedly.
-
-"We meant no harm, brothers," said the first speaker, apologetically.
-"Forgive us, if we spoke angrily and in some haste, but the occasion
-demanded instant explanation, and, now that you have given it, we are
-fully satisfied. More than that, it is an honour to us to know that
-there sits in our circle in friendship with us one who has made such a
-vow, and who refuses to break his oath in spite of any danger. I watched
-him carefully as I advanced upon him with my drawn weapon, but he did
-not flinch, did not even turn aside, or raise an arm to ward off the
-blow which might well have fallen. Moreover, he allowed no sound to
-escape his lips, and, true to his word, and to the holy task which he
-has set himself, sat there unmoved, prepared to die rather than cry out
-for mercy. It is marvellous the strength that Allah gives to such men."
-
-"Yes, it is a great thing," chimed in an aged native, who sat crouching
-over the brazier, as if to absorb all its warmth; "and in Aden here not
-one in ten thousand is capable of making and keeping such a vow. It is
-only men from Somaliland who are brave enough to do such a thing. Our
-brother has just told us that we are honoured; we are more than that,
-for these guests of ours are friends of the Mullah, a holy man, who has
-made many pilgrimages to Mecca, and who will yet be king of the country
-which lies yonder across the sea."
-
-He pointed towards the harbour, and looked round at his companions.
-
-"Yes," they agreed in guttural tones, "the Mullah is a great man, and
-will be even more powerful."
-
-"We can speak openly," continued the old man, "for there are none but
-friends here, and no Hindoos are within hearing. How thrives the
-Mullah?" he went on, addressing Tom. "Does he know that the English are
-preparing to march against him?"
-
-"Yes, he is fully aware of it," answered the latter, quietly, "and will
-meet them in battle. But at present he is fearful of defeat, for though
-his soldiers are numerous, they are poorly armed, and for the most part
-carry only shields and spears. Guns are what he wants, and he is
-prepared to pay well for them. Indeed, he bade us on our return to make
-enquiries here, and endeavour to induce some of the wealthy merchants
-who are friendly to him to send him a ship-load of weapons and
-ammunition. We believe that such a ship has lately sailed, or will
-shortly leave this shore, but we are uncertain. We have been to more
-than one of those who live in this town, and are friendly to us, but
-they will do nothing until silver is placed in their hands, and of that
-we have absolutely none. However, once we can get a passage across to
-Somaliland, we shall be able to replenish our store, and shall return
-immediately."
-
-"And how knows your friend of this arrangement?" asked the old man
-suspiciously, glancing sharply at Jim. "If he has made a vow not to
-speak, how can he have discussed this matter with you?"
-
-The question was a shrewd one, and at once set the whole circle of
-natives staring hard at their guests.
-
-"Yes, how can he have learnt of this plan?" cried another, rising to his
-feet, and waving his arms excitedly. "You say that you have been to many
-in the town, and have questioned them concerning arms for the Mullah.
-Then this vow of which your comrade boasts is one made to be broken or
-kept at will. Perhaps he is a spy come here to learn our secrets."
-
-His words at once brought the whole gathering of natives to their feet,
-and again, such is the excitability of these Eastern people, they
-crowded threateningly about their guests, calling loudly for an
-explanation. But Jim and his friend were equal to the occasion. The
-former was certainly dumfounded at the sudden turn affairs had taken,
-for he had not understood a word of all that had been said. But he was
-fully aware that here again an attempt to escape would be worse than
-useless, and therefore, placing full reliance in his friend, he squatted
-there as calmly as before, prepared, however, to spring to his feet in a
-moment and join Tom in fighting for their lives. A hasty glance at the
-latter told him that there was still some chance of calming the natives,
-for Tom Dixon sat as if carved in stone. One hand was buried, as if
-accidentally, in the folds of his waistcloth, though Jim knew well that
-it grasped the butt of a hidden revolver; while the other was stretched
-out towards the brazier, as if to gather some comfort from its glowing
-embers.
-
-"Did I say that I had discussed this matter with my comrade?" he asked
-sarcastically, looking round the circle with a contemptuous glance.
-"When I said that we had been to various merchants in the town, I
-thought that you were wise enough to understand my meaning. My comrade's
-vow is one which few or none of you would dare to take, and yet you do
-not hesitate to doubt it. It was sworn more than a week ago, and, by
-Allah, it has never been broken. But look at him? Do you not see him
-turn his head as each one speaks? He cannot help the words falling upon
-his ears, and hears and understands all that you say, without, however,
-deigning to answer. So it is with me. So that he should know what was
-to happen, I have spoken of my plans to him, but we have never entered
-into discussion on the matter. Come," he continued, "let us be friends,
-and treat us like brothers."
-
-"We will," exclaimed the old man warmly. "We cannot venture to take
-risks, for were a spy to come amongst us, he would learn many things of
-value to the Government. It was on that account that we tested you, and
-have proved you to be of ourselves. We are friends and brothers."
-
-Each of the natives gave vent to a guttural exclamation of approval, and
-then, as if to forbid further altercation, the sharp notes of the
-tom-tom were heard, and the gathering began a chant, one of those
-peculiarly dismal dirges which seem to delight the ears of natives of
-the East. Then, when the song was finished, an earthen dish, containing
-slices of juicy lemon, was handed round, each man present helping
-himself.
-
-"You spoke of a ship which might be sailing for Somaliland," said the
-old man, suddenly, awaking from a reverie into which he seemed to have
-fallen, and looking up at Tom. "You also told us that you and your
-friend were in search of a passage. Are you strong, and are you willing
-to work? For, if so, I will find places for you upon the dhow."
-
-"It is a good offer, and we accept it gladly," responded Tom promptly.
-"As for strength, we are capable of hauling at the ropes as well as any
-man. Would there be much else to do? For I tell you honestly that we are
-unused to the sea, and are more at home when mounted upon horseback and
-galloping across the smooth plains of Somaliland."
-
-"There is little else for you to do than keep watch upon the deck, and
-help to pull in the sails, for three men will go besides yourselves, as
-well as the master. But I warn you that fighting may fall to your lot,
-for a steamship flying the Government colours patrols these seas, and,
-should she sight you, will certainly endeavour to capture you. In that
-case your death would be swift and almost certain. If not, you would be
-thrown into prison, and would be a slave for the greater part of your
-days."
-
-"Then the post will suit us well. If there is fighting we shall not
-grumble, for it is our trade, and as capture means death, you may rely
-upon it that we shall do all that is possible to defeat the enemy. But
-why should the Government fall upon this dhow?"
-
-For a moment the old man scrutinized Tom closely, as if still suspicious
-of him, and as if doubtful whether he was to be fully trusted. But the
-latter returned his glance with one that was equally steady and
-unflinching, and, satisfied with this, the native at length answered:
-
-"That dhow is filled to overflowing with guns and ammunition for the
-Mullah," he said. "If she reaches the Somali coast in safety, I shall
-have done well for myself, and shall have aided the cause of your
-master. She sails to-morrow at noon, and you will know her by the fact
-that she bears a red streak upon her bows, and has a large rent in her
-sail. When you see her, she will be lying some few yards from the shore,
-and any of the small craft in the harbour will put you aboard her. You
-must go below as soon as you get on board, and if any of the crew are
-there, pass them without a sound, but salute them in this manner."
-
-The old man paused for an instant, and withdrawing his hand from beneath
-the blanket which covered him, placed two fingers upon his lips.
-
-"That is the sign which you must make, and be careful that you do it
-exactly as I have shown you, for, if not, the crew will believe that
-you are spies, and will fall upon you as soon as you are below. To-day
-the Customs officer has been on board, inspecting the cargo. But the
-crew are even now busily employed in transferring it to another ship,
-and in taking in the guns and ammunition destined for the Mullah's
-troops."
-
-"It is a good plan," said Tom, "and I can see the need for secrecy.
-To-morrow we shall go on board the dhow, and we shall be careful to
-follow your wishes. Can you tell us how long the passage will take, and
-where we shall be landed?"
-
-Again the old man looked suspiciously at him, and then shook his head
-emphatically.
-
-"No, I cannot tell you that. If Allah wills it, you shall land upon the
-coast and return to your people."
-
-Some five minutes later Tom touched Jim upon the arm, and made signs to
-him to rise. Then, nodding to the natives, they left the circle, and
-went on into the bazaar. But they had already had one experience of
-native cunning and curiosity, and instead of turning their steps towards
-the room in which they had disguised themselves, they moved away in the
-opposite direction, and taking advantage of a narrow alley, which was
-filled with chattering natives, they mingled with the crowd, and
-sauntered on, now looking curiously at the wares of some Hindoo
-merchant, and then watching with evident interest the skill of a
-juggler, who sat in the middle of the street, with an admiring circle
-about him. Winding hither and thither, they at length came to a deserted
-part, and having hidden in the shadow of a booth for some ten minutes,
-so as to assure themselves that they were not followed, they took to
-their heels, and before very long had reached the dwelling in which they
-were to shelter that night.
-
-"We're in luck," exclaimed Tom, in tones of satisfaction. "I must admit
-that at one moment I thought it was all up with us, for these natives
-are suspicious beggars, and would think nothing of killing anyone whom
-they suspected of spying upon them. If they had discovered us, you may
-take it for certain that we should have disappeared for good, and no
-amount of searching on the part of our friends would have led to news of
-our fate. There is no doubt that they are masters at the art, and no
-bribe will induce anyone to give evidence against his comrades."
-
-"I can quite believe that," answered Jim, "and I agree with you that
-things looked very black. Of course, I didn't understand what was
-happening, and am puzzling about it even now. But the shouting and
-excitement, and the fact that that fellow drew his knife, told me that
-trouble was coming. It was as much as I could do to sit there quietly,
-but I took my cue from you, and I can tell you I was jolly glad when the
-squabble ended."
-
-"You behaved like a brick, old boy. Considering that you are a novice,
-and quite unused to these natives, you showed no end of pluck. I admit
-that it was not without some misgivings that I allowed you to accompany
-me into the bazaar, for, you see, I hadn't an idea how you would behave.
-But I felt sure that the fellow who could come out here, and quietly
-make his preparations to face the dangers of an expedition into the
-heart of Somaliland, must be someone quite out of the ordinary. Of
-course, you might have been a thoughtless kind of beggar, who had no
-fear simply because you were unaware of, and had taken no trouble to
-find out, the difficulties and risks you were about to face. But I soon
-saw that you realized the gravity of your task, and, by George! I
-admired you for it, for there are precious few youngsters of your age
-who would have the grit to go on with the matter. But I am wandering
-from the subject. There's no doubt that if you had flinched, and shouted
-out when that beggar drew his knife, we should have been set upon by the
-whole gang of ruffians, and, though we were armed with revolvers, we
-should have had precious little chance. The whole row arose because you
-made no answer when they invited you to sing."
-
-Throwing himself upon the bed, Tom Dixon gave his comrade a full account
-of the altercation, and then went on to describe how a passage had been
-offered them upon the dhow, which was to sail upon the following day,
-with arms for the Mullah.
-
-"It will not do to take any risks," he said, "and therefore I vote that
-we practise going aboard and making the sign, for the slightest slip
-would mean ruin to our plans."
-
-Accordingly, while Tom stood at one end of the room, Jim advanced from
-the other, and turning, raised his fingers to his lips as he passed him.
-Not till he had done it some half-dozen times was Tom satisfied, and
-then he, too, went through the process.
-
-"The next thing will be to give news to the Governor," said Tom, "so as
-to make it possible for the gunboat to intercept us. She left Aden a
-couple of days ago, but was to return to-morrow night. If she slips away
-again at once, she should easily overtake us, and then I should give
-very little for the chances of the crew. There should be four on board
-besides ourselves, and if we cannot master them with our revolvers, I
-shall be greatly surprised. It will be a feather in our caps, Jim, to
-capture the dhow by ourselves and then hand her over to the gunboat."
-
-"But you said that you had been unable to ascertain the destination of
-the dhow," interposed Jim. "Supposing the gunboat could not find her?"
-
-"It would be very awkward, and that's where the risk comes in."
-
-"Yes, it would be awkward," agreed Jim; "but then there would be all the
-more honour in capturing her. It would be grand to overpower the crew
-and compel them to sail the dhow back to Aden."
-
-"Perhaps it will turn out like that," said Tom. "But you lie down on the
-bed and have a sleep while I go off to the Governor. I shall be back
-within an hour, and shall make myself comfortable in the corner there
-with a blanket as a covering. No," he exclaimed, seeing Jim about to
-remonstrate, "you are not yet used to sleeping on a hard floor like the
-natives. But I am, and even prefer it."
-
-A few moments later Jim was left alone in the room, and blowing out the
-candle, at once lay down upon the bed and settled himself to sleep. An
-hour later his comrade returned, and threw himself down in the corner,
-where his heavy breathing soon gave evidence of the fact that he, too,
-had forgotten the adventures of the night and was lost in dreams.
-
-Scarcely had the sun risen on the following morning when both were
-astir, and at once rearranged their clothing, so as to make sure that
-their disguise was satisfactory and would pass muster in broad daylight.
-Then Tom produced a small oil stove and a frying-pan, and began to
-prepare breakfast. Eggs were to be had in plenty, and as these were easy
-to cook, four of them were quickly spluttering upon the pan. Meanwhile a
-kettle of water was set upon a second stove to boil, and soon they sat
-down to a satisfying if not dainty repast. To a hungry man food, if
-clean and fairly well prepared, is always acceptable, and Jim and his
-companion were not the ones to turn up their noses simply because their
-eggs reposed on rough tin plates, and their tea was contained in mugs of
-similar material. Seated upon the two chairs of which the room boasted,
-and taking the plates upon their knees, they set to work with energy,
-and quickly caused the food to disappear. Indeed, so keen was their
-appetite, that they unanimously agreed to prepare a second relay of
-eggs, and partook of them with the same relish.
-
-"And now to business," cried Jim cheerily. "I feel as fresh as paint,
-and quite ready for this adventure. Shall I do as I am?"
-
-For the moment Tom did not answer, but pulling the curtain from the
-window so as to allow all the light that was possible to enter the room,
-he placed his comrade in the centre and walked slowly round him.
-
-"The disguise is perfect," he said in tones of satisfaction. "I
-guarantee that you will pass muster anywhere, and, so long as you
-remember that you are never to open your lips, I have little fear that
-you will be discovered. Let me give you a little additional advice. As
-we go towards the dhow it is quite on the cards that we shall run across
-some of the passengers who accompanied you from England, and you may be
-tempted to renew your friendship with them, quite forgetful of your
-disguise. But you must not dream of doing such a thing, for sharp eyes
-are always watching in this town, and were the natives to learn that a
-spy is amongst them, your chances of success in Somaliland would be
-considerably diminished. Now, are your revolvers in position, and do you
-feel ready to accompany me?"
-
-"Quite," exclaimed Jim, with emphasis. "I tell you that I feel as
-light-hearted as possible, and fully prepared for the adventure."
-
-"Then come along."
-
-Leading the way to the window, Tom Dixon threw it open, and placing a
-chair beneath it, stepped upon it and crawled through. Jim followed,
-without hesitation, and found himself in a narrow courtyard, from which
-a gate that was almost tumbling from its hinges led into a street
-behind. A glance showed them that the street was empty, and at once they
-stepped into it, and hurrying along, were soon in the main thoroughfare
-of Aden.
-
-Had anyone taken the trouble to scrutinize them closely, he would have
-seen two stalwart and swarthy men, one somewhat younger than the other,
-and of slightly smaller proportions, but both evidently from the shores
-of Northern Africa. They strode along with that quick shuffling gait
-common to men of their race, and due, no doubt, in some degree, to the
-sandals which they wear. That they were strangers to Aden could be
-easily guessed, for they looked curiously about them, and stopped every
-now and again to look in at the shop windows. An Englishman marching
-along the footpath was obviously an object of interest and respect, for
-they turned aside to give him more room to pass, and gazed at him in
-wonderment. So cleverly did they act their part that no one suspected
-that they were not what they pretended to be, and even the natives, who
-swarmed everywhere, let them pass without a doubt. On one occasion a
-native arrested their progress, and would have entered into conversation
-with Jim, but a few words from Tom altered his intention, and he stood
-aside, allowing them to pass without comment. A few minutes later, when
-turning a corner sharply, they barely escaped running into a second
-Englishman, who was no other than Mr. Andrews. But he motioned them
-aside with a brusque "Out of the way!" and went on, without a thought
-of the two young fellows who had sat with him on the previous evening,
-and without a suspicion that the two Somali tribesmen whom he had met
-face to face were those whose interests he had so much at heart.
-
-Half an hour's sharp walk brought Jim and his companion to the shore,
-where they paused for some minutes to gaze at a large steamer which was
-moored there, undergoing the process of coaling with the help of a
-perfect army of dusky figures who swarmed about her, shouting at the top
-of their voices.
-
-From there they took their way to that part of the harbour usually
-allotted to native craft, and before very long had the satisfaction of
-noting that one which floated in deep water, and was of fairly large
-proportions, had a thin streak of red upon her bows.
-
-Tom at once turned towards her, and, followed closely by Jim, went down
-to the water's edge. A number of flimsy native boats were drawn up on
-the mud, with their owners seated chatting beside them. As soon as they
-caught sight of the two strangers, the boatmen at once sprang to their
-feet, and, gesticulating wildly, offered their services.
-
-"We want to go aboard the dhow there," said Tom shortly, selecting one
-of the boatmen. "What will you take us for?"
-
-A price was agreed upon after some little haggling, and a few moments
-later a boat was run down into the water and pushed off. Taking his
-place in the stern, the oarsman paddled out into deep water, and quickly
-brought them alongside the dhow. Tom at once handed him his fare, and
-then, grasping the halliards, which were close at hand, swarmed up on
-deck, closely followed by Jim. As he did so he threw a glance aloft, and
-noted that the huge leg-of-mutton sail which was tied up to the mast
-had a large rent in one corner of it.
-
-"We are on the right ship, at any rate," he said to himself. "And now
-for the crew."
-
-Turning towards the stern of the dhow, he and Jim walked towards a
-narrow hatchway, which evidently gave admission to the hold. As they did
-so, three figures started up from behind some coils of rope with the
-silence of spectres, and gazed at them curiously and suspiciously; while
-a fourth, happening to thrust his head up at that moment, caught sight
-of the strangers, and, with a guttural exclamation, climbed out upon the
-deck. They were fierce-looking fellows, clad in scanty raiment, and
-undoubtedly armed, for, as the newcomers returned their glances and ran
-their eyes over them, they noted the handle of more than one weapon
-protruding from their waist-cloths, while the man who had just emerged
-from the hold bore a pistol of gigantic proportions.
-
-"We shall have our work cut out to master them," Jim said to himself,
-"for they will fight hard and make a desperate resistance. However, so
-long as their suspicions are not aroused, and they believe that we are
-friends, and to be thoroughly relied upon, we shall have every
-opportunity of taking them by surprise. If we are successful in doing
-that, I think we shall be able to overawe them; and if not, why, they
-must look to themselves."
-
-A movement on Tom's part now attracted his attention, and following him
-closely, Jim strode down the deck, taking little notice of the natives.
-Arrived at the hatchway, his companion paused for the space of a moment,
-and rapidly made the sign. Instantly the crew, who had stood there with
-menacing looks, evidently determined to attack them should they prove to
-be enemies come to spy upon them, sauntered away, watching, however, to
-see that Jim, too, lifted his fingers to his lips. A moment later both
-had disappeared into the darkness of the hold, and, creeping forward,
-sat down side by side.
-
-"Guns!" whispered Jim, feeling about with his hands, and venturing for
-one second to break the silence which he had promised to observe.
-"Scores of them! They are all over the place."
-
-"And precious uncomfortable to sit upon," answered his companion in
-husky tones. "The stock of one is digging into me. But, hush! We must
-not talk, for those beggars are certain to be curious about us, and we
-may take it for granted that for a day at least they will watch us like
-cats. No doubt, for the present, and until the dhow sails, we shall be
-left severely alone; but then will come the trial. Recollect, Jim, that
-we are landsmen, and don't forget to bungle when you hang on to a rope.
-I shall let them know of your vow, and you must act up to it by
-appearing morose and stupid. Hear nothing; say nothing; but wait until
-everything is explained to you by signs."
-
-"Right, old man; you may rely upon me," was Jim's whispered reply; after
-which they both sat silently, neither venturing to speak nor move, but
-listening intently to every sound that reached their ears. Now and again
-they could hear the distant shout of some native boatman, or the howl of
-a cur prowling along the shore. Then, too, the voices of the crew could
-be occasionally heard as they chatted together on the deck, but the
-actual words could not be distinguished at that distance, though Tom
-would have given anything to learn what they were saying. And all the
-while the dhow rolled lazily from side to side, her mast creaking
-dismally as she did so, while the rigging rattled loudly against the
-woodwork. Occasionally, as a boat of large proportions passed, the sea
-would come with a splash against the side and drown all other sounds.
-But the noise soon quieted down, and Jim and Tom found themselves
-listening again, as if fascinated, to the distant shouts, the murmur of
-voices above, and the flapping of the sail.
-
-Three long and weary hours passed--hours of suspense to the two young
-Englishmen seated below; and then, just as their patience was exhausted,
-they heard someone moving on the deck. There was a patter of bare feet
-upon the boards, followed by the noise of a rope passing through a
-block.
-
-"Up goes the sail!" whispered Jim, in tones of delight. "Hurrah! We're
-off!"
-
-"Then prepare to go on deck," answered Tom. "They'll wait until we're
-out of sight, and then will call us up."
-
-"Ah, there she goes!" exclaimed Jim, as the dhow suddenly heeled over,
-and began to move through the water. A minute later she was driving
-along before a brisk breeze, and the two young fellows below realized
-that, at last, their adventure had begun in earnest.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER V
-
-A DESPERATE ENCOUNTER
-
-
-Barely half an hour had passed from the time when the sail was unloosed,
-and the dhow cast off her moorings, before one of the crew knelt upon
-the deck, and, thrusting his head through the hatchway, shouted to Jim
-and his companion to come out of the hold.
-
-"Now for it," whispered Tom. "Keep cool, and be perfectly unconcerned.
-If there is trouble, do not hesitate for an instant, but draw your
-revolvers and shoot. You've only got to look at those fellows' faces to
-see that we have to deal with desperate men, who would kill us if they
-had the slightest doubts of our good faith. Ready?"
-
-"Quite," answered Jim with a calmness that surprised himself.
-
-"Then up we go."
-
-Rising to their feet, and bending low, for the cargo of guns left little
-space in which to move, they crept towards the hatchway, and in due time
-emerged upon the deck, blinking as the dazzling rays of the noonday sun
-fell upon their eyes. When they had accustomed themselves to the strong
-light, they became aware that three of the crew confronted them, while
-the fourth stood at the tiller, keeping the vessel to her course. Right
-astern, a dim blue line showed the position of Aden, while ahead, and on
-either hand, nothing but blue ocean could be seen. Not a sail was in
-sight, though Jim strained his eyes in every direction, and not a
-streak of cloud in the sky could, by the wildest flight of imagination,
-be interpreted as the smoke from the funnel of the gunboat. But at this
-moment one of the natives addressed him.
-
-"You and your comrade can lie upon the deck for a while," he said, "but
-you must be ready at any moment to give us a help. Keep a keen look-out
-in all directions, and if you see a sail, shout so that I shall know. If
-we are pursued we must fly, and may Allah send a breeze to aid us. If
-not, we will fight, and in that we are told that you can help us."
-
-"We hear what you say," answered Tom hurriedly, anxious to explain his
-companion's silence. "Take no notice of my friend, for, as those who
-sent us here may have told you, he is, for the time being, both deaf and
-dumb. Do not speak to him, I beg of you, for he will not answer, and
-will stand, as he does now, refusing to comprehend your words. If you
-have orders to give, I will hand them on to him by signs. As for
-fighting, what is that to us? In our country we are ever at war, and
-should be miserable without it. Make your mind easy, therefore, for we
-shall strike hard when the moment of danger arrives."
-
-Apparently his words satisfied the natives, for they turned away, and
-walked towards the steersman. Tom at once grasped Jim by the arm, and
-pointing to the deck, strode across to the bulwark, and threw himself
-down there for an instant. Then he rose to his feet again, and placing a
-hand above his eyes, so as to shield them from the sun, stared long and
-anxiously across the sea. Again he threw himself upon the deck and
-repeated the process, but this time with a different result, for,
-apparently, he caught sight of some distant object, and giving vent to a
-shout, ran to communicate his news to the crew. Indeed, so realistic
-was his acting that they, too, imagined he had seen something of
-interest, and at once came crowding to the bulwarks, and stared eagerly
-across the water in the vain endeavour to discover some object between
-themselves and the horizon.
-
-"Where?" shouted the man who had addressed Jim, and who seemed to be the
-master. "Where?" he repeated anxiously. "I can see no sail, though it is
-possible that one is hidden in the haze yonder. Hold out your arm so
-that I may follow the direction."
-
-There was no doubt from the manner in which he spoke, and from the
-anxiety displayed by the remainder of the crew, that the prospect of
-discovery had filled them with alarm. They were conscious that they were
-engaged upon an unlawful expedition, and though that did not trouble
-them much, the thought of what would follow if they were captured set
-them trembling.
-
-"Ah, what is that?" shouted one of their number. "I can see something
-which has the appearance of a bird, but which may well be a sail. If so,
-we are safe, for the Government would follow us in a steamship, if at
-all."
-
-"It is nothing," replied Tom calmly, with difficulty keeping his
-features straight. "I saw nothing to alarm me, but was merely explaining
-to my comrade the duties he was to carry out. See, it is evident that he
-understands."
-
-"Is that so?" was the grumbling reply. "By the manner in which you gave
-the alarm, I thought you had sighted a suspicious sail, and my heart
-leapt into my mouth at your shout. But it is well that there is nothing
-in it. Go to your places now, and do not forget to keep constant watch."
-
-For a minute he stood by the bulwark, while Jim and his companion went
-forward and threw themselves upon the deck. Then he retired to the
-stern of the vessel, and sat down in the shade cast by the enormous
-sail.
-
-For three hours the dhow kept steadily on her course, and then Jim, who
-lay upon the starboard side, suddenly caught sight of a speck of white
-coming from the opposite direction. Keeping his eyes fixed upon it, he
-noticed that it increased rapidly in size, and soon there was no doubt
-that it was another vessel. Giving a low cough to attract Tom's
-attention, he pointed towards the object, and then sprang to his feet.
-Walking along the deck, he approached the group at the farther end, and
-laid his hand upon the shoulder of the master, shaking him as he did so,
-for he had fallen asleep.
-
-In a moment all were on their feet, and staring across the sea.
-
-"It is a large dhow," said the man who commanded the crew, "and she is
-sweeping down in our direction. What do you think she is?"
-
-"It is too early to say," answered one of the men, "but she is not a
-trader--of that I am sure--nor does she belong to the Government. It is
-possible that she comes from some African port, but until she is closer
-I cannot be certain. This I can say, she is larger than any dhow plying
-between Aden and the opposite coast, and therefore we shall do well to
-keep her at a distance."
-
-For a few minutes the natives held a heated conversation, and a sharp
-order was given to alter the course. When that was done, and the dhow
-was holding along in a southerly direction, the crew gathered in the
-bows and stood there, gazing anxiously at the distant vessel. Cries of
-alarm escaped their lips when they noticed that her head came round, and
-that she, too, had altered her course so as to intercept them.
-
-"She sails faster than we do!" exclaimed the master, with an oath. "We
-cannot hope to escape her, and therefore I advise that we resume our
-course, and make ready for an encounter, though it is more than likely
-that she will prove to be a friend. And if not that--well, we must
-prepare to sell our lives dearly. But I cannot believe that we have
-anything to fear, for none but peaceful traders sail upon this sea."
-
-"That is so," agreed one of the crew. "But I have heard that, at times,
-piratical craft sail from the coast of Africa, and swoop down upon the
-traders. If that dhow is bent upon such an expedition, we are lost, for
-her owners care no more for the Mullah than they do for other people."
-
-The news filled his companions with dismay. In a half-hearted manner
-they produced a number of guns from the hold, and proceeded to load
-them. Then they placed swords beside the bulwark, and motioned to Jim
-and Tom to select a couple.
-
-"There is trouble before us, and we must fight for our lives," said the
-master, brightening up a little. "If you do not wish to be killed, you
-must join us, and help in the struggle."
-
-"We shall do so gladly, if there is need," answered Tom. "But let us
-hope that the stranger will turn out to be a friend."
-
-"I wish I could think the same," the master replied with a shake of his
-head. "It is more than likely that she is a pirate. But now we must
-separate. You and your friend go forward into the bows. I shall station
-two of my men in the centre of the dhow, while I and the fourth go aft.
-Then we shall be prepared at all points, and wherever they attempt to
-board us, we shall have men at hand to beat them back."
-
-"If I were you I should order everyone to lie down," said Tom,
-thoughtfully. "At the distance they are from us now they cannot have
-ascertained how many we have on board, and will naturally keep away
-until they are certain. If they are bent on capturing us, and open fire
-when within range, we can all creep to the centre and give them a
-volley. Then we'll hasten to the bows, and fire from that quarter. You
-have plenty of guns, so that you have only to load a number, and pile
-them at various points along the deck, in readiness for our volleys. If
-we are quick, and take good care to keep well below the bulwarks, we
-ought to confuse them, and make them think that we have plenty of men."
-
-"It is a good plan," the native answered. "I shall see that the guns are
-brought up at once, and the men warned. That ship will sail close up to
-us, expecting us to fall an easy prey. But we'll astonish them with our
-bullets, and will set them wondering, for it is unusual for a peaceful
-trader, as we are supposed to be, to carry any firearms. Go forward now,
-and explain to your comrade."
-
-Tom at once ran to the bows, where Jim was reclining on the deck,
-watching the oncoming ship, and throwing himself down beside him, began
-to make signs to him, keeping a watch all the time, however, upon the
-other members of the crew.
-
-"Ah, they've gone below for the guns," he said at last, "and there is
-only the man at the helm to be feared, and he is engaged in watching
-this pirate, or whatever she may be. Listen, Jim. We're in for a
-struggle, for that ship is an enemy, and is probably filled with negro
-cut-throats. I have advised the master of our ship to make a fight for
-it, but I doubt if he or his men have the necessary courage. What are we
-to do if that is the case?"
-
-"It is hard to say, Tom. If the dhow over there carries a big crew,
-resistance would be madness, in my opinion. Better to give in and
-fraternize with them, if they will allow us, trusting to get away from
-them at some future date. That's the best advice I can give. But if you
-think we have any chance, I'm ready and willing to stand by you."
-
-"I know that, old boy," answered Tom warmly; "but though I have advised
-resistance, I doubt whether it will be attempted. We'll just wait, and
-see how things go. This stranger may turn out, after all, to be a
-friend."
-
-Whatever hopes they might have had as to the peaceful nature of the
-approaching dhow, they were quickly disappointed, for she was coming up
-rapidly, aided by a steady and brisk breeze. Almost before they thought
-it possible, she was within range, and then they saw that she was quite
-double the size of their vessel. Shooting up into the wind, she lay to
-dead across their bows, displaying at the same moment a broad expanse of
-white deck, which was thickly crowded with men. Almost instantly a puff
-of smoke belched from her bulwarks, and a ball came hurtling over the
-water.
-
-"Caught, I am afraid," whispered Jim, peeping at the stranger. "We
-haven't a chance, Tom, for look at our comrades."
-
-As he spoke the leader of the native crew rushed to the helm and waved
-his arm frantically in token of surrender, while his men threw
-themselves upon the deck, and grovelled there, in terror lest another
-shot should be fired by the pirate.
-
-"Curs!" exclaimed Tom, angrily. "When there is no danger to be feared,
-they are fierce enough looking fellows. But now that we are in trouble,
-they show the real stuff of which they are made. But what are we to do?"
-
-"Stay where we are till the enemy comes alongside," answered Jim,
-promptly. "If they rush on board with the intention of killing us, we
-must stand side by side up here in the bows, and keep them off with our
-revolvers. It is ten chances to one that they are only armed with
-swords, and in that case we ought to be able to make a good fight of it.
-Whatever happens, I don't mean to be killed without a struggle."
-
-He spoke quite calmly, and thrust his hands into his waistcloth to make
-certain that his weapons were there. As for Tom, he looked at his young
-companion with amazement, and then, fired by his example of pluck,
-prepared to do as he had said.
-
-"Then it's agreed that, if there is no hope, we fight," he said; "and if
-there is, we give ourselves up, and trust to better luck later on."
-
-"That's it," replied Jim, shortly. "It would be madness to resist if
-they were inclined to spare our lives. But if they want to slay us,
-they'll find one here who strongly objects."
-
-By now, the big native dhow had paid off into her course again, and,
-seeing that she had nothing to fear, came on till within easy
-hailing-distance. Then a huge negro, dressed in gaudy colours, and
-bearing a cutlass in his hand, sprang upon the bulwarks, and shouted to
-them.
-
-"Who are you?" he cried. "And where do you come from?"
-
-Shaking with terror, the master went to the side, and answered that
-there were five besides himself on the vessel, and that she came from
-Aden.
-
-"Where for, and what cargo?" was the next question.
-
-"For the coast, with arms for the Mullah."
-
-"Then we are friends," came the answer. "The Mullah is our master also,
-and we sail the sea in his ship. All whom we capture we send to him to
-swell his forces, while the loot we keep for ourselves. Do you know of
-any trader about to leave the shores on the farther side?"
-
-"Not one," shouted the master, scarcely able to restrain his joy. "But I
-can tell you that a British gunboat is on patrol, and you will do well
-to keep clear of her. Now, good-bye. We must press on at our fastest
-pace."
-
-Going aft to the helm he brought the dhow round, and in another minute
-they were shooting away from the piratical-looking stranger, leaving her
-rolling gently on the water, with her bulwarks lined by a crew of
-natives, of all sorts of every race, who stood there watching the
-smaller vessel depart. Ten minutes later she, too, had turned, and was
-dashing away at a pace which showed how hopeless it would have been for
-the dhow to have attempted to evade her.
-
-The delight of the master and crew of the smaller vessel was immense,
-and they could scarcely contain themselves for joy. They threw
-themselves into one another's arms, leapt high into the air, and shouted
-at the top of their voices. Then they produced a hubble-bubble, and,
-going aft, squatted down close to the steersman, and began to converse
-in loud tones. It was wonderful to see the change in their appearance.
-Whereas, a few minutes before, they had been shaking with terror, and
-prepared to accept their death without so much as a struggle, now they
-held their heads erect, and recounted to one another, in piercing tones,
-the brave deeds which they would have accomplished had the larger dhow
-turned out, after all, to be an enemy.
-
-As for Jim and his friend, they lay full length upon the deck in the
-bows of the vessel, keeping a bright look-out over the bulwarks, and
-apparently undisturbed by the excitement of recent events. But, for all
-that, they were deeply relieved, for the situation had for a time seemed
-desperate.
-
-"I am trying to think what would have happened," whispered Jim, taking
-advantage of the fact that the natives were fully engaged in
-conversation. "Suppose those pirates had compelled us to join them, and
-we had afterwards fallen in with a British ship, we should have been in
-a very awkward position, for we could not have refused to fight."
-
-"We should have found a way out of it somehow, Jim. I noticed that, like
-this dhow, she carried a dinghy on her decks, and we could have taken
-advantage of that and slipped away during the night. But I am glad that
-things have turned out as they have, for now we have a better chance of
-capturing this vessel. Look out! Here's one of the beggars coming to
-talk to us."
-
-As he spoke one of the men aft handed the stem of the hubble-bubble to
-his companion and came running forward.
-
-"The chief bids you come and join us," he cried, and at once returned to
-his old position.
-
-"You stay here, Jim," whispered Tom; "those fellows want a chat, so I'll
-go and smoke with them. If you were to attempt that you would certainly
-fail, for it requires a deal of practice to tackle a hubble-bubble."
-
-Accordingly, leaving Jim on the look-out in the bows of the vessel, Tom
-sauntered aft, and was soon squatting beside the natives. The stem of
-the pipe was at once handed to him, and soon he was engaged in animated
-conversation. It was evident that something had aroused the suspicion of
-the master and his crew, for they questioned him closely. But his
-answers seemed to satisfy them, and in half an hour he returned to Jim's
-side, and taking advantage of the fact that the natives were still
-engaged in animated conversation, began to chat in low tones to him.
-
-"They seem inclined to be very friendly," he said, "but I am not quite
-satisfied. Something--I don't know what it is--seems to have upset them.
-The fact of the matter is they don't quite believe in this silence of
-yours. One man declared that he had seen us exchanging words when the
-pirate bore down upon us. Of course, I said that that was impossible,
-and that he had imagined it. But he was positive, and, I could see, had
-been talking to his fellows. However, the subject dropped, and after a
-time turned to the Mullah. His position was mentioned, and, by
-pretending to know a great deal more about him than I really do, they
-became quite confiding, and told me the number of adherents of which he
-boasted. In the most unconcerned manner, I mentioned that a white
-prisoner had fallen into his hands of late, and I could see at once that
-they knew all about it. But I could get no further information from
-them.
-
-"'Yes,' said their chief, 'a man was thrown upon the shore, and fell
-into the Mullah's hands; but he is only one, whereas, as soon as the
-foolish English advance, hundreds more will be made into slaves.'
-
-"That's all I could get out of him, and so, after changing the
-conversation and having another turn at the hubble-bubble, I rose to my
-feet and returned."
-
-"I'm not surprised to hear that they are suspicious, Tom. I saw one of
-the natives look at us while we were deciding what to do, and if he is
-quite certain that he saw us speaking, he will never be satisfied until
-he has found out all about us. You know what kind of men these fellows
-are, better than I do, and I have no doubt that, rather than run any
-risk in the matter, they would pounce upon us and throw us overboard. I
-advise that we keep watch in turn. It's already getting dark, and, if
-you like, I'll take the first watch. I'll wake you in a couple of hours,
-and you can do the same for me when you have had your turn. Hush! They
-are moving."
-
-Turning his head, Jim saw the natives rise to their feet and disappear
-down the hatchway. Ten minutes later they climbed to the deck again,
-bearing a large dish and a gourd of water, and, having given the
-steersman a drink and placed a pile of food beside him, they advanced to
-the mast and sat down there, motioning to Jim and Tom to join them.
-Gladly did the young fellows obey the summons, for many hours had
-elapsed since they had partaken of any food, and their naturally keen
-appetites were sharpened by the sea air and by the excitement of the
-past few hours. Indeed, up to that moment, so much had occurred that Jim
-had had no time to think of food, for all his thoughts had been
-concentrated upon his surroundings. But the sight of it reminded him at
-once of his long fast, and he joined the group, feeling that it would
-require a large amount to satisfy his hunger.
-
-Squatting around the bowl, they helped themselves to dates, of which
-there was an abundant supply. Simple though the food was it was
-satisfying, and Jim soon returned to his old position, feeling very much
-better. Tom remained for a short while chatting with the natives, and
-then rejoined his friend. It was now evening, and within a few minutes
-darkness fell, for there is scarcely any twilight in the Tropics.
-
-"The night will be a cold one, and the dew heavy," said the master,
-coming up to them. "You had better go down into the hold and sleep
-there. I will post a man up here to keep watch."
-
-"If it is the same to you, we would rather remain where we are," Tom
-answered promptly. "You see, we are not used to this kind of thing, and
-that stuffy hold makes us feel ill. We will ask you to lend us a couple
-of blankets in which to wrap ourselves."
-
-"You shall have them, but you cannot sleep here, for the look-out man
-must stand in this position; but you can go farther along the deck, if
-you like. Come with me now, and I shall give you what you have asked
-for."
-
-Ten minutes later Jim and his friend were wrapped from head to foot in
-thick blankets, and had taken their places close to the bulwark on one
-side, and about the centre of the vessel. As they did so one of the crew
-passed them and went to take his station forward, while the remainder
-proceeded aft, and throwing themselves down upon the deck, prepared to
-sleep. Two hours passed without incident, Tom's heavy breathing telling
-clearly that he was asleep. Then Jim, whose eyes had been wide open all
-the time, touched him gently with his foot, and had the satisfaction of
-seeing that he had awakened his companion. Then curling himself in his
-blanket, he closed his eyes. He could not sleep, however, for, though he
-was tired out with the long day of excitement, his novel position, and
-the thought that danger threatened them, kept him wide awake. He was,
-therefore, fully prepared when Tom stealthily stretched out an arm and
-tugged at his blanket, and at once sat up with his back against the
-bulwark. Once more it was time for his companion's watch, and Jim, who
-was now feeling decidedly drowsy, awoke him and lay down again upon the
-deck. A few minutes later he was fast asleep, and remained so for a
-considerable period. But a shout from Tom suddenly roused him, and,
-starting up, he saw that a struggle was taking place within a few feet
-of him. Dawn was just breaking, and the light enabled him to discover
-the fact that his companion was clasped in the arms of two of the
-natives, who were hustling him towards the bulwarks, and evidently
-endeavouring to throw him overboard.
-
-Springing to his feet, Jim leapt across the deck at one bound, and sent
-his fist crashing into the face of one of Tom's opponents. Then, with a
-shout, he clasped the other by the neck, and, tearing him from his hold,
-sent him reeling across the deck.
-
-"What has happened, Tom?" he asked. "What made them attack you?"
-
-"I can't say," was the breathless answer; "but I deserved to be thrown
-overboard, for I believe I had fallen asleep. At any rate, they were
-upon me before I was aware of it, and, while one held me by the
-shoulders and placed a hand firmly over my mouth, the other caught me by
-the legs, and hustled me to the side. I fought like a cat, and managed
-to free my mouth. But you saved my life, old chap."
-
-"Look out! They are preparing to rush again," cried Jim, in a warning
-voice. "I suppose we must make a fight for it."
-
-As they were talking, the two men who had attacked Tom had picked
-themselves up, and had retired to their comrades, who stood close to the
-helm. That they were disconcerted by the sudden resistance was evident,
-but, seeing only two unarmed young fellows, they forgot their fear, and
-at once prepared to renew the combat. Snatching arms from a pile which
-lay beside them on the deck, they shouted to their comrades to join in
-the struggle, and then came rushing towards Jim and Tom at their fastest
-pace.
-
-It was a critical moment, and might well have unnerved the bravest of
-men. Indeed, Tom was so shaken by the narrow escape he had had, that,
-for a second or two, he did nothing but stare at his opponents, as if
-fascinated. Jim, however, was fully alive to the danger, and promptly
-took measures to protect himself. Without taking his eyes from the
-natives he felt for and grasped the butt of a revolver, and, as they
-approached, presented it at their heads, hesitating to press the trigger
-in the hope that a sight of the weapon would overawe them. But they were
-maddened with rage, and, with shrill cries, came on boldly, waving their
-swords above their heads.
-
-Crack! Jim pressed the trigger ever so gently, and, to his astonishment,
-the report had scarcely rung out upon the air when the leading man
-suddenly tossed his weapon above his head and fell to the deck with a
-crash. A second later, the native who followed him tripped over his
-body, and came sprawling upon all fours, where he lay, stunned by the
-fall.
-
-"Now get ready for the other two," cried Jim. "Pull yourself together,
-Tom, and when they rush, leave me to manage the first one. You can put a
-bullet into the second, if necessary, but we don't want to kill them
-all, if it can be helped. Ah, here they come!"
-
-Undeterred by the quick fate which had befallen their comrades, the
-master of the dhow advanced cautiously along the deck, accompanied by
-the steersman, and armed with an enormous double-handed sword, which he
-held well before him. The steersman snatched at one of the guns which
-had been loaded in preparation for the attack of the pirate on the
-previous evening, and sinking upon one knee, took steady aim in Jim's
-direction. He was in the act of firing it when Tom, who had suddenly
-come to his senses, took a snapshot at him with his revolver, in the
-hope of killing him before he could do any harm. But the bullet flew
-wide of the mark, and striking the bulwarks, buried itself deep in the
-wood. An instant later there was a loud report, and, to Jim's amazement,
-the folds of linen which were bound about his head flew high into the
-air, while he staggered back, feeling as though someone had struck him
-violently.
-
-But he was not the lad to give way without a struggle, or to cry out
-before he was hurt. Starting forward a pace or two, he levelled his
-revolver at the man who had just fired, and who was, at that moment,
-engaged in reaching for another gun. Sighting carefully, and with the
-utmost coolness, he pressed gently upon the trigger, and had the
-satisfaction of seeing the native start to his feet with a shriek of
-pain, and then collapse suddenly upon the deck.
-
-"And now for the master!" he said quietly, turning to Tom. "Tell him
-that if he moves a pace forward we will shoot him like a dog."
-
-"Drop your weapon!" Tom at once shouted, advancing towards the man,
-revolver in hand. "We have already killed two of your number, and will
-shoot you also, if you show the slightest wish to continue the conflict.
-Drop your sword, I say, and hands up!"
-
-"You are too strong for us," answered the native humbly, letting his
-weapon tumble with a crash to the deck. "Spare my life, and I promise
-not to attack you again."
-
-"That's right! And now, wake this fellow up," continued Tom, pointing to
-the man who had been stunned, and who was now recovering consciousness.
-"When you've done that, go aft, and send him into the bows; but before
-doing so, you can repeat to him what I have said."
-
-Meekly obeying these commands, the master of the vessel went to his
-fallen comrade and shook him savagely. Then he dragged him to his feet,
-and shouting words of warning in his ear, sent him forward, retiring
-himself to the helm.
-
-"And now let us see to these other fellows," said Jim. "I expect the
-first is dead, for I fired at close quarters, and aimed plump at the
-middle of his chest. The second was a longer and more difficult shot,
-and may not have proved fatal."
-
-Keeping their revolvers in their hands, in case of treachery, they
-crossed the deck to the fallen native, and turned him upon his back, Jim
-in vain attempting to disguise the horror with which the sight filled
-him.
-
-"Dead!" he said in a whisper. "It's terrible to think that I killed
-him."
-
-"I dare say it is, old boy," Tom answered calmly. "But then, you see, it
-would have been far more terrible if he had run you through with this
-murderous-looking sword, and had then thrown you into the sea. It's not
-nice, I admit, to feel that that ugly-looking wound is due to your
-bullet, but then, you know, he fully deserved it, for he had every
-intention of killing you, and, as you saw, did his best to rid the world
-of my presence. So, cheer up, Jim. It was a splendid shot, and I'm still
-marvelling at your pluck and coolness. If it hadn't been for you, I
-really believe that our bodies would have been floating a mile or more
-astern by now, a prey to the sharks, for I was completely unhinged by my
-struggle with them. You behaved grandly, I tell you, and you saved both
-my life and your own."
-
-"I don't think so," replied Jim modestly. "You see, I couldn't very well
-have behaved in any other way. Your shout awakened me with a start to
-find you fighting with those two ruffians. Naturally, I went to your
-help, and as an Englishman's first weapons are his fists, I used mine
-with a result that fairly astonished me. After that, everything was, of
-course, plain sailing."
-
-"There's no plain sailing at all about it, Jim, my boy," said Tom
-sharply, "and I'm not going to allow you to run down the share you took
-in the matter. You behaved splendidly, and with the greatest pluck,
-while I made a fool of myself. First of all, I fell asleep when I should
-have been keeping careful watch, and then I was so thoroughly upset by
-the attack made upon me that I was practically useless. But there, I can
-see you don't like the subject, so I'll say no more. Shake hands! That's
-right. I feel better now."
-
-"Then let us look at this other fellow, Tom."
-
-Walking along the deck, they knelt down beside the second native who had
-fallen, and turning him over, at once saw that he was dead, for he had
-been struck in the neck.
-
-"A lucky shot," said Jim, looking pityingly at the man.
-
-"And mine was an execrable one!" exclaimed Tom, in disgust. "It almost
-lost you your life. Let's look at your head."
-
-"Yes, it was a narrow shave, Tom, but I was so excited that I forgot all
-about it in a moment. George! Look at that!"
-
-Jim placed his hand to his head, and withdrew it with a long curl of
-dark hair, which had been neatly severed by the bullet.
-
-"Yes," he repeated, "it was a close shave, and I never want another like
-it. Indeed, I have very much to be thankful for, for had the gun been
-aimed half an inch lower, my head would have been shattered, and I
-should be lying like that poor fellow there."
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER VI
-
-ON AFRICAN SHORES
-
-
-There was no doubt that Jim had good cause to be thankful, for his had
-been an extremely narrow escape; and as he turned away from his
-companion, he was quite overcome at the thought, for this was the very
-first time he had known what it was to be face to face with death.
-Burying his face in his hands, so that Tom should not see his emotion,
-he stood there, leaning upon the bulwark, for at least five minutes.
-Then suddenly he roused himself, and went to join his comrade, who
-respecting his feelings, had walked away to the other side of the deck.
-
-"Well, Tom," he said cheerfully, "the expedition has so far proved an
-undoubted success, and this gun-runner is safely in our hands. The next
-question to be considered is what we are to do with her. You said that
-you would probably sail her back to Aden; but doesn't it seem a shame,
-now that we are almost within sight of Africa, to return to our
-starting-point?"
-
-"It does, Jim; and I am in hopes that that will not be necessary. As far
-as I have been able to make out, we have held steadily upon our course
-since we left Aden; and in that case the gunboat should soon catch us
-up. I propose that we remain where we are until she comes up with us,
-and then we'll ask them to do us the favour of taking us on to Berbera.
-They'll be glad enough to help us, for this capture will appear in their
-names, and will be a feather in the captain's cap, though he will not
-fail to give us the credit that is due to us. You see, it wouldn't do to
-publish the full facts of the case, for, if the natives learnt that I
-had a hand in the capture, my life would not be worth an hour's
-purchase, and I should have to leave Aden for good and all. But, I
-say----"
-
-"What?" asked Jim. "You were about to suggest something."
-
-"About those fellows there, old man," Tom replied, pointing to the
-bodies of the natives.
-
-"They're not very pleasant objects to look at, Tom; and if you think it
-right, I vote that we tie some weights to them and throw them over the
-side. Half a dozen guns should be sufficient if we cannot find anything
-better. What do you think of the plan?"
-
-"It will have to be done sooner or later, Jim, and I think had better be
-carried out at once. Let's slip down into the hold and see what we can
-find. But--that would not do, for there is no trusting these native
-beggars; and it's more than possible that while we were beneath decks
-they would play a trick upon us."
-
-"That has occurred to me, too, Tom; but from the look of them, I don't
-think we have much to fear. They are thoroughly cowed, and go in terror
-of our revolvers. I'll wait here at the stern while you go below. Just
-order the master to go forward, so that I can keep an eye upon both of
-them. If they show signs of wishing to attack me, I'll shout, and you
-can hop up to my help."
-
-"That will do famously," answered Tom. "Look here," he continued,
-addressing the late commander of the dhow, who stood a few paces away,
-watching his captors through the corners of his eyes, "get away forward
-to your comrade, and sit upon the deck. If either of you attempts to
-move, you will be shot. So take good care to keep absolutely still, for
-my friend is a capital shot, as you have been able to see for yourself."
-
-The precaution was a wise one; but a glance at the two prisoners showed
-that it was scarcely necessary, for all their courage had fled. Indeed,
-at the mention of Jim's prowess with the revolver, they shivered
-visibly, while their eyes wandered to the two figures lying upon the
-deck.
-
-"You can trust us to be still," said the master humbly. "We have seen
-your bravery, and know that we are beaten. Promise that you will spare
-our lives."
-
-"I can make no promise at all," answered Tom sternly. "You have been
-caught in the act of carrying arms to the Mullah, and in aiding the
-enemies of the Government, and to the latter you must answer."
-
-"What is the talk about?" asked Jim at this moment; for, being entirely
-ignorant of the language, he could not even guess the drift of the
-conversation. "I hear you chatting away to these fellows, and long to be
-able to join in and understand what is said. I've quite made up my mind
-that, at the first opportunity, I shall begin to take lessons."
-
-"He is asking me to promise them their lives," explained Tom, "and I
-have told him that it is impossible, and that someone else will have to
-do that for them."
-
-"But you could say that you would speak for them," exclaimed Jim, a
-sudden thought occurring to him.
-
-"And why? You seem to forget, old boy, that a few minutes ago these
-fellows were doing their best to kill us. And now you want to help them
-to escape the punishment which they have earned."
-
-Tom became quite indignant at Jim's words, and turned away from him
-impatiently, as if it angered him to listen.
-
-"Steady. Wait until you have heard all that I have to say," cried Jim,
-catching him by the arm and detaining him. "Did you not tell me that one
-of the crew knew more than he would admit about that white prisoner of
-the Mullah?"
-
-"Yes, that is the case," answered Tom, unable as yet to follow his
-companion's meaning.
-
-"Well," continued Jim eagerly, "these fellows deserve to lose their
-lives, but, you know, the Government are no more fond of hanging people
-than we are. You could, therefore, safely say to them that you would
-speak on their behalf on certain conditions. Don't you see my point
-now?"
-
-"By Jove! Of course, I do, Jim! What a duffer I am, to be sure! I'll see
-what I can do at once."
-
-They went along the deck towards the natives, who watched them
-furtively, fearful of what was coming, and expecting at any moment to be
-shot where they sat.
-
-"I have talked this matter over with my friend," said Tom sternly,
-addressing the man who had commanded the captured dhow. "We both agree
-that we should be within our rights if we shot you. But you have asked
-me to promise you your lives, and I am inclined to do so on certain
-conditions. The first is that you solemnly promise to remain faithful to
-us until we hand you over to the Government; and the second, that you
-tell us all you know about this white man who recently fell into the
-hands of the Mullah."
-
-"We shall fall in with your wishes gladly," replied the native, scarcely
-able to repress a shout of joy. "We solemnly declare that we will be
-true to you, and will not venture to attack you. As for the other
-matter, we do not know much, but we have heard that the prisoner was a
-soldier, what the Hindoos in Aden call a 'sahib.'"
-
-"He says that the prisoner was an officer," explained Tom, turning to
-Jim, so that he should be able to follow the conversation.
-
-"Ask him if he heard the name," was the eager reply.
-
-"My friend wishes to know more," said Tom, continuing his interrogation.
-"What was the name of this prisoner?"
-
-"That I cannot say; but he was 'sahib' and 'colonel,' so the man who
-told me of his capture said."
-
-Jim was listening eagerly, vainly endeavouring to understand all that
-passed, and he could have leapt for joy when Tom translated the man's
-answer.
-
-"That settles it, then," he said. "Up to this there has been some doubt
-as to whether my father was the man who reached shore alive, but now I
-am certain that it was he; for I have been through the list of
-passengers, and there was only one colonel on board, and he, of course,
-was Colonel Hubbard."
-
-"I think you are right in what you say," answered Tom, after a pause. "I
-must confess that, until this moment, I have been very doubtful, far I
-happen to know that nine British officers out of ten wear a watch
-bracelet upon their wrists. It is a habit which seems to have become
-general during the Boer war. Still, the fact that this survivor was
-tall, and in other respects corresponded with your father, made it
-possible that it would turn out to be he. Now, however, the question is
-settled, for, no doubt, when the Mullah's men captured him he gave his
-name, hoping that that would cause them to release him. They know quite
-sufficient of the British to feel sure that a colonel is a man of some
-importance, and they must have boasted of it. That's how the news has
-got to this fellow's ears. Yes, I think you may take it as certain that
-your father is the white prisoner spoken of, for if not, who else could
-it be?"
-
-"There is no doubt about it," answered Jim emphatically. "I was never
-very doubtful, and now any fears I may have had are absolutely set at
-rest. But ask him more, Tom. For instance, perhaps he knows where father
-has been taken, and whether he is being well treated."
-
-Turning again to the native, Tom plied him with question after question,
-and was able to elicit the fact that the white prisoner was constantly
-with the Mullah, who often changed his whereabouts. Also that he acted
-as a slave, but was safe for the time being.
-
-"How long he will continue to be sure of his life I cannot say," the
-master continued thoughtfully. "But I feel certain that if the Mullah
-suffers at the hands of the British troops, he will avenge himself by
-slaying the white man. Indeed, I wonder at his allowing him to remain
-alive so long, for all those who are not of his own colour and religion
-are his bitter enemies, and he slays them without remorse."
-
-"So you can feel easy about his safety for a time," said Tom, as he
-discussed the facts with Jim; "we know that the Government is making
-preparations for a general advance, and that nothing can be done till
-all is absolutely ready. I should say that we have quite two months, and
-perhaps more than that, in which to effect his rescue."
-
-"We must try to do it in two weeks, if that is at all possible," said
-Jim with decision. "You see, there is always an element of doubt, and
-until my father is out of the Mullah's hands, I do not think we can ever
-consider him out of danger. These native beggars are cruel and
-capricious; at least, so I have always been given to understand. He
-might order his prisoner to be killed in his rage at hearing that the
-British were preparing to attack him, and even might make the capture of
-these guns sufficient excuse to execute father. It is horrible to
-imagine such a thing."
-
-"Don't be down-hearted, old boy," exclaimed Tom encouragingly. "If you
-allow yourself to think in that way, you will be miserable. Make up your
-mind that your gov'nor is alive and well, and badly in need of his
-freedom; and that you are going to bring it to him. That's the way to
-look at the matter."
-
-"You're right," answered Jim with a sigh of relief.
-
-"Better look at the bright side of things, and just put all one's back
-into the task. Yes, that is the way, I'm sure; and by Jove! I'll do as
-you advise, and what's more, I'll rescue father, or die in the attempt."
-
-"Spoken like a man! If you say that you'll carry the job out
-successfully, I am sure that that is half the battle, and that you will
-get along ever so much better. I can tell you this, that I will help you
-to the best of my power, for this expedition has taken my fancy; and
-besides, Jim, I owe you something. Remember that half an hour ago you
-saved my life. I want to pay back the debt, you know; and how could I do
-it better than by standing beside you in this affair?"
-
-There was no doubt that Tom was thoroughly in earnest, for he spoke with
-a vigour to which his companion was unused, and to show how deeply he
-felt, grasped him firmly by the hand.
-
-"Thank you," Jim answered, returning the clasp with one as warm. "As to
-the debt, I fancy that we are quits, for, had you not stood by me, we
-should both have been like those two poor fellows there. Let's get rid
-of them. I cannot bear to look at them, for it reminds me that it was I
-who caused their death."
-
-"Right. We'll set these two natives to work, for they will understand it
-better."
-
-Tom beckoned to the master, and gave him instructions to tie half a
-dozen guns to each corpse, and then consign them to the sea. When that
-necessary but unpleasant task was satisfactorily accomplished, he
-ordered the two prisoners into the bows again, and retired with Jim to
-the stern, from which point of vantage they could keep a watch upon
-their prisoners. Not that that was necessary now, for the promise that
-he would speak on their behalf, made by Tom, had put the natives on
-their best behaviour. Indeed, unbidden, they began to sweep the decks,
-and then suggested that they should prepare some food.
-
-"We have taken nothing to break our fast," said the master, coming to
-them as they sat by the tiller. "Is it your wish that I and my comrade
-should go in search of something with which to stave off our hunger?"
-
-"You can go, certainly," answered Tom readily; "but one at a time. It
-does not matter what it is so long as there is sufficient, for we are
-badly in want of food."
-
-In a short time the master returned and placed before them a plate of
-dried meat and some pieces of wheaten cake. This they devoured with the
-utmost satisfaction, completing the repast with a copious draught of
-cool water. Then both rose to their feet, and began to patrol the deck,
-for after having lived ashore for the greater part of one's existence,
-the craving for movement, for exercise of some description, when aboard
-a ship of such small proportions as the dhow, is very great. Half an
-hour later Jim gave vent to a sudden shout of joy and pointed astern.
-
-"What do you make of that?" he asked in excited tones.
-
-"No, not there, but more to the left."
-
-Stretching out his arm so that his companion could follow the direction,
-he pointed to the horizon, where a faint streak of dark colour was
-visible. Tom looked at it for some minutes without answering, but at
-last he turned to Jim with smiling features, which told that he had
-guessed at the origin of the cloud.
-
-"It's the gunboat, sure enough," he said, "and I tell you that it lifts
-a weight from my mind. You see, things have been rather uncertain, and
-there is no doubt that we have been in great danger. Of course, we came
-through this scuffle remarkably well, but if that pirate fellow had
-turned up again we should have been in a nasty mess. There can be no
-doubt that the patch of dark colour on the horizon is a steamer of some
-sort, and I fancy it will turn out to be the gunboat, for this is right
-out of the track of ordinary shipping, and though a few steamers are
-just now engaged in bringing stores to Berbera for the Mullah's
-expedition, I happen to know that none were leaving Aden during this
-week. So we can take it for certain that that is the gunboat, and I can
-tell you I am jolly glad. Won't it be grand when she comes alongside and
-finds the capture already made!"
-
-"It ought to get you promotion, at any rate," answered Jim. "After all,
-when you come to look at the matter quietly, you must admit that it was
-rather a risky thing to do. Who else would have thought of making up as
-a Somali native and shipping aboard the very dhow upon the capture of
-which you were bent? Mind you, I take no credit to myself for that part
-of the adventure. It was you who planned the whole thing, and I think
-you deserve no end of praise. But, I say, look at her again."
-
-By now the dark streak had developed into a low-lying hull, which was
-fast coming up from the horizon. Very soon a stumpy mast could be seen,
-poking up barely into the blue sky, and, within twenty minutes, Jim and
-Tom could even make out her guns, two of which stood amidships, and
-formed her only broadside, an amply sufficient one in such waters. Half
-an hour had barely passed before the gunboat came rushing alongside,
-surging through the swell, and sending the foam seething in a broad band
-of white from her cut-water. Then she put her helm hard over, and
-turning upon her heel in the space of a few seconds, and with a heave
-which caused her to roll her scuppers into the sea, she came up on the
-other quarter, and lay to, with the muzzle of one of her quick-firers
-grinning at the occupants of the dhow.
-
-"Dhow ahoy!" came in stentorian tones. "Who's that?" shouted Tom in
-reply, springing upon the bulwark to obtain a better look. "Is it
-Humphreys?" "Yes; and who are you?" "Government agent from Aden," sang
-out Tom, refraining from giving his name, for, had he done so, the
-natives would have heard, and it would have become common property
-before very long. "I want to hand over this vessel to you. She's full of
-cheap guns, which were going to the Mullah. We've a couple of prisoners,
-too."
-
-"Bravo! Congratulate you!" was shouted from the gunboat, while at the
-same moment a figure, clad from head to foot in snowy white, leapt upon
-the diminutive bridge and signalled to the dhow. "We'll come right
-alongside, and then you can slip aboard, and give us the tale. Any
-casualties?"
-
-"None, I'm glad to say, though one, if not both, of us, was nearly
-killed. But we shot two of the crew, and threw their bodies overboard
-half an hour ago."
-
-"Look out for us now," was shouted from the gunboat. "If you have a rope
-fender, or two, you might sling them overboard. Our plates are too thin
-to stand bumping, even against the wooden sides of your dhow."
-
-Jim saw the commander of the gunboat grasp the handle of the telegraph,
-and, so short was the distance intervening between the two vessels, that
-he could actually hear the tinkle of the bell sounding down in the
-engine-room. Then the screws whirled around, the blades churning the
-waters of the gulf into white foam, which went hissing and frothing
-along the sides of the vessel as she ran astern. Five minutes later, she
-was securely fastened to the dhow, great care being taken to place
-several thick rope fenders between the vessels, together with some fibre
-matting which happened to be aboard the dhow. No sooner was all to his
-liking than the captain of the gunboat stepped on to the bulwark of his
-own vessel, and leapt lightly upon the deck of the one which Jim and his
-companion had contrived to capture. A particularly smart officer he
-looked, too, in his spruce and neatly cut white drill-clothing. Coming
-forward, with outstretched hand, he advanced towards Tom with a smile of
-welcome.
-
-"Glad to see you--heartily glad to see you!" he said. "'Pon my word,
-when the Governor told me for what I was wanted, and packed me off
-post-haste last night, I quite thought I was on a wild-goose chase. It
-seemed to me that you and your young friend must have run your heads
-into a perfect hornets'-nest, and I tell you, had I come across your
-bodies floating in the sea, I should not have been by any means
-astonished. But I'm bound to say that the Governor, though fully
-realizing the extent of the danger, thought far better of your chances
-than I did. You see, I've often met you before and known you in the Club
-at Aden as a clerk in the Civil Service, and as a particularly good
-billiard-player. And to hear suddenly that you were an Intelligence
-officer, who was notorious for success in worming out the secrets of the
-natives, was quite astonishing, for you must understand that I always
-looked upon you as a peaceful sort of fellow."
-
-"And so I am," laughed Tom. "You see, I've lived the best part of my
-life in Aden, so that to appear as a native is nothing out of the way
-for me. I am so thoroughly used to it that I run very little danger. But
-it's different with my friend here, for he is only just from school, and
-doesn't understand a word of the language, and yet he boldly came with
-me; and if it had not been for his help, I can honestly say that this
-would have proved my last adventure. But he turned out trumps, and
-proved to be as cool and steady as an old hand, and thoroughly plucky
-into the bargain. But, I say, let me introduce him. Jim Hubbard--Captain
-Humphreys."
-
-"Glad to meet you, and I congratulate you on coming so well out of your
-first engagement," said the officer, gripping Jim by the hand. "Never
-been under fire before, I suppose, and never seen men fighting in real
-earnest?"
-
-"Never!" answered Jim, returning the handshake with equal fervour; for
-the captain of the gunboat was an open-hearted, cheery individual, to
-whom one was bound to take on the instant. "I must admit, too, that the
-experience for the first time was far from pleasant; and if it hadn't
-been that the fighting came suddenly, and before I was really prepared
-for it, I am sure I should have been in a regular funk. You see, waiting
-always did upset me. I was the same at school when I was in for a
-licking, and had orders to attend in a few hours at the Doctor's study.
-I'm too impatient, I suppose, and employ the interval in imagining all
-kinds of awful things. But I'm sorry to say that I killed two of the
-natives during the struggle."
-
-Jim looked the captain steadily in the face, and then flushed guiltily,
-for it appeared to him a terrible admission to have to make.
-
-"I know what you feel, my lad," was the hasty answer, given with an
-encouraging smack upon the back. "But that's the fortune of war, you
-know, and everyone has the same regrets at first. Why, I remember how
-terribly upset I was when I sent a bullet into the body of a rascally
-slave-dealer. It thoroughly unnerved me when I looked at the fellow
-afterwards. But my chief took me aside, and just put the matter to me as
-I have to you. You may take it from me, that if you engage in adventures
-of this sort, you will kill more men before you have done, though always
-in self-defence. It's just that that helps one to get over the feeling."
-
-"And now about the dhow," interposed Tom. "She's full up to her hatches
-with cheap guns and ammunition, and I now hand her over to you. In
-return, I ask you, if you possibly can, to take us to Berbera, for we
-are bound for Africa."
-
-"So the Governor told me, and you may rely on it that I shall do as you
-ask, for I know how important it is for you both to make an early start
-into the interior. You say that the dhow is full of cheap arms. If that
-is the case, they are unlikely to prove of any use to the Government,
-and we should not be thanked for bringing them back. I'll just pop
-below, and look for myself, and then we'll put a charge of gun-cotton
-into her and blow her to pieces. It will be the cheapest and best plan
-in the end. But you may rely upon it, Dixon, that I shall make a full
-report to the Governor, and if there is no promotion in your particular
-branch, then I prophesy that your salary will be increased, for there
-is no doubt that this is a most important capture. Indeed, had all these
-guns reached the Mullah, so many more lives would be lost in the coming
-expedition. So you can see for yourself what good service you have
-done."
-
-"It's very good of you to say so, Humphreys," answered Tom, "and I will
-only ask you, while mentioning the fact to the Governor, to be sure that
-my name is not published in connection with the capture, for it is
-important for me to continue to be known as a simple clerk in the Civil
-Service."
-
-The captain of the gunboat readily assented to this proposal, and then,
-stepping along the deck, quickly disappeared through the hatchway. Ten
-minutes later he appeared again, and returned aboard his own vessel. An
-order was given, and within a short while a couple of seamen went into
-the hold of the dhow, where they remained for half an hour. Meanwhile,
-the lashings which connected the two vessels were cast off, the fenders
-and matting removed, and all aboard the dhow, except the men who were
-placing the fuse, were ordered to leave and take up their quarters upon
-the gunboat. Five minutes later the two British tars appeared, and when
-they had joined their own ship again, she sheered off from the low-lying
-gun-runner. When she had run a mile at the top of her speed, she went
-about, and stopped her engines. And there, with eyes fixed upon the
-distant vessel, all waited for the explosion that was to rend her to
-pieces and send her cargo to the bottom.
-
-Bang! The roar of the bursting fuse could be loudly heard, followed by a
-spurt of fire which rose high into the air, accompanied by a dense
-column of smoke. As the latter cleared away, all looked to see what had
-become of the dhow, but not a vestige of her was to be seen.
-
-"The Mullah will grieve for her, and will grind his teeth with rage when
-he learns that the freight of guns and ammunition is lost to him,"
-laughed Captain Humphreys. "But we can smile, for we have done a good
-turn to those who are going with the expedition. And now, I want to ask
-you young fellows whether you intend to land as you are. If you would
-prefer to change into European costume, I have plenty of togs aboard
-which will fit you, and to which you are heartily welcome."
-
-For the moment neither answered, but each looked at the other, as if
-awaiting a reply.
-
-"I've been thinking the matter out," said Jim at length, "and I've come
-to the conclusion that we should be wise to make no alteration in our
-dress. Secrecy seems to me to be the object at which we particularly
-aim. Now, if we take advantage of your kind offer, and appear as
-Englishmen, our coming will certainly be noticed at Berbera."
-
-"No doubt about it, Hubbard," said Captain Humphreys decisively. "Like
-Aden, Berbera has a very large native population, consisting, for the
-most part, of Arabs. The landing of a couple of Somali men would pass
-unnoticed, whereas it is perfectly certain that each white man causes a
-stir. He becomes the subject of conversation in the bazaars, and if his
-mission to the town is not perfectly clear, it sets every native
-wondering. Of course, if you were officers come to join the troops
-there, you would arouse no further interest. But as you are not that,
-and not traders, then for what reason have you come to Berbera? That's
-how these fellows look at such a matter, and they're cute enough and
-curious enough to go more deeply into it. Therefore, I think you will be
-wise to make no change in your dress."
-
-"And I fully agree," cried Tom. "Our aim, as Jim has just said, is to
-arouse no curiosity, and to maintain our incognito. That can be best
-done by appearing as Somali natives. Once ashore, we can go to the
-Consul's to tell him our plans, and from there we shall strike straight
-away for the camp, where Ali Kumar awaits us with the followers. The
-same night we shall disappear, and when we have received our baggage and
-stores, and put a day's march between ourselves and the coast-line, we
-can get rid of this paint and these long white robes, and reappear in
-our ordinary costume."
-
-"And now for a meal!" interposed the commander of the gunboat. "I expect
-you two fellows will be glad of one, for the grub aboard that dhow must
-have been of the coarsest. Let me see, it's a hundred and forty miles
-from Aden across to Berbera, and I reckon we have already steamed the
-greater part of the distance. By the time we come on deck again the
-coast should be in sight, and shortly after noon we should be at our
-destination."
-
-Accordingly, the trio descended to the tiny cabin, where they did ample
-justice to an excellent luncheon. Then they chatted for an hour before
-going on deck again. When they did so, it was to discover a low-lying
-coast before them, with purple headlands, and a long range of hazy blue
-hills in the distance. Indeed, at the first glance, it was a
-hospitable-looking coast, for the sand-dunes and the desolate, treeless
-wastes were not visible. Soon Berbera itself was sighted, and the
-gunboat was headed for the harbour, which seemed to be filled with
-trading dhows, and with a few steamers of small size, which had come
-there with stores for the troops. Half an hour later they were safely
-moored inside.
-
-Jim and his companion took farewell of the captain, and watched him as
-he was rowed to the tumble-down pier which did duty as a landing-place.
-Then, as the dusk of evening fell, they put off in a small dinghy which
-the gunboat carried, and were landed at a deserted part of the town.
-Stealing away in the darkness, they were soon lost among the Arab
-streets, and had the satisfaction of feeling that their expedition was
-to begin under the best auspices. For who would take the trouble to
-enquire about them? Captain Humphreys had impressed upon his men the
-need for silence, while the two prisoners who had been captured with the
-dhow could do them no harm, for they were at that moment in irons
-beneath the deck of the gunboat, and likely to remain there until they
-were thrown into prison at Aden.
-
-It was, therefore, in the highest spirits that they sauntered through
-the town, and made their way towards the British Consul's.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER VII
-
-THE "MAD" MULLAH
-
-
-"You'll know the house where the British Consul lives immediately you
-set eyes upon it," Captain Humphreys had said, when giving directions to
-Jim and his friend. "It's a long, low-lying bungalow, surrounded by
-quite a little forest of trees, and has the reputation of being one of
-the coolest in Berbera. As soon as you are ashore, you must pass through
-the Arab town, and bear towards the harbour again. I shall go to him at
-once, and will tell him that you are coming, and arrange for the door of
-his sitting-room to be left open. Of course, it gives entrance from the
-verandah, and all you will have to do will be to walk straight through
-the compound and into the room. I leave it to yourselves to get there
-without being seen."
-
-Accordingly, acting upon this advice, they made their way slowly through
-the narrow and dirty streets of the town, remarking how clean the
-white-washed houses looked in contrast with the filth and squalor
-around. Here and there a smoky oil-lamp glimmered, allowing them to
-catch glimpses of huddled figures sitting in the doorways, swathed from
-head to foot in robes of white. At length they reached the outskirts,
-and seeing a belt of trees before them, at once turned in that
-direction. Nestling in the centre of this plantation was a low building,
-the windows of which were brightly illuminated. For a minute or more the
-two stood in the deep shadow cast by the trees, and took careful stock
-of the dwelling.
-
-"There's the room which we must aim for," said Jim, in a whisper,
-suddenly pointing to the farther end. "Look! you can see that the door
-leading on to the verandah is wide open. Let us creep along in the
-shadow until we are directly opposite; then we shall be able to see
-whether there is anyone waiting in there for us. If none of the native
-servants are to be seen walking about, we'll cut straight across and
-slip in. After that we'll ask the Consul to draw the blinds, and shut
-out the light, for it would look funny, and would certainly give rise to
-a good deal of chatter, if we were observed in conversation with His
-Excellency."
-
-"I follow. It's very good advice; and, upon my word, you are becoming a
-regular conspirator," laughed Tom. "I quite thought when we started out
-upon this expedition that I should constantly have to warn you to be
-cautious; but really, you seem to have taken to your new _role_ as a
-duck does to water, and I am sure that no one could lay his plans with
-more care and discretion than you do. Come along. I quite agree that the
-room yonder is the one in which we are to have our interview."
-
-Stealing along in the dense shadow cast by the thick growth of leaves
-overhead, Jim soon reached a point exactly opposite the farther end of
-the building, and at once threw himself upon the ground, for a dusky
-figure suddenly appeared between himself and the brilliantly lit window
-beyond. It was a native servant; of that there was little doubt, for he
-stood there, leaning against one of the verandah posts, sharply
-silhouetted against the rays cast by a tall standard lamp.
-
-"Hush, Tom!" Jim whispered, turning to find his comrade close beside
-him. "Lie down, for I can see someone over there."
-
-"And there's a man in the room," was the answer. "See, he's getting up
-now and coming our way."
-
-As he spoke a tall figure, clad in white, and with a red cummerbund
-about his waist, suddenly appeared at the open window, and catching
-sight of the native, addressed him angrily.
-
-"Be off!" he cried sharply. "Have I not frequently given the order that
-no one is to come upon this side of the verandah at night? Be off, then,
-I say, or I shall find a means to sharpen your memory."
-
-The words had effect at once, for the servant salaamed, and retired
-hastily.
-
-"Now is our time," said Jim. "Let's walk quickly across."
-
-Leaving the shadow of the trees, the two started across the open space
-at a sharp walk, and mounted the verandah. A few steps forward took them
-into the room, when they at once crossed to the farther side, so as to
-be well away from the window.
-
-"Excuse me," said the gentleman who was present, and who had betrayed no
-astonishment at their sudden entry. "I'll just shut the window, and let
-down these thick rolls of matting, for, you know, it wouldn't do quite
-for the Consul at Berbera, the representative of the great 'Sirkal,' as
-the British Government is known, to be seen engaging in an animated
-conversation with two of the very tribe against which our forces are
-about to march. It would look queer, particularly at this time of the
-day, and would set the town agog."
-
-Gently pulling the sash to, he lowered the blinds, and then turned with
-smiling face to his visitors.
-
-"Very glad to see you," he said, coming forward, and shaking both by the
-hand. "I have already had a communication from the Governor of Aden, who
-writes to me that he has had orders from the Foreign Office to help you
-as far as is possible. Short of providing you with troops, or an armed
-following, I am prepared to do anything that lies in my power, for, Mr.
-Hubbard, I have the pleasure of your father's acquaintance. But putting
-that aside altogether, it is the nature of Englishmen to stand by one
-another, whatever the trouble, and this, I think, is just the case in
-which we should do our utmost to give assistance. Now, sit down there,
-and tell me what I can do for you."
-
-"I hardly know," answered Jim, after having thanked him for his kind
-offer of assistance; "but if you will allow the dhow which is to bring
-our guns and baggage to land her cargo without question or molestation,
-we shall be greatly obliged. We have decided to go straight from here to
-the camp in which our followers are quartered. To-morrow morning we hope
-to have disappeared, and a week from this we should be in the heart of
-Somaliland. Should you obtain news of us after we have gone, will you
-kindly forward it to Mr. Andrews at Aden, who will telegraph home to my
-uncle?"
-
-"Make your mind easy about the dhow," said the Consul. "The Governor at
-Aden gave his authority for it to sail, and the gunboat which blew up
-that rascally vessel which was carrying weapons for the Mullah has been
-quietly warned to look the other way. As for news of you, it is quite
-probable that I shall occasionally hear some, for we have many spies in
-various parts of the country, who are well paid to bring in information.
-Thanks to them, we know a good deal about the Mullah and his movements,
-though I am bound to confess that their word is not always reliable.
-But Mr. Dixon and yourself will have excellent opportunities of
-obtaining an insight into the true condition of affairs, and I may tell
-you that we are hoping to derive great benefit from your expedition."
-
-"You shall have all that we can get," exclaimed Jim, "but I must admit
-that at the present moment I have only the haziest idea of this
-gentleman whom you call the 'Mad' Mullah. In fact, until a month ago, I
-should have found it very difficult to explain precisely the whereabouts
-of Somaliland."
-
-"In that you are like the majority of people, I fancy," laughed the
-Consul. "Hitherto the minds of the public have been fully occupied with
-other parts of this huge continent. First, there was Egypt, with the
-campaign which ended at Omdurman, and resulted in the reclaiming of the
-Soudan. Then the Boer war began, and whereas scarcely one in ten was
-aware of the position of the two Republics a couple of years ago, now
-everyone could point them out on the map with the greatest ease. You
-must recollect, too, that the Niger, the West Coast, Abyssinia,
-Coomassie, and other parts, are forever engaging public attention, and
-consequently, this strip of country which occupies the north-eastern
-angle of Africa has been overlooked. Suddenly, however, the rising of
-this Mullah and his bands of desperadoes has filled the papers with long
-and interesting articles, and bids fair to arouse as much enquiry as did
-the rising of the fanatics who met our armies at Omdurman.
-
-"But--look here--you're just bound for the interior, and it is as well
-that you should have all the news I am able to give you. Sit down, do,
-and make yourselves quite comfortable. You may feel quite certain that
-we shall not be interrupted, for I have given strict orders to my
-servants that I am not to be disturbed."
-
-The Consul, who was a man of middle age, dragged a chair into a
-convenient position, from which he could easily observe the faces of his
-listeners. Then, seating himself, he gave a preliminary cough.
-
-"Let me see," he said, "I think, then, I had better begin by giving you
-some idea of the class of men you are likely to meet with. Of course, I
-understand that Mr. Dixon is well acquainted with them, in fact, better
-even than I am, for his long residence in Aden has given him many
-advantages. But to you, Mr. Hubbard, the news will be strange, no doubt,
-and may be of service."
-
-"I'm sure it will, and I am eager to hear all about these Somali
-people," exclaimed Jim.
-
-[Illustration: SOMALILAND.]
-
-"Well, I will tell you what I know about them. Up to recent times they
-have been known to us as friendly and harmless people. Many of our
-countrymen have made shooting expeditions into the interior, and all
-have reported that they have met with kindness and courtesy; that the
-natives are intensely fond of sport, and enjoy the pursuit of wild game,
-with which the country abounds. I remember having a long chat with one
-of these great hunters, and he told me that the Somali people are
-entirely different from the 'Fuzzy-Wuzzy,' as the natives of the Soudan
-are jocularly known. They are more like playful children, and are
-extremely excitable. If suddenly thrown into a position of danger, they
-will face it boldly, and are reliable fighters in such circumstances.
-But they are afraid of uncertainties, and that being the case, are of
-little use as soldiers. Then, as I dare say you have already heard, they
-are a scheming and cunning race, so that it is always well to be on the
-best terms with them, for then one has nothing to fear. On the other
-hand, if you incur their hatred, you may look out for squalls, and you
-will find it a wise precaution to put an extra guard over your camels.
-Indeed, the one serious occupation of the Somali is to keep his own
-beasts safe from marauders, and to rob his neighbours of as many as
-possible. Sometimes a few of the men will band together and raid a
-neighbouring tribe. If they are discovered, they fly for their lives;
-for camel-stealing, though a recognized crime in the country, is one
-which is not easily forgiven by those who are attacked, and capture
-means certain death. But the narrow escape is never taken in the light
-of a warning, for, on the very first opportunity another raid will be
-planned and carried out.
-
-"There, I think that will give you a fair idea of the men you will meet
-during your march; but, because I have described them as a friendly
-race, you must not on that account omit to take every precaution. You
-will meet many different tribes, some of which are still friendly to the
-British, but others which have gone over to the Mullah, whose emissaries
-are busily at work stirring them up against the white people.
-
-"As for this man, whom we all speak of as the 'Mad' Mullah, he is, I
-have little doubt, an unscrupulous ruffian. To the Somali he is known as
-Hadji Mahomed Abdullah. He belongs to the Habr Suleiman section of the
-Ogaden tribe, who have their hunting-grounds in the southwest of the
-country. He married into the Ali Ghiri, a Dolbahanta tribe, and is,
-therefore, connected with a great number of people. But what has given
-him such a powerful position in Somaliland is the fact that he has made
-several pilgrimages to Mecca, and, consequently, is considered a man of
-deep wisdom, and 'hadji,' or holy, as the word is understood here. For
-some time he has travelled about Somaliland, pillaging the various
-districts and attacking the peaceful tribes. But it was not until he
-quarrelled with a certain tribe living in our Protectorate that we took
-any notice of him. Then we began to gather troops, so as to attack him.
-Having pillaged the land in this direction, he struck off towards the
-Abyssinian frontier, and flung himself and his hordes of desperadoes
-upon the men of that race who happened to be stationed there. I am happy
-to say that they beat him handsomely, so that he was forced to fly. For
-some time we heard little more of him, and, no doubt, during all that
-while he was busily collecting men and arms, the latter being
-considerably harder to obtain than the former. But there are some
-rascals who will do anything for money, and amongst them, I regret to
-say, are a few white people, who, at considerable risk, run cargoes of
-inferior guns to the coast, and sell them at an exorbitant price,
-careless of the consequences to the peaceful nations who live within
-touch of the Mullah.
-
-"In due time his preparations were completed, and he then began to give
-us further trouble. First, it was by raiding a tribe who lived under our
-protection, and then by stealing camels from Berbera itself. In one way
-and another he has steadily made himself a pest to the country, and as
-he is as cruel as he is unscrupulous, the people have suffered terribly
-at his hands.
-
-"And now to tell you why Britain should concern herself with the Mullah.
-The Italians, the French, and ourselves, each hold a Protectorate over a
-large tract of country along this northern coast of Africa, and there is
-really no more reason why we should take up the quarrel any more than
-the others. But then, you know, Britain has always been the one friend
-of the oppressed. It has been our policy for generations, and we are
-known the world over as a fighting race who love freedom and hate the
-oppressor. Look at the manner in which we subdued the Soudan at enormous
-cost to ourselves, and yet without benefit to our country. This is a
-sample of the work we do, and we are about to repeat the same process
-here. Indeed, we have already made one successful attempt, during which
-we beat the Mullah with heavy loss to himself, and caused him to
-retreat. But a holy man, in a country like this, has extraordinary
-power, and the Mullah rapidly took advantage of that fact. Within an
-incredibly short space of time he gathered together the remnants of his
-following, and at once began to march through the country preaching a
-holy war. Those tribes who were reluctant to join him, and who preferred
-a peaceful existence, were compelled to throw in their lot with him or
-take the consequences, which meant that they would be robbed in a most
-scandalous manner, and, possibly, would run the danger of being
-altogether exterminated. And so the host of warriors marching beneath
-the banner of the Mullah has steadily and rapidly increased, so much so
-that they have become a menace to us, and forced us to take action.
-
-"The Foreign Office, which governs this Protectorate, gave orders that a
-field force should be prepared for service in Somaliland. In January,
-1901, the force did not exist, but, by dint of superhuman exertions,
-fifteen hundred natives were got ready for the fray at the end of May.
-They consisted almost entirely of Somalis from the neighbouring friendly
-tribes, and they were trained and taught to use the rifle by a select
-band of British officers, than whom there are none more expert at this
-class of work. A score of non-commissioned officers from India helped
-them, and together they built up a very creditable following. At length,
-when all arrangements had been made for transport, and sufficient
-drivers had been engaged, the force marched for Burao to cross the
-waterless Hoad. Crossing the range of mountains known as the Gobik, they
-entered the Geratto pass, which leads from the Guban, or low country, to
-the high country, which is known as the Ogo, and which is very much
-healthier. From there the troops safely crossed the desert, and entered
-the Mullah's country. And now, for the first time, they met with
-opposition, for stragglers hung upon their flanks, sniping at the
-caravans, and flying whenever an attempt was made to come to close
-quarters. At length information came to hand that the enemy was a couple
-of days' march away, and at once it was decided to attack him. Leaving
-his baggage and the greater part of his camels to the care of a handful
-of the Somali levy, with Captain McNeill in command, Colonel Swayne, who
-had charge of the whole expedition, marched forward with the bulk of his
-men, hoping to come upon the enemy unawares and teach him a lesson.
-
-"You will remember that I mentioned to you a certain characteristic of
-these people. I told you that in certain circumstances they were bold
-and reliable, and that, if they were unfriendly to you, it was wise to
-watch them with the utmost care, on account of their cunning and
-treachery. The Mullah speedily gave an example of this, and made a
-crafty move, which might have proved disastrous had it not been for the
-soldierly qualities and the bravery of Captain McNeill. You may be sure
-that if we had information of the Mullah's whereabouts, he, also, was
-well aware of our movements, for his spies and scouts were in all
-directions. Waiting until Colonel Swayne and his men had marched well
-away from the camel zareba, this leader struck his 'karia,' or
-camping-ground, and travelling in a roundabout direction, so as to evade
-the main column, threw his thousands upon the tiny garrison which was
-left to protect the camels and baggage. It was a splendid move, and was
-most successfully accomplished, so far as eluding the main army went.
-But the Mullah was not to have it all his own way, for he had, as I have
-just said, a man to deal with who had studied his profession. Put
-yourself in Captain McNeill's position for one moment, and imagine what
-you would have done. Knowing that the greater part of the force had
-marched against the enemy, many men would have put aside all thought of
-danger, and would have been content with the ordinary precautions which
-are necessary when campaigning in an enemy's country. But Captain
-McNeill thought otherwise. It occurred to him that, with a crafty man
-such as the Mullah was known to be, this was a splendid opportunity for
-him to fall upon the weaker portion of the force which had come to
-attack him, and after disposing of that, to march swiftly upon the other
-part, and take it by surprise. Therefore, he at once made preparations
-to meet an attack in force. Selecting an excellent site, upon a raised
-plateau, so situated as to be unapproachable from one side, and
-altogether cleared of the scrub and undergrowth, which could be so
-useful to an attacking enemy, he built two zarebas of thorns,
-strengthened with long stretches of barbed wire, and between the two a
-third, into which he drove the camels. At the highest point he built a
-mound, and placed upon it a Maxim, which, owing to its elevation, could
-command the plateau in all directions, firing over the heads of the
-defenders when necessary. That done, he sent out scouts in all
-directions, and having appointed each man to a post and given him
-precise instructions as to his part in the coming battle, he sat down to
-await, with as much patience as he could, the appearance of the Mullah
-and his rascally gang.
-
-"Never before was there such an uneven contest, for you must recollect
-that in this case the commander of the British zareba had only Somali
-natives to depend upon, and they were so little trained that they could
-only be termed raw recruits, while their reliability was a matter of
-pure conjecture, for they had never yet been called upon to show the
-stuff of which they were made. In addition, there were a few Indian
-non-commissioned officers, and one lieutenant from an English line
-regiment. In all, their numbers were extremely small, while the Mullah
-would have at least five thousand troops.
-
-"Well, thanks to the foresight of Captain McNeill, all that experience
-could suggest had been carried out, and, satisfied that this was the
-case, the garrison waited. They were not to be disappointed, for,
-scarcely was all in readiness, when quickly moving dots in the distance
-told them of approaching horsemen, and very soon scores of the Mullah's
-followers came clambering over the distant sky-line and dashed down into
-the wide sweeping plain which surrounded the zareba. Evidently with them
-it was a foregone conclusion that this weak party left in charge of the
-camels was to be annihilated, and then, what loot there would be! At the
-thought of the hundreds of camels there, and the huge stores of baggage,
-their delight was intense, but it was as nothing to their pleasure when
-spies reported to them that the reserve ammunition of the whole force
-lay in that zareba, ready to be taken. And what a prize that and the
-rifles of the defenders would prove! Guns were difficult to obtain at
-any time, but of late, since the British Government had sent its
-torpedo-boats to patrol the coast, it had become almost an impossibility
-to get them, while, in the case of ammunition, it was difficult to lay
-hands upon the smallest supply of powder.
-
-"No wonder the Mullah, as he looked down from the surrounding heights
-upon that solitary camp, gave vent to an exclamation of satisfaction. He
-was exultant, and almost shouted for joy.
-
-"'They are mine!' he shouted; 'the hated foreigners will fall into our
-hands, and Allah will punish them as they deserve. Press on, my men, and
-fear not the bullets of the enemy, for I swear to you that they shall do
-you no harm; and, even though they strike you, they shall melt upon your
-bodies as the snow turns to water. Rush on them, then, and slay every
-living man within the zareba.'
-
-"By now, some thousands of dusky warriors had descended into the plain,
-and while those who we're unmounted pressed forward at their fastest
-pace, the men who had horses and camels to help them came on
-impetuously, and it seemed, indeed, as though they would venture alone
-to attack the tiny garrison. Such, no doubt, was their intention, for,
-carried away by their fanatical hate, and shrieking loudly so as to
-encourage one another, and with weapons waved high in the air, they
-charged at the lines of thorn-bush which surrounded the zareba.
-
-"Were they to break in without opposition, and without losing a man? It
-looked as though this was to be the case, for not a gun flashed, and not
-one of the defenders could be seen, save a group of five or six, who
-stood immovable upon the mound where the Maxim was placed. But the
-defenders were acting under the orders of their commander, and
-resolutely held their fire, though the temptation to open upon the
-oncoming horsemen must have been great indeed. Lying behind the thick
-thorn-bushes, with rifles in readiness, all in the upper zareba kept
-their eyes upon that tall, khaki-clad figure standing beside the Maxim.
-Would he ever give the word? Were they to lie there and suffer death at
-the hands of the Mullah's soldiers without even attempting to defend
-themselves? It was a sore trial to untrained troops, to men who up to
-this had done little else but occupy themselves in agricultural work,
-broken here and there by a camel raid, the excitement and danger of
-which was as nothing to that which they were now experiencing.
-
-"'Fire!' The command rang out sharply in the crisp, clear air, and
-almost instantly the clatter of the Maxim awoke the echoes. Glad to be
-doing something, the remainder of the defenders joined in the fusillade,
-and, encouraged by the calmness of their officer, emptied their rifles
-without throwing away a shot. Scarcely a cry escaped them, for their
-attention was far too much engaged in the business of exchanging full
-cartridges for empty ones, and of discharging them against the enemy.
-And still the latter came on in their hundreds, undaunted as yet,
-reckless of the consequences, and careless of the numbers killed, so
-long as they could gratify their hate and slay these insolent invaders.
-Falling by ones and twos, and very often in groups of five and more, the
-adherents of the Mullah pressed on with a courage which was truly
-wonderful, and which was, no doubt, due in part to their leader's
-promises that no harm should befall them.
-
-"Then, too, these Eastern people have a childish belief in fate. To them
-Allah's will is everything, and if it is decreed that they shall die,
-they will meet death boldly. Therefore, though scores of their comrades
-had already fallen victims to the Maxim, or to the rifle-bullets, the
-horsemen still dashed forward, while the footmen, coming upon the scene
-at this moment, rushed to join them, undeterred by the bodies which lay
-scattered everywhere upon the plain. Armed with Sniders, with
-elephant-guns, and with cheap muzzle-loaders, which no sane man would
-have dared to fire, they went bounding forward, shrieking at the top of
-their voices, and waving their weapons madly in the air. A few of the
-more cautious ones halted at times, and, dropping upon one knee,
-discharged a load of slugs at the defenders. But they were up again in a
-minute, and this time, with sword in hand, flung themselves against the
-zareba. Leaping upon the thorns as if they did not exist, they hacked
-desperately at them, endeavouring to force a way through. Coming in
-contact with the wire, a few became hopelessly entangled, and in due
-time were killed. And all the while, without cessation, without a
-moment's pause, the rifles of the defenders flashed forth revengefully,
-and the Maxim scattered its volleys into the masses of the enemy.
-
-"'They give way, they fly!' shouted the British commander. 'Hold to it,
-my men! Let them learn that we are not to be so lightly attacked, and
-that when the time for fighting comes, they have soldiers here to deal
-with who will make them pay dear for their boldness.'
-
-"At his words the defenders redoubled their efforts, and so fierce and
-well-aimed was their fire, that at last the hordes gave way. Panting
-with their efforts, shattered by the terrible hail of bullets which
-poured continuously amongst them, they turned their backs to the zareba,
-and, taking to their heels, or applying spurs to the flanks of their
-animals, fled in dismay. Yes, bleeding and breathless, some of them so
-grievously wounded that they could not look to live, they raced away
-across the plain, followed still by those scathing volleys, and when
-they were out of range, threw themselves upon the ground, cursing their
-fate, cursing the day on which they had thrown in their lot with the
-Mullah, and the leader who had betrayed them with false promises. Then,
-when they had regained their breath, they retired sulkily to the hills,
-and were quickly lost to sight.
-
-"Not till then had the gallant defenders time to look round and
-ascertain the losses they had suffered, but it was with a feeling of
-relief and gratification that their young commander learnt that he had
-few to mourn, and that in no case had the enemy been able to force a way
-into the zareba. Had they done so, there is little doubt that their
-swords would have given them a great advantage, and they would have
-quickly despatched every one of the defenders. But the thorn-bushes,
-strengthened as they were by the barbed wire, had effectually kept the
-enemy out, and the check given to their first rush had enabled the
-garrison to pour in a stinging fire which, as I have told you, proved
-sufficient to drive them back into the plain again.
-
-"It was a glorious success, but as yet it was not sufficient to teach
-the Mullah that he was beaten. His surprise and anger at the result can
-be imagined, for he had expected to find an easy prey, and had already
-counted the huge stores of baggage and ammunition as his own. And now,
-instead of victory, he had to mourn the loss of numbers of his men, and,
-what was worse, a fall in his own prestige, for he had sworn to the
-tribesmen who accompanied him that this was a holy war, and that the
-bullets of the infidels could not possibly harm them.
-
-"However, this 'Mad' Mullah has always been a man of resource, and
-quickly recovering from his depression, he gathered his followers about
-him, and harangued them, as he alone knows how to do. A few words from
-his lips were sufficient to revive their courage and hate, and before
-very long they were ready to make a second attack. You will remember
-that I told you that no warning is taken to heart by these people, and
-that life is held but cheaply in their efforts to obtain camels. This,
-of course, is no matter for surprise, for in this world men will do much
-for money, and the beasts I mention are practically the only currency
-with which the Somali people are acquainted. They pay their debts with
-these animals, and their wives are bought at the cost of so many camels.
-If they are engaged as followers on a shooting expedition, the promise
-of a camel or more proves a far more tempting bait than does the rupee,
-particularly to the tribesmen who come from the interior. The men
-hereabouts are, perhaps, a little more civilized, and are always eager
-for the large silver coin.
-
-"Can you be surprised, after what I have told you, that the sight of
-that small British zareba, with its piles of baggage and its hundreds of
-beasts, proved a tantalizing object to the Mullah's followers? From
-their position of security in the hills they looked down at the three
-circles of thorn-bushes, and saw the defenders moving busily about, saw
-their scouts leave their comrades and ride out into the plain, and
-watched with longing eyes as the camels were driven down to the river,
-which formed one side of the zareba. Then, forgetful of the reverse
-which they had recently suffered, they swore that they would not leave
-the place until they were conquerors.
-
-"A few hours later, therefore, they stole down from the hills, and
-separating so as to approach the zareba from every available point,
-crept softly towards it, hoping to take the defenders unawares. But,
-again, they were bitterly disappointed, for scarcely had they sprung to
-their feet and begun to charge, when the rattle of the Maxim set the
-hills echoing again, and the angry snap of the rifles told that the
-defenders were fully awake, and ready to receive them, I will not
-describe the contest to you, though it was even more severe and exciting
-than the first. It suffices to say that the Mullah and his followers
-were driven off with heavy loss, and that so great was their
-consternation, that they at once left the neighbourhood of the zareba
-and fled towards the interior. Meanwhile news had reached Colonel
-Swayne, and promptly facing about, he marched to intercept the enemy.
-Meeting him in his flight, his horsemen quickly scattered his Somalis,
-and chased them for miles, killing and capturing large numbers. But the
-Mullah, unfortunately, contrived to escape, and galloped away into the
-desert with a few of his followers.
-
-"From that date nothing was heard of this fanatic for many weeks. But in
-time he re-established himself in the favour of the people, and,
-collecting a band of desperadoes, began his old tricks again. Soon there
-were tales of him from every part, and such a pest did he become that
-another expedition was decided upon. It proved a failure, for, meeting
-the Mullah and his forces face to face, our Somali levies showed the
-white feather, and bolted, leaving the expedition to its fate.
-Fortunately, however, the greater part of it contrived to escape, and to
-reach Berbera in safety. It was now apparent that operations on a larger
-scale must be contemplated, and as the Somalis had shown themselves to
-be unreliable, it was determined to employ native troops from the West
-Coast of Africa, and Indian soldiers. If you were staying here
-to-morrow, you would see these men about the town, and would obtain some
-idea of the preparations we are making, but I understand that you are
-pushing forward at once, a plan which I think is advisable. However, it
-is more than probable that you will meet with the troops later on, and
-who knows but that they may even prove of service to you? And that
-reminds me of my instructions. If you are in need of help, and our
-troops are within reach of you, do not hesitate to send word to their
-officer, who will hold out a hand to you, if it is possible."
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER VIII
-
-PREPARING TO ADVANCE
-
-
-"I think I have now given you all the information I possess," continued
-the Consul, after a pause, "and at the risk of appearing anxious to be
-rid of you, I suggest that you should lose no time in going to your
-camp. It is already upon nine o'clock, and you will scarcely reach it
-within an hour. After that progress will be very slow, for marching at
-night with a convoy of camels is no light undertaking. And now it only
-remains for me to wish you all success in your enterprise. May you, Mr.
-Hubbard, return within a short period with your father, and you, Mr.
-Dixon, reach us once again primed with information concerning the
-Mullah. Good-bye, and good luck!"
-
-Rising from his seat, the Consul advanced towards Jim and his friend,
-and shook them most warmly by the hand. Then thrusting the roll of
-matting, which did service as a blind, on one side, he opened the sash
-of the window, and stepped out upon the verandah. A hasty inspection
-satisfied him that there was no one about, and he returned to
-communicate his news to his guests. Five minutes later the two friends
-were racing across the compound. When they reached the shadow of the
-belt of trees, Jim halted, and gripped his comrade by the arm.
-
-"Let us wait here for a few minutes, as we did before," he said, "for it
-might happen that one of the servants overheard our conversation, and
-is waiting somewhere near at hand to catch sight of the Consul's
-visitors."
-
-"Right," his companion answered promptly. "I was thinking just the same,
-and I know the precaution is a wise one."
-
-Accordingly they lay down upon the ground, and remained in that position
-for nearly a quarter of an hour. Then they rose to their feet again, and
-moved away like ghosts, for their sandals made not the slightest noise
-as they walked. When they had put some three hundred yards between
-themselves and the bungalow, they halted again, so as to make certain
-that they were going in the right direction.
-
-"Through the town, and bear to the left, away from the sea-coast, the
-Consul told us," said Jim, whose spirits were now roused to the highest
-by the prospect before him. "Ali Kumar has been warned to be prepared to
-meet us, and, I hope, will have quietly made arrangements to move away.
-If that is the case, and no one happens to be near, we ought to
-disappear without exciting curiosity, and without arousing the
-suspicions of the Mullah's spies."
-
-"After that, we'll strike along the coast-line," broke in Tom, "and
-march until we come to some wells of which I have been told, and with
-which our shikari is certain to be acquainted. The following day we
-shall ride over to the village in which the man lives who gave
-information about your father. That done, we have only to collect our
-stores when the dhow arrives, and march straight for the interior. It's
-going to be a risky business, Jim; and I tell you plainly, that the more
-I think of it, the more do I realize the danger and difficulties we have
-to face. Don't think I am getting nervous, old chap," he continued
-hastily, "but we shall have to be extremely cautious, for this Mullah
-has just obtained a victory, and that fact alone will make him even
-more audacious, and will obtain for him the help and support of many who
-have hitherto held aloof."
-
-"I agree with you, Tom, and I am quite sure that we shall find it well
-to steer clear of all these encampments. If we march into the interior,
-demanding of all we meet whether they have heard of a white prisoner who
-recently fell into the hands of the Mullah, I am quite sure our doings
-will be reported, and that we shall call down upon our heads the wrath
-of this fanatic. I have been thinking the matter out as we came along,
-and have hit upon a plan which might serve us. Let us tell anyone with
-whom we come in contact that we have been in the service of the
-'Sirkal,' or the Government, but that we are tired of them, and have
-decided to throw in our lot with the Mullah. The fact that I do not
-speak the language will not matter greatly, for, you see, I can be put
-down as from Aden, where all sorts of nationalities are to be found. But
-I shall contrive on all occasions to keep my mouth closed."
-
-"It sounds well," answered Tom thoughtfully; "but what about our men?
-Knowing that we are Englishmen, they will quickly spread the news
-abroad, so that everyone will know."
-
-"Much depends upon Ali Kumar," replied Jim decisively. "If he has told
-them that they are in the employ of Englishmen, a portion of my plan
-will fall through, but otherwise, we shall adhere to it, if you are
-agreeable."
-
-"Perfectly! And now let us push on."
-
-Accordingly, walking side by side, and taking no notice of those whom
-they occasionally passed, save that Tom returned their salutation, the
-two pressed on, and passed rapidly through the Arab town. Then they bore
-to the left, and within half an hour came in sight of a zareba. By now
-a small crescent of the moon had risen in the sky, and its light enabled
-them to see that some sixty camels lay stretched upon the ground, while
-close at hand were other smaller figures, the followers who had been
-engaged to accompany them into the interior. Standing in a listening
-attitude, a few paces away, was a tall man, dressed in white robes. He
-bore a lantern in his hand, and every now and again lifted it so as to
-throw the light farther afield, as if he were expecting someone.
-Suddenly he had heard Jim and Tom advancing, and recognizing them, even
-though they were disguised, he came towards them, salaaming deeply.
-
-"Welcome, my masters," he said eagerly. "I am Ali Kumar, and I was
-warned to be ready for your coming. Here is the camp, with thirty men
-lying there sleeping, but prepared to march at any moment. Give your
-orders, and I will see that they are obeyed."
-
-Again he salaamed, and, lifting his lantern, looked long and closely
-into Jim's face, as if he were anxious to ascertain what sort of lad he
-was to follow.
-
-"Good!" he exclaimed at length. "You are young, full young for this
-enterprise, but you are brave--that I can plainly see in your eyes. And
-how could you be otherwise, for no one who was not possessed of courage
-could go upon this expedition, even for the sake of his father."
-
-"Have you heard news of him?" asked Jim eagerly, taking no notice of his
-remarks.
-
-"None," was the answer. "I have but lately arrived, and know little more
-than I did a week ago. But to-morrow, when we meet the man who saw your
-father, we shall obtain all the information that is possible. Is it your
-wish that we march at once?"
-
-"Yes; for the sooner we are off the better I shall be pleased. Do you
-know the direction to take? We are informed that there are wells within
-twenty miles of here, where we ought to halt."
-
-"I can follow the road in the dark as surely as in broad daylight," was
-the reassuring answer. "Stay here, masters, and I will send camels to
-you. You could have had horses, had the saddles arrived, but at present
-we have not received them."
-
-Leaving the lantern with Jim and his companion, Ali Kumar went across to
-the sleeping men and gave a quick order. Then he returned leading two
-enormous camels, which grunted and grumbled at being disturbed, as only
-animals of that class can.
-
-"Keep a strict watch upon their heads," said Ali, in warning tones to
-Jim, "for these beasts are as treacherous as the followers of the
-Mullah, and love nothing better than to seize with their teeth anyone
-who may be passing. Then, too, they will kick out with their feet when
-people pass too close behind them. I have seen more than one man killed
-in that way. Hau! Lie down!"
-
-He shouted the words in the native tongue, and at once, obedient to the
-command, but still giving vent to extraordinary grunts, the two camels
-sank to the ground, and waited there to receive their riders.
-
-"Sit sideways," said Ali, taking Jim by the sleeve; for he saw that his
-young master was wholly unaccustomed to such a steed. "Now put your
-right leg round this piece of the saddle which sticks up in front, and
-hook it there. That is the way; and now you can slip your foot into the
-stirrup which dangles here, and will feel safe even when the animal
-begins to trot."
-
-Jim carefully followed the instructions given to him, and was surprised
-to find that, though intensely uncomfortable at first, his seat was
-secure, and allowed him to turn freely, and without the fear that he was
-about to fall from the saddle. Having settled himself, and watched Tom
-take his place with the ease obtained from long practice, Jim gave the
-word, and at once, on a sharp command from Ali, the camels rose to their
-feet, swaying wildly from side to side as they did so, in a manner which
-threatened to throw their riders to the ground, and groaning in such
-loud and guttural tones that one would have thought the effort was a
-severe one.
-
-Meanwhile the sleeping camp had suddenly awakened into bustling life.
-Men hurried here and there, and the camels were forced to their feet by
-a succession of loud shouts, and often, too, by means of the free
-application of the haft of a spear, for they disliked this sudden
-disturbance. But at last all were ready, and, at a sign from Ali, the
-cavalcade streamed off into the night, the animals looking decidedly
-ghostly in the uncertain light. In twos and threes, and sometimes in
-bigger groups, they took the direction of the wells, leaving the
-neighbourhood of Berbera without a soul being the wiser.
-
-"No one will know what has happened to us," said Ali, forcing his beast
-up to the one which Jim was bestriding. "We have given it out that we
-are in the service of the Governor, and as it is quite the custom for
-camels to be sent on to one of the advance stations up-country without
-warning, the natives will think that nothing out of the way has
-happened."
-
-"But what about the men?" asked Jim. "Do they think that they, too, are
-hired by the Sirkal?"
-
-"That is the case, master; but I have quietly sounded them, and I have
-learnt that they are willing to go anywhere, so long as good pay is
-promised them. Half of these followers were with me once before in an
-expedition, and I can fully trust them; the remainder are, however,
-strangers to me. But I think you will find them brave and reliable."
-
-"I want to ask another question," said Jim, as they rode along. "My
-friend and I think that if we go into the interior disguised as we are,
-we shall arouse no suspicion, and shall have a better chance of evading
-the Mullah. What do you think of the plan? And, is it possible to keep
-our nationality from the followers?"
-
-Ali Kumar did not answer for some moments, but bent his head upon his
-breast, as if lost in thought. Then he looked across at Jim and shook
-his head emphatically.
-
-"No; it is not altogether a good plan, and not a bad," he said. "If you
-attempt to deceive these men who act as followers, they will certainly
-discover your secret before many days are past, and will think the worse
-of you for not taking them into your confidence. Besides, some of the
-men who went with me before already know of your mission. But they are
-to be fully trusted, as I said. To hoodwink the Mullah and the tribes
-with which we happen to come in contact is, however, a ruse which
-carries great weight with it, and I think with you that it will be well
-if you and your friend go dressed as you are. If we are questioned, you
-can stay in the background while I do the necessary talking, and if
-strangers insist on speaking with you, you can freely admit that you are
-English, and that you have found it more convenient to travel in the
-guise of a native.
-
-"That would probably lead to trouble; but, then, you are sure to meet
-with some, however cautious you are. And now, master, I will go to the
-head of the cavalcade, and will lead them, for, though the moon is
-bright, it is easy to lose the way at night."
-
-Salaaming to Jim and Tom, he spurred his camel forward with his heel,
-and was not seen again till the following morning. Just as day was
-breaking he came to the rear again, and reported that the wells were at
-hand, and that the camels and men were already settling in the camp.
-
-"And now, if the masters are ready, we shall ride on to the village of
-which you have heard. It is only an hour from here, so that we shall be
-back before the sun is overhead."
-
-"We are ready. Show us the way," answered Jim promptly; "and let us hope
-that this fellow will have good news for us."
-
-Accordingly, waiting for one minute to watch their followers, who were
-preparing to water their beasts, they turned their faces towards the
-east, and, with the sun striking full into their eyes, pushed on through
-beautifully green country, dotted in all directions by trees. This was,
-indeed, a small oasis, surrounding the wells, which, by the many
-footprints that could be seen indenting the ground, was evidently
-frequented by numerous animals, which, no doubt, came there to obtain
-water. Farther on, however, as they increased their distance from the
-camp, the stretches of closely cropped grass gave place to an
-interminable sandy waste, devoid of all vegetation, and obstructed here
-and there by enormous dunes of glistening sand, which had been built up
-by the wind. An hour's ride brought them to a tiny village, and soon
-they were conversing with the man who had given the information of
-Colonel Hubbard's capture. But he had no further news.
-
-"It chanced that a beast of mine had strayed from its feeding-ground,"
-he said, "so that, mounting my pony, I rode into the desert, hoping to
-discover it. Suddenly I saw a group of tents beyond me with armed men
-about, and caution prompted me to watch ere I approached them. It was
-not long before I had every reason to congratulate myself upon my care,
-for they proved to be a marauding expedition sent down to the coast by
-the Mullah. As I lay behind a hill of sand, keeping my eyes upon them, I
-observed a man struggling wearily towards the shore, through the surf
-which was breaking heavily upon it. Creeping nearer, I watched him, and
-soon made out that he was a white man. Then, as I was about to run
-forward to warn him, the Somali warriors suddenly espied him, and,
-shouting to one another, galloped in his direction. For three hours I
-watched, and saw the camp break up and the expedition ride away with
-their prisoner, and then I learned by questioning a follower who had
-been left behind, having broken a leg, that the prisoner was a colonel,
-as you speak of the leaders of your soldiers. More than that, I do not
-know, save his looks, which I will describe to you."
-
-The native then gave a description of the appearance of the Mullah's
-prisoner, and as Jim listened with all his ears, any doubt that he might
-still have had as to the identity of the man who had reached the shore
-was set definitely at rest, for it was beyond question that it was his
-father. Having assured himself that no further information was to be
-obtained, he made the man a handsome present, and then the party turned
-about, and retraced their steps towards the camp. On the following day
-they pushed farther along the coast, and, when the next morning dawned,
-had the satisfaction of observing a dhow beating in for the shore. It
-proved to be the one which they were expecting, and before the day had
-passed she had safely discharged her cargo.
-
-"And now to begin our work in earnest," said Jim, surveying the
-piled-up baggage. "I propose that we issue rifles at once to those who
-can use them, and that we give them a preliminary training. That done,
-we'll appoint certain of the men to act as scouts, while others will be
-in charge of the baggage-camels. I should say that if we march with five
-men thrown well forward and on the flanks, and another five in the rear,
-we ought to feel secure from a sudden rush. What do you think, Tom?"
-
-"That the plan is an excellent one, old boy, and shows that you have
-your wits about you. As an additional precaution, I suggest that one or
-other of us should always ride with these scouts, Ali Kumar accompanying
-the one who goes in front, for it is from that direction that danger is
-to be expected. Then, I think that we ought to make up our minds what
-action we are to take should we be suddenly attacked. You see, it
-wouldn't do to be thrown into confusion and have these followers of ours
-firing wildly in all directions."
-
-"Quite so, Tom, and for that purpose I propose a preliminary training.
-We've a couple of hours of daylight left, and we know that there is no
-one to watch our movements, for Ali Kumar posted half a dozen of our men
-this morning right away on the hills over there. Let us give the order
-to strike camp; and, by the way, what about mounts for ourselves?"
-
-"For the purpose of the march we shall find ponies far more useful than
-camels," answered Tom promptly; "for the ponies can carry one at a swift
-gallop for a few miles, and will enable us to keep easily in touch with
-our front and rear guards. For longer stretches, however, for instance
-when we desire to reach quickly a spot some twenty miles away and return
-with equal despatch, the camels will prove most valuable, for, once fed
-and watered, they will go on for hours at a steady swinging pace, which
-soon gets over the distance. No wonder they are called 'ships of the
-desert,' for, with their extraordinary powers, their spider-like legs,
-and their broad, soft feet, they are eminently fitted for such a
-country. But can you ride, Jim?"
-
-"I've been on a horse several times in my life, Tom, but I can't say
-that I ever felt very comfortable. But if it is necessary to ride, I
-will learn, whatever it costs me."
-
-"Then we'll give orders for a couple of the ponies to be saddled and
-bridled," said Tom, "and for the camp to move on."
-
-Accordingly they called for Ali Kumar, and directed him to see the
-baggage loaded. Then, for half an hour, they toiled with their
-followers, struggling in the midst of a group of recumbent camels,
-busily lashing burdens on the animals' backs. That done, all the natives
-were gathered together, and fifteen of them, who professed to be able to
-use the rifle, were supplied with weapons, the remainder continuing to
-carry swords and spears only. Then ten of those who were provided with
-firearms were mounted upon the best ponies, and given strict orders as
-to their behaviour.
-
-"They are terribly excitable people, these Somali races," said Tom, "and
-I have often been told that when employed as scouts they are continually
-giving the alarm. Perhaps they see a buck in the distance, or the peak
-of a mountain comes into their line of vision, and at once, turning
-about, they gallop furiously back to the column behind them, shouting at
-the top of their voices, and waving their weapons above their heads.
-Then they pull up in a matter of two yards, and express their
-astonishment at finding a hasty zareba formed, and preparations already
-made for an attack. It is all done to show off, for they are just like
-children, and love to attract attention to themselves. But as we cannot
-afford to be in a condition of constant alarm, we had better warn them
-that they will meet with our displeasure if they behave in such a way."
-
-Tom's words were communicated to Ali Kumar, who, with Jim beside him, at
-once began to address the followers, impressing their duties upon them,
-and making them repeat the instructions. Then they were dismissed, and
-at once mounted, the men who were to look after the camels clambering
-into their seats. At this moment three spirited-looking native ponies
-were brought forward for the use of the leaders of the party. Giving
-them a hasty inspection, and pausing for a moment to see that the
-stirrup-leathers were of the right length, Jim selected the one nearest
-to him, and at once proceeded to mount.
-
-"Hold the reins like this," said Tom, coming to his side so as to show
-him. "Now, while you grip them with your left hand, catch up a wisp of
-the mane with your right, and twist it round the spare fingers of your
-left. That's the way. Now put your foot in the stirrup, and up you go!"
-
-Following these instructions carefully, for hitherto he had had very
-little acquaintance with horses, Jim was quickly seated in the saddle,
-and feeling the opposite stirrup dangling beside his sandal, thrust his
-foot into it. Meanwhile the pony had made no objection, but had stood
-there, with ears thrown back, and eyes cast suspiciously at his new
-master. Then, probably realizing that he had a more or less new hand to
-deal with, he gave vent to a loud squeal of anger, and started away with
-a bound which almost shook Jim from his seat.
-
-"Keep his head up, and your knees well pressed into the saddle!" sang
-out Tom. "Now, watch him, for he's going to play a trick upon you."
-
-That this was the case was quickly evident, for, finding that his first
-efforts to dislodge his rider were unsuccessful, the pony went off at a
-furious gallop, kicking his legs high in the air as he did so. Then,
-when in the very midst of the loaded camels, he suddenly ducked his head
-between his forelegs, and, arching his back, sprang high into the air.
-It was a fatal movement for Jim, who at once shot forward into space,
-and, turning as he went, landed full upon the broad of his back. In a
-moment he was on his feet again, gasping for breath, but determined not
-to be beaten. Fortunately he had been thrown upon a sandy patch, and
-though shaken considerably, he was by no means hurt. As for the pony,
-now that it had accomplished its purpose, it stood there unconcernedly,
-as if it were incapable of such behaviour. Jim at once walked up to it,
-and gathering the reins in his hand as Tom had shown him, thrust his
-sandalled foot into the stirrup, and was in the saddle again in a
-twinkling.
-
-"Well done!" shouted Tom; while the natives, who were all looking on in
-the most interested manner, gave vent to exclamations of approval. "Well
-done! Stick to him like a leech, and show him that you mean to be his
-master!"
-
-"I will, even if I'm thrown twenty times," answered Jim, setting his
-teeth, and sitting down closer to his saddle. "Now then! On you go!"
-
-The animal needed no second bidding, and at once set off at a rapid
-pace. But this time, when it attempted to go through the old movement
-which had proved so successful, Jim gave a sharp jerk to the reins, and
-kept its head well up. Again it made the attempt, but without success,
-and then, unable to get rid of its rider by means of bucking, the
-spirited pony suddenly darted to one side, and Jim, losing his balance,
-was deposited upon the ground once more. Four times in succession was he
-thrown, but in every case he clambered into his seat again, and finally,
-after the animal had bolted with him at its topmost speed for a mile or
-more, he managed to quiet it down by patting it upon the neck, and
-talking to it in a soothing voice. Then he turned it about, and with the
-beast well in hand this time, came trotting back into the camp, with
-flushed face and dusty garments, but triumphant and elated. As he did
-so, Tom gave vent to a cheer, while the natives hammered their
-spear-heads loudly upon their shields in approbation.
-
-"You have done well, master," said Ali Kumar, coming forward as Jim
-dismounted in their midst. "These men already know that you are an
-Englishman, and that you are their leader. They have been waiting to
-learn what manner of man you are, and whether you are bold enough to
-ride into the Mullah's country. It was easy to see that you were no
-great horseman, and, believe me, your courage in mounting again and
-again, and in laughing at your falls, has raised you high in their
-estimation. They will now obey your words far more willingly than they
-would otherwise have done. But we are ready; shall we move on?"
-
-Jim agreed with a wave of his hand, and at once the cavalcade was set in
-motion. Forty of the camels, which were laden with every variety of bale
-and box, marched in the centre, while close behind them came twenty
-others, which could be relied upon to trot for many hours together, all
-roped to one another. Near them were the followers who were not to act
-as scouts, keeping an eye upon them lest they should attempt to stray,
-and prepared to make secure any bundle which showed signs of breaking
-loose. Spread out like a fan, a mile ahead, were five well-mounted men,
-while a similar number stood by their horses at the camping-ground,
-waiting until the column moved well away. And in this order, with Jim
-and Ali Kumar walking their ponies in company with the front guard, and
-Tom with the rear, they pushed on in a southerly direction, their faces
-turned towards a distant hazy blue line which showed the position of the
-range of hills they would have to cross before reaching the highlands,
-and the broad stretch of desert which intervened between themselves and
-the Mullah's country.
-
-Jim was in the highest spirits, and delighted to feel that at last the
-search for his father had begun. For a time he rode beside Ali Kumar,
-conversing with him, and then he trotted back towards the camels. Having
-assured himself that all was well with them, he was about to return to
-his post, when suddenly one of the scouts, stationed away on the flank,
-came galloping towards him at top speed, shouting and waving
-frantically. At the same moment, catching sight of him, the other scouts
-retired upon their centre.
-
-"Probably a false alarm," Jim told himself; "but I shall take every
-precaution. Down!" he shouted, signalling to the followers to stop the
-camels. Then, remembering the native word used on such an occasion, he
-repeated it loudly.
-
-Collecting their beasts together, the men quickly had them lying upon
-the ground. Then, obedient to Jim's signs, they left two of their number
-to guard them, and separating, ran forward some fifty yards. There they
-halted, and knelt upon the ground, ready for anything that might turn
-up. A few minutes later Ali Kumar and the scouts joined them, and the
-former at once sharply interrogated the man who had given the alarm.
-
-"What did you see?" he asked.
-
-"A group of camels three miles to the right," was the answer. "As far as
-I could see, they were browsing quietly, and had no attendants."
-
-The words were interpreted to Jim, who immediately gave orders for the
-column to move on again.
-
-"We'll send a couple of our scouts over in that direction," he said to
-Ali Kumar, "and you must tell them that they are to ride near enough to
-be able to obtain full information, without themselves being seen. Let
-all these fellows know at the same time that they are to investigate
-anything which may turn up within a reasonable distance, and that they
-are not, on any account, to come galloping back until they are sure that
-there is real danger. Let us have a signal in a case like that, so that
-all may understand."
-
-"That is a first-rate idea," cried Tom, who had been listening to the
-conversation. "If we are certain of danger, we need not fear making a
-noise, and, therefore, it would be as well to fire a rifle. A shot out
-here, in this atmosphere, will be heard for a couple of miles, and will
-give due warning to all of our men. Immediately they hear it, they can
-turn and gallop back to the centre."
-
-Ali Kumar gathered the scouts about him for the second time, and, having
-again impressed the caution upon them, despatched them to take up their
-posts. Then the camels were ordered to rise, and once more the column
-took the road. Shortly after darkness fell a bright moon climbed into
-the sky, and, aided by its light, they kept on steadily. At nine o'clock
-they halted, and at once the followers were sent to cut thorn-bushes,
-which grew in profusion everywhere. With these a thick wall, or zareba,
-was formed about the camels, which meanwhile had been relieved of their
-burdens. A second hedge was constructed near at hand, and in this the
-two young leaders and their following took their places. Very soon a
-fire was burning brightly, and an hour later they were all seated at
-their evening meal.
-
-Two days passed uneventfully, and then, one evening, as the column
-rested at the foot of the hills, Ali Kumar slipped away from his
-companions, who were already fast asleep, except for the few who were
-stationed some fifty paces off as sentries, and creeping to Jim's side,
-touched him gently upon the shoulder.
-
-"Hush, master!" he whispered. "Awake, and listen, for I have news of
-treachery for you. Within an hour, at any moment, indeed, we may be
-attacked, for I have discovered that one of our followers, who was a
-stranger to me until a few days ago, has been in conversation with some
-wandering natives, and has even now stolen away from the zareba so as to
-join them and lead them to the attack."
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER IX
-
-AGAINST HEAVY ODDS
-
-
-Worn out by a long day's march in the sun, Jim had wrapped himself in
-his blanket at an early hour, and had fallen into a heavy sleep. It was
-with a start, therefore, and with an involuntary clutch at the rifle
-which lay beside him, that he suddenly raised himself into a sitting
-position, to find Ali Kumar beside him.
-
-"Treachery!" he whispered, as if dazed. "What news have you to give to
-me?"
-
-The leader of the native followers repeated his words in low tones, and
-again warned him to keep silent.
-
-"I have watched the man of whom I speak for these two days past," he
-said. "And I have learnt that he is a traitor. Three times I have seen
-him conversing with natives when supposed to be watching the camels
-which were out grazing. Creeping towards him like a snake, I hid in a
-thorn-bush, and listened with all my ears, but they whispered to one
-another, so that I could not make out their words. This evening, after
-our zareba was formed, I followed him again, and saw him meet two men,
-who, by their dress, were the chiefs of a neighbouring tribe. He pointed
-to the camels, and counted their number upon his fingers. Then I saw
-them turn towards the entrance of this pass through which we are to go
-on the morrow."
-
-"'We will meet you there,' cried one of the chiefs, 'and perhaps even
-attack before you enter. But my men do not like the darkness to fight
-in, and besides, in the confusion and alarm, the beasts might be slain
-or scattered. But we shall see; Allah will help us in this enterprise,
-for are not the followers in the zareba servants of the infidel?'
-
-"That, master, is what I overheard," continued Ali, "and returning to
-the camp, I made plans to give you the warning; but there were many eyes
-watching me, and so I waited until now."
-
-"You did wisely," said Jim quietly, now sitting bolt upright, and fully
-awake. "We'll get my comrade to join us, and then will decide what is to
-be done, for this is a serious matter, and, unless we take instant steps
-to protect ourselves, may lead to disaster."
-
-Accordingly, he stretched out his hand and shook Tom gently, explaining
-to him as soon as he was awake the reason for his doing so.
-
-"And now we have to decide what is to be done," he said. "If we sit
-here, and take no measures to protect ourselves, it is probable that
-this scoundrel who has betrayed us will induce the tribesmen to attack
-to-night. The moon is full, so that they would have every advantage, for
-our zareba lies bathed in the light, while they would be hidden in the
-crevices of the rocks."
-
-"I don't see that we can do much else than awake our followers and warn
-the sentries to be alert," Tom whispered in reply. "If these fellows do
-attack us, we must lie down and answer their fire; but I fear that our
-camels will suffer heavily."
-
-"Where are these men likely to come from?" asked Jim, suddenly, turning
-to Ali Kumar. "If they live in the highlands, and march upon us by way
-of the pass, I think we ought to arrange a trap for them. If it were
-carefully laid and proved successful, the lesson might be a warning to
-them, and teach them to leave us alone."
-
-"They will descend from the hills, master, of that I am sure; for the
-chiefs whom I observed in conversation with our follower were men from
-the highlands, without doubt."
-
-"Then I propose that we divide our forces," said Jim, after a thoughtful
-pause. "Will you, Tom, stay here, and defend the zareba with one half,
-while I take the other? Then, with Ali Kumar to help me, I shall creep
-up the pass, and select a spot where the road is narrow and difficult.
-There we shall lie down and wait for the tribesmen. If they come down in
-force, and do not turn back when we call to them, we will empty our
-rifles into their midst; and I think that if we are careful in choosing
-the site, we ought to be able to do a large amount of execution. That, I
-take it, is the only way to persuade those people to leave us alone."
-
-"I'll willingly do as you say, Jim, old boy," Tom answered readily,
-wondering as he did so at the coolness and foresight shown by his young
-companion. "Your plan sounds an excellent one, and the only suggestion I
-have to make is that you should shout loudly as you return, or you may
-be drawing our fire upon you. You see, these native followers of ours
-are excitable fellows, and hearing the sound of people approaching, and
-being in fear of an attack, they would blaze recklessly into the
-darkness."
-
-"Then I'll be careful to call out your name, Tom, and you will be able
-to explain to the men that all is well. Now I'll be off, as these
-tribesmen may appear at any moment, though I fancy it is too early for
-them yet. They will probably wait till the early morning, when we ought
-to be in our deepest sleep, and should therefore fall easy victims. But,
-thanks to Ali Kumar, we have been warned, and if we do not take
-advantage of that fact, we shall have only ourselves to blame. Good-bye,
-and don't get fidgety if I do not return for some hours, for, as I have
-just said, we shall probably have to wait a considerable time before
-they put in an appearance."
-
-Nodding coolly to his companion, Jim rose to his feet, and silently
-crossed the zareba to the spot where the followers lay sleeping. One by
-one, those who were armed with rifles, and could be trusted to stand by
-their master in a position of danger, were aroused and cautioned to keep
-silent. At length fifteen were collected, and with these and a
-sufficient quantity of ammunition Jim stole out from the zareba, and
-took the narrow and rough road which led to the pass. He left Tom busily
-engaged in instructing the remainder. These were also armed with rifles
-now, though they were less expert than their comrades. Still, at close
-range they could be trusted to give a good account of themselves, and to
-aid in keeping the enemy at a distance. Then the sentries were brought
-in closer to the wall of thorns, and ordered to lie down, so that they
-should be invisible to the enemy, for while they were standing the rays
-of the moon falling upon their tall figures threw long shadows, which
-would soon have drawn the fire of the tribesmen.
-
-Thanks to the brightness of the night, Jim and his little party had no
-difficulty in picking their way, for every boulder, and each nullah, or
-ravine, stood clearly outlined. They were soon at the bottom of a gentle
-ascent, which marked the beginning of the pass. But here the road was
-broad, and would have been difficult to defend.
-
-"They would manage to slip round us," said Jim in Ali Kumar's ear,
-taking note of the surroundings. "I want to get to a part where the pass
-narrows to a few yards only. If we can find such a position, we shall
-pile boulders across the road, and post our men behind them. Then every
-shot we fire will tell, for these Somalis who are about to attack us
-will certainly come in force, and as they will not be expecting danger
-until they reach the bottom of the gorge, they are likely to be marching
-in close order. That will be our chance, and if it occurs, we will make
-the most of it."
-
-"I know of a position which will suit your wishes, master," answered
-Ali. "Often have I made my way by this road, so often indeed that I
-could find the path during a darker night than this is. We must keep on
-for another quarter of a mile, as you English people speak of distance,
-and then we shall find that the hill to the right and left of us closes
-in suddenly, as if about to obstruct our further progress. I think that,
-at some time, years ago perhaps, a river must have forced its way from
-the highlands through these hills on its way to the plains below and to
-the sea. Whatever the cause, the crags are cleft in twain a little way
-above us, so that a road is possible. Half a mile farther on the land
-recedes as suddenly as it runs together here, and by marching for an
-hour one finds one's self again in the midst of a sweeping plain, but
-this time far higher than before."
-
-"It sounds as if it would prove a likely place," said Jim, eagerly, "so
-let us push on, I am in a fever to get our men into their positions, for
-if these tribesmen happened to advance now instead of later on, our
-plans would be ruined, and we ourselves should be in a very dangerous
-fix."
-
-Striding ahead through the darkness, Jim encouraged his followers to
-greater exertions by the example which he set them. So rapidly did they
-walk, that barely ten minutes had elapsed before he became aware that
-the gorge in which they were was narrowing. Soon he could see black
-walls of rock on either hand, and a moment or two later it seemed as
-though the road itself had suddenly come to an end. Nothing but pitch
-black darkness could be seen before them, while the path at their feet
-was buried in obscurity, the rays of the moon having been cut off by the
-steep cliffs. But a careful search revealed the interesting fact that
-there was a broad cleft in the wall in front of them, through which the
-road passed on its way to the highlands.
-
-"The very place for us," whispered Jim, almost giving vent to a cry of
-exultation, so great was his delight. "This gorge cannot be more than
-five yards in width, and will suit capitally. You say that it continues
-for another half-mile at the same width?"
-
-"No, master, I said not at the same," answered Ali Kumar hastily. "From
-this spot for twenty paces perhaps, it is as narrow, while the road is
-littered with big rocks and boulders, which are difficult to cross.
-Farther on, however, it widens gradually, and then, at the distance you
-mentioned, suddenly, till one finds one's self in the open again."
-
-"If that is the case, these men who are coming to steal our beasts will
-crowd together without meaning to do so," said Jim thoughtfully.
-
-"That will be the case, master. They will descend the pass without great
-caution, for the traitor who was of our number will have told them that
-our sentries are never posted more than a few yards from the zareba.
-Therefore they will have no need to observe much stealth till they
-emerge lower down. They will walk together or separately, knowing that
-the difficulty of the path at this end of the gorge will impede the
-progress of those who are in front, and allow all the stragglers to come
-up with them. After that, no doubt, they will send scouts ahead, and
-follow like ghosts, hoping to take us unawares."
-
-"We shall have something to say to that, I think," Jim answered,
-indulging in a chuckle at the thought. "I've been busily making plans,
-Ali, and I have decided to act in this way. We have fifteen men with us,
-and our two selves. If more than a third of that number attempted to
-hold the bottom of the pass, it would lead to certain confusion, for the
-space is very small. Now, it has occurred to me that the surprise would
-be far greater if we were to separate a little. For instance, we will
-give five of the natives orders to remain here, and let them set to work
-at once to pile a ridge of rocks across the path. Then we will climb the
-cliff on either side, and if we can find ledges big enough for the
-purpose, we will send the remainder to them."
-
-"It is a great plan, master," said Ali, salaaming to Jim in his
-enthusiasm. "A truly clever one with which to entrap these people, and
-it shows that our leader is not only brave--as we clearly saw when he
-first mounted his horse--but wise and far-seeing also. We are fortunate
-indeed, for it sometimes happens that the lives of all in such an
-expedition as this are sacrificed because of the want of discretion in
-the one who commands it. Yes, it is a good plan, and it should prove
-successful. There are surely ledges above us to which active men such as
-we have could climb, and from which they could pour a scathing fire into
-the enemy. Perhaps, even, they might be posted farther up the gorge,
-with a pile of boulders at their feet. There is nothing that strikes
-fear into the hearts of those who are unaware of danger as the sudden
-descent of rocks upon their heads. They fly in terror to right and left,
-but cannot escape, and if they turn with the hope of retreat, it
-sometimes happens that the road is blocked by their comrades. Then,
-indeed, is the time when men become wild with fright, and suffer defeat
-at the hands of a few."
-
-"Perhaps it may turn out in that way to-night," Jim said thoughtfully.
-"I do not wish to harm a single one of these tribesmen, but if they
-really mean to attack us for the sake of the loot which they would get,
-then they must take the consequences. Of course, we might retreat, but
-if we shirk this danger and difficulty now, we shall never succeed in
-reaching the Mullah's country. We should be laughed at by everyone, and
-should have cause to be ashamed of ourselves. No, I have decided to go
-on with my undertaking, whatever happens, and if these fellows interfere
-with us, they must look to themselves. I shall get you to warn them, and
-if after that they still come on, hoping to overpower us by numbers,
-then I shall blaze into the middle of them, and the severer the lesson
-they are taught, the better it will be for us in the future, for the
-other tribes will hear of the conflict, and will take the warning to
-heart. And now let us place the men."
-
-Anxious as he was to get all in readiness for the expected attack, Jim
-would not allow his fears to hurry him unduly, for it was important to
-obtain the most advantageous position. To allot five of the followers to
-the mouth of the ravine was an easy task, and very soon those who had
-been selected were busily engaged in preparing a low breastwork which
-would give them shelter should the tribesmen possess firearms, as was
-very likely, and discharge them in that direction. Jim waited patiently
-beside them, directing their operations, and was not satisfied till a
-wall some four feet high was erected, with niches cunningly left near
-the base through which the muzzles of the rifles could be thrust. Then,
-accompanied by Ali Kumar alone, he scaled the steep cliff on the right,
-and set to work to look for a ledge which would do for his purpose.
-
-"Here is one," he exclaimed at last, when after a very difficult piece
-of climbing they had ascended some twenty yards or more. "This piece of
-rock juts out from the face of the ravine, and will allow the men to
-fire down into it, while the edge will protect them."
-
-"It is well chosen," agreed the native headman, creeping to the edge and
-looking over. "Standing here, we are in deep shadow, but in an hour,
-when the moon has risen higher into the sky, the light will fall full
-into the gorge, and every object will be visible. Yes, master, it is
-wisely chosen, for how can the enemy return our fire when it comes from
-the darkness of the rocks?"
-
-Bidding Ali call gently to five more of the men, Jim waited to see them
-take up their appointed posts, and left them there with strict orders
-that they were not to make a sound, and were not to attempt to open fire
-until the word was given. Then he and his companion descended, and made
-their way up the face of the opposite cliff. It was even a harder climb
-than the other had been, but after winning their way up for a distance
-of a few yards only, they had the good fortune to strike upon a narrow
-ledge which seemed to wind up the face of the rock. At the best of times
-it offered but a precarious footing, but now, when it was attempted in
-darkness, it was a hazardous undertaking. But Jim made light of the
-danger. Indeed, he gave no thought to it, for all his attention was
-occupied in the search for a favourable and commanding site. Thanks to
-the soft sandals which he wore, he was able to obtain a firmer footing
-than would have been possible had he been shod with boots, and taking
-advantage of the feeling of security which this gave him, he clambered
-steadily upwards, Ali following closely behind him, and giving notice of
-his presence by his hard breathing. Suddenly the tiny ledge broadened
-out, and on halting for a few seconds to rest, Jim became aware of the
-fact that the cliff had receded, leaving a small shelf, capable of
-accommodating thirty or more men.
-
-"We are in luck!" he cried joyfully. "This part of the cliff overhangs
-the gorge below, and is some yards from the entrance. I can feel
-boulders everywhere, so that our fellows will not have to search far for
-missiles. Then, too, there is no danger of their dropping them on their
-comrades, for they will be well out of range. Yes, it will suit very
-well; let us call up the men."
-
-Once more the process of giving directions to the natives was gone
-through, this time orders being issued that they were to rely upon rocks
-instead of upon rifles. Then, satisfied that everything was in
-readiness, Jim sat down upon a boulder at the entrance of the gorge, and
-waited there with what patience he could command. It was exciting work
-sitting there in the darkness surrounded by precipitous walls, and
-without a sound to break the silence save the occasional jar of a rifle
-as it was struck against a piece of stone. All sorts of thoughts and
-fancies passed through his mind during the hours of waiting. He wondered
-whether his school-friends were thinking of him, what time it was in old
-England at that moment, and whether the boys were even then engaged in
-battling with the same tasks which he had so lately forsaken. Yes, it
-was strange to reflect that barely a month ago he was a mere boy, acting
-a boy's part, and with scarcely a thought for the future. And now he was
-the recognized leader of a real expedition, about to invade the country
-of the Mullah, as fierce a fanatic as had ever sprung to power to be a
-scourge to his neighbours. It was strange indeed. It was almost beyond
-belief that it was he, Jim Hubbard, sitting there upon that rock,
-listening to the beating of his own heart, and straining his ears for
-the sounds which seemed as though they would never come. Supposing this
-tribe did not attack after all. Supposing Ali had made a huge blunder,
-and was the victim of too vivid imagination. Supposing----Hark! What was
-that? A stone falling from the cliff away above his head, or a footfall
-upon the road which led through the gorge?
-
-At this sound, faint though it was, each man who lay there in ambush
-became alert, while Jim sprang to his feet and peered into the
-blackness.
-
-"The enemy!" whispered a voice in his ear. "Did I not tell you rightly,
-master? After all, the sheiks have decided to attack during the hours of
-darkness."
-
-It was Ali Kumar who had slipped up to Jim's side without making so much
-as a sound. Then, together, they stood listening, bending their heads
-towards the gorge, as though that would help them.
-
-Ah! There it was again. Was it a man walking, or was it the sound of a
-voice?
-
-For some minutes there was silence, and then the mystery was cleared up
-to everyone's satisfaction, for down the rocky sides of the ravine came
-the noise of men talking. Almost at the same moment a thin streak of the
-moon climbed up above the highest edge of the cliff, and shot rays of
-brilliant whiteness down upon the road.
-
-One, two--why, the gorge was packed with figures clad in white and
-bearing every sort of arm. They might have been bound upon a friendly
-visit so far as precautions went, for they talked without restraint,
-but in low tones; while their leader, happening to strike his foot
-against a boulder of unusual size, gave vent to a loud cry of pain, and
-stood there, with one hand upon the mass of rock, and the other chafing
-his injured limb.
-
-But however friendly their appearance, the object of their midnight
-wandering was quickly apparent, for, as he rubbed his damaged foot, the
-sheik called to his followers to gather about him, and proceeded to
-harangue them, Ali Kumar interpreting his words to Jim as he did so.
-
-"Stand as near to me as the gorge will allow," said the leader of the
-tribesmen, "and I will tell you what course to take when we have
-descended to the plain. There, as you well know, lies the zareba of
-these unbelieving dogs, and with them are many camels, and loot
-sufficient for us all. I command you to keep together until you are
-almost upon them. Then you will divide, and while one half march so as
-to gain the farther side, the other will rest where they are, taking
-pains to preserve the greatest silence. When all are ready, I will fire
-my gun, and then let every man fall upon the dogs. Allah will strengthen
-our arms, and will give us the victory."
-
-"Allah is great, and we are his chosen," murmured his audience. "Lead
-us, and we will slay these unbelievers."
-
-"Let them come a few paces nearer, and then shout to them to return
-home," said Jim sternly, whispering the words in his companion's ear.
-"Tell them that we had news of their intended attack, and that we will
-fire upon them if they come any nearer."
-
-Striding to the barrier of stones, Ali called loudly to the sheik, who
-was in the act of moving forward again.
-
-"Halt where you are!" he cried. "My master bids me tell you that he
-is aware of your treacherous plans, and that he is prepared to punish
-you for them. But he does not desire to shed blood, and therefore gives
-you the choice of returning in peace to your homes. If you refuse, he
-will open fire."
-
-At the words the sheik and his following came to an abrupt stop, and
-stood there silently, dumfounded by the news. It seemed impossible that
-their intention should have been discovered by the leader of the
-expedition, and still more unlikely that he had the power to do them any
-but the smallest harm.
-
-"Why, they are but thirty all told," cried the sheik, with a scoffing
-laugh. "And yet they come here to meet us and to threaten us with death
-should we persist in our plan. It is ridiculous! It is a child's plot,
-made to frighten us. Do not listen, but press on, my men."
-
-With a shout the tribesmen at once started forward, and, drawing their
-weapons, rushed at the entrance of the gorge. But they had not counted
-on the fact that it was plunged in darkness, and obstructed with
-numerous boulders. Running forward upon a pathway which was, just there,
-lit by the rays of the moon, they stumbled blindly against the rocks,
-and, one of them happening to fall, a dozen or more of his comrades had
-tripped over him, and were grovelling on their faces before a minute had
-passed. But the remainder pushed on without a pause, and, closely packed
-together, and shrieking threats at the top of their voices, endeavoured
-to reach the spot where their unseen opponents were.
-
-"Fire!" shouted Jim, seeing that the moment for action had at length
-arrived. "Empty your rifles into them."
-
-[Illustration: "FIRE!" SHOUTED JIM. "EMPTY YOUR RIFLES INTO THEM."]
-
-Leaning upon the breastwork of stones, he took steady aim with his own
-weapon, directing it at the sheik, who was to be seen wedged in the
-middle of his men, and frantically struggling to push them back so as to
-allow him to bring to his shoulder the gun which he bore in his hand.
-
-Bang! The report set the rocks ringing on either hand, and was at once
-followed by a volley from the breastwork and from the ledge to the
-right. Shooting out the empty cartridge, Jim looked eagerly to see what
-success he had had, and was astonished to find that the sheik still
-occupied the same position. But he was hit, and mortally, too, for a
-moment later he suddenly threw his hands into the air and fell
-backwards. Another moment, and he was beneath the feet of the tribesmen,
-who trampled upon him without hesitation.
-
-But now another feature was added to the scene. Struck by the volley
-aimed at them, the attackers had drawn back in consternation, but,
-quickly recovering, they answered the shout of another leader, who at
-once came forward to replace the sheik, and again dashed headlong for
-the entrance of the gorge. As they did so, a series of loud and
-sickening thuds told that the men who had been posted above were
-carrying out their orders. Indeed, a glance at the cliff overhead showed
-clearly what was happening; for the rays of the moon had now penetrated
-to the shelf, and each follower, as he rose to lift a boulder and cast
-it over the ravine, stood clearly outlined against the dark rock behind.
-
-Shouts and screams soon told that their efforts were not in vain, and
-just as Jim was about to order another volley to be poured into the
-gorge, the enemy turned, and now fighting fiercely with one another to
-get away, fled from the scene as rapidly as the circumstances and their
-crowded condition would admit.
-
-"Let us hope that that will be enough for them," said Jim, leaning over
-the barrier and staring along the ravine. "I can count twelve bodies
-lying amongst the boulders, and there are others beneath the rocks
-farther on. I am glad now, Ali Kumar, that you advised that these
-boulders should be thrown down upon their heads, for it was that that
-caused them to fly. What do you think will happen now?"
-
-"They will retire into the plain beyond, and perhaps even farther,
-before they recover their courage," answered Ali thoughtfully. "Then
-they will look amongst themselves to discover who is dead. When they
-find that we have killed their sheik, and that they have suffered heavy
-losses, they will be mad with anger, for all will know of their
-disgrace. Before setting out this night, you may be sure that they held
-a feast, and called all their women folk to it, boasting that to capture
-the camp was but a simple matter, for it contained few men, and would
-certainly be taken by surprise; and now they will reflect that they have
-been beaten by a mere handful, and that their prey is about to escape
-them, and even to laugh at them. I know these people well, master, for I
-am one of them by birth; and I am sure that the succeeding sheik will
-harangue his followers, speaking as I have just told you. Little by
-little he will rouse their anger, and when he reminds them of the booty
-to be obtained, I feel sure that they will again advance to the attack."
-
-"Then we had better prepare for them," said Jim sharply, "We have given
-them one surprise, and I propose that we arrange another, for that is
-the only way in which we can attempt to make up for the great difference
-in numbers."
-
-"But what can you do, master? You have made all the plans and selected
-every position that it is possible to think of, and now all that you can
-do is to remain as you are."
-
-"I fancy that we can manage more if we try," answered Jim with
-decision. "You see, if the fellows attack again, they will know exactly
-where our men are posted, and will certainly open a hot fire upon them,
-telling off so many of the tribesmen to keep it up and make it
-impossible for them to show themselves, or hurl rocks down into the
-ravine. At least, that is what I should do if I were their leader. In
-that case, the remainder would have an excellent chance of getting to
-close quarters, which is what we want specially to avoid, for if that
-were to happen, numbers would certainly tell upon us."
-
-"But you cannot think of retiring, master!" exclaimed Ali hastily. "To
-do so would be to sacrifice all your following. Stay here, then, for to
-reach the zareba the tribesmen must pass through this gorge, there being
-no other way round."
-
-The native headman grasped Jim by the arm in his anxiety, and looked
-into his face, fearful lest he should decide to take a step which would
-end in their ruin.
-
-"You may banish that from your mind," said Jim sharply. "I am not going
-to retire for any man, but what I propose to do is to push on till near
-the other end of the ravine. There, we will make the same plans as we
-carried out here, and when the enemy advances, will have another
-surprise in store for them. But, tell me, supposing we creep along, and
-build a barrier farther on, can the tribesmen climb the cliffs and treat
-us in turn to a shower of rocks?"
-
-"You are safe from that, master. It is true that there are ledges at the
-farther end, but they are narrow and short, and do not come far this
-way. Were it otherwise, the sheik would already have sent his followers
-to occupy them, and by now we should have a storm of slugs and bullets
-pattering upon us. No, we have nothing in that way to fear, while as
-for your ruse, it seems to your servant that it is as wise as that which
-you planned before. To find us at the other end, and come upon us long
-before they expected to do so, will, indeed, be a surprise, and, as you
-say, that is the only way in which we can make up for our small
-numbers."
-
-"Then we'll move ahead at once," exclaimed Jim. "Call to the men to come
-down, and warn them that they are to keep perfectly silent. Tell them
-what we propose to do, and say that after the enemy have attacked us,
-they are to remain in their new positions till I shout. Then they are to
-retire to this post again at their fastest pace, and lie down as before.
-In that way we shall have an excellent chance of withdrawing, should the
-contest prove too uneven for us."
-
-Acting upon his orders, Ali soon had all the native followers gathered
-at the bottom of the ravine, and a glance at their faces as they were
-outlined in the rays of the moon was sufficient to show that they were
-to be relied upon, and that the success which had already attended them
-had filled them with elation and determination to fight to the end.
-
-"Good!" exclaimed Jim, surveying them critically; "they will do. Now let
-us get ahead, and, Ali, come with me in advance. It will be as well to
-make sure that none are watching us."
-
-Creeping along the rugged road which threaded the gorge, Jim and his men
-soon reached the opposite end. Not a soul was met, and though they lay
-down for some minutes, not a sound could be heard. Then a scout was sent
-away into the plain, and while he was gone, the remainder took up their
-positions much as before, for numerous rocky ledges were to be found.
-Half an hour later a barrier was erected across the ravine, and behind
-it lay Jim and five of his men.
-
-"Hush!" exclaimed Jim suddenly. "I hear someone coming. Perhaps it is
-our scout."
-
-A second later the bleat of a sheep was heard, and before long a dusky
-figure rose up before the barrier.
-
-"They are coming," said the man. "I went far out into the plain, and
-came upon them talking and shouting. They were drinking the wine of the
-country, which is made by melting the fat which comes from the tails of
-young sheep, and were crying upon their sheik to lead them forward. As I
-left them they were setting their faces this way, with the determination
-to slay us all, for they are angry, and their bitterness is great at
-their defeat."
-
-"Then let them come," said Jim doggedly, when the words had been
-interpreted to him. "They have had their warning, and this time I will
-not spare them as I did before."
-
-Standing behind the wall of loose stones, he waited in silence for the
-enemy, and within a few minutes saw a large force of men streaming
-across the moonlit plain on their way to the ravine. Very soon they were
-close at hand, and, gathering together, came walking forward without a
-thought of guarding against surprise.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER X
-
-FIGHTING THE TRIBESMEN
-
-
-Standing in the shadow cast by the cliff on his right, Jim looked out
-upon the brightly lit plain, and watched the tribesmen coming to the
-attack. There was no need for them to remain silent, for they already
-knew that their design of capturing the zareba was known; and,
-therefore, they marched forward, shouting loudly to one another, and
-brandishing their weapons above their heads. A few, carried away by
-their excitement, even fired their guns, as if already in sight of their
-opponents, as indeed they were, if only they had known it. Nearing the
-entrance of the gorge, they gathered together, and then, at a shout from
-their leader, halted for a minute.
-
-"We must slay the infidels this time," he called out. "Let each man
-prepare now for the fight, and when I give the word, rush forward at his
-fastest pace. In that way only can we hope to escape the shower of rocks
-from above. Some I have already told off to climb the cliffs and pick
-off the defenders, and they will carry out their commands at once. Are
-you ready? Then, in Allah's name, forward!"
-
-At his words a storm of cries and of fierce shouts burst from the
-Somalis, and some three hundred of them came rushing towards the ravine,
-eager to be the first to reach the farther end and come to close
-quarters with the men who had given such a bitter blow to their pride.
-Well might the little band of defenders tremble at the sight and at the
-noise, for on the former occasion the tribesmen had advanced in
-comparative silence, and their defeat and subsequent retreat had been
-swift and but the matter of a few minutes. Now, however, it was a
-different matter. Here were the enemy rushing upon them in numbers
-sufficient to overpower them, indeed, to sweep over them and trample
-them underfoot without feeling their presence. For the moment the
-hopelessness of their case appealed to Jim, and he felt as though all
-were lost, and that his hopes of saving his father from slavery, or
-worse, were destined to be shattered at the very beginning. Then a
-sudden determination to conquer came upon him, and he turned quietly to
-Ali.
-
-"Call gently to the men, and tell them to hold their fire and keep well
-under cover until they hear me shout," he said. "I shall wait till the
-enemy is within fifty yards, so that our volleys may have good effect.
-Let them know also that they are to reload at once, and that if the
-natives do not retire after the first volley, they are to open upon them
-with the magazine, and continue firing till they fly. How thankful I am
-that we took the precaution two days ago of showing them how to manage
-their rifles."
-
-Ali at once carried out his master's orders, first telling those who lay
-behind the barricade of stones, and then going to inform the remainder
-who had been posted upon the ledges. That done, he returned to Jim's
-side, and stood there awaiting the attack, determined to help him as far
-as in him lay, for the bravery of this young Englishman appealed to him.
-Indeed, he was lost in wonderment to find this lad, who had had no
-experience of this sort of life, and who had had no dealings with
-natives, so calmly placing himself at the head of his followers, and
-leading them against odds which would have appalled many a grown-up
-man.
-
-By now the tribesmen were within eighty yards from them, and, led by
-their sheik, they came rushing pell-mell towards the entrance of the
-ravine, expecting to find it open, and never dreaming that the enemy
-whom they were bent on attacking already occupied it. All their thoughts
-and all their energies were occupied in the race to reach the farther
-end, each one striving to be there before his fellows, to strike one of
-the few blows which they told themselves would be necessary to conquer
-these impudent people.
-
-"Death to the infidels!" shouted the sheik. "Fear not their bullets, but
-rush upon them and slay them ere they can lift their weapons to do you
-harm."
-
-Crowded together in a surging mass, his followers advanced towards the
-gorge, shouting defiance. A minute more and they were within the
-distance which Jim had mentioned, looking as though nothing could stop
-them, so great was their eagerness, and as though they would overrun the
-wall of stones and scatter it to right and left in their impetuosity.
-
-Clash! Bang! At Jim's order, a stream of flame spurted from the ambush,
-and from the ledges to right and left, as the men opened fire, sending a
-hail of bullets into the centre of the mass. At such a short range, and
-with these modern rifles which threw bullets of the smallest calibre and
-of the greatest penetrating force, every missile flew on till it was
-stopped by the sheer weight of the mass before it. Not one, but many men
-were struck down by the shower of lead, and falling headlong upon the
-ground, lay there sprawling in all directions and in every attitude, a
-trap for the feet of those who followed. But if the surprise of the
-tribesmen had been great during their first attack, when they discovered
-that the opening from the ravine had been closed, it was now more than
-doubled. They were dumfounded at the trick played upon them, and as the
-rifles flashed out vengefully, they came to an abrupt halt, as if by
-mutual consent, and stood there, breathless, their weapons still held
-above their heads, staring into the darkness beyond them, as if they
-wished to penetrate into the depth of the gorge and learn what was
-happening. For more than a minute they paused, while the defenders,
-taking advantage of the breathing-space, opened the breeches of their
-weapons. Shooting out the empty cartridges, they replaced them with
-fresh ones, and closed the locks with a snap and bang which told, as
-plainly as if they had mentioned the fact, that they, too, meant
-business, and that nothing but the absolute defeat of their enemies
-would satisfy them.
-
-"They give back! They fly! Death to the dags!" shouted Ali Kumar
-excitedly, at this moment, noticing that a few of the leaders had
-suddenly turned, and were endeavouring to thrust their comrades aside
-and find a means of escape. "See, master, you have already taught them
-the lesson of which you spoke."
-
-"Wait!" answered Jim sharply. "It is only those who have no stomach for
-the fight who are returning. The majority will fight it out; of that I
-am sure. Ah, here they come!"
-
-As he spoke, the sheik, whose astonishment had at first been
-overpowering, suddenly recovered his wits, and, rendered desperate by
-the position in which he found himself, and fearful of losing credit
-with his following, suddenly sprang to the front, and, turning towards
-his men, shouted loud words of encouragement.
-
-"Are you then afraid?" he cried. "Shall these few infidel dogs turn us
-from our purpose? On! Let not the flash of their weapons terrify you
-and rob you of your bravery. Forward! Death to the enemy!"
-
-Swinging round until he faced the gorge once more, he levelled his gun
-at it, and pulled the trigger. Then he tossed it to one side, knowing
-that it would be useless in a hand-to-hand conflict, and drawing a long,
-double-handed sword from his waist with the quickness of a flash, he
-charged at the defenders.
-
-Taking encouragement from his words and action, the tribesmen at once
-sprang forward and joined him, following close on his heels, and setting
-up a fierce shout which awoke the echoes, and almost deafened the
-defenders. "Kill them!" they shouted. "Slay the infidels!"
-
-Pressing forward at their fastest pace, they were soon within some
-twenty yards of the barrier. But at that moment the rifles flashed out
-again, and a storm of bullets was poured into their midst. Throwing out
-the catch of their magazines, Jim's followers sent missile after missile
-into their midst without cessation, and, pausing only to replenish them,
-opened again, rising in their excitement from behind their shelter, so
-as to obtain a better aim.
-
-Three times did the tribesmen win their way to within a few paces of the
-wall of stones, but on each occasion the rifles of the defenders beat
-them back. Then they retired sulkily, and, taking up their posts behind
-boulders and scraps of cover, which existed here and there, open a
-stinging fusillade upon the ravine.
-
-"Order the men to lie down behind the rocks!" cried Jim; "and tell them
-that they are to reserve their shots until they are certain that they
-can see one of the enemy. They are then to take careful aim, and pick
-him off without wasting a cartridge. Let them show these tribesmen that
-recklessness will not pay, and that the instant one rises from his
-shelter he will be slain."
-
-Obedient to the orders which were repeated to them by Ali Kumar, the
-native followers lay down upon their ledges, and kept a careful watch
-upon the tribesmen. But all the while each held his rifle to his
-shoulder, and closely scrutinizing the moonlit plain beyond, endeavoured
-to discover the whereabouts of lurking tribesmen. Then, taking careful
-aim, and waiting till the man he covered rose to empty his weapon in the
-direction of the ravine, he pressed his trigger gently and sent his
-bullets home. Not once, but many times, did the defenders pick off one
-of the enemy, and, when an hour had passed, quite twenty had paid the
-penalty for their boldness.
-
-"Their volleys seem to be getting heavier," remarked Jim, some twenty
-minutes later, when a perfect storm of slugs whistled and shrieked
-through the entrance of the ravine, striking against the rocks on either
-side to glance off them and ricochet into space with a characteristic
-note to which an old soldier would have been quite accustomed. Others
-struck the hastily built wall of stones, and, smashing to pieces there,
-sent a shower of fragments in all directions. Indeed, so heavy and
-well-aimed was the tribesmen's fusillade, that a number of the small
-garrison were wounded, but only to a slight extent, thanks to the nature
-of the missiles used.
-
-"Yes, it is certainly becoming heavier, and I should not be surprised if
-they made another rush before very long. Sing out to the men to be
-prepared, Ali, and tell them that on this occasion I shall not give the
-command to open fire until they are considerably closer, for they will
-have had their warning, and will most likely come on in open order, in
-which case we could not hope to inflict much loss, for the light is
-uncertain, and makes accurate aiming difficult. But they are bound to
-come together within a few yards of this, and that is the moment we must
-select for blazing into them."
-
-"The advice is good," was Ali's answer. "These men who have so rashly
-attacked us are burning to avenge their defeat, and they will not rest
-until they have slain us, or we have chastised them so severely that
-they recognize the hopelessness of their cause. Therefore, if ten, if
-twenty, fell to the earth, shot down by our bullets as they rush to the
-attack, the remainder would not pause, would not hesitate for a moment,
-but would come on at their fastest pace. It is a clever plan, therefore,
-to wait until they are within easy range and packed close together, for,
-seeing that our guns are silent when they had expected them to open
-heavily upon them, they will, perchance, imagine that we have retired,
-and have prepared another ambush for them. I should advise, master, that
-you order the men at once to lie down, for they are now having little
-success, as the tribesmen have been warned by the death of their
-comrades, and are careful not to expose themselves."
-
-"You can do as you suggest, Ali, and I feel sure that our silence will
-make them wonder. Perhaps they will hold a council of war, and then come
-on warily, imagining that we have retreated to our old barricade. Call
-to our followers, and explain the situation to them. Then let them know
-that they are on no account to make a sound until I give the signal by
-firing my rifle."
-
-Ali at once turned to the natives, who had so gallantly supported their
-young English leader, and hastily communicated Jim's words to them. Then
-all knelt, or lay at full length behind the cover each one had
-selected, and remained there, eyes fixed upon the plain beyond and upon
-the figures of the tribesmen which flitted hither and thither, now
-rushing from one thorn-bush to another, and now creeping along some
-shallow trench cunningly scooped from the sand with their hands, to
-reach a site which seemed more favourable. It was evident that all had
-taken the lesson to heart, and had felt the bullets of the defenders,
-for up to a little while ago they had, in the manner of Eastern people,
-recklessly and defiantly exposed themselves, standing fully erect to
-discharge their weapons. But as many of these bold men had fallen, shot
-through the head or chest, the remainder began to learn that the sight
-of a shoulder or of a head peering from behind a boulder was the signal
-for the instant snap of a rifle and the swish of a bullet close at hand.
-And now their crafty sheik had had time to recover his self-possession,
-and from his position in the centre of his men, sent messengers crawling
-to right and left with instructions for the next attack.
-
-"I fancy I can see something moving over there," said Jim, some ten
-minutes later, as he stood behind the barricade, silently looking out
-upon the plain. "Is it the moonlight which alters objects or are those
-thorn-bushes getting slowly nearer to us? Look! There is a large one out
-there in the very centre, and I declare that, five minutes ago, it was
-twenty paces or more from the rock close beside which it now stands."
-
-He stared anxiously over the sandy waste, and pointed with his finger to
-indicate the bush to which he wished to draw Ali's attention, quite
-forgetting that he himself, together with all the defenders, were
-shrouded in the inky darkness with which the entrance of the ravine was
-clad. But Ali's eyes were as sharp as a ferret's, and long residence
-amongst the natives had given him powers of sight far more acute than
-those usually possessed by more civilized people. A glance into the open
-showed him the large bush, and instantly his attention became riveted
-upon it.
-
-"It moves!" he whispered breathlessly. "See, master, a moment ago it was
-beside the rock of which you spoke, and now it stands in front of it, so
-that I can scarcely see its outline. And--look! There are others to
-right and left which are creeping forward. It is a ruse, a cunning plan
-to get close to us before making the final rush. Each one of those
-thorn-bushes conceals one or more of the tribesmen, all with their eyes
-fixed upon the central bush, and all slowly, steadily, but insensibly,
-drawing nearer. Soon they will have approached as close as they deem
-possible, and then casting the cover aside, they will spring to their
-feet, and come rushing upon us. What shall we do?"
-
-For the first time since the tribesmen had attacked Ali showed some
-symptoms of fear. His lips trembled involuntarily as he asked Jim the
-question, and unconsciously he grasped the lad by the arm.
-
-"What shall we do, Ali? Why? What else but watch them carefully, and
-send our volleys swishing into them when they do rise for their attack?
-I've been thinking the matter out, and I feel sure that the plan we have
-agreed upon is a wise one. For ten minutes not a shot has been fired
-from our side, and though they have certainly been listening with all
-their ears, they have not heard a sound. But still they creep forward,
-only half suspecting at present that we have withdrawn. Soon, however,
-they will begin to think that, if we are still here, we are blind, for
-we could not fail to have discovered the moving bushes. That will set
-them wondering, and it will never cross their minds that we have chosen
-to prepare another surprise for them. They will be quite sure that all
-their trouble in creeping forward in this way has been useless, and they
-will rise to their feet and advance towards the ravine, fully expecting
-to find us gone. But we will teach them to be more sensible. Now is our
-time to give them a blow from which they will never recover. Cheer up,
-Ali! Things are not half so desperate as they seem."
-
-Jim's words had the desired effect upon his native follower, for the
-latter at once straightened himself, and, standing erect behind the
-barricade, looked out upon the enemy with far more determination and
-courage than he had shown before. As for Jim, though he leant there
-apparently unmoved and unconcerned, he was far from feeling as sanguine
-as he had expressed himself, for there was no doubt that he and his
-little band of followers were in an extremely precarious situation, from
-which they could not hope to escape without severe and desperate
-fighting. Indeed, when he considered the odds, and remembered the fierce
-shouts with which the enemy had previously attacked, he was bound to
-confess to himself that the position was almost without hope. Could he
-and these few men, well armed though they were, expect for the third
-time to beat back a crew of fanatical tribesmen who were bent upon
-slaying them, and who, taught to think that they were the only true
-believers, considered that death earned in slaying an infidel was well
-earned indeed? Against such men effectual resistance was difficult, and,
-unless reinforcements were at hand, or great success attained at the
-beginning, could not possibly be continued for very long.
-
-"But we'll do it," said Jim doggedly, to himself. "I've come out to
-this country for a certain purpose, and have done no harm to these
-people. Indeed, I was prepared to be the best of friends with them. But
-they have thought fit to attack me in the hope of obtaining loot, and
-must just take the consequences."
-
-With that his lips closed firmly together, and, lifting his rifle once
-more, he felt softly at the lock to see that all was in readiness.
-
-"Nothing but the magazine this time," he murmured. "We must sweep them
-away, and mow them down before they can get within reach of us."
-
-By now the line of moving bushes had drawn sensibly nearer, and as each
-man of the garrison kept his eyes fixed upon them, he was able to
-observe figures crawling behind them. To those of Jim's followers who
-lay upon the ledges above, the whole plan was now quite evident, for
-from their elevated position they could easily see over the tops of the
-bushes, and could even count the number of the enemy. In such
-circumstances the temptation to select some individual, to raise the
-rifle ever so quietly to the shoulder, and gently to press the trigger
-when certain of the aim, was great indeed. Breathlessly, with
-fast-beating hearts, and hands glued to the stocks of their weapons,
-they stared out from the darkness into the space lit up by the rays of
-the moon, and longed for the order to fire, for to lie motionless,
-without attempting to defend themselves when they knew that men were
-there hungering for their lives, was a sore trial to all of them.
-Impetuous and excitable by nature, they would, had they been alone, at
-once have emptied their magazines, and then either fled down the ravine,
-or died fighting where they were. But they had confidence in their young
-leader, who had already shown his fitness to command them, and, in spite
-of their longing to begin the engagement, remained in absolute silence.
-
-"They have stopped!" whispered Jim some few minutes later, noticing that
-the line of thorn-bushes had come to a halt. "Look! There is a man
-creeping from the right-hand side towards the centre, and another is
-following him. They are going to have a talk, and decide upon some
-action."
-
-"Others are coming from the left, master," added Ali, catching him by
-the sleeve; "and now someone has risen from behind the bush which stands
-in the middle. It is the sheik, for I know him by his great height. He
-is pointing towards us, and talking to the others."
-
-Eagerly did Jim and his followers watch the scene going on before them;
-and as they looked, first one, and then all, of the leafy screens which
-the tribesmen had carried before them with such craft and trouble were
-tossed aside with disgust, and those who were hiding behind them rose to
-their feet, giving vent to exclamations of annoyance and anger.
-
-"Once more these dogs have made fools of us!" cried the sheik, shaking
-his fist towards the gorge. "First they poured their bullets into us
-from the farther end, and then, when we advanced for the second time,
-expecting to find them there, they lay hiding like foxes close in front
-of us. And now, when after infinite care and caution we have, as we
-thought, come within such easy reach of them that a few moments would
-have seen us triumphant, we discover that they are gone, that they have
-melted into the air. It is hard to fight with such men, and were it not
-for the losses we have suffered, I should counsel that we retire."
-
-"And what then?" shouted one of his followers indignantly. "Do you ask
-us to return to our wives and children and admit defeat? We cannot do
-it. They would not receive us, but would drive us out with laughter and
-jeers. Think for a moment. Our trouble may not be thrown away, for
-seeing that victory was certain to fall to us, it may well be that these
-insolent people have fled for their lives. Even now they may be
-returning to the coast as quickly as their beasts will take them,
-leaving their camels and their baggage to us. Be not down-hearted, for
-whether they have fled or remain to fight, our numbers are great, and
-make success certain in the end."
-
-The man who had spoken strode some paces to the front, and turned as he
-harangued his brethren. Then he went to the sheik and spoke quietly in
-his ear.
-
-"Abdullah Rishmar is right," cried the latter, after a few minutes.
-"Rather than despair we should be filled with exultation, for it is
-evident that the enemy has taken flight. We have discussed the matter,
-and are still of opinion that the best plan will be to move forward, and
-when we reach the farther end of the ravine, rush down upon the zareba.
-Then if we find, as seems probable, that the infidel has fled, we will
-return to our homes, and to-morrow, at the first streak of daylight, our
-fleetest camels shall convey a band of fighting men in pursuit. We know
-the lowlands well, and by nightfall should come up with those whom we
-seek. Then punishment shall be meted out for their insolence. As for
-those who are dead, does not Allah reward the true believer who falls in
-taking part in such a cause?"
-
-At the old man's words the tribesmen gave vent to a loud shout, and,
-gathering together, ran swiftly towards the ravine.
-
-"Another minute and we shall let them have it," said Jim quietly. "Call
-gently to all the men to make ready."
-
-Raising his rifle to his shoulder, he aimed for the centre of the mass
-of struggling humanity, and pressed the trigger. An instant later a line
-of flame flashed from behind the barricade and from the ledges on either
-side. So rapidly did the men open and close the breeches of their
-weapons, that the volley seemed to be an endless one. Here and there it
-would stop for a few seconds, as the magazine was emptied, but within a
-very short while it broke out again, spurting into the darkness, till
-the opening of the ravine was almost as light as the plain outside. At
-the first discharge the tribesmen had stood aghast, thunderstruck at the
-audacity of their enemies. Then rage took hold of them, and they came
-on, this time in silence, their eyes blazing with hate, and their minds
-made up to kill their opponents, whatever happened. Surging forward, in
-spite of their losses, they reached the rocky entrance of the gorge, and
-became almost wedged. Then a few, breaking from their comrades, dashed
-at the barricade, and at once joined in a fierce hand-to-hand contest
-with Jim and the six men who stood beside him. To the last moment Jim
-kept on firing, and then, when there was no cartridge left in his
-weapon, he grasped it by the barrel, and leaping, in his excitement upon
-the wall of stones, dashed it down upon the heads of the attackers.
-Indeed, he seemed to be endowed with extraordinary strength, for he
-swung his rifle as if it had been a roll of paper, and brought it down
-with a force which could not be broken. Ali Kumar did his utmost to
-support his young leader, while the five remaining men, tossing their
-guns to one side, drew their swords and threw themselves upon the
-tribesmen with a fury equal to their own.
-
-And all the while the men who were stationed on the ledges above kept up
-a terrible fire, sending their bullets swishing into the huddled masses
-of the enemy. But in spite of all the efforts of the garrison, it
-seemed at first as though the enemy would prove victorious, for nothing
-seemed able to check them. In another place, indeed, they would have
-been successful, without a doubt, but here their very numbers hampered
-them, and prevented more than a few from closing with the defenders at
-one moment. Had Jim and the natives who were with him given way, the
-tide of tribesmen would have surged over the barricade, and not a man
-would have lived to tell the tale. But they clung to their position with
-desperate bravery, and finally drove their assailants back.
-
-"Now for the magazines!" shouted Jim. "Fill them up, and open again!"
-
-Though they could not understand a word, his men saw his meaning at a
-glance, for he turned upon them, and flinging the lock of his rifle
-open, began to slip cartridges into it. Then, waiting until they, too,
-were ready, he brought his weapon to his shoulder, and once more the
-line of fire spurted from behind the barricade. A minute later Jim
-sprang over the breastwork, and rushed forward. But his intention was
-not to throw himself upon the assailants, but to commit an act of
-bravery; for suddenly one of the men posted upon the ledge upon his
-right had risen to aim at the enemy, and overbalancing himself, had come
-crashing to the ground, where he lay within a few paces of the wall of
-stones, at the mercy of the enemy. With an agile leap Jim was beside him
-almost as soon as he touched the ground, and catching him by the arm,
-dragged him towards his friends. Then, tossing his weapon to Ali, who
-looked on speechless with astonishment, he caught the native up in his
-arms, and scrambled back amongst his comrades with him. The whole had
-been the work of a few moments only, and was completed before the
-tribesmen could take advantage of the opportunity so suddenly presented
-to them. It proved, indeed, a turning-point in the conflict, for, filled
-with exultation at their young leader's bravery, the defenders set up a
-shout which set the rocks ringing, and then dashed forward to the
-attack, Jim joining them. Filled with consternation as these men, who
-seemed more than mortal, closed with them, the tribesmen turned about
-with one accord, and bolted into the plain, leaving their opponents
-proud masters of the scene.
-
-"And now let us see who is hurt," said Jim breathlessly, sitting upon a
-boulder to rest for a few moments after the fray. "Line the men up, Ali,
-and tell me if any are killed."
-
-"We have had great fortune," answered the native headman. "I have
-already been amongst the following, and I find that two only are killed,
-the one being Rigba Hamah, who fell from the cliff above, and the second
-Ali Tumbi, who fell at the last assault. As for wounds, we all have one
-or more to show, but they are nothing, and will be well in a week."
-
-"Then I'll ask you to tie up my arm," said Jim quietly. "I fancy that a
-slug has ploughed a big hole through it."
-
-Leading his master into the light, Ali at once examined his wound, and
-gave a cry of consternation when he saw the condition of the arm, for it
-was red with blood, while a stream was gushing from a ragged hole close
-above the elbow.
-
-"How long is it since you received this?" he asked sharply. "It must
-have been some time ago, for you have lost much blood. Look at the
-condition of your clothing."
-
-"A slug struck me as the tribesmen advanced for the last time," answered
-Jim faintly. "I scarcely felt it in the excitement of the moment, but it
-smarts now. Give me something to drink, for I feel dizzy."
-
-Running across to the cliff, down the steep slope of which a tiny
-stream trickled, Ali quickly procured a handful of water, and at once
-poured it down Jim's throat.
-
-"Ah, that's better; and now I feel less likely to make a fool of myself
-and faint," said the latter gratefully. "Now tie it up for me like a
-good fellow, and let us see what our next step is to be."
-
-"We shall return to the zareba, master, and spend what is left of the
-night in peace," replied Ali with assurance. "The tribesmen are
-thoroughly beaten, and will not venture to advance again until we have
-withdrawn. Then they will collect their dead and wounded, and when the
-morning comes they will slink away into the plain and hide. This has
-been an evil time for them, and they will remember it for many a day to
-come."
-
-"I think you are right," Jim agreed, "and I propose that you shout out
-to them that we will not interfere with them if they like to send in for
-the bodies. Tell them that we will retire to the pass below the ravine,
-and that they are on no account to attempt to approach us, or we will
-hunt them up to-morrow and burn their camp. When you have done that, we
-shall get back to the zareba, leaving three of our men as sentries until
-they can be relieved by those who have remained behind."
-
-Accordingly, when Ali had seen to the comfort of his leader, he strode
-out into the plain, and shouted to the tribesmen, giving them Jim's
-message. Then the gallant band, who had fought so well in the gorge,
-retired, and within an hour were with their friends again.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XI
-
-A MARCH INTO THE DESERT
-
-
-"And so you have been behaving like a young hero?" said Tom Dixon, on
-the following morning, surveying Jim as he rose from his blanket. "You
-were tired out, so I allowed you to sleep on undisturbed while Ali and I
-had a long chat. Seriously, though, old chap, you have done nobly, and
-have again risen high in the estimation of our following. After this
-they will do anything for you, and will be just as keen as you are to
-bring the expedition to a successful issue. But tell me about the fight.
-I can only get a garbled account from Ali, who tells me that you
-defeated the whole tribe, and caused them enormous loss. But that cannot
-be the case. He must have been romancing, though I am bound to confess
-that we heard very heavy firing, which might easily have accounted for
-large numbers of killed and wounded."
-
-"Ali Kumar was quite right," replied Jim quietly. "We did defeat the
-whole lot of the tribesmen, and I believe they will only be too glad to
-leave us alone in the future. You see, it was like this----"
-
-Then Jim set to work to give his companion the details, leaving out his
-own share in the matter, for he was not a boastful lad.
-
-"And now tell me how things went with you," he continued. "I was so done
-up when we got back to the zareba last night that I felt I could not
-listen. It was sufficient for me to find that you were safe, and that
-you had lost none of the beasts or baggage."
-
-"We did not even see an enemy," said Tom with disgust. "Though we kept a
-very bright look-out, and even on one occasion blazed into the darkness,
-thinking that the sheik and his men were upon us, not a soul really came
-near the place. But we heard the firing from the gorge, and it made me
-feel so anxious that I very nearly came up to join you. If it hadn't
-been that our safety depends to such an extent upon our camels and
-food-supply, I should certainly have done so, and you would not have
-blamed me, for it is clear that you had a desperate time of it. However,
-all's well that ends well. And now for our next move. Will you go ahead,
-or will you retire for a time, till this fight has blown over?"
-
-"I shall push on without a pause," answered Jim. "You see, news of this
-row is certain to fly to the Mullah's ears, and if we were to retire he
-would prevent any attempt in the future, by setting a watch at the
-ravine, and forbidding us to pass through. Then we should have to wait
-till the troops come this way, and by then anything may have happened to
-father. No, I mean to go right on, and my first act will be to ride to
-the camp from which these tribesmen came, and order them to give me any
-news they may have. Then I shall tell them that they are to keep quiet
-about their fight with us, or we will punish them on our return. Of
-course it will be a piece of bounce on my part, but now is the time to
-practise that sort of thing."
-
-"You are right not to allow this quarrel to frighten you," answered Tom
-heartily, "and I think it quite likely that you may get important
-information from our enemies. Then, too, now is the time to take
-advantage of your victory. While the tribesmen are humbled, you will get
-more from them than at any other time, for they will hope to allay your
-anger by helping you. But we shall never be able to trust them, and from
-this moment our precautions against surprise at night must be doubled."
-
-Long did Jim and his friend talk the matter over, and then Tom went to
-one of the bales which was carried upon the back of a camel, and,
-opening it, produced a bundle of surgical dressings and a few
-instruments. With these and a tin pannikin of cool water he proceeded to
-dress Jim's wound, and ended by placing the arm in a sling.
-
-"There," he said, when he had finished, "you bore it like a Briton, and
-will soon be well. Luckily it is only a flesh-wound. Had the slug struck
-the bone on its way through, it might have been a case of amputation,
-and then where would have been your expedition? And now, if you feel
-capable of the exertion, we shall break up the camp and get through the
-pass. Best do it now, before the sheik and his following pluck up their
-courage again."
-
-Accordingly, the zareba was soon astir, and the men bustling about their
-animals. Then, with a dozen of the best shots riding well in advance,
-and the remainder hovering in rear and on the flanks, the column set out
-for the pass, and went trailing up the steep slope of the hill. In due
-time they entered the ravine. Here they found but few traces of the
-conflict, for the tribesmen had taken advantage of the permission
-extended to them, and had removed their dead.
-
-An hour later they were in the plain, and that night they halted at some
-wells distant about ten miles. Here Ali Kumar came to Jim to announce
-that a messenger wished to have speech with him.
-
-"He comes from the tribe who suffered defeat at our hands," he said,
-"and has news of importance."
-
-"Bring him along, then," said Jim, "and tell off a man to keep an eye
-upon him. He might become unpleasant."
-
-A few moments later Ali ushered forward a native, whose head-gear
-proclaimed him to be one of the tribe who had received such a defeat on
-the previous evening. Coming up to Jim, he salaamed deeply and most
-humbly, and even trembled, so great was his fear.
-
-"What do you want?" asked Jim sharply, Tom interpreting his words. "Have
-you been told to ask for mercy from us?"
-
-"That is the case," answered the man. "The sheik bade me come hither and
-say that he regrets deeply that his men attacked you, and that they
-would never have done so had it not been for the words of one who was in
-your service, and who has now fled. He asks for forgiveness, and will
-promise never to molest you again."
-
-"That is not enough," replied Jim sternly. "Why should we not march on
-his camp and loot it?"
-
-"We are in your hands," the man said trembling; "but if you will
-overlook our fault, we shall give you news which will help you."
-
-"What is it, then?"
-
-"The man who betrayed you told us that you were in search of a white
-prisoner of the Mullah's. I am charged to tell you that he is now some
-thirty miles to the south of the Hoad, and that if you press through,
-you may rescue him, for many of the fighting men are away."
-
-"Can we trust the fellow?" asked Jim doubtfully, turning to Tom.
-"Perhaps it is a trap, into which they hope we shall walk blindly."
-
-"I hardly think so, old chap. You have given these beggars such a
-licking that they are in terror of their lives, and I believe they are
-telling you the truth. I should instruct him to say to the sheik that
-you will harm him no further at present, but that if you find he has
-been playing with you, you will punish him on your return."
-
-"That is good advice, Tom, and I'll leave it to you to speak to him.
-Then let us talk over the preparations to be made before entering upon
-this desert march."
-
-Accordingly, Tom repeated his words to the tribesman, warning him in
-stern tones that the slightest treachery would be severely punished.
-
-"Now return to your sheik," he continued, "and be careful that in future
-you remain peaceful, for the British troops will be this way before very
-long, and will treat you far more severely than we have done, unless you
-can prove that you are friendly."
-
-With many salaams and repeated thanks, the man withdrew; and then Tom
-and Jim called Ali Kumar to join them in consultation.
-
-"The question of water seems to me to be the most important," said Jim,
-opening the conversation. "How are we to contrive to carry sufficient to
-last for one hundred and fifty miles?"
-
-"We'll ask Ali," replied Tom. "You see, I've never been in this part
-before, and, though I have done a deal of spying in Aden, I've never
-joined in one of these expeditions. This is, in fact, all strange to
-me."
-
-"I have crossed the Hoad on several occasions, master," interposed Ali,
-"and can give you my help. Once beyond the desert, I can do nothing, for
-I shall then be in strange country. Indeed, no caravan has ever
-penetrated so far, for the land beyond belongs to the Mullah. As to
-water, you have tanks with you, which should prove sufficient. But a
-guard must be set upon their contents, and the allowance for man and
-beast strictly dealt out. Again, five days is said to be the shortest
-time in which the march can be accomplished, but I think that we shall
-do well to press on more hastily. The camels are all in the best of
-condition, and can well stand the fatigue. Then again, the following and
-baggage are comparatively small, so that our movements should be
-correspondingly rapid. When we reach the other side, we can rest for a
-time, while we send out scouts to gather news."
-
-"Excellent!" exclaimed Jim. "And now, when should we start?"
-
-"I vote that we march on at once to the very edge of the desert," said
-Tom. "If we find wells there, we can fill our tanks, and get a good
-start."
-
-"Bohotle is an advance post held by troops in the pay of the Sirkal,"
-remarked Ali Kumar, "and it is situated on the fringe of the sandy waste
-which stretches into the interior up to the pasture country ruled over
-by the Mullah. There is water in plenty there, and also at a spot
-directly before us. I therefore counsel you to keep straight on. Seven
-hours' marching will bring you to the place of which I speak, and then
-all preparations can be made for the crossing."
-
-Following the advice given by the native headman, Jim at once gave
-orders for the camp to be broken up, and by nightfall had the
-satisfaction of finding himself amidst a clump of palms and mimosa,
-which marked the position of the wells, and from which one looked out
-directly upon a wide-spreading sea of sand, a dreary waste, which went
-on and on to the horizon without a break, and without so much as a patch
-of green to relieve it. And here, as the caravan halted, and the men
-began to make a zareba, Jim had the pleasure of watching the most
-gorgeous sunset he had ever seen.
-
-"It is a wonderful sight," said Tom, as he stood by his side. "It seems
-as if these parts, where nature appears to come to a sudden end, were
-given something out of the way to make up for their loss; for the sun
-rises and falls over the desert with such beautiful effect, that people
-who have travelled the world over declare it is the finest sight of all.
-Then, too, mirages are not infrequent, though what is their cause is
-more than I can say. But come along. Watching that beautiful sky does
-not relieve one's hunger, and I can tell you I am sharp set."
-
-Returning to their camp, Jim and his friend were soon seated in front of
-a fire of thorn-wood, which blazed and crackled brightly, sending out a
-heat which was grateful, for the nights at this season of the year were
-decidedly cold. A native follower then appeared with a pan and some fat,
-and ten minutes later Jim was busily frying some juicy slices of meat
-cut from a deer which Tom had shot during the day. When they were
-finished to his satisfaction, Jim removed them to a plate by means of a
-fork, which, with a spoon and a knife, he carried in the form of an
-ordinary pocket-knife, as every sensible campaigner does. Meanwhile Tom
-had had the tea in hand, and before many minutes had passed both were
-seated at an excellent repast, which they enjoyed all the more for the
-fact that it was partaken of while squatting upon the bare earth, and
-from dishes and mugs of common enamelled tin.
-
-"And now for bed," said Jim, two hours later, when Tom had finished his
-smoke and they had had a chat. "Let us hope for a fine day, and a good
-start."
-
-"And luck on the other side, old chap. Good-night. It's my first watch.
-Turn in now, and I'll wake you in good time."
-
-Soon the camp was hushed in sleep, save for the crisp, low sound of a
-sandalled foot plodding up and down upon the sand. A few hours later the
-sentries were relieved, and Jim took his turn, it having been arranged
-that he and Tom, together with Ali Kumar, should help one another to
-keep an eye upon their following during the hours of darkness.
-
-Early on the following day the camp was astir, and an hour later they
-set out upon their long and hazardous march. Four days of hot and tiring
-work took them in safety to the farther side, where, worn out with their
-exertions, they formed a zareba, and called a long halt, to rest both
-animals and men. And now began the most difficult and dangerous part of
-Jim's undertaking.
-
-"Thirty miles from here the Mullah and his men are said to be encamped,"
-he remarked thoughtfully to Tom, as the two stood looking towards the
-interior of the fertile country which they had just reached. "I keep
-wondering whether we should push straight on, or remain where we are. I
-mean, whether we should post our men at this spot and go forward alone."
-
-"But surely you will want every follower," cried Tom. "Careful as we
-have been to keep our movements a secret, it is almost impossible to
-expect that the Mullah will remain for long in ignorance. Then, as soon
-as he hears of us, out will come his cut-throats to visit us and eat up
-the whole convoy, if they are able."
-
-"Exactly so, Tom, and it is because his men will come, and in large
-numbers, too, that I suggest that we should find a spot for our
-followers, and make a raid into the country alone. If we were
-discovered, we should make a bolt for it, and trust to rejoin our camp
-before we were caught. On the other hand, suppose we push on in a body.
-Unless we have the fortune to come upon another spot like the ravine,
-certain defeat will stare us in the face, for the Mullah has thousands
-of men."
-
-"What a long-headed beggar you are to be sure!" exclaimed Tom, smacking
-him heartily upon the back. "You seem to get to the bottom of all these
-difficulties at once, and what you have said is, I feel sure, as wise a
-course as we could carry out. But what about a spot in which to make the
-camp? It must be a strong one, or it will be useless. Again, it must be
-within reasonable distance, for otherwise we should never reach it."
-
-"The difficulty is great, but it is not beyond our powers," said a voice
-at his elbow, as Ali Kumar joined them. "I have already told you that I
-have once before crossed the Hoad, but that I have never penetrated the
-country beyond. I will now explain for what reason. It happened that I,
-with my father and my father's tribe, had suffered much at the hands of
-some neighbours of ours, who were far stronger than we were. For years
-they had harried our flocks, slain our men, and carried off the women
-and children. So that at last we decided to migrate and to place the
-desert between ourselves and our enemies. Carefully did we make our
-preparations, and then we set out upon the journey. Alas, master, it
-proved disastrous, for our beasts were in poor condition, and few in
-numbers. Then fortune was against us, for we stumbled into a storm of
-sand, which lasted for a day, and left us well-nigh dead. But we
-struggled on, hoping for the best. One by one our camels fell by the
-way, and soon men, too, joined them. At last, to make our troubles more
-than we could bear, the beasts, in their mad desire for water, tore open
-the sacks of goat-skin in which we carried our precious supply, and let
-the contents rush out upon the sand, where it disappeared at once,
-licked up by the parched land. From that moment all order was lost, and
-within a very few hours we had scattered, some in their madness
-returning, and all wandering from their path, their tongues lolling from
-their blackened lips, and their limbs staggering beneath them.
-
-"With three of my comrades I struggled forward till I saw a patch of
-green before me. At first I thought that it was a mirage, risen to cheat
-me into hope. But it was real--a glorious sight!--and, together with
-those who were with me, I ran towards it. There was water there, master,
-and food, and when, after resting, we searched the place, we found that
-it bore no traces of a camp, and that in all probability none but wild
-beasts had ever visited it. Three days later we pushed on to the fertile
-land of the Mullah, but there my comrades were killed, I alone escaping.
-In fear and terror I returned to the oasis, and from there Allah helped
-me to trudge across the desert and reach that portion of the land which
-skirts the sea. My journeying may be of use to you now, master, for the
-green spot of which I speak lies some ten miles only within the Hoad,
-and it is wide enough to give grazing to all your beasts. Of food you
-have enough in store of the kind that is sealed in tins, and therefore
-cannot fear starvation, while of water there is abundance. Moreover, it
-occurs to me that a strong zareba might be made in the heart of the
-trees, for there is wood to be had, and do we not carry ample wire with
-hooks upon it to surround the whole place?"
-
-"It sounds the very thing," cried Jim excitedly, having listened with
-great interest to all that Ali had to say. "If it is so close to the
-edge of the Mullah's country, it should prove an excellent base from
-which to set out on small spying expeditions. Then, if we do as you
-suggest, we ought to make it so strong that we could safely retreat to
-it when things become warm, and even defy the Mullah and his men. Yes,
-it is a good thing, I am sure, and I vote that we make for it at once."
-
-Having discussed the matter with Tom--for, though nominally in charge of
-the expedition, he never neglected to call upon his friend for help--Jim
-decided to wait till the following morning, and then to raise the camp
-and search for the oasis of which Ali had spoken. Accordingly, at the
-first sign of dawn, all were afoot and marching to the west, in which
-direction the wells were situated. At length they sighted a grove of
-shady trees, and hailed it with a shout of joy. An hour later their
-zareba was formed, and Jim and his friend were closely inspecting the
-surroundings.
-
-"It will be even more suitable than I had hoped," said Jim in delight.
-"Look at those trees, and see how they will help us."
-
-"Yes--er--well, I confess that I cannot follow you," was the puzzled
-response. "We might hide in the trees--perhaps that's what you mean?"
-
-"Partly, Tom; but I thought that they were placed in just the position
-to be of service to us. Look at the outside row. By cutting down a few
-we could have a square formed by the trunks, and giving a large clearing
-in the centre where the water is. Then we have only to connect the trees
-by means of barbed wire, and we have a fort into which the Mullah's men
-would find it a job to rush. Once our entanglement was completed, we
-could rig up some kind of a blockhouse inside, so that we should have
-plenty of cover, while as for the camels and horses, they of course must
-take their chance, though the long range of our rifles should make it
-possible to keep the enemy at a respectful distance, from which their
-old muzzle-loaders could not reach us."
-
-"You're a wonder!" gasped Tom. "It seems to me that you are a born
-soldier."
-
-"Not a bit of it," was the modest reply. "But, you see, my father was
-always telling me about the fights in which he had taken part. They were
-usually against natives, in some part of this continent, and there was
-always a ruse of this sort, some dodge by which he and his men held the
-larger numbers of the enemy at bay. That's how it is that I have an eye
-which seems to take in the possibilities of a place, and I put it down
-to my father and his yarns that I was able to make defence practicable
-away back at the ravine. But, seriously, what do you think of the
-dodge?"
-
-"It is the best thing you have yet thought out, Jim, and should prove of
-enormous advantage to us; for, knowing that we have a haven to retreat
-to, we shall go about our work of tracking the Mullah far more
-fearlessly, though I tell you that, in any case, it is going to be a
-risky game."
-
-Pacing backwards and forwards amongst the trees, Jim and his companion
-soon marked out the site of their fort. Then they called for an axe, and
-cut a wide slit at the base of each trunk which they had decided was to
-be removed, giving orders that the men were to set to at the work on the
-following morning. That done, they went well beyond the trees, but
-finding nothing but a weary sandy waste, and no cover that could be of
-the slightest use to an enemy, they returned to the zareba, and selected
-a site close beside the well, and almost in the centre of the square
-which they had marked off for the fort. On this a rough circle was
-drawn, and calling Ali to his side, Jim gave directions that the trees,
-when felled on the morrow, were to be dragged there, and arranged to as
-to form a blockhouse.
-
-"We want a raised platform," he said, as he walked over the spot once
-more, and deepened the line in the earth by means of his toe. "If we set
-our fellows to throw up a mound round the edge of this circle, and then
-pile the logs there, morticing them roughly together, we shall have a
-fine blockhouse, from which we shall be able to command the surrounding
-desert for many yards. I reckon that our rifles carry a good mile, and
-very likely even more than that; so that in the daytime we can make it
-impossible for the enemy to approach, unless in overwhelming numbers. If
-they come in a huge army, we shall lie behind our cover and blaze at
-them from a position of safety, and as we have been careful to bring a
-large store of ammunition, we need have no fears that it will become
-suddenly expended. I should think, too, that a watch-tower of some sort
-would be useful."
-
-"Then why not make one of these trees serve the purpose?" asked Tom,
-staring aloft at the green top of a palm which overhung the party. "It
-happens to occupy the very centre of your circle, and can easily be
-pegged so as to make ascent possible."
-
-"A grand idea!" exclaimed Jim, "and that, too, shall be carried out. But
-now about the camels and ponies. We want a zareba into which we can
-drive them at night, and in case of attack."
-
-"Then do the same for them as for ourselves," said Tom. "Look here, old
-boy, you ought to take particular pains to keep them well away from the
-water, or our supply may be fouled and rendered unfit for our
-consumption. Why not dig out a place for them, throwing the earth
-removed into a wall, which will protect them? Then, if you place the
-zareba over there, a trench from the wells will carry the water to them,
-so that their wants can be supplied."
-
-Tom pointed to a spot within thirty yards, where the ground fell
-slightly, and where numerous big palms grew, offering shade for the
-animals.
-
-"It would be an easy matter to do as suggested," interposed Ali Kumar,
-interrupting his masters. "I have seen such an arrangement before, and
-will see that the trench is dug, and a small wooden gate put at the
-head, so that a certain quantity can be allowed to run through at any
-time. Otherwise you would have the zareba filled with water, and the
-animals would quickly die. As to our being able to do all this, I can
-promise that the end of the week shall see the work completed, for the
-men will have little to do now that we are in camp, and when the beasts
-are driven out to graze, and sentries posted, the others will have their
-hours free, and will devote them to getting the camp into a state of
-defence."
-
-"And while they are at work we shall make excursions into the Mullah's
-country," remarked Jim. "We'll just wait until the wire is stretched and
-the blockhouse begun, for it would not do to have the enemy coming down
-upon us before we were ready. Then we'll take the best camels and set
-out. Who knows but that we may have the luck to rescue my father without
-much trouble, and in a week we may even be marching for the coast once
-more?"
-
-He spoke in the most hopeful manner, for the good fortune with which
-they had hitherto met had raised his spirits to the highest, so much so
-that complete success seemed even now in sight. But Jim had not yet
-encountered the terrible Mullah, he whose name was a byword in Northern
-Africa, and whose cruelties and whose cunning were talked about in every
-part of the civilized world. Had he had personal experience of him, his
-ideas would have undergone a change, for this leader of the Somali
-fanatics was not likely to sit down tamely and submit to the theft of a
-slave. Why should he indeed, when he openly boasted that he was ready to
-meet all the troops which the British Government could bring against
-him? It was out of the question to imagine for a moment that he who had
-so recently defeated a British column would dream of allowing this small
-expedition to escape his clutches, if he obtained news of its coming.
-Why, the guns and ammunition Jim and his following possessed would alone
-have been a prize, while the death of all who took part in this
-audacious enterprise would elevate the Mullah still higher in the
-estimation of the savage tribesmen who lived in these parts. Yes, had
-Jim been able to see into this matter as clearly as he was able to
-observe the strongest position for defence, he might have been less
-sanguine, indeed he might have trembled at the thought of all the danger
-before him. But he was blissfully ignorant, and went on with his plans
-of rescue, without allowing his mind to dwell unduly upon the prospect
-of difficulties which might yet have to be encountered. Would his
-determination have been altered had he known that at that very moment
-the Mullah was listening to the tale of a scout who had witnessed the
-march of the column on the previous day? We doubt it, for Jim was not
-the lad to give in till convinced that he was beaten. But, as it was, he
-knew nothing, and went on with his preparations with a mind which was
-free from uneasiness.
-
-"We have all had a hard day," he said, "so I propose we turn in early
-to-night. Then we can be up with the lark, and set to at the work we
-have before us."
-
-Scarcely had day dawned when all were awake, and guards having been
-posted to watch the grazing beasts, the remainder took spades and axes,
-which had been included in the baggage of the column, and, stripping to
-the waist, began to cut down the trees which Jim and Tom had marked on
-the previous day. Then, while some dragged the logs to the centre,
-others unrolled the barbed wire, and began to form an entanglement. A
-tiny doorway was left, so that the garrison could enter at will, but it
-was protected inside by a semicircle of the wire, so that should one of
-the enemy happen to rush in, he would still have an impenetrable barrier
-before him.
-
-When the entanglement was completed to his satisfaction, Jim set the men
-to work to throw up the platform for the blockhouse, and, before
-darkness fell, saw it completed.
-
-"And now for a zareba for the animals," he cried gaily, on the following
-morning. "Not till that is done can I leave the camp."
-
-With Tom beside him to aid him with his advice, he directed the men how
-to proceed with the work, and, by way of encouraging them, seized a
-spade himself, and began to delve with all his might. For hours together
-all laboured, but, thanks to the fact that the soil was light and easily
-turned, the task proved easier than it might have been. Indeed, by
-nightfall the animals were safely enclosed, and an entanglement of wire
-surrounded them, so that even if the enemy managed to rush up to them,
-they could not cause them to stampede. A trench had been cut from the
-wells to this zareba, within which a long trough had been constructed of
-mud, so arranged that it could be filled to the brim at the will of
-those who lived in the blockhouse, while the contents would drain slowly
-away and soak into the soil outside. Standing in the centre of the
-miniature fort which he had caused to be erected, Jim looked about him
-on that evening with feelings of pride and satisfaction.
-
-"I never could have thought it possible," he murmured to himself. "When
-we started from the farther side of the Hoad, it often troubled me to
-think what we should do to protect ourselves once we reached the
-Mullah's country, but I never dreamt that we should have the luck to
-fall in with this oasis. Why, we could live here for a month, or longer,
-and stand a siege without much fear; for, with these logs to protect us,
-we ought to be able to keep the plain outside clear of the enemy during
-the daytime, while our animals could graze in the large square of barbed
-wire which we have made. Then, as soon as they had eaten the grass
-there, we could send our fellows out to cut more during the night. Yes,
-we are in clover here, and can now take measures to rescue father. Tom,
-I want to ask you a question," he continued to his friend.
-
-"Well, what is it, old boy?"
-
-"How about leaving the camp? Will it be sufficient if Ali remains in
-charge?"
-
-"I think not," Tom answered with decision. "Now that we are so close to
-the Mullah, we must take it for granted that an attack, sooner or later,
-is inevitable. That being the case, it would be fatal to leave our
-natives to themselves, for, if deprived of a leader, they would be like
-sheep, and would quickly be overcome. I know what you are worrying
-about. You want to know who is to stay behind?"
-
-"That is it," responded Jim. "You see, I have had the best of it up to
-this, and it seems unfair to ask you to sit down here while I have all
-the excitement and adventure."
-
-"Not a bit of it!" exclaimed Tom eagerly. "You must remember that this
-is your expedition, and that the rescue of your father is of the utmost
-importance. If we are successful in that, we shall have obtained plenty
-of information concerning the Mullah, so that we shall both be
-satisfied. There! Don't consider me any more, but just act as you think
-best."
-
-"I'm glad to know that you think in that way, Tom," answered Jim. "And
-now, as you are agreeable to the arrangement, I will ask you to take
-charge of the camp while I go off on a scouting expedition. I propose to
-take Ali Kumar alone, and to strike at once for the enemy's country."
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XII
-
-IN TOUCH WITH THE MULLAH
-
-
-Scarcely had the sun risen above the sandy horizon when Jim and Ali
-Kumar rode from the oasis mounted upon two of the fleetest camels which
-the expedition possessed. They carried upon their saddles sufficient
-food and water to last them for a week, while each had a rifle and
-abundance of ammunition. Turning their faces toward the south, they
-urged their beasts into a long swinging trot, and sailed away over the
-desert with the cheers of their comrades ringing in their ears.
-
-"Before we return I hope to have obtained full news of my father," said
-Jim, as they swept along. "If I find that he is only slightly guarded, I
-shall take advantage of some dark night and try to reach him, and if we
-get him to the camp, the Mullah may do as he likes, but I defy him to
-capture us, for our position there is remarkably strong."
-
-"During the daytime the attempt will be hopeless," answered Ali Kumar
-thoughtfully. "But, master, I tremble to think of the consequences
-during the night, for we are few, and they would be many. Creeping up to
-us, they would rush upon us before we were prepared, and then nothing
-could save the expedition."
-
-"We shall see about that," exclaimed Jim doggedly. "It seems to me that
-if we were to light big fires round our square, we ought to be able to
-keep the enemy out. But I agree with you, it would be a hard matter, and
-could not be accomplished without fighting. And now for ourselves. Are
-we likely to strike the Mullah's camp if we push on in this direction?"
-
-"I cannot say for certain," responded Ali. "But you will remember that
-the tribesmen informed us that the white prisoner was some thirty miles
-south of the Hoad. If that is the case, we should be nearer the Mullah
-by nightfall. By that time it will be advisable to find some spot in
-which we can safely hide. Then, on the following day, we can sally out,
-and, pretending to be peaceful peasants, try to ascertain news of your
-father."
-
-"It sounds a good plan, Ali, but you must recollect that I am ignorant
-of the language. That being the case, it may be necessary for me to
-remain hidden while you go out, though when the time for rescue comes, I
-insist upon taking a full share in the matter."
-
-An hour after they had set out from the oasis the two riders entered
-upon a stretch of country which differed vastly from that which they had
-just left, for it was thickly clad with a carpet of fresh green, and was
-dotted everywhere with bushes and trees, and in parts with huge masses
-of foliage which showed the position of a forest. But nowhere was there
-a habitation visible, and not a native was to be seen. Half a mile
-farther on, however, was a large pool of water, from which the rays of
-the sun were reflected with dazzling brilliancy; and to this they at
-once rode, following one of the many paths that had been worn through
-the bush in all directions by wild animals.
-
-"Half an hour's halt here, and then on we go," said Jim. "How thankful I
-am that this is the cool season, and that the heat of the sun is not too
-great to prevent our marching during the day."
-
-"It is fortunate, master," answered Ali, "for less than three months
-hence the journey which we have already accomplished would have had to
-satisfy us until nightfall. Then only could we have ventured to start
-forward again, for at the time of noon the glare and strength of the sun
-are so great that even a native prefers the shade, and loves to lie
-there and sleep. But now we need have no fears of sunstroke, and can
-ride on. Our beasts are in the finest condition, and we can rely upon
-them to carry us the remaining thirty miles with the utmost ease.
-To-morrow, if necessary, they will bear us back again with the same
-certainty, for these are picked animals, and are worth some thirty of
-the common kind. But I shall prepare food, so that we may eat now and
-then pass on without halting."
-
-Taking the rough bits from the mouths of the camels, Ali led them to the
-water and allowed them to drink. Then he picketed them in the centre of
-a patch of luxuriant grass, and left them there to graze to their
-hearts' content, while he returned to help Jim with the meal. Already
-the latter had a cheery fire burning, and was toasting two large juicy
-steaks of deer-flesh over it. When they were ready, and the water
-boiling, both sat down beside the embers, there being no ceremony
-between master and man. Indeed, looking at them there, a stranger would
-have been troubled to tell the difference between these two Somali
-natives, for both had dusky features and dark hair, while their gestures
-were apparently the same. A closer inspection, however, would have shown
-him that the younger of the two could find no comfort in the squatting
-attitude of which the natives are fond, and preferred to lie upon the
-ground reclining upon his elbow. Then, again, he ate more daintily, and
-drank from his tin mug as if he had been accustomed to better things.
-But what was remarkable about the two was the fact that each possessed a
-rifle of modern workmanship, while Jim had a pair of revolvers, the butt
-of one of which peeped from beneath his clothing.
-
-Their meal finished, Ali took from a pouch which dangled about his neck
-a pinch of tobacco, and securing it in the hollow of his hand, proceeded
-to roll a cigarette. Surely this was a strange thing for a native in
-this wild part of the country to do! True, many followers of the Mullah
-indulged in the smoking habit, but none knew of the cigarette. Ali,
-however, had learnt the art at Berbera, and, indeed, behaved more like a
-civilized individual than any native that Jim had as yet seen.
-
-"I am a Christian and can sit at meat with my master, when he wills," he
-had said some days before. "Therefore, should it fall out that you and I
-ride away together, there will be no trouble on that score, though with
-any other of your followers difficulties would arise, for they could not
-eat with you, while to drink from the same vessel would be an insult to
-their religion."
-
-Having finished his cigarette, Ali sprang to his feet, and soon they
-were on their way again. Riding across an undulating country, they at
-length reached a part which was studded with hills, and upon ascending
-to the summit of one of these, both came suddenly to a halt, and uttered
-a cry of satisfaction.
-
-"Back, master!" cried Ali in alarm, a second later. "Dismount from your
-camel, and cause him to kneel, then creep forward with me, and lie full
-length among the bushes, for, were we to ascend to the sky-line, our
-figures would be seen at once. There, look!" he continued a moment
-later, as they threw themselves upon the grass and stared into the
-valley beyond. "You can see the mud huts which the Mullah's followers
-occupy, and there are his herds."
-
-Stretching his arm before him, Ali pointed down the farther slope of the
-hill into a long winding depression, down the centre of which ran a
-broad stream of water. Following his finger, Jim saw some hundreds of
-low mud hovels, nestling close to the bank of the river, and so clear
-was the atmosphere that he was able to distinguish numerous figures
-moving about, while herds of camels, sheep, and horses were visible
-everywhere.
-
-"What is that?" he suddenly asked, pointing in his turn to a dark mass
-in the centre of the valley. "It looks to me as though there were
-horsemen there, but I shall soon tell you, for I have brought my glasses
-with me."
-
-Hastily withdrawing his field-glasses from the case, he raised them to
-his eyes and looked long and carefully towards the object which he had
-discovered.
-
-"It is the Mullah's army," he said in an excited whisper, as if he
-feared that the ordinary tones of his voice would be overheard at that
-distance, and so alarm the enemy. "I can see a host of horsemen, and
-more than three times as many men on foot. And--yes, there is someone
-riding in front of them, who must be the Mullah."
-
-The sight at which he gazed filled Jim with a feeling of excitement, for
-now, at last, he was within touch of his goal. There, below him, was the
-man to whom his father was a slave, and there, careering up the valley,
-were a portion of the following who might even then be on their way to
-attack the foolhardy Englishman who had come in quest of the prisoner.
-Could Jim have read the thoughts of that tall man who so proudly rode
-his charger in front of the gathering of warriors below, he would have
-learned something that intimately concerned himself. As he sat his
-horse there before his following, his face was turned in the direction
-from which Jim and Ali had come, and his mind was engaged with the news
-which had come to his ears two or three days before.
-
-"An insolent Englishman has dared to cross the Hoad," he was murmuring
-to himself. "His purpose, as told me by the spy, is to rescue one of my
-beggarly prisoners. Let him beware. Before many hours have passed I will
-slay his whole following, and he, too, shall find himself a slave."
-
-Turning his horse with a touch of his heel, the Mullah held his hand
-above his head and arrested the progress of his following. Then spurring
-close up to them, he gave them their orders, and stood by as they
-marched away.
-
-"I wonder where they are bound for?" said Jim, as he watched the
-movement through his glasses. "Their heads were turned towards the
-north, and it looks as though they were bent upon a journey which would
-take some time, for camels laden with baggage are accompanying them,
-while some followers are driving a small herd of sheep and cattle. I
-hope it does not mean that they have discovered our camp, and are
-marching to attack it."
-
-"I cannot say, master," answered Ali thoughtfully. "But their movement
-looks suspicious. However, should they have gained news of our coming,
-it will be only as I have expected all along, for how could we hope to
-enter the country of this man without being discovered, when spies
-abound, and when news may even have been sent from Berbera? Besides,
-what of the traitor who induced the tribesmen to attack us? He had fled,
-so said their messenger, but where or how he did not mention. Perhaps he
-took advantage of the confusion to steal a camel, and with that to help
-him, crossed the Hoad, knowing that he would be welcome to the Mullah.
-If that is the case, we have trouble before us, and perhaps it would be
-better for us to retire at once, so as to rejoin our companions."
-
-"I think not," answered Jim promptly. "If those fellows down there are
-bound for our camp, we can do no possible good by returning to our
-friends, for we should only make a small addition to their numbers. No,
-when we set out for this part, we did so with the full knowledge that
-the camp in the oasis might have to defend itself at any moment. We
-placed my comrade in charge, trusting to him to keep the enemy out, and
-we must not allow this to break our faith in him and our followers. Let
-us leave them to do their work while we complete ours. When you come to
-think of it, the movement of those men below is probably the best thing
-that could have happened, that is, supposing they are not successful in
-their attack, as I firmly believe will be the case; for, knowing that
-his followers have gone to intercept us, the Mullah will never suspect
-that two of our expedition have detached themselves from the main body,
-and are already in touch with his camp. He and those of his men who
-remain with him will have no fear of a surprise of any sort, and will
-therefore neglect all precautions. What could be more advantageous to
-our cause?"
-
-"It is a fine argument," replied Ali Kumar, after a long pause, "and I
-believe you have seen this matter in the right light. As you say, to
-lose faith now in our friends would be foolish. If they are attacked, as
-I think is more than probable, they must trust to themselves, and live
-or fall according to their ability. Meanwhile we have a chance which may
-never occur again. Therefore, master, while you keep your glasses fixed
-upon the Mullah's following, I shall leave you for a time and search
-for a hiding-place. When I have found it I shall return, and then we
-shall make our way down to the camels."
-
-Accordingly Ali turned and descended the hill, leaving Jim stretched out
-upon the summit, with his eyes fixed upon the distant warriors. In half
-an hour the Mullah's expedition had disappeared behind an elevation, and
-Jim at once turned his glasses upon the solitary horseman who had
-watched them depart. He saw him put his horse into a furious gallop, and
-head him towards the collection of mud hovels. Then he watched as the
-rider pulled in his animal, and threw himself from the saddle. At this
-moment a native ran out and took the reins from him, while the Mullah
-strode into the midst of the camp. Though he was often hidden for a
-considerable time by some clump of huts, Jim was able to follow him as
-he advanced by watching for him as he crossed the open spaces. At last
-he reached a house of considerable proportions, above the flat roof of
-which a tattered banner blew out in the tropical breeze, showing a
-groundwork of brilliant red, with figures worked upon it in darker
-colours. A spear seemed to form the supporting post.
-
-"He's gone in," said Jim, watching the figure of the Mullah with the
-utmost eagerness. "I must make a careful note of the position of his
-house, for I might have to find my way there some day. Indeed, if father
-is there--and I see no other way of rescuing him--I shall choose a dark
-night, and creep into the mud hut into which the Mullah has disappeared.
-Then I'll put a pistol to his head, and give him the choice of death or
-the loss of his slave. But I should have to be very careful of
-treachery, and in any case it would be a desperate game to play.
-However, we shall see. Having come so far, I do not mean to turn back
-before I have made every effort, and if I fail after all, why, I'll
-return to Berbera, join the British troops, and march in this direction
-again in their company."
-
-For long Jim lay full-length among the grass with which this hill was
-thickly clad, and gazed down into the valley which formed the home and
-hiding-place of the Mullah and his adherents. Every now and again he
-would catch sight of some figure moving along the bank of the river, or
-passing down the only street of which the village boasted. Instantly, up
-would go his glasses to his eyes, and he would focus them upon the
-object, hoping that this might prove to be the white prisoner, his
-father. But in every case the figure proved to be some dusky warrior,
-trudging along with his spear over one shoulder, and his hide-shield
-dangling on his other arm, or one of the many wives with which these
-Somali fighting men were blessed, walking down to the water to replenish
-her household stock. Full as Jim's thoughts were of other things, he
-could not help remarking the graceful carriage of these people. With
-erect figures, and arms swinging easily at their sides, these women bore
-upon their heads a tall earthen jar, which they balanced there with as
-much ease as the average individual contrives to retain his hat.
-
-Later, a movement about the central dwelling from which the flag flew
-attracted his attention, and looking closely in that direction, he saw
-four armed men suddenly emerge from the shadow of the walls into the
-road in front, where they formed up in line. Four others at once placed
-themselves in front of their comrades, and having saluted one another in
-ceremonious fashion, as people of the East are accustomed to do, they
-separated, the first party disappearing down the street, while the
-second filed into their positions about the Mullah's residence. But of
-the latter there was never a sign; he remained in the seclusion of his
-mud hut, his thoughts, no doubt, fixed upon that tiny camp belonging to
-the insolent Englishman, which he hoped to hear, in the course of a few
-hours, had fallen a prey to his followers.
-
-"I must be careful to remember about those guards," murmured Jim
-thoughtfully, "for should it become necessary for me to visit the house,
-they might interrupt our interview and spoil my chances. But we shall
-see; perhaps Ali will have good news for me."
-
-For three hours he lay on the summit of the hill, keeping a careful
-watch on the Mullah's camp, and wondering all the while what had
-happened to his native headman, and why his return was so long delayed.
-
-"I hope nothing has happened to him," he said at last, in anxious tones.
-"It would be a serious matter if he were captured, for it would let the
-Mullah know that there were spies close at hand. But I can't think what
-has happened to him, for amongst the following below there must be a
-huge number of strange men collected together, and Ali's clever enough
-to pass himself as one of these. Besides----Hallo! Who's that?"
-
-Happening to turn his head to look at the two camels which were grazing
-some two hundred yards in the rear, Jim suddenly caught sight of a
-figure running towards him, and waving an arm to attract his attention.
-Grasping his rifle, and shooting a cartridge into the breech, he at once
-retired from the summit of the hill, taking care to creep on all-fours
-through the grass until well away from the sky-line. Then he started to
-his feet, and running forward until close to a large mass of rock, he
-knelt behind it, and, raising his weapon to his shoulder, covered the
-man who was approaching.
-
-"Very likely it is Ali," he said to himself; "but should it happen to be
-anyone else, I shall be quite ready for him."
-
-A minute later any doubts which he might have had were dispelled, for,
-topping a rise which intervened between himself and Jim, the stranger
-showed clearly against the distant horizon.
-
-"Ali!" cried Jim, in tones of relief; and at once rising from his seat,
-he hastened towards him with his rifle over his shoulder, and his mind
-filled with alarm at the evident excitement under which his follower
-laboured.
-
-"What is it? What has happened, Ali?" he demanded. "Have you been
-discovered? And if so, are you being followed? In that case we had
-better get the camels ready at once, so that we may ride for our lives,
-for to attempt to remain here would be madness."
-
-"No, do not touch our animals, but sit down and listen," answered Ali
-breathlessly, throwing himself upon the ground, as if he were exhausted,
-and lying there panting so hard that he seemed unable to speak. At
-length, however, he took a sip of water from the gourd which dangled at
-his waist, and seeming to revive at once, sat up and gazed at his
-master.
-
-"All is well," he said, "and I have not been discovered. But I have seen
-things which have caused me to tremble with alarm, and which sent me
-back to you at my fastest pace to warn you."
-
-"What is it, then," asked Jim anxiously, unable to guess what could have
-happened to his follower. "Come, tell me at once, Ali."
-
-Leaning forward, he placed his hand upon the native's shoulder and shook
-him gently so as to hasten him, for the sight of Ali's excitement had
-filled him with a vague feeling of alarm.
-
-"Listen, then, master, and I shall tell you what happened to me after I
-left you upon the summit of the hill. But first let us climb to our
-position again, and take our posts there, for I warn you that if we are
-to escape from this place alive, we must be ever watchful, and keep our
-eyes constantly fixed upon the valley below."
-
-This wise precaution was immediately carried out. Then Ali turned
-towards Jim and continued his story.
-
-"When I left you," he said, "I placed my rifle beside a boulder, for I
-knew that it would at once arouse the cupidity and suspicion of any whom
-I might meet. Then I descended the hill, and taking advantage of a long
-stretch of thick undergrowth which ran towards the village, I reached
-its outskirts without having seen a single stranger. Then I watched for
-an hour as the people walked to and fro, and happening to see two women
-who were busily engaged in crushing corn for their bread, I crept into
-the house behind them, and sat in the doorway listening to their
-conversation. From what they said I gathered that the Mullah can collect
-as many as sixty thousand men to march behind his banner, but that the
-greater portion are at present living peaceful lives in their own
-particular portion of the country. However, as soon as the British
-troops advance, the call to arms will be sounded, and all will hasten to
-join the Mullah. A little while later, one of the women began to speak
-of the expedition which started out this morning, and from her I learned
-that it has undoubtedly gone in search of our camp. But guns are scarce,
-and it seems that the band only has about fifty with it. That the Mullah
-had warning of our approach was evident, for one of the women stated
-that her husband was the scout who had observed our arrival on this
-side of the Hoad.
-
-"Though I listened to their chatter for long, I learned nothing more of
-importance, for they conversed about their children and their homes. And
-so, carefully looking down the street, and observing that large numbers
-were about, I slipped in amongst them, feeling confident that my
-presence would not be noticed. Soon I was in their market, and following
-the lead of others of the men who were about, I purchased some fruit,
-haggling over the price, as is customary. Then, as I wandered from the
-stalls into the street again, I saw the white prisoner coming towards
-me."
-
-"The white prisoner! My father!" almost shouted Jim, his pulses
-throbbing with the news. "Are you sure that it was he? What did he look
-like? Was he ill, and overcome by his miserable condition?"
-
-He clutched Ali eagerly by the arm and poured the questions upon him so
-rapidly that the latter could not answer, but lay there gazing at him
-stolidly, as if astounded at his excitement.
-
-"Gently! Speak quietly, master," he replied. "The questions which you
-ask are unnecessary, for there is but one prisoner, one white slave
-owned by the Mullah; assuredly, this one whom I saw is your father, and
-that he is ill and downcast is only to be expected. Indeed, so heavy are
-his cares, and so great the labour demanded of him, that already he has
-aged. Though but a few weeks have passed since he was cast upon this
-coast, and fell into the hands of these, our enemies, yet the time has
-been sufficient to make great changes in him. He is a tall man, but no
-longer does he bear himself proudly, for this drudgery and the
-hopelessness of life have overcome his spirit. He lacks energy, and
-walks along with eyes cast down and with never a thought of his
-surroundings. Indeed, it is clear that his mind is forever bent upon
-escape, and that when he chances to look to right or left he does so
-with the hope that something shall be there to help him--some friend
-who, pitying his condition, has come prepared to stretch out a hand, and
-aid him to reach his countrymen once more. As he passed me by, and
-looked at me vacantly, ignorant of the fact that I was in reality a
-comrade of his son who had marched all this way and had encountered so
-many dangers in the hope of rescuing him, it went to my heart to notice
-the deep lines that care had set upon his face, and the whiteness of his
-hair. Yes, master, no longer is it grey at the temples alone."
-
-"Poor father!" murmured Jim sorrowfully, his pity raised to the highest
-at Ali's words. "Poor dad! What a change in his condition!"
-
-For more than a minute there was silence.
-
-"Go on!" at last said Jim, in more resolute tones. "It was a blow to
-hear that there is such a change in my father, and that he was so
-downcast. But after considering the matter, I am bound to confess that
-it is only to be expected. I must congratulate myself upon the fact that
-you have seen him alive, for we might have arrived at the Mullah's camp
-to find him dead, worn out by his sufferings. What if his hair is grey?
-Other men have lost their colour in a night under some great strain, but
-they have recovered it to some extent later on. Father will do the same.
-Once free, he will become the same jolly fellow I have always known
-him."
-
-Tears stood in Jim's eyes as he spoke, for he was deeply moved at the
-thought of his father's condition, but with an effort he steadied
-himself, and signalled to Ali to proceed by raising his hand, for he
-could not trust himself to speak.
-
-"Be happy, master. It matters nothing, whatever the colour of the hair,
-so long as life is there," answered Ali, in reassuring tones. "But let
-me proceed. Had I dared to do so, I would have signed to the prisoner
-and endeavoured to meet him in some out-of-the-way spot, but I saw that
-such an act would have been madness, for as he approached, I noticed
-first one, and then a second, armed warrior lounging amidst the throng,
-but keeping a careful eye all the while upon their charge. Even when my
-eyes and the prisoner's met, I could do nothing but turn hastily away
-and gaze at the passers-by on the opposite side. Then, little by little,
-I moved in the direction taken by your father, hoping to discover the
-house in which he dwelt, and have speech with him. But the attempt was
-doomed to disappointment in the last respect, for his guards kept ever
-at his side. However, I had the good fortune to find where he slept. It
-is that tumble-down dwelling which stands behind the central one from
-which the flag hangs, and some few paces away from it. See! There it is!
-And before the door is an armed Somali warrior keeping watch upon the
-prisoner."
-
-Rising to his knees, Ali leant one hand upon the ground and with the
-other directed Jim's eyes to the house of which he had spoken.
-
-"Behind the big one, and with a man in front of the door," remarked the
-latter, with his eyes glued to the glasses. "Yes, I can see it, Ali, and
-feel sure that I can make my way to it in the dark. But go on with your
-story."
-
-"Half an hour passed without my seeing the prisoner again," said Ali,
-sinking into the grass once more, "so I crept away, and rejoined the
-people. Then, just as I was about to make my way back to you, I
-suddenly caught sight of a face which set me trembling. My knees knocked
-together in my terror, and had I not clung to the post of a doorway
-which stood near at hand, I should have fallen, for never before has
-death been so near to me."
-
-He turned to Jim with flashing eyes, and with cheeks which looked pale
-in spite of his dusky complexion. Indeed, glancing at his features, it
-was easy to see that his fear was great, and that the face which he had
-caught sight of had caused him no little uneasiness.
-
-"I should have fallen," he repeated, "but the doorpost held me up while
-this man passed. Then I turned upon my heel, and slipping from the
-village, fled hither for my life."
-
-"Who can it have been? Speak, man!" demanded Jim impatiently, bewildered
-at his follower's words. "A strange face? Why! It cannot have been----"
-
-"Yes, master, it was the traitor who led the tribesmen against us,"
-gasped Ali. "Of a sudden I saw him coming towards me, and I trembled
-lest he should recognize me; for, had he done so, that instant would
-have been the signal for my death, and with my life would have gone all
-your hopes, too. Our danger is now greater than ever before, and it
-seems to me that we should be foolish to remain any longer."
-
-"And why?" demanded Jim curtly, a look of determination coming over his
-face. "You are unmanned by this incident and your imagination. What if
-the traitor is in the Mullah's village? Is it likely that he suspects
-that we are close at hand? No! I tell you he is chuckling at the thought
-that we are with our friends, and that the followers of the Mullah are
-about to attack us. Pull yourself together, Ali, and be a man! Or, if
-you cannot, leave me to carry out the rescue alone, for I declare that I
-will not retire. To-night I shall go down to that hut and endeavour to
-rescue the prisoner. If it is impossible, I shall wait for another
-opportunity; but turn my face the other way and leave father to his fate
-I will not, not even if our presence here is discovered."
-
-He spoke the words almost fiercely, and turned upon his follower with
-flushed features and angry eye.
-
-"Well, what is it to be?" he demanded curtly. "There are the camels
-below. Take one, and fly at once, if you will, for I had rather that you
-did not stay if you are not ready to stand by me."
-
-"Master, I was a coward for the moment," answered Ali humbly. "The sight
-of that traitor and my narrow escape filled me with fear, and I returned
-to you feeling as though the Somali warriors were following closely upon
-me, shouting for my life. But you are brave, and help me to act rightly
-in this matter. Forgive me. I will stand by you, whatever the danger,
-and if you persist in going into the Mullah's village to-night in the
-hope of releasing the captive, I will follow you at a distance and await
-you with the camels. If, by chance, you are unsuccessful, and fall into
-the hands of these people, I swear that I will not leave this part till
-I have done my utmost to help you. Go, then, and may God aid you in your
-undertaking!"
-
-There was no doubt of his earnestness, for, rising to his knees once
-more, he extended his hand and grasped Jim's firmly, looking steadily
-into his eyes.
-
-"You are a man again, and will be true to your word," said Jim simply.
-"Now bring up the food and water, for at sundown I shall leave for the
-Mullah's camp."
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XIII
-
-THE WHITE PRISONER
-
-
-Wearily did the hours pass as Jim and his companion lay upon the summit
-of the hill, gazing down into the valley below. Indeed, it seemed as
-though the sun would never sink, and as though its course from east to
-west was slower upon this eventful day than upon any other. At length,
-however, when they were almost worn out with impatience and anxiety, the
-huge golden orb sank out of their sight below a distant line of blue
-hills, setting the sky aglow with every shade of the spectrum, blended
-together to form one magnificent whole. Soon, too, sunset hues faded
-into mist, and with a suddenness which is peculiar to these latitudes, a
-pall of darkness covered the earth. Then out came the stars, twinkling
-above like so many diamonds, while down below a point of fire here and
-there showed where the camp was situated.
-
-For an hour Jim lay there busy with his thoughts, and listening to the
-sounds which were distinctly borne upon his ear, in spite of the
-distance which intervened between himself and the village.
-
-"It will take me the better part of an hour to get from here to the
-neighbourhood of the hut in which father sleeps," he said, "so I shall
-start now. I have thought the whole matter carefully over, and it seems
-to me that I cannot do better than leave my rifle and cartridges behind
-as Ali did. But I shall take a dagger with me--my hunting-knife will
-answer the purpose admirably. Then if I knock up against anyone and he
-proves disagreeable, I shall have a weapon at hand with which to
-overcome him silently. If more than one should attack me, I shall have
-to fall upon my revolvers, which I shall, of course, carry with me. Ali!
-I want you."
-
-He called softly to his companion, who crept to his side immediately.
-
-"What can I do, master?" he asked.
-
-"I am going to start now," said Jim quietly, "and want you to accompany
-me half-way. I shall then leave you with the camels and go on alone. But
-it is important that we should arrange a meeting-place to which I shall
-be able to find my way without fail. You have already made a trip to the
-Mullah's stronghold, and may have fixed upon a likely spot."
-
-"That is the case," answered the native follower. "I shall come with you
-now, and when within half a mile of the huts, I shall halt in a tiny
-ravine. You will have no difficulty in finding your way to it on your
-return, for a path leads to the entrance, where there is a well, and
-then branches off to the right. Though the place is close to the enemy's
-sleeping quarters, it is secluded, and will form good cover for myself
-and the camels. There I shall await your coming, and that you may be
-accompanied by your father is the sincere wish of your servant."
-
-"I trust that it will turn out like that, Ali; and if hard work and a
-little boldness on my part will help towards it, why, success ought to
-follow. But we shall see. Now let us be going."
-
-A few minutes later both were silently descending the hill, taking the
-greatest pains to refrain from stumbling over boulders, or setting
-smaller stones rolling down to the plain below; for there was never any
-knowing when and where an enemy might be lurking, though the fact that
-it was a cold night made it probable that all the Somali warriors would
-be comfortably ensconced in their mud huts, enjoying the warmth to be
-obtained there. Indeed, there seemed to be none but themselves abroad
-that night, for they caught sight of none, and, but for the yapping of a
-native cur, heard not a single sound. But that someone was awake and
-alert in the Mullah's stronghold was certain, for the reflection of a
-big wood-fire which burnt in front of the central building could be seen
-in the sky, while the peculiar smell came pungently to their nostrils.
-
-"Here is the ravine," said Ali at last, when they had descended to the
-plain, and had traversed a mile of the level country. "Look at the spot
-closely, master. There is the well. You cannot mistake it, for the light
-of the stars is reflected from the water, while here is the entrance to
-the ravine of which I spoke. I shall await your coming some yards
-further in, and should it fall out that you do not return, I shall make
-my way back to the hill-top an hour before the day dawns. To-morrow
-night I shall be here again, and if it should happen that you, too, are
-made a captive, then I will find my way into the village, and seek to
-help you. Ali Kumar has sworn to stand by his brave master, and he shall
-do so, even though he comes by his death in keeping to his word. And now
-good-bye. I wish you all success."
-
-"Good-bye," repeated Jim heartily, gripping his dusky comrade by the
-hand.
-
-"I have little fear of failure, though I shall not allow that to prevent
-my taking every precaution. If I should have bad luck, I know that I can
-trust you to keep your promise, and I shall expect to hear from you. But
-let us hope that it will not come to that. Stay quietly where you are,
-and when you hear a low cough, step forward and declare yourself, for
-we shall have arrived. Good-bye."
-
-Releasing the native's hand, Jim at once strode off into the darkness,
-and in another moment was lost to view. But as he stood there at the
-mouth of the ravine, listening with all his ears, the faithful Ali could
-hear the sound of his muffled footsteps shuffling along over the loose
-soil of which the path was composed.
-
-"Farewell," whispered Ali, as the sound died away. "May fortune smile
-upon you, for you are a brave and loyal son, and are deserving of much
-reward."
-
-Turning his face towards the glare of the distant camp-fire, Jim struck
-off into the darkness, and was soon close to the huts which stood on the
-fringe of the village. By now the moon had risen higher, and enabled him
-to see his way more clearly, though, being only a small crescent, it did
-not give sufficient light to show his figure at more than a few paces.
-Taking advantage of this fact, he pressed on without hesitation, and,
-before he had expected it, was close to the dwelling which stood in the
-centre. Yes, there it was without doubt, for he could see the folds of
-the red flag floating lazily in the still night breeze, beating ever and
-anon against the spear-shaft which supported it, and giving rise to a
-flapping sound, which, until the cause of it was clear, was decidedly
-disconcerting.
-
-"At last!" murmured Jim. "Over there is the hut which shelters the
-Mullah, while in the other sleeps his slave, my dear father. Whatever
-happens, I must and will reach him and rescue him. But how?"
-
-The question was one which could not be answered easily, and which set
-him puzzling his brains. Half an hour before it had seemed to him more
-or less a simple matter to creep close to the mud dwelling beneath
-which his father slept and to gain access to him by means of a doorway,
-or perhaps by cutting a hole through the wall. Now, however, when the
-reality was before him, and he was actually brought face to face with
-the difficulty, he could not but admit that the danger and magnitude of
-the task were far greater than he had ever imagined. But he was not the
-lad to give way, or to be easily discouraged, particularly where his
-father's life was concerned.
-
-"It looks rather difficult, I must admit," said Jim to himself, going on
-all-fours at the same moment, and then lying flat upon his face. "It
-seems to me that I cannot do better than wait here, hidden in this long
-grass, until I am certain of the whereabouts of the sentries. During the
-daytime I know that four keep watch over the Mullah, while one sits
-before the door of the prisoner. But do they still act as sentries when
-night has fallen? I should think that their number is reduced,
-particularly now, when all seems at peace, and the British have not yet
-entered the country. Still, it will be well to make certain of the fact,
-for it would be fatal to walk into the arms of one of these Somali
-warriors just as I was about to communicate with the prisoner."
-
-Many minutes passed as he reclined full-length in the grass, and it was
-only when his stock of patience was well-nigh exhausted that he observed
-a movement close to the door of the hut in which the prisoner lived.
-
-"A sentry," he said to himself, as a figure suddenly rose from the
-ground and stood erect, with arms wide outstretched. "And evidently
-sleepy, too," he added, as the native again raised his limbs and yawned
-deeply, showing a profile which was clear and distinct against the
-watch-fire which burnt some paces beyond. "I must keep my eyes upon him,
-and see where he rests, for that is what the fellow will do, I should
-fancy. He knows, or rather thinks, that there is nothing to fear, and
-being tired, he will indulge in a snooze. Well, if he does so, all the
-better for my hopes."
-
-A few moments later the native slouched across to the opposite dwelling,
-the one in which the Mullah lived, and after looking about him and
-conversing for a short while with a second sentry who marched at the
-front, sat down deliberately against the wall, and folding his arms,
-gave himself up unrestrainedly to sleep.
-
-"They have most likely arranged to keep watch for one another," thought
-Jim. "This fellow will have a couple or more hours' rest, and then will
-have to relieve his comrade. If that is the arrangement, it will suit me
-very well, for the man who is on duty now will devote himself to the
-Mullah, and will pay only casual attention to the prisoner's hut. I
-shall wait till he has strolled round this way, and then I shall make a
-dash for the door, and trust to getting in before he takes it into his
-head to have a second look. Ah, here he comes!"
-
-The guard came sauntering round the larger of the two huts, and allowed
-Jim to obtain a good view of his features, for he, too, as if he had
-caught the infection from his comrade, stopped in the glare of the
-firelight and yawned loudly, throwing his head back and stretching in a
-manner which showed how drowsy he was. Then he went to the mud hut, and
-fumbled at the door. To Jim's delight, it opened, showing that it was
-not secured in any way. But the sentry had another object in view than
-to test the fastenings, for, drawing it back as far as it would go, he
-stepped on one side so as not to obstruct the rays of the moon, and then
-peered in. Evidently he caught sight of the prisoner, for he gave vent
-to a guttural murmur of approval, and then closed the door to with a
-jar. Then he slouched away, carrying his spear over his shoulder, with
-his shield dangling to it by a length of twisted leather.
-
-"Now is my chance," murmured Jim. "I'll give him a moment to get round
-the corner, and then I'll make a dart for the hut. Here goes!"
-
-Turning his eyes for one second to the figure of the sleeping man, he
-sprang to his feet, and crept softly across the ground. An open space
-was before him, but he did not hesitate, and, pressing on, was before
-the door of the prison in half a dozen strides. A moment sufficed to
-unlatch it, and swinging it back, he crawled in on all-fours, closing it
-after him with the greatest caution.
-
-"And now for the prisoner," he said. "I must be careful how I awake him,
-for in his astonishment he might unwittingly give the alarm and ruin all
-my plans. But first, where is he?"
-
-Kneeling upon the floor of hard-beaten clay, he stared into the darkness
-in which the interior of the dwelling was buried, endeavouring to make
-out the figure of the prisoner. And all the while, though he fought to
-steady himself, and struggled to keep his limbs from trembling, his
-heart would beat against his ribs with such force, and with such a
-resounding noise, that it threatened to betray him. And who could blame
-him for being so excited, for being so unnerved that he was almost
-incapable of any movement, and knelt there as if carved in stone? Who,
-indeed, with such interests at stake? Had he not toiled over miles and
-miles of sandy desert and sun-baked ground to reach this spot? Was not
-this almost the summit of his hopes and his ambitions? Here he was,
-after long marching and infinite toil, in reach of his prize at last,
-within sight of the end of his arduous task, and, wonder of wonders, the
-thought of it all had so excited him, so unmanned him, indeed, that for
-more than a minute he was helpless, a mere child in the heart of the
-enemy's camp. But the change did not last for long; for of a sudden his
-eyes fell upon a huddled figure lying in the corner, and with a thrill
-he realized that it was the white prisoner.
-
-"Father! father!" he murmured, with lips which would tremble in spite of
-himself. "I am here--Jim! Your son--come to rescue you! Wake up, and
-talk to me."
-
-But there was no answer to his words save a deep snore, and the sound of
-heavy breathing, which showed that the white prisoner was still fast
-asleep. A moment later, however, Jim had crawled to his side, and taking
-the very necessary precaution to place a finger upon the sleeper's lips,
-shook him gently with his other hand.
-
-"Wake up, father," he whispered, placing his lips close to his ear. "It
-is Jim. Don't you know me?"
-
-"Who's that? What's the matter?" asked the prisoner, suddenly sitting up
-and speaking as if bewildered. "I swear that I heard someone talking in
-English. But no, it cannot be the case. I've dreamt the same thing time
-and again, until my heart is sick at the thought. No, I am a slave to
-these brutes, and shall remain so till the end of my days."
-
-Strange! The voice seemed harsher than that to which Jim was accustomed.
-But, no doubt, hardship had altered it.
-
-"Don't try to sleep any more," he whispered eagerly. "The voice is real.
-I am here--Jim! Can't you tell?"
-
-The prisoner, who had again thrown himself upon the floor, shot up into
-a sitting position as if he had been struck, and sat there staring at
-the figure beside him, as if unable to believe his ears.
-
-"It's true, then?" he said huskily. "But who are you? Jim? Who's Jim? I
-know of none of that name, save an old shipmate who sailed a trip or two
-to the 'shiny' with me. Who is it, then? But anyway I reckon that it is
-a friend."
-
-At the words a dreadful fear fell upon Jim, and crawling closer to the
-prisoner, he stared eagerly into his face, endeavouring to make out in
-the obscurity of the hut what were the features. As if to help him in
-his trouble, a few stray rays of the moon managed at that moment to
-penetrate a chink between the door and its post, and, falling upon the
-white stranger, allowed a closer scrutiny than would otherwise have been
-possible. To describe the disappointment, the dismay, which Jim felt
-would be impossible; for, after all his care, after all his labours and
-trials, he saw that a hideous error had been made, and that the white
-prisoner was not the Colonel Hubbard who was reported to have escaped
-the wreck in the Gulf of Aden.
-
-"Not my father?" murmured Jim brokenly, feeling crushed by the weight of
-the blow. "I have marched miles to win this meeting, and came here this
-night in the hope that I was about to release my father from prison. And
-now I find that you are a stranger. The disappointment is almost too
-hard to bear."
-
-"And where have you come from, may I ask?" whispered the stranger. "As
-yet I, too, am bewildered, and it is as much as I can do to understand
-that at last I am listening to another Englishman. Why, man, it seems
-years since I heard the language, though in reality it's a matter of a
-week or so only. But you say you have come here to rescue. Where from,
-then? I cannot make head or tail of this affair. But steady! As you
-value your life, keep your words low, for our guards have sharp ears,
-and sharper and more ready spears."
-
-For some minutes Jim could make no reply to the man's questions, for he
-felt stunned with the blow, indeed, so dazed and bewildered that he
-might have been totally unconscious, so still did he lie. His breath
-came in gasps and catches, and it was with difficulty that he could
-repress the tears which welled to his eyes, and made frantic efforts to
-overflow.
-
-"Not my father?" he repeated at length. "But who are you?"
-
-"An unlucky dog who happened to be thrown ashore after a wreck in the
-Gulf of Aden," was the answer. "For three years have I been a prisoner
-to this fiend who goes by the name of the 'Mad' Mullah."
-
-"Then, do you know of another?" asked Jim eagerly, seizing the stranger
-by the arm, and bringing his face so close to his that they almost
-touched. "Tell me at once! Quick, I cannot wait!"
-
-In his anxiety to hear the news, Jim shook the stranger and whispered
-the question fiercely in his ear, feeling as though his own life and
-happiness depended upon the answer.
-
-"Hush! Steady, man! You will have our guard rushing upon us if you are
-not careful. There! What is that? I can hear the man outside coming to
-make his usual inspection. We are discovered, and shall be killed."
-
-For the space of a few seconds both sat upon the mud floor, staring at
-the wicket and listening attentively. As they did so, the shuffling
-sound made by a man walking with sandals upon his feet could be heard
-approaching, and instantly Jim realized that this must be the sentry who
-was doing duty for himself and for his comrades.
-
-"Lie down just here, and pretend to be asleep," he whispered quickly.
-"He will do as he did before, and will throw open the door so as to
-obtain a clear view of the interior. But the light of the moon will only
-fall just where you are, while the remainder of the hut will be in
-darkness. I'll get over into the corner, and level my revolver at his
-head. If he discovers me, I shall shoot, and you had better be ready to
-join me at once. In the confusion we shall make a bolt for the
-hiding-place in which I have a follower and two camels. Do you
-understand? Quick with your answer!"
-
-The white prisoner gave a rapid response in the affirmative, and at once
-lay down in the attitude of sleep, whilst Jim leaped across the hut into
-the darkest corner. Then gently drawing a revolver from beneath his
-waistcloth, he shuffled a few inches to the left until he could get a
-partial view of the doorway, at which he at once presented his weapon.
-
-Almost immediately the sound of the latch was heard, seeming to break
-upon the stillness with startling loudness. Then the twisted leather
-hinges creaked, while the foot of the door scraped over the ground,
-allowing a flood of moonlight to pour into the room. In the centre of
-the brilliant patch could be seen the dark shadow of the sentry,
-slanting across the floor until it fell upon the sleeper, and hung over
-him. But a moment later the man stepped on one side, and then there was
-silence once more as he peered in. Sitting there, in his dark corner,
-Jim could hear the man's heavy breathing, and kept his revolver steadily
-levelled, knowing that if he were to be discovered it would be during
-the next few seconds. Breathlessly he waited, not daring to move a
-finger, but feeling all the while as though the man's eyes were
-searching every nook and cranny of the hut, and had fixed themselves
-upon him. Indeed, so firmly was he convinced of this that he began to
-stretch a little farther to one side till the head of the sentry came
-into view. And there he remained in his strained position, the muzzle of
-his weapon covering the intruder, and his finger on the trigger, ready
-to press it and send the death-dealing bullet home. An age seemed to
-pass before the Somali warrior ended his scrutiny of the hut, and it was
-with a feeling of indescribable relief that Jim saw his head withdrawn,
-and heard the rasping of the wicket again as it closed. As if
-fascinated, he watched the patch of moonlight diminish, and then sat
-there with the moisture pouring from his forehead, listening to the
-sounds outside.
-
-[Illustration: JIM KEPT HIS REVOLVER STEADILY LEVELLED.]
-
-"A narrow squeak, I think," said a voice from the farther end. "That
-beggar seemed to be suspicious, and as I lay there watching him through
-a half-closed eye, I felt sure that he was about to enter. Had he done
-so, and you had not fired, I should have been upon his back in a moment,
-and you could have trusted me to bring him to the ground with a broken
-neck, for that is a trick of which these Somali people are very fond.
-Come over and join me, and I will go on with my tale."
-
-Creeping across the floor, Jim took the precaution first of replacing
-his revolver, for in the darkness there was the danger always of an
-accidental explosion, which would have been a very serious matter. Then
-he seated himself close beside the stranger, and together they conversed
-in whispers.
-
-"Answer my questions," said Jim eagerly, "then you can tell all about
-yourself."
-
-"Make your mind easy," was the answer, "for I have good news for you.
-But first, say who you are."
-
-"Jim Hubbard, son of Colonel Hubbard, wrecked on the Somali coast a
-matter of six weeks ago."
-
-"And a gallant young fellow!" was the energetic response.
-
-"Your father, I am glad to say, is alive, and at this moment within
-three hundred paces of you. Like myself, he is a slave to the Mullah,
-but being new to the work, he has not yet lost his independence and
-spirit, and a week ago, hearing news the facts of which never reached my
-ears, he made a desperate attempt at escape, but was discovered and
-recaptured. I have been a prisoner so long that I can speak the language
-perfectly, and have many friends amongst the natives, and from them I
-learnt that the colonel had made a desperate resistance, and had been
-wounded. But the injury is not severe, though it prevents him from
-walking, and has given him a blessed release from slavery, for the time
-being at least."
-
-Jim listened to the news with feelings of the deepest gratitude, and
-when the stranger had finished, sat there without answering a word,
-thinking the whole matter out.
-
-"A few minutes ago I felt like a baby," he said. "The disappointment was
-so great that, if I had been a girl, I should have cried. But the
-information which you have just given me raises my spirits again, and I
-feel that, after all, things are about to turn out as I wished. Can you
-lead me to my father? If you can, we must go at once and rescue him.
-Then we shall rejoin my follower, and when the morning dawns we shall be
-miles away amongst our friends, ready and willing to make a fight for
-it, should we be followed."
-
-"And you'll take me with you?" asked the prisoner. "Just think of it for
-a moment! I'm John Margetson, third mate aboard an ocean-going steamer,
-and no great person at any time. In the search for your father chance
-has brought you to my side, and I tell you candidly to leave me where I
-am, and go on with the business you have in hand, for if you include me
-in your party your risks will be doubled. For think, in another quarter
-of an hour that sentry outside will poke his ugly head into the hut
-again, and then the cat will be out of the bag. On the other hand, I can
-tell you where your father lies, and can describe the position so
-accurately that you will be able to find him without further help."
-
-The stranger caught Jim by the hand, and whispered the words eagerly
-into his ear, repeating them in his unselfish attempt to persuade this
-lad to leave him to his fate.
-
-"Do you think I am a coward?" asked Jim quietly. "Should I be worthy to
-be called the son of my father if I left you in the lurch? Ask yourself
-that question, and then give me the answer, though, whatever it is, I
-tell you that if you will come I will gladly take you with me, and
-should never forgive myself if I were to leave you behind."
-
-"Spoken like a man!" exclaimed John Margetson. "I wanted to put the case
-before you clearly, but you cannot tell what your answer meant to me,
-for I have endured three years of hopeless slavery. For all that time I
-have been the butt of every man, woman, and child who owed allegiance to
-the Mullah, and whenever his adherents met with a reverse, I have gone
-in terror of my life. I have been threatened, beaten, starved, until
-life has become at times such a misery that, but for the fact that at
-the worst it is dear to every man, and that our religion forbids it, I
-would have thrown myself into the river yonder and ended my wretched
-existence. Rescue me from my captors. Take me back to my old life, to my
-old friends and associates, and I shall be your debtor till the end of
-my days. I shall, indeed."
-
-There was no doubt of John Margetson's earnestness, for his voice
-trembled as he spoke, and his lips twitched so violently that he could
-scarcely form the words.
-
-"I know what you feel," responded Jim soothingly. "Help me to find my
-father, and then all that I may have done for you will have been amply
-repaid. And now let us discuss our plans."
-
-For some twenty minutes the two sat side by side with their heads close
-together, whispering in the darkness, and then separated, for the
-shuffling step of the sentry was again heard. But on this occasion he
-seemed to be satisfied with a casual inspection, and barely troubled to
-do more than place the wicket ajar and peep in. The sight of the
-prisoner's legs, upon which a patch of light fell, made his mind easy,
-and he at once retired, and, striding to the front of the larger
-building, walked to and fro within a few paces of the log-fire which
-blazed there. Then he shivered, and, drawing his blanket closer about
-him, thrust the haft of his spear into the blaze and stirred the embers
-till the flames leapt high into the air. And all the while the second
-warrior sat propped against the opposite hut, a blanket drawn tightly
-about him, and his chin resting upon his breast. There was no doubt that
-he was fast asleep, for his snores proclaimed the fact, while he made no
-movement, though Jim and his companion stared at him through the open
-door for the space of five minutes. As soon as they were satisfied of
-this, they went out and pushed the wicket to. Then John Margetson
-stepped to the front to lead the way, and at once began to cross the
-open space which surrounded the dwellings, Jim falling silently behind
-him. Like ghosts they flitted across the ground, and, hastening from the
-moonlit area, dived into the deepest shadows that could be found. A
-hundred yards farther on both came to a sudden halt, and crouched in the
-darkness, listening apprehensively.
-
-What was that? A shrill cry of alarm suddenly rent the air, and was
-followed by another. Then there was a loud report of a gun, and
-instantly, it seemed, the village hummed and buzzed with life. Doors
-flew open, and men came rushing out with arms in their hands, each one
-shouting to the other to ask what the trouble was, till the air was
-alive with their voices. Then, as a sudden silence settled over the
-Mullah's camp, for the space of a few seconds, a tall man was seen to be
-standing beside the flagstaff upon the roof of the central house. His
-hand was uplifted as if he were about to speak, and instantly all turned
-their heads in his direction and ceased their clamour.
-
-"Awake!" shouted the man. "The prisoner has escaped, and is even now
-within our reach. I, the Mullah, order you to arm and separate in
-parties. To the one who returns with the infidel I will give a great
-reward."
-
-At once all the men of the village ran back to their houses, and within
-five minutes there was silence once more, save for the pattering of many
-feet, as the warriors left the camp in search of their prisoner.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XIV
-
-HEMMED IN BY THE ENEMY
-
-
-Nothing but misfortune seemed to be in store for Jim Hubbard upon this
-eventful evening. First, he had experienced the bitter disappointment of
-learning that the white prisoner at whose rescue he had aimed, and for
-whose sake he had marched so many miles, was, after all, not the one
-whom he had hoped to find. But the news that his father was actually
-alive and within a few yards of him had revived his flagging energy, and
-with his new-found friend, John Margetson, he had set out for the
-purpose of reaching him, only to hear suddenly that wild shout, to
-crouch there in the shadow cast by a large square hut and watch that
-tall uncouth figure standing on the roof beside the flag in the light of
-the flames from the watch-fire below. It was a bitter blow, and in his
-anger and desperation Jim even levelled his revolver at the Mullah, and
-would have fired in the hope of slaying him. But he had beside him a man
-whom long-suffering had taught to be cautious, and instantly a gentle
-but firm grasp was laid upon his arm, and his companion whispered in his
-ear.
-
-"You are mad!" he said fiercely. "Drop your weapon, and lie down close
-against the foot of this wall. We are not discovered yet, and may even
-escape if we make use of our wits."
-
-"But how?" asked Jim. "Already the place is alive with search parties,
-who will run over every inch of the ground, and are certain to fall
-upon us. I tell you that our chances are ended, and that we shall never
-get away from here. But I admit that it would have been a foolish act to
-fire at the Mullah. I was in a temper, and felt that if I could only
-kill him I should be satisfied. However, we shall do as you say, and
-wait to see how things turn out."
-
-Throwing themselves upon the ground, with their heads close together,
-they lay so still that they might have been logs of wood. Around them,
-and stretching away from the wall for the space of some five feet, was a
-dense shadow cast by the roof. But there it ended abruptly in a sharp
-clear line, from which point the ground was lit by the rays of the moon.
-And across this, hurrying hither and thither, and searching every
-corner, went parties of fully armed Somali warriors, each numbering from
-six to a dozen. Like hounds in search of a fox, they thrust their bodies
-into every crevice, prodding walls and ground with their spears, and
-drawing the covers blank, turned away with a snarl of rage, to proceed
-with the hunt elsewhere.
-
-"If we can only manage to give them the slip here, there will be still
-some chance of safety," whispered Jim, with his eyes fixed upon the
-search-parties. "Put yourself into their position, and ask yourself what
-would be the natural act of any prisoner who was attempting to escape."
-
-"He would be a fool to stay here," was the emphatic answer. "It would be
-sheer suicide to remain in the Mullah's village, and, were I flying for
-my life alone, I should have turned away to the open country, and
-endeavoured to place miles of plain between myself and my enemies."
-
-"Just so," replied Jim coolly, seeming to become more collected as the
-danger increased, "and, as one of the Mullah's followers, I should
-leave the search of the village to the women and children and the stray
-curs with which it is infested, and, mounting my fastest horse, should
-gallop so as to get beyond the prisoner and head him. That is what these
-fellows will do, and we must consider ourselves fortunate in that we are
-where we are. Let us move along to the corner, and then, if a party
-approaches, we can slip round to the other side."
-
-"Why not try the roof?" suggested his companion eagerly. "It's as flat
-as a pancake, and has a ridge all round it, which will effectually hide
-us. I quite agree with you that, desperate though our position seems, we
-are far safer here than we should have been had we ventured beyond the
-village. Come, let us get up on the top, for I can see a group of
-Somalis coming this way."
-
-In a moment both were on their feet and endeavouring to get a grip of
-the coping of the roof. But, though they stood upon their toes, and even
-leapt into the air, they found, to their disappointment, that it was
-still well beyond their reach.
-
-"Then we must try another way," whispered Jim. "Are you fairly strong in
-the arms?"
-
-"I ought to be," was the answer, "for I have had three years of slavery.
-What do you propose?"
-
-"Up on to my back! Quick! That's it. Now lean against the wall, and
-steady yourself while I straighten to my full height. Can you reach
-now?"
-
-Without wasting a moment, for time was of the utmost value to them, Jim
-placed his hand against the side of the dwelling and rounded his
-shoulders. Grasping his meaning, his companion leapt upon him with one
-agile spring, having the fortune to alight on the very centre of his
-back. Then, gingerly advancing his sandalled feet, he placed them on
-either side of Jim's head, and leant forward till his hands came in
-contact with the wall. He was a big man, and weighed some twelve stone
-or more, but though Jim groaned under the burden, and at any other time
-would have found it a difficult matter to raise himself to the erect
-position, he now stood upright with scarcely an effort, fear lending
-strength to his muscles.
-
-"Got it! I've a grip of the coping, and can hang on here until you are
-up," whispered John Margetson. "But hurry up!"
-
-Stepping back from the wall so as to obtain a little run, and yet
-carefully keeping within the shadow, Jim leapt forward, and then sprang
-high in the air, grasping at the dim figure of his companion with both
-hands. As he dangled there, with fingers clasping his comrade's limbs,
-he could almost feel the man's sinews crack with the strain, and
-wondered whether the weight would be too much for him, whether his grasp
-would be torn from the coping above, and with what sort of crash they
-would tumble to the ground. Then, as nothing happened, he drew his legs
-up, and obtained a grip of his living rope. Another hoist, and his hand
-closed upon his comrade's hair; but, unheeding the pain it must have
-given, his fingers gripped it, and he pulled without remorse, and
-tugged, till, little by little, he won his way upwards. Another moment,
-and the arm was within his reach, then the wrist, and with one last,
-almost superhuman effort, he found himself clambering over the low
-parapet. To turn and help his comrade was his next duty, and then both
-threw themselves upon the hard-beaten mud, breathless with their
-struggles, but glowing with excitement and the feeling of success.
-
-"Look out! Here they come!" whispered Margetson at this moment.
-
-Taking a hasty look over the parapet, Jim saw some ten men hurrying
-towards the building, and at once flattened himself upon the roof,
-squeezing as close to it as he could. Then his hand stole down to his
-revolver, and he drew it silently. Scarcely had he done so when
-footsteps and voices were heard below, and, though he dared not look, he
-was well aware that the very shadow which had proved their hiding-place
-but a few seconds before was now undergoing a thorough search, from
-which they could not have hoped to escape had they not climbed to the
-roof.
-
-"Ah, what is this?" asked one of the Somali warriors, suddenly stooping
-and picking something up. "I have found a knife, which I am sure did not
-belong to our prisoner. Here, let me get into the light and look at it."
-
-Following their comrade, the others at once left the shadow and went
-into the open, where they pressed about him, and gave vent to
-exclamations of anger and astonishment, for the prize which had been
-found was Jim's hunting-knife, which must have slipped from his belt
-during his efforts to reach his position above. Fortunately for him,
-however, he did not know more than a word of what was being said, and
-certainly did not grasp the meaning. But his friend did, and trembled as
-he lay.
-
-"I tell you that someone else has had a hand in his escape," cried the
-first speaker again. "I have been to the coast, and I say that this is a
-knife which has but lately come from the country of the infidel. Have we
-not heard already that one of them is bound hither for the rescue of one
-of our slaves?"
-
-"That is the case," was the excited answer.
-
-"Then this man has arrived, and released the prisoner to-night. They
-fled here in the darkness, and then, at the alarm, hastened off into the
-country, where they will be captured to a certainty by our brothers."
-
-"And what if they have not done as you so wisely guess?" sneered one of
-the group. "Look at the question for yourself, and remember the short
-time which elapsed between their leaving the hut and the raising of the
-alarm. This dagger tells us that another has been here to lend a hand,
-but it does not state that the men are fled to the hills. More likely
-they are within hearing at this moment. Perhaps even lying upon the top
-of the house against the wall of which the find was made. Let us search
-there."
-
-He started towards the dwelling, intent on carrying out his purpose, but
-at that moment the arrival of another dusky warrior arrested him, while
-a harsh voice took up the question.
-
-"You are too clever for this tribe," said the new-comer, in tones which
-Jim at once recognized as belonging to the man who had shouted from the
-roof of the central building--in fact, no other person than the Mullah.
-"In your foolishness you would send my followers climbing like cats to
-the roofs, when, had you any sense, you would know at a glance that
-desperate men would scoff at such shelter. Hiding up there, forsooth!
-Why, you will tell us soon that they are in my house!"
-
-At this sally all laughed merrily at the expense of the man who had
-suggested that the roof should be searched, and he at once slunk away to
-the back of his comrades, where he stood biting his lips with anger and
-annoyance.
-
-"But show me this weapon," continued the Mullah haughtily. "Ah, it is
-English made, and shows without a doubt that there is a spy in our camp,
-or, rather, that there was but a few minutes ago. The impudent infidel
-must be captured, but take care of him, as you value my good will and
-your lives, for I have need of prisoners. One day they will prove
-useful, for when these dogs advance against us, we will show them their
-brothers, and then slay them before their eyes, just to let them see
-that we have power to do as we will, and have no fear of them. Then,
-with Allah to aid us, we will scatter the enemy. But we are wasting
-time. Off, all of you, and search farther afield for your man."
-
-He stood there in the moonlight watching as they departed, and shouted
-out to them a second warning to protect the captives from harm.
-
-"Yes," he murmured to himself, as the last of the warriors departed,
-"keep them alive, and I shall make use of them. If we conquer the
-British forces, I can keep or slay them at my will. If otherwise, and we
-fall into their hands, I can still treat for my own life by using these
-white slaves as hostages, and giving them up to their fellows in
-exchange for my own liberty. It is in such ways that I show my power to
-lead these ignorant men. For I think of more than the needs of the
-passing hour, and, knowing that the time for action arrives, I prepare a
-loophole of escape for myself, which I shall use when all my followers
-are slain. And then----"
-
-Deep in thought, the Mullah walked away to his own hut, and disappeared
-into the interior. Not till then did John Margetson allow himself to
-break the silence, for all this while he had been flattened upon the
-roof, scarcely daring to move, and yet drinking in the words of his
-pursuers. Now, however, there was little fear of being overheard, and at
-once shifting his position, he crept close to Jim's side, and narrated
-all that had passed.
-
-"Jove! What a narrow squeak!" exclaimed the latter. "Of course, I could
-not make head or tail of their jabber, but I knew that it referred to
-us, and I can tell you that my heart went into my mouth, for at any
-moment I expected to have them up here. But all's well that ends
-well,--only this matter hasn't finished yet. What are we to do now? It
-seems to me that we have a little breathing-space, and that we had
-better make the best of it to hunt about and ascertain what our
-surroundings are like, for this may not prove a very good hiding-place
-once the day dawns."
-
-"We shall certainly be seen if we remain," answered his comrade, with
-conviction. "I know every inch of the spot, and to-morrow, when the
-Mullah goes upon the roof of his dwelling to pray before the eyes of all
-his followers, he will catch sight of us, and capture will be our
-reward. But I can see no other way out of the difficulty."
-
-"Who lives below us?" asked Jim suddenly.
-
-"Not a soul. The hut, as you can see, is a very large one, and in it are
-stored bags of dates and native wine for the use of the Mullah and his
-special favourites when on the march. There are a few weapons also, of
-the usual muzzle-loading variety, and occasionally powder and shot, too.
-This I know, for I have been working here as a slave, and have carried
-the things to their places."
-
-"How does one enter?" asked Jim again.
-
-"There is a door, such as the other huts have, and on the farther side a
-roughly constructed hole in the roof, through which the smoke from the
-fire below passed. I suppose it was the residence of a native chief
-before the Mullah came this way, and that he liked a little comfort.
-Now, of course, no wood is burnt, and the aperture is covered with a
-strip of hide. But why do you ask these questions? It would be madness
-to go into the place."
-
-"Then what are we to do? Suggest some better plan which gives a
-reasonable hope of escape."
-
-Jim turned upon his companion curtly, and demanded an answer with no
-little impatience, for now was the time for action. To hesitate was to
-become a prisoner.
-
-"Well, what have you to propose? Shall we leave this place, and make a
-dash for the open?"
-
-"It would be useless," was the emphatic answer, given with a vigorous
-shake of the head. "I know the ways of these Somali warriors too well,
-and I am as certain that we should fall into their hands as I am that we
-are here. Why, a hare could not hope to get through their lines, for now
-they are arranged three or four deep, and if we crept past the first and
-went on our way, the second, or a later one, would spy us out, and come
-galloping after us. No, the attempt would be hopeless, for the country
-is alive with their horse and foot."
-
-"Then is there any other way? Would the river help us?"
-
-"Had we a boat it might, but without that we should soon fall victims to
-the alligators which abound."
-
-"How often is this hut visited?" asked Jim quietly.
-
-"Perhaps once a week, and then not for a month. This is a reserve store,
-and it is only when the Mullah is about to give a feast to his followers
-that there is need to draw upon the contents."
-
-"Then let us take our place amongst the stores," said Jim coolly. "There
-we shall find food and drink sufficient to keep life in us, and there,
-it seems to me, we can repose with some amount of safety. After all, the
-idea is a good one, for it offers some chance of a hiding-place."
-
-For long John Margetson lay at his side, considering the question ere
-he ventured a reply. Then he turned slowly to Jim, and stretching out
-his hand in the darkness, pinched the latter sharply upon the arm.
-
-"George!" he whispered, in tones of mingled delight and amazement. "You
-are a regular general. You ought to have been a scout, or something of
-that sort, for you are as cute and as slim as they make 'em. At any
-rate, you have spied out the only path for us. I've looked at the matter
-from every point of view. I admit that I've said to myself that you are
-evidently a youngster with the usual impetuosity of your age, and that
-your schemes were not to be listened to with much attention. Then I've
-tried to find a better plan, and have failed miserably. At last I have
-come back to this dodge of yours, and, hang me, it's just the thing.
-It's the cheek of it, the impudence, if I may call it so, which will
-help towards its success, for who amongst these Somalis would dream that
-we had elected to remain in hiding amongst them? Yes, it's the very
-boldness of it all that will make us safe, and--look here, I haven't a
-ghost of an idea what your age is, or what you're like, for I've only
-seen you in this moonlight, but after this you must take the helm.
-You'll act as skipper, while I take my old place as mate. Tell me, what
-are you? A young chap with a budding moustache, and heaps of go; or a
-lad with scarcely a hair on his face?"
-
-"The second," answered Jim, blushing at his youthful looks, even though
-there was no fear of observation. "A few weeks ago I was one of the
-senior fellows at a public school, but now--well, I feel years older.
-But what about this hut? If we're going to retire to the interior, the
-sooner we do so the better."
-
-"Then we'll disappear at once. Come along, but be very careful to keep
-below the level of the parapet, for here we are in shadow, while if we
-stood above the edge, our figures would at once be outlined by the
-moon."
-
-Bearing this warning in mind, the two slowly crept round the edge of the
-roof, not daring to take the shorter cut and cross directly to the other
-side, for to have done so would have been fatal, the centre of the
-enclosing parapet being brightly illuminated. Arrived at the farther
-corner, Margetson halted for a few seconds, while he removed the skin
-covering. Then he began to wriggle his way through the hole, and in due
-time disappeared in the dark depths below.
-
-"Hold on," whispered Jim, who was on the point of following, and,
-indeed, had already allowed his legs to dangle through the opening.
-"What if someone happens to notice that the covering has been removed?"
-
-"Ah, that would be awkward, lad. It's fixed by pegs, and we cannot very
-well fasten them from the inside, though we could easily burst them open
-if we wished to do so."
-
-"Then how's the door held?" asked Jim, lying down full length, and
-thrusting his head through the aperture.
-
-"Just latched, that's all. No one would dare to meddle with the Mullah's
-goods, you see. It would mean certain death."
-
-"Very well," responded Jim. "I'll fix this thing up here, and then slip
-over the wall. The drop's nothing, and I shall not be seen if I choose a
-moment when a cloud is passing over the moon. Hurry up, for there's one
-about to cross it now, and it won't do to be kept waiting."
-
-Fumbling about in the darkness, it was not long before he had contrived
-to cover the opening in the roof, and to peg the skin down securely.
-Then he waited, with his eyes upon the disc above, and when it was
-clouded by a dense mass of vapour, he looked to see that no one was near
-at hand, and then clambered over the parapet and dropped noiselessly
-upon the soil below. The door was standing open, and as he entered
-Margetson closed it carefully behind him. Then they buried themselves in
-the darkness of the interior, carefully picking their way amidst the
-bundles and bales which were stored there.
-
-"We shall be as cosy as possible," remarked John Margetson, indulging
-for the first time in a laugh. "Take care where you tread, for otherwise
-you will be tumbling into one of these bags of dates, or kicking against
-a skin of wine. Why, man, this is just the place for us, for we have
-food at hand, and can dine like gentlemen, with wine to wash the stuff
-down. An alderman could not hope for more. But supposing these ruffians
-find us out!"
-
-"You said that we were not to be injured," answered Jim, "and therefore
-we have very little to fear. Let us make the most of our good fortune,
-and be content. What we have now to think about is not the possibility
-of capture, though we should do well to bear that in mind and take all
-due precautions, but our action in the future. How are we to get away
-from here when the scent and search are less keen, and how can we manage
-to take my father with us? There, you have enough to keep you awake all
-night."
-
-"It's likely to prove a puzzling question, my lad, and at present I can
-see no more daylight through it than I can--well, through these walls.
-And talking of light, how are we to keep in touch with the outside
-world, and learn what is happening? To attempt to leave these snug
-quarters and slip out into the village would be suicidal policy. It
-would not help us in the slightest, and would lead to certain
-discovery."
-
-"Then we must have a peephole," responded Jim promptly. "Perhaps there
-is one already in this hut. Let us look round, and watch for a ray of
-moonlight. It is more than likely that we shall find something to suit
-our purpose between the roof and the walls."
-
-Accordingly, both crept round the confines of the building in search of
-a chink, and very soon came to the conclusion that there would be little
-difficulty in overhearing any conversation that might take place in the
-immediate neighbourhood. Then they made a tour of the place, and
-satisfied themselves of the position of the various bales and bags.
-
-"We'll set to work as soon as there is a ray of light," said Jim's
-companion, "and rig up a kind of cabin amongst all this stuff. If we're
-careful to move only those which lie out of sight of the door, we are
-not likely to be discovered. Then, too, it ought to be possible to leave
-a hole here and there through which we could fire at the beggars. But I
-am forgetting. You are the only one in possession of a weapon."
-
-"I've two, and you are welcome to one of them. But what of the
-muzzle-loaders which you stated were kept here? If they have not been
-removed, we might press them into our service, and rig up a regular
-battery."
-
-"It's the very thing I meant," was the answer. "With half a dozen we
-could make these beggars sit up, and unless they managed to rush us, or
-bring the hut about our ears, we could keep them at their distance. But
-what do you say to a bite at something? I own that I am precious hungry,
-for this excitement has given me an appetite; and then you must
-recollect that the diet of a slave is never noted for its liberality."
-
-"I'll join you willingly," answered Jim with promptness. "Let us borrow
-a few of the Mullah's dates."
-
-"Yes, and wash them down with some of his best wine," laughed his
-comrade.
-
-Nothing loth, and, indeed, in the highest spirits at their unexpected
-good fortune, both at once went in search of a bag, and quickly secured
-a handful of dates apiece. Then they retired to a point as far from the
-door as possible, and sat down in comfort, John Margetson dragging a
-skin of wine to their feet.
-
-Their meal finished, each indulged in a draught of the fluid, and found
-that it braced them up in a marvellous manner.
-
-"You need not fear the consequences," said Jim's companion. "This wine
-is made from the fat removed from sheeps' tails, and is notorious for
-nothing more than for its taste. To the natives it is a great luxury,
-though to a stranger, I fancy, it is anything but appetizing."
-
-"It has a most horrid flavour," answered Jim, "but beggars must not be
-choosers. We have much to be thankful for, and particularly for these
-skins of wine, for they will keep us from thirst. And now tell me more
-about yourself, and of your life with these followers of the Mullah."
-
-Making themselves comfortable upon the floor of the hut, the two sat
-close together and passed the remaining hours of the night in
-conversation, taking the precaution, however, to lower their tones till
-they were little above a whisper. Then, as the interior of the dwelling
-became lighter, and they could see their surroundings, they set to work
-in earnest to build a hiding-place. Fortunately there was ample material
-at hand, and as it lay at their feet, the task was soon completed. A
-search also quickly brought to light a dozen old guns, which had
-probably been made by some dishonest European for the special purpose of
-being sold to the Mullah. But, bad as they were, they were too valuable
-to be tossed aside with contempt. Therefore, having discovered a small
-store of powder and shot, the fugitives loaded them at once, cramming
-the weapons to the muzzle with slugs.
-
-"That will do capitally," said Jim, surveying the work when it was
-finished. "These beggars can come right into the hut without suspecting
-that we are here, for this place shelters us. If they happen to find us,
-we shall give them a warm reception with the guns, though at any other
-time I should be sorry to be called upon to fire them, for they look as
-though they would burst at the slightest provocation."
-
-"Beggars cannot be choosers," replied his comrade, with a laugh,
-repeating the words which Jim had used but a short while before. "If the
-enemy comes here with the intention of molesting us, I should fire fifty
-of the muzzle-loaders, and chance a burst with the greatest calmness.
-But we're ready for them now; and as we have a moment to look round,
-permit me to see what my young comrade is like. Up to this you have been
-more or less of a mystery, for since the morning dawned I have been too
-occupied to take stock of you."
-
-Catching Jim by the arms, John Margetson turned him round till the two
-stood face to face, and then treated him to a long and curious stare.
-
-"Yes," he said at last, finding that Jim returned his gaze without a
-sign of flinching, "a bold, high-mettled lad, filled with a feeling of
-duty. Shake hands!"
-
-The request came so suddenly that Jim started, but the next second he
-clasped his companion warmly by the fingers, showing equal eagerness to
-return his good feeling.
-
-"Straight and true, and sturdy to the backbone," continued Margetson. "I
-admire you, and I thank you for what you have done for me. Had it not
-been for you, I should still have been in my prison, a spiritless slave,
-doomed to lifelong serfdom. But now I am free--free, I tell you; and now
-that my liberty is regained, no one shall wrest it from me. I live to
-escape with you, to reach friends and old England again; or I die
-fighting for my life, my own master at the end."
-
-He ended his impassioned words with another squeeze of Jim's hand, and
-then, as if to hide the evident excitement under which he laboured,
-turned towards the door, and, applying his eye to a crevice, stared out
-into the open. As for Jim, he was deeply impressed by his friend's
-speech, and followed him thoughtfully with his gaze. Then he, too, took
-post at an aperture, and sought to discover what was going on outside.
-
-And meanwhile, what of Ali Kumar, and what of the numerous
-search-parties which had raced into the plain? Then, too, what fortune
-had befallen the troop of horsemen which had ridden from the village in
-search of Jim's camp?
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XV
-
-A CLEVER RUSE
-
-
-While Jim Hubbard and his friend John Margetson are hiding in the
-store-hut, let us return for a few moments to the coast-line.
-
-The reader will remember that a Somali levy had been raised and
-officered by Englishmen drawn from the various line regiments, and that
-this force had many months before marched into the interior by way of
-Bohotle, and, dividing into two portions, had left its baggage, its
-reserve ammunition and its camels, in charge of the smaller half. He
-will recollect also that the cunning Mullah, aided by information given
-by his spies, contrived to elude the larger force, and gloating over a
-victory which he already counted as his, had thrown himself upon Captain
-McNeill's zareba. Not once, but on three successive occasions was his
-frantic onslaught stemmed by the few men gathered in the zareba. So
-heavy, indeed, were the losses amongst the Mullah's following, that
-their enthusiasm and fanatical hate had changed to dismay and secret
-admiration for these men whose officers were spoken of as "infidel
-dogs."
-
-Following upon their defeat at the hands of Captain McNeill and his tiny
-garrison, the Mullah's horde was split into pieces and scattered in all
-directions by the larger half.
-
-But in Somaliland a holy man has enormous powers of persuasion, and the
-reader has already learned that the Mullah rapidly gathered his
-following together again. Then came the action with Colonel Swayne at
-Erego, where the Somali soldiers, who were enlisted by the "Sirkal,"
-turned tail and bolted, leaving their comrades to their fate. From that
-moment adherents had flocked to the Mullah's banner, and their
-depredations becoming serious, an expedition was decided upon. Of this
-General Manning was given the command, while the force itself was to
-consist of Indian troops and of men from the West Coast of Africa.
-
-Stores, rifles, ammunition, and every article that could be thought of,
-or that was likely to prove of value in the coming march were collected
-at Aden and then sent over to Berbera. And here, when Jim and his
-following passed through the town, gigantic preparations were afoot.
-Already the troops had begun to collect, and the garrison at Bohotle,
-which had been in residence for some months, and which was suffering
-severely from malaria and from lack of supplies, had been relieved and
-replaced by fresh men, while plenty of stores and ammunition for six
-months had been brought up.
-
-This advance post having been placed in a condition of readiness, the
-eyes of those who were responsible for the movements of the troops were
-turned in other directions, for it is not always wise to concentrate
-one's forces. A division of the fighting strength which is about to
-invade an enemy's country often disconcerts the adversary, for then he,
-too, must split his followers, and send some to watch and oppose one
-half of the invaders, while the remainder marches to lie in wait for the
-other. If this precaution were not taken, it would be a simple matter
-for a well-mounted body of men to make a wide detour, and carefully
-timing their arrival and attack, to fall upon the enemy in the rear,
-while their comrades engaged with them in the front.
-
-Thus was Ladysmith relieved; for when Lord Roberts, with a hastily
-collected force, invaded the Orange River Colony, the Boer forces, which
-up to then had been concentrated about the heights of Colenso and the
-beleaguered camp, were compelled to divide, one portion hastening across
-the Drakensberg Mountains to join with others about Bloemfontein, while
-the remainder, seeing their hopeless condition, fled before the repeated
-and gallant attacks of General Buller, leaving the flag of old England
-still proudly waving upon the Town Hall of Ladysmith.
-
-With this thought of a diversion in view, another base was looked for,
-and Obbia, in the Italian Protectorate, was selected, the consent of
-that nation having readily been obtained. Then an arrangement was come
-to with the Abyssinians that they should also march upon the Mullah,
-getting in behind him, if possible, so that, should he take alarm and
-raise his camp with the intention of escaping farther into the interior
-until the storm had blown over, there might still be good hope of
-forcing him to fight, and of capturing him and a goodly portion of his
-men.
-
-Many weeks had been spent in making these arrangements, and so uncertain
-was the mind of those who had control of the expedition, that at times
-it seemed likely that it would be abandoned for a space. When Jim and
-his friend left Berbera, the news of an immediate advance was in the
-air, but this was contradicted a few days later. Then it was bruited
-abroad again, and while he and his followers were resisting the attack
-of the tribesmen at the ravine, the information became public property
-that within a short space of time the forces would actually advance.
-
-       *       *       *       *       *
-
-As the daylight increased, Jim and his friend went from side to side of
-the store-hut, and taking advantage of the piled-up date-bags, quickly
-arranged a convenient look-out, from which they could gather news of
-their surroundings. Some few inches of space had been left between the
-roof and the supporting walls, whether for the sake of ventilation, or
-because it was the custom of the builders of the country, it would be
-impossible to state. But there it was, and, by means of a pile of bags,
-the two Englishmen found a convenient way of reaching it.
-
-"We'll keep watch from here all day," said Jim, peering through the
-opening; "then there will be no fear of a sudden surprise, while we can
-make up for our long vigil by a good sleep at night."
-
-"I agree with you, my lad," was the answer. "We are in a fix here, and
-unless we keep our wits and our eyes sharply about us, we shall
-certainly fall into the Mullah's hands. But here comes the sun, and with
-it the life of the village will begin."
-
-As he spoke, the street which passed from end to end of the Mullah's
-stronghold was flooded with the rays of the morning sun, the edge of
-which could be discerned rising in golden splendour over the crests of
-the distant hills. Scarcely had it struck upon the huts and sent long
-shadows slanting across the ground, when doors opened in all directions
-as if by magic, and out into the clear, sparkling air came the
-villagers. Children rolled from the dwellings, and began their chatter
-and play, while a few minutes later the wives appeared, some with jars
-upon their heads, which they carried towards the river, while others
-proceeded to light fires before their huts, so as to make ready for the
-morning meal.
-
-"And now we can expect to see the men-folk," whispered John Margetson.
-"How well do I know their movements, for was not I the first to be
-abroad during the past three years? It was the duty of a slave, and I
-carried it out without failing, for, otherwise, harsh treatment was my
-reward. If you watch, you will see the warriors do not trouble
-themselves to work. The few who have failed to take part in last night's
-search will presently appear, strolling from their huts, and will then
-exert themselves so far as to lounge about the street. There is sure to
-be much talk about my escape, so they will collect together in groups.
-Only then, and when they are about to meet with enemies, will you see
-them roused to any energy. They will shout to one another, and discuss
-the question till a quarrel seems imminent. But their anger will quickly
-subside, and soon, when the Mullah has shaken the sleep from his eyes,
-and climbs aloft beneath the flagstaff, they will all turn and salaam to
-him, as becomes the followers of such a holy man. Then each will produce
-his strip of carpet, and, turning to the east, will follow the movements
-of their leader as he kneels and prays to Allah.
-
-"It is a weird and wonderful sight, and their murmured 'Allah, Allah,'
-will enchant your ears, for the faith and devotion of these Somali
-warriors is very great. An infidel is an odious sight to their eyes, and
-were it not that the Mullah might obtain value for my life, I should
-long ago have ceased to exist. Often has this holy man condescended to
-approach me, and endeavour to change my religion. When persuasion was of
-no avail, he used threats, and even went so far as to starve me; but,
-thank God, though I was only a poor heart-broken slave, with never a
-white friend to rely upon, I remained resolute, and steadfastly kept to
-the teaching of my childhood. And through all these weary months, that
-alone has been my comfort. It has given me hope when all seemed
-hopeless, and has taught me to look forward to this day. But here they
-come."
-
-As he finished speaking, the crowd of native women and children which
-now filled the village street was added to by the appearance of some
-hundred Somali warriors, who emerged in ones and twos from their
-dwellings, all fully armed, for none of these men dreamed of lying down
-to sleep, or even of walking about in the daylight, without his weapons.
-Staring at them through his peephole, Jim had a better opportunity of
-observing them than had ever occurred before, and could not but admire
-their height, their fine physique, and their sturdy and independent
-appearance.
-
-Of those who lounged before him, very few possessed firearms, and these
-were obviously of a poor and obsolete kind. The remainder bore shields
-and spears, while double-handed swords were thrust in their
-waist-cloths. A few, even, carried bows and arrows.
-
-"They are of the Midgan tribe, which have joined the Mullah almost to a
-man," said Jim's friend. "Should it ever fall out that you are wounded
-by one of their missiles, be careful to withdraw the arrow at once, and
-ask a comrade to apply his lips to the puncture, for it is reported that
-the tips are poisoned. But your revolver should keep them at a distance,
-while against a rifle their curious weapons should be absolutely
-useless."
-
-It was at once evident that the exciting incident of the previous
-evening had had its effect upon the warriors, for, as John Margetson had
-predicted, they gathered together in clumps, and began an animated
-conversation. Then, at the suggestion of one of their number, they
-suddenly started off to search the village and its surroundings again.
-Fortunately, however, for the fugitives, no rain had fallen for many
-days, and though the mass of men congregated just outside the store-hut
-where Jim's knife had been found, even the sharpest eyes failed to
-discover a trace of them, and it never occurred to the warriors that
-those whom they sought so eagerly were even then listening to their
-words with bated breath.
-
-"Look at the man in the centre," whispered Margetson, touching Jim upon
-the sleeve. "By the sound of his voice that is the scoundrel who
-suggested that this place should be searched. But he is evidently afraid
-to air his opinions again, and let us hope that the snubbing which the
-Mullah gave him will keep him from further investigations. Now his head
-is turned this way, and it is evident that he has still some fondness
-for his own ideas."
-
-"I confess," answered Jim, "that I do not like the appearance of the
-fellow. There is no doubt that he is still suspicious, and I should not
-be surprised if he came here quietly to see whether or not he was right.
-If he does, he will have himself to thank for anything that may happen
-to him, for we are not going to allow one man's curiosity to ruin our
-hopes."
-
-"No; nor shall fifty capture us without a struggle, my lad. Recollect
-what I said about my liberty. My mind is fully made up to obtain it at
-any price. But there they go, and all the better, say I, for it is an
-uncanny and an uncomfortable feeling to watch a crew of desperate men,
-such as they are, knowing all the while that they are searching for
-one's self."
-
-Satisfied that no good was to be obtained by remaining on the spot where
-the tell-tale knife had been discovered, the Somali warriors went off to
-another portion of the village, and, having peered into every likely and
-unlikely place, returned to discuss the question once more. In the
-middle of their conversation, however, the figure of the Mullah suddenly
-appeared beside the flagstaff, and instantly each man, woman, and child
-in the village turned and salaamed deeply to him. Then they scattered to
-their various houses, and returning to any suitable position from which
-their eyes could be fixed upon their leader, while they faced the east,
-they discarded their sandals and reverently knelt down on their mats.
-For long did the Mullah remain upon his knees, and when he had finished
-his devotions, he rose slowly to his feet, stepped from the carpet,
-donned his shoes, and then salaamed deeply. A moment later he faced
-about, and lifting his hand for silence, just as he had done on the
-previous night, he began to speak to his followers.
-
-"There is no news of these infidel dogs," he cried, "but they are as
-surely in our hands as are those others who have formed their zareba in
-the desert. Soon I hope to see those who left us last night returning,
-and meanwhile I command all who have not a duty to do here to leave the
-village and go to aid them in their search. As for the other prisoner,
-that one who commanded men belonging to the British Government, and who
-is spoken of in his own language as a colonel, he must be removed from
-the hut in which he now lies and be brought closer, so that he may be
-placed under a stronger guard. Not that there is any fear of his
-release, for we have taken action so early that the plans of these
-impudent people who have come to release him have been altogether
-upset."
-
-In accordance with the orders which they had received, the Somalis who
-still remained in the village gulped down a hasty meal, and then
-mounting their ponies, set off to join their comrades. Some twenty or
-more remained behind and watched them depart, then, while four of them
-mounted guard over the Mullah's residence, the others proceeded down the
-street, and halted before a hovel which stood at the farther end.
-
-"They are going to fetch their prisoner," whispered Jim, keeping his
-eyes fixed upon them. "Perhaps I shall be able to see him, even though
-to rescue him now is impossible. Ah, they have opened the door, and some
-have gone in."
-
-"Your father is certainly there, my lad," answered his companion. "And
-you must not be surprised if you find him changed to a certain extent,
-for he has had a hard life of it. As I told you, he has never lost his
-spirit, and, careless whether he lives or dies, has never permitted any
-one of his guards to ill-treat him. Once, even, when I happened to meet
-him in the street when carrying a message for the Mullah, he stopped to
-converse with me, at which the warrior who was keeping watch upon him
-called him an infidel and a dog, and prodded him with his spear to
-induce him to move on. Your father was upon him in an instant, and
-tearing the spear from his hand, snapped the shaft across his knee, and
-belaboured the man till he bellowed. Never have I seen these people so
-angered. Indeed, had it not been for the Mullah, who seemed always at
-hand at such times to guard his possessions, they would have torn him
-limb from limb, to revenge the insult. It was grand to see how the
-prisoner faced them, spear-shaft in hand, smiling disdainfully at their
-anger, and almost inviting them to come on to the attack. By such doings
-he has created a feeling of terror amongst his guards, and now, whenever
-he is abroad, not one, but five men follow him, ready to throw
-themselves upon him and bear him to the ground, should he make an
-attack upon them. Here they come, and you can see for yourself the truth
-of what I say."
-
-As he spoke those who had entered reappeared with their white prisoner.
-Then the whole group retraced their footsteps, and marched up the centre
-of the street. Soon they were so close to the store-hut that the
-features of every man were visible, and with a thrill of joy Jim caught
-sight of his father's face. It was thinner and more bronzed than usual,
-and perhaps the hair was a trifle whiter, but the prisoner still wore
-that air of resolution to which his son was accustomed. Catching sight
-of the Mullah, who had again ascended to the roof of his house, Colonel
-Hubbard called to him in commanding tones, and would have addressed him,
-had it not been for the men who marched by his side. Hustling him
-forward, and surrounding him with a hedge of spear-points, they forced
-him towards a circular building, which seemed scarcely large enough to
-contain a human being, and motioned to him to enter.
-
-Longingly did Jim watch his father pass, limping slightly from the wound
-which he had received. Had he dared he would have called out to him, or
-made some sign so that the prisoner should know that help was at hand.
-But he knew that to do so would be worse than madness.
-
-Having carried out their orders, the group of Somali warriors separated,
-and all walked away, save one, who squatted down with his spear beside
-him and his sword on the ground at his feet, evidently having been told
-off as sentry. A little later one of his comrades approached, bearing a
-gun in his hand, which he handed over to him, together with a horn of
-powder, and a goat-skin bag containing slugs.
-
-"That shows that they are afraid of your father," whispered John
-Margetson, who, like Jim, had watched the whole scene in silence. "No
-doubt that man has been given orders to fire a gun on the slightest
-suspicion of an attempt at escape, so that the others may come to his
-help. But, remembering the Mullah's words, no injury will be done to
-their prisoner if it can possibly be avoided."
-
-"I've been thinking about that, too," was the thoughtful answer, "and I
-cannot say that my mind is over comfortable on the subject, for
-supposing the Mullah were to hear to-morrow that my friend, Tom Dixon,
-and the followers who accompanied us from the coast, had beaten off the
-attack of his warriors, causing them heavy loss, in his anger he might
-instantly give an order to have the prisoner killed. I have had little
-experience of these native people, but everyone tells me that they are
-fanatical to a degree, and that their hatred of a Christian is
-extraordinary. In these circumstances, it seems to me that, in spite of
-the Mullah's express orders to the contrary, no white man is at the
-present moment sure of his life while a captive in his stronghold."
-
-"Hum! Yes, perhaps there is some truth in what you say," replied
-Margetson slowly. "But however great the anger of the Mullah might be on
-hearing of defeat, I know the rascal too well to imagine for a moment
-that he would allow a rash and hasty impulse to prompt him to seek
-revenge at once by slaying your father, for to do so would be to ruin
-his hopes of a hostage in case he himself were captured. He is a
-cunning, long-headed fellow, otherwise he would never have attained to
-his present position of prominence. Why, at first, when he started his
-depredations, he was laughed at by the majority of Somalis as a madman
-who would quickly come to an untimely end. But by giving out that he was
-a holy man, this Mahomed Abdullah gained many friends, and with these
-to help him, and aided by an unscrupulous nature, he punished those who
-had formerly jeered at him so severely as to compel them, too, to join
-his ranks. And thus, little by little, and because his journeyings to
-Mecca have taught him more knowledge of the world and more cunning than
-are possessed by his ignorant brethren, he has steadily increased his
-power over them. But not for an instant has he allowed himself to
-neglect to take precautions for his own individual safety. If his
-followers are successful, well and good, for his power at once
-increases. On the other hand, if the day goes against him, this crafty
-rogue will not grieve for the fate of his adherents, will not care how
-many are killed, so long as he is sure of his own safety; for with a
-white prisoner or more to offer in exchange, he thinks that his liberty
-will be assured, and then what is to prevent him from again carrying his
-banner far and wide through the country, and raising another band?"
-
-"I can see your argument clearly," answered Jim, "but tell me this.
-However desirous the Mullah may be of keeping his prisoner alive, how
-can he guarantee that his followers may not, in their rage at being
-defeated, disobey his orders?"
-
-"It is a danger which must be faced, my lad, and which I admit is to be
-feared."
-
-"That being the case, the sooner we are out of this the better for all
-of us!" exclaimed Jim with decision. "It seems to me that we have now an
-opportunity which may never occur again, for we know that very few of
-the Somalis are in the village at the present moment. If the others have
-not returned by nightfall, I propose to slip out, and by hook or by
-crook to enter that hut opposite."
-
-"But you would not attempt to escape?" whispered John Margetson, in
-alarm. "Listen to me, my lad, and do not misunderstand my caution. As I
-have said before, I owe you a debt, and as a first instalment towards
-repaying it I will help you in this matter to the utmost, but think of
-the circumstances for a moment. We know that the country outside is
-alive with Somali warriors in search of ourselves. It would be madness,
-therefore, to seek to leave the village when we have already decided
-that here we are in comparative safety."
-
-"I have thought of it in that way," responded Jim quietly, his decision
-unchanged by his friend's argument. "And I quite agree that this is the
-only haven for us just now. But why should we two make use of it alone,
-whilst father remains over there in the hands of the Mullah, and in
-greater danger of his life? It has occurred to me that a method might be
-found for transferring him to this place, and that is what I propose to
-do to-night."
-
-Some minutes passed before his comrade ventured to reply, but it was
-evident that his thoughts were fully occupied with the question, for
-though he still remained on his parapet of date-bags, and still looked
-through his peephole, his eyes stared vacantly at the village street,
-the sentry who paced up and down in front of the prisoner's hut, and the
-broad strip of flashing silver beyond, which showed where the river
-flowed. Suddenly, however, his attention was riveted upon the river, and
-shifting his position so as to obtain a better view, he looked long and
-earnestly at it, as though he had made an important discovery. Indeed,
-so apparent was this that Jim, too, followed his gaze, only to be
-disappointed, for the surface of the water was disturbed by nothing but
-a gentle ripple here and here as the breeze played upon it and ruffled
-it, or where the current washed against a sunken boulder and caused an
-eddy.
-
-"What is it?" he asked in some astonishment. "Something caught your eye,
-but what it is I cannot imagine."
-
-"Then I shall tell you. You say that your father must join us here, and
-while agreeing with that, I placed myself for the space of a few seconds
-in the sandals of these Somali people. When they awake to-morrow, to
-find their captive gone, what questions will they ask themselves, what
-direction will they think he has taken? They know that it cannot be that
-which leads towards the desert, for their comrades are watching out
-there, and would certainly have laid hands upon him. Then, where else
-could he have gone? Unless we bait a clever trap for them, they will at
-once come to the only conclusion, namely, that he still is here in
-hiding. Then they will begin to search every house in the village, and
-our game will be up."
-
-"That never occurred to me," said Jim, feeling as though his hopes had
-received a blow. "But what trap could we prepare? How could we put them
-off the scent? I cannot see in what way the river can help us."
-
-"But I can," was the ready answer, given in a voice of confidence.
-"There are small dug-out canoes and rafts drawn up upon the banks, and
-it seems to me that, were we to take one of them and ferry it across to
-the opposite side and land there, stamping our feet in the mud so as to
-leave obvious tracks, the enemy would at once take it for certain that
-their prisoner and those who had helped him to escape had flown in that
-direction. When the hue and cry is raised in the morning, someone is
-sure to observe that a boat is missing, and a moment's search will show
-it drawn up on the opposite bank. That, I feel sure, will be sufficient
-evidence for the Mullah and his friends, and orders will be given for
-instant pursuit."
-
-"Yes, and in addition, those who have been sent towards the desert will
-be called in again, and commanded to join their comrades," whispered Jim
-in tones of exultation. "It is, undoubtedly, a splendid plan, and we
-will carry it out, or rather, I will do so, for one will be sufficient
-for the job. Having crossed the river, I shall swim back again to this
-side, and then creep towards the hut. If possible, I will cut a hole
-through the wall at the back, but if the sentry is too alert, as may
-very well be the case, I shall floor him, and then go in through the
-door. What do you think of the plan?"
-
-"Capital! It will do excellently, my lad. I was about to say that we
-should divide the work, but it seems to me that one of us had best
-remain here to keep watch, and besides, if both of us were abroad, the
-risk of discovery would be greater. We shall take it as settled,
-therefore, that you slip out to-night."
-
-"One minute, before we leave the matter," said Jim, a thought suddenly
-occurring to him. "We must not be too sure of success, you know, for
-there is no doubt that these fellows are thoroughly aroused. Supposing,
-for instance, that I were discovered, and the alarm given. In that case
-I should make a bolt for it, and should not dare to return to this hut,
-for to do so would be to betray your whereabouts. I should run for the
-ravine in which Ali was to await me, and from there I should make an
-attempt to reach you both when things had settled down a little."
-
-"Very well, then, we shall take it as agreed, that if you do not return,
-I am to wait here until you do. It will be lonely work, but not more so
-than I have had to put up with for the past three years. And now the
-best thing that we can do is to take it in turn to get some sleep, for
-we have had very little of late."
-
-Accordingly, when they had again regaled themselves with dates and wine,
-Jim lay down, and was soon fast asleep. Three hours later Margetson took
-his place, and he again was aroused after a similar lapse of time.
-
-"Time to be moving, my lad," said John Margetson, in a low voice,
-shaking Jim by the shoulder, shortly after evening had fallen. "It has
-been dark for an hour, and by the time you are ready the village will
-have settled, for these folk here keep early hours. Up you get, and make
-ready."
-
-In a moment Jim was on his feet once more, and had begun his
-preparations for what would, in all probability, turn out to be the most
-daring part of his undertaking.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XVI
-
-THE LAST DARING ATTEMPT
-
-
-Standing in the centre of the store-hut, surrounded by darkness which
-was so dense that neither could see the other, Jim and his friend
-conversed for a little in low whispers. Then Jim divested himself of all
-but his waistcloth, and tucking into this the folds of linen which
-usually encircled his head, in case he should be delayed, and should be
-exposed to the rays of the sun on the morrow, he declared himself ready
-to set out.
-
-"It's a good thing to get rid of all those winding sheets," he said, as
-he let the cotton garment drop to the ground, "for they make a man
-visible at night when otherwise he would pass unseen. Then, again, by
-discarding them, I shall have less to carry when crossing the river, and
-shall dry all the quicker afterwards. And that reminds me that I must
-carefully leave my revolvers and ammunition on this side, for, unless I
-do so, they will be drenched with water, and become useless."
-
-"It's a risky thing to go without your weapons, my lad," said John
-Margetson, "and if you take my advice, you will tie them to the top of
-your head, where they will be out of reach of the water."
-
-"Thank you, that is a better idea," answered Jim. "I shall take one of
-them with me, and leave the other with you as I have promised, dividing
-the ammunition between us. Here it is, and there are the cartridges.
-Have you got them safely?"
-
-Responding in the affirmative, Margetson took one of the revolvers from
-him, and then placed the reserve ammunition in a fold of his garments.
-
-"I'm ready now," said Jim quietly. "We quite understand one another, do
-we not? If all goes well, I return here with father; if not, I make a
-bolt for it, so as not to betray your hiding-place. Later on I shall
-return to the rescue."
-
-"That is the arrangement," was the answer.
-
-"Then good-bye," whispered Jim, extending his hand in the darkness.
-
-"Good-bye, lad, good-bye, and may you have the success you deserve!"
-
-A cordial handshake was exchanged, and then the two went to the door.
-The latch was gently lifted, and the wicket pushed open just far enough
-to allow Jim to squeeze through. Another minute and he was outside,
-standing there in the darkness, listening as the door was closed.
-
-"Good-bye," he heard his comrade again whisper, and immediately after
-came the low sound of woodwork meeting and a gentle fall of the latch as
-it dropped into its old position. But Jim made no movement as yet.
-Standing there beside the wall, he peered into the darkness which
-surrounded him, and listened attentively for some five minutes, so as to
-make sure that no one was near at hand. Then he fell upon his hands and
-knees and made a complete circle of the building, halting at each corner
-to listen again. But nothing occurred to disturb his peace of mind, for
-all in the village seemed to have retired to rest. Even the dogs with
-which all native streets are infested had disappeared for the time, and
-only the gentle murmur of distant voices told him that the place was
-inhabited at all. Happening to cast his eyes towards the central hut, a
-dim solitary figure trudging disconsolately up and down attracted his
-attention, while still farther to the left, and enveloped in a large
-blanket, a second sentry squatted in front of the prisoner's door.
-
-"One on duty at each house," said Jim to himself. "It would be a
-difficult matter to get rid of the man who is watching father, and if it
-can possibly be arranged, I shall make my way in at the back, for the
-other sentry being so near, he would almost certainly hear the struggle
-and give the alarm. Hullo! Who's that?"
-
-As he spoke his eyes suddenly fell upon another figure of gigantic
-proportions, and a few moments' closer observation assured him of the
-fact that it was the Mullah pacing the narrow roof of his house. Up and
-down he went restlessly, muttering to himself as if he were ill at ease.
-Then with one long look round he disappeared, and soon there was no one
-to be seen but the men on watch.
-
-"And now comes my time," said Jim to himself. "I'll slink away from here
-in the opposite direction from those fellows, and carry out the first
-part of my undertaking. The night is very dark, and suitable for the
-work. But it is very still, and the fall of a paddle in the water, the
-mere splash of a hand as one lifts it to swim, will be heard a long
-distance away. That being the case, I must float across, propelling
-myself by kicking out with my legs beneath the surface. Now here goes!"
-
-Leaving the dense band of darkness, which seemed to cling to the walls
-of the store-house, he crept stealthily away into the night, and, taking
-a narrow passage which ran behind the huts, quickly placed some hundred
-yards between himself and the Mullah's dwelling. Then, having waited
-again to listen, he turned at right angles and made his way across the
-wide open street towards the river-bank. As he walked, feeling his way
-carefully before him, for the darkness was great, the ground shelved
-away, at first by degrees, and then more suddenly, till, happening to
-pause for a moment, he heard the gentle wash of water just in front of
-him.
-
-"The river," he said to himself; "and now for a boat. There are several
-lying hereabouts, and I ought to have no difficulty in finding one."
-
-Again he went on his knees in the mud and mire, and groped his way along
-by the water's edge. Soon his hand came into contact with some object,
-and running his fingers along it, he speedily satisfied himself that it
-was one of the native craft. In fact, it was a dug-out canoe, patched
-here and there with scraps of goat-skin, and provided with some
-half-dozen paddles of native workmanship, which lay on the bottom.
-
-"I've an idea," said Jim suddenly, pausing beside the craft as a thought
-occurred to him. "We arranged that I should take one of these boats
-over, but from that it would appear that very few had had a hand in the
-rescue of the prisoner. Now, why should I not take half a dozen? Tie
-them by their head-ropes together, and then ferry the whole lot across.
-When I reach the other side, I'll detach one of the half-dozen, and run
-it up against the bank so securely that it will not be carried away by
-the river; then I'll land and stamp about in the mud till the whole
-place is marked by footprints. When that is done, I'll go elsewhere till
-I've got rid of all the craft, and then I'll return and go on with the
-other portion of my work. Yes, it sounds to me very plausible, for when
-they discover that their prisoner is gone, the Somalis will catch sight
-of six stranded boats far sooner than they will of one, and, what is of
-far more importance, they will think that quite a force of men has been
-in the village during the night, and will promptly despatch all their
-available followers to the far side of the river. That will be good for
-us, for the smaller the number we have to deal with the better."
-
-Groping carefully about in the darkness, Jim found that three of the
-native craft lay side by side, and within a very short period he had
-loosely knotted the head-ropes together. Then he crawled still farther
-along the river-bank, and having discovered another, pushed it silently
-into the water and embarked. To grasp a paddle and use it to pole the
-boat along was a simple matter, and in this way, using every care to
-avoid making a splash, he sped silently along, till a gentle grating
-told him that the prow had come into contact with the stern of another
-craft. Five minutes later he was returning with three canoes, allowing
-the stream to float them noiselessly along beside the bank. When he
-reached the spot at which he had left the others, he stepped into the
-river, and, wading towards them, tied the whole six together.
-
-Standing upright in the central one of his half-dozen captures, he
-thrust the paddle over the stern, and, working it as a ferryman often
-does when sculling with a single oar, he gradually crossed the stream.
-Soon the gentle sound of bending rushes fell upon his ear, and he knew
-that he was at his destination. Detaching one of the head-ropes, he
-pulled the canoe well on to the bank, and then trudged backwards and
-forwards in the soft earth, stamping it with the imprint of his
-sandalled feet in all directions. Not content with that, he walked
-through a patch of long grass which fringed the bank, flattening the
-blades and leaving obvious tracks. There was no need to go still
-farther, for a long stretch of rocky and hard soil ran away from the
-river, and upon this nothing but the hoofs of horses would have made any
-impression.
-
-Six times in succession did he repeat the process, and then, having
-satisfied himself that the signs upon the bank were ample, he embarked
-again and pushed off, allowing the stream to carry him where it liked.
-
-"There is a white line farther down," he said to himself, peering
-through the darkness; "and I remember that from the store-house we could
-see a spot where the water was broken and tumbled. If possible, I shall
-jam this boat among the rocks, and then it will look as if it had broken
-loose from the farther bank. Ah, here we are!"
-
-Before starting out he had been careful to wrap his revolver and
-ammunition in the long strip of calico which usually did service as a
-head-covering, and this he had tied firmly in position with the weapon
-at the crown of his head and the knot beneath his chin. Certain,
-therefore, that there was no danger of damaging them by immersing them
-in the water, he slipped over the edge of the boat at once, and,
-swimming beside it, directed it towards the centre of the white line
-which he had observed. Soon his hand came into contact with a large
-boulder, which was covered with slippery moss, and upon the upper edge
-of which was a jagged indentation.
-
-"Just the thing," he murmured, holding on firmly, so as not to be swept
-away, for the stream at this point came down with great force and
-rapidity. "I'll pull her on to this until she's fast, and then swim
-ashore."
-
-Easy though the task seemed, it taxed his strength to the utmost, for,
-caught by the mass of water which swirled about her, the native craft
-proved a fractious thing to deal with. She wabbled from side to side,
-and then, just as her nose was in the right position, her stern floated
-out, and, being broadside on, she was borne down on to the white line of
-surf, where she remained for a moment jammed against the boulders. But
-Jim was not the lad to be easily beaten, and, realizing the difficulty
-before him, he waited for one moment to obtain a firm foothold in the
-shallow water, and then bending beneath the craft, lifted it clear from
-the river. Then he gently lowered it into the position which he had
-selected, and, having satisfied himself that it was securely fastened
-there, he turned and began to swim with long steady strokes towards the
-bank.
-
-"And now for the second part of the undertaking," he said breathlessly,
-drawing himself gently from the river, and lying down upon the mud to
-rest. "I'll keep straight up the street, in the shadow of the huts, and
-when I get within sight of the one which shelters father, I shall wait a
-few minutes to see whether the sentry is wakeful or not. If all is
-quiet, I shall go to the back and endeavour to cut my way through the
-wall."
-
-Accordingly, as soon as he had recovered his breath and regained his
-strength, for the exertion of placing the boats in position had been by
-no means light, he rose to his feet again, and slowly made his way up
-the village street. Arrived within some ten yards of the building which
-stood opposite to the Mullah's house, he crouched in the shadow of a
-wall, and remained there, peering into the darkness. At first there was
-not a soul to be seen in that direction, though when he looked a little
-farther to the right the reflection of the watch-fire, which seemed to
-burn continuously, caught his eye, and against it, dimly silhouetted,
-and looking ghostly and unreal, was the figure of the warrior who kept
-watch over his leader. He was a tall, athletic-looking man, and seemed
-at the moment to be lost in reverie, for he grasped the shaft of his
-long spear near its cruel metal point with both hands, and held his head
-bent forward. So still did he stand, and so easy and graceful was the
-poise of his muscular limbs, that Jim might well have been gazing at a
-finely carved statue of a Hercules. For five minutes his eye rested upon
-the man as if fascinated, and then of a sudden, as the breeze stirred
-the folds of the flag which flew from the roof above, causing it to
-flutter gently, the man awoke from his dream with a start, and began to
-pace restlessly up and down.
-
-"Number one," said Jim quietly to himself; "he evidently fears no
-surprise, and should give no trouble at all. And now for the other
-fellow."
-
-Some minutes passed before he was successful in discerning the outline
-of the Somali posted in front of the prisoner's door, but by turning his
-eyes away from the reflection of the fire, he was at length able to make
-out a huddled figure crouching upon the ground, and apparently
-slumbering deeply.
-
-"Nothing could be better for me," murmured Jim, in tones of
-satisfaction. "If he will remain like that, and the other fellow
-continue to pace up and down, I ought to get into the hut without much
-trouble."
-
-Pausing for a second or two to assure himself that his revolver was in
-position, he left the shadow of the wall, and slowly, and with the
-greatest caution, crept across the open space which intervened between
-himself and his goal. At last he touched the wall of the hut, and at
-once prepared to carry out his design. And now for the first time he
-realized the loss of his hunting-knife, which he had dropped when
-clambering to the top of the store-house. Without it, and in the absence
-of something with which to chip a hole in the wall, he was helpless,
-and at the thought a feeling of despair came over him.
-
-"What an idiot I am!" he murmured, while tears of vexation filled his
-eyes. "I ought to have thought of this before, as any baby would have
-done. But it never occurred to me, and this is the result of my
-carelessness. But father shall not suffer; for if I cannot make my way
-to him through here, I will do so through the door, and chance
-discovery."
-
-With this object in view he slowly crawled round the hut towards the
-place where the only entry was situated, and soon the sleeping sentry
-came into view as he crouched some three or four paces in front of the
-hut.
-
-"What is that?" Jim asked himself the question with a start of surprise,
-and with a sudden feeling of reviving hope, for now again he was looking
-in the direction of the watch-fires, which not only aided him in
-locating the position of the sentry, but also showed something--a
-glimmer upon the ground where there should have been darkness alone.
-
-"Was it the sword which the sentry placed beside him before he fell
-asleep, or was it merely some stray piece of metal upon which the
-firelight fell?"
-
-Lying there full length in the shadow, Jim thought the matter out, and
-finally, emboldened by the fact that the man made no movement, and by
-the recollection that iron was a metal of great value to the Somalis,
-and was not likely to be flung carelessly about, he left his position,
-and advanced stealthily like a cat about to pounce upon its prey. It was
-a moment of excitement, for as he neared the man, keeping his eye fixed
-all the while upon him, some alteration in the reflection of the
-watch-fire caused him to turn his head, and there, stalking into the
-darkness as he walked his solitary beat about the Mullah's hut, came the
-warrior who kept watch there. Again his figure was silhouetted sharply,
-and, in spite of his dangerous position, Jim found himself vaguely
-wondering what was the man's height and age, and what kind of an athlete
-he was. Indeed, so strangely does one's mind wander in the most
-hazardous circumstances, that straightway Jim's thoughts carried him
-back to the football field at school, and in a senseless way he began to
-find a place for this brawny warrior in the team. But a moment later the
-man had vanished into the reflection of the flames again, and there was
-the slumbering sentry upon whose sword he had designs. Two paces
-forward, and Jim's fingers lit upon the handle, and began slowly,
-cautiously, to withdraw the weapon.
-
-The sleeper stirred, and ground his teeth, as though his dreams were not
-of the sweetest, then he awoke with a start, and raised his head. But he
-was quickly reassured, for again, trudging from the dim light beyond
-into the darkness, came his comrade, head poised proudly in the air, and
-spear resting upon his shoulder. With a grunt of satisfaction the man
-behind whom Jim lay settled his head upon his breast once more, and gave
-himself up to sleep without restraint.
-
-A minute later our hero was behind the hut, and with the weapon grasped
-in both hands was attacking the wall fiercely, as though life itself
-depended upon his exertions. Chip! chip! At every thrust the point of
-the steel bit into the hard sun-baked clay, and sent splinters of it
-flying. Another lunge, and a mass of the material detached itself and
-fell to the ground, with a sound which, though not loud, caused Jim
-suddenly to stop his efforts and crouch again, fearful that he had been
-overheard. But a glance round the corner of the building showed him the
-sentry still asleep, with his comrade continuing upon his round.
-
-Chip! chip! chip! Resuming his labours, Jim kept prodding at the wall
-till quite a respectable amount had fallen. Then of a sudden, as he gave
-a still stronger thrust, he felt the mass before him give way, and the
-point of the weapon went through into the interior with a grating sound.
-
-Had anyone heard the noise? Was that someone stirring? Perhaps it was
-the prisoner, his dear father, who had guessed that rescue was at hand;
-or perhaps it was the sentry.
-
-Something fell upon Jim's listening ear, and instantly he suspended his
-labours, and, crouching at the foot of the wall, waited to see what
-would happen.
-
-Yes, it was undoubtedly the man who had been sleeping before the door;
-for suddenly a stooping figure came shuffling round the building,
-peering suspiciously into the darkness, as if something had disturbed
-his rest and caused alarm.
-
-Would he be seen? Was it possible that by lying flat there upon the
-ground he could have escaped the attention of the Somali warrior? And if
-not, then how was he to act?
-
-Rapidly did Jim allow the thoughts to flash across his mind, and then,
-before an answer could come to him, indeed long before he could collect
-his scattered wits, the man suddenly caught sight of him, and, raising
-himself erect, prepared to shout an alarm. There was no time for
-hesitation, for had a sound escaped the lips of the sentry, flight for
-the prisoner, for Jim, and for John Margetson, would have been out of
-the question; their fate would have been hopelessly sealed. And
-therefore, prompted by the danger, and scarcely realizing how, Jim
-sprang upon the man, and, grasping him by the throat with one hand,
-plunged his weapon into his chest. Twice in succession did he deliver
-the blow, and then, still clutching his opponent, he fell with him to
-the ground, and lay there, overcome by his feelings and by the
-narrowness of his escape.
-
-[Illustration: JIM SPRANG UPON THE MAN.]
-
-"If the second man has heard the struggle, we are done for," gasped Jim.
-"But perhaps he was on the farther side of the Mullah's house, and if
-so, he may be unaware of the fate which has befallen his comrade. But
-supposing he notices his absence and comes to find him?"
-
-The thought set him trembling, for he was thoroughly unhinged by the
-events of the last few moments. As he reflected upon the matter,
-however, and realized how much depended upon his coolness and decision,
-resolution came to him at once, and straightway rising to his feet, he
-tumbled the body of the dead warrior on one side, and took possession of
-his blanket. Then casting its folds about him, resting the man's spear
-jauntily upon his shoulder, and carrying the sword in one hand, he began
-to saunter round the dwelling. A few paces brought him to the front,
-where he caught sight of the second man walking slowly upon his beat,
-and approaching him from the farther side. And now was the time when
-Jim's courage was tested to the utmost. Had he shown any fear, or had he
-turned about in the foolish endeavour to escape the attention of the
-sentry, all his plans would have been upset. The impulse was there to
-make him cast his blanket to the ground and fly for his life; he felt
-the longing to get away from the place, to free himself from the danger,
-and then, putting the temptation aside, he boldly stepped onwards, and,
-arriving opposite the door, paused to look sleepily about him.
-
-"The night is dark, comrade, and it is lonely work tramping hither and
-thither," said the tall warrior, coming to a halt some feet away from
-him. "This watching is a weary trial, and my heart sickens at it. Rather
-would I be abroad with my brothers in search of the runaways, or,
-better, galloping upon my horse against the zareba which the insolent
-invader has erected on the fringe of the desert. It maddens me to know
-that our warriors are fighting there, and that at this moment they are
-rushing to the attack with victory before them. And then, what loot! The
-man who came hither from the farther side of the Hoad, and who was once
-a follower of the infidel, has told us of the camels and horses that
-accompanied the expedition, and of the rifles and ammunition. My mouth
-waters at the thought that one of these guns might fall into my hands,
-for with it I feel that I alone could beat back these British troops who
-are to advance against us. But an evil fate has placed me here to keep
-watch when there is no need for it. In these peaceful times, and when no
-danger is to be feared, the old women of the village could carry out the
-duties as well, and better than I. However----Hark! Listen to that! You
-hear the faint and distant sound of firing which reaches us upon the
-still night air. Did I not say that our comrades were even now advancing
-to the attack?"
-
-As he spoke, Jim stood still, looking at him, and puzzling his brains to
-know how to act. That the man was addressing him he fully realized, but
-whether asking a question or merely making a few commonplace remarks, he
-could not guess, as he did not understand the language. To have
-attempted to respond would have been sheer madness, and yet what was he
-to do? Happily for him, a gust of wind swept along the village street at
-this instant, and, falling upon the watch-fires, sent a burst of smoke
-and embers whirling in his direction. A second later a fit of coughing
-took hold of him, and leaning upon his spear, he struggled with it till
-the tears were forced to his eyes. Then, as if that had been sufficient
-answer, he yawned loudly, and began to trudge the beat again, till the
-hut hid him from the sentry. No sooner was he out of sight than he ran
-to the other side, and, throwing himself upon the ground, crept to the
-end of the wall and looked out across the open space which separated him
-from the Mullah's residence. There was the warrior who had just
-addressed him, still standing in a listening attitude; but whether he
-was surprised at his comrade's action or not, it was impossible to
-state. However, that his suspicions had not been aroused was quickly
-evident, for, coughing and spluttering, as a second gust swept the smoke
-in his direction, he, too, moved away, and had soon disappeared from
-sight.
-
-"Now is my opportunity," thought Jim, "and I shall never have another
-like it. Whilst he is behind the Mullah's house I must make a rush for
-the prison, and, by George, I'll do it!"
-
-Darting round the angle of the wall, he undid the fastenings of the door
-and slipped into the hut. He had just time to pull the door to when the
-sentry came into sight again. But nothing had disturbed him, that was
-apparent, for he continued his leisurely walk without a pause and
-without a glance in the direction of his comrade.
-
-"Father! Father! Where are you? I'm here, your son, Jim, come to help
-you," whispered our hero, repeating almost the same words as he had used
-when making the acquaintance of John Margetson.
-
-There was a movement at the end of the hut, and he could hear someone
-stir, but for more than a minute there was no other sound. Then a voice
-broke the stillness, and a question was asked in tones with which Jim
-was familiar.
-
-"Who is that? Did someone say 'Jim?' My boy whom I left away in old
-England?"
-
-"Hush! Yes, I am here. Don't make a sound for your life, father! I shall
-come close up to you."
-
-Creeping across the hard-beaten floor, Jim groped his way through the
-darkness, and very soon found himself beside the prisoner. Their hands
-met in a firm and loving clasp, while each kissed the other
-affectionately upon the cheek.
-
-"My boy! My dear, dear lad!" was all that Colonel Hubbard could say for
-some minutes. "Who could have thought it possible? Who would have dreamt
-that such a thing could have occurred? It seems incredible, and I cannot
-believe that it is true. But--yes, I am pressing your hand, and I know
-by your voice that it is really you. Thank God that you have come!"
-
-"I'm here right enough," whispered Jim, feeling already as though a load
-had been removed from his mind. "But, now about escaping. I am in
-disguise, and have come here from the store-hut of the Mullah, which is
-close at hand. There John Margetson and I have been hiding, and it is to
-that spot that I intend to take you now."
-
-"John Margetson! I know him well, for we met on more than one occasion.
-How comes it that you have made his acquaintance, my lad? Are you, then,
-a prisoner, too?"
-
-"No, father, but I found my way to his hut, thinking that you were
-there, and that the Mullah possessed only one white slave. It was a
-bitter disappointment, but this makes up for it all. Now I hope to carry
-both of you away with me to our zareba, which lies away on the fringe of
-the desert."
-
-"Rescue us both! Zareba! I don't understand; I am bewildered!" exclaimed
-Colonel Hubbard, still pressing his son's hand. "But you must tell me
-all about it later on; for the present, let me know what I am to do, for
-I am completely in your hands. What is this store-house? And why should
-we retire to it?"
-
-Placing his lips close to his father's ear, Jim hurriedly whispered an
-account of his recent doings, and told him how it was that the
-store-house had been pressed into their service.
-
-"And now, father," he continued, "it only remains for us to escape from
-this without observation, and reach John Margetson. If we are only
-successful in that, we have arms and ammunition there which will enable
-us to protect ourselves if necessary, and make a good fight for our
-lives; and, in addition, I have just arranged a ruse which should send
-these Somalis off to pursue us in the wrong direction. If they fall into
-the trap, we shall say good-bye to this village, and make our way to the
-zareba. Are you ready?"
-
-"Ready, ay, and willing."
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XVII
-
-A DASH FOR LIBERTY
-
-
-For some little while Jim and his father sat close beside one another
-with heads touching, conversing in whispered tones, for it was necessary
-that the prisoner should be instructed precisely how to act when they
-were outside the hut.
-
-"You must tell me what I am to do clearly and concisely, my boy, for I
-am entirely in your hands," whispered the colonel. "It seems strange
-that I, who have always prided myself upon my resourcefulness, and who
-have always been the leader when you and I have been together, should
-give place to you. But, then, you see, you have all the strings in your
-fingers, and know exactly which one to pull, and when to let go your
-hold. Indeed, so far as I have been able to gather in these few seconds,
-you have shown yourself to possess a master's mind. But come, let us be
-going, for I dread that at any moment an alarm may be given, and then we
-can scarcely hope to escape."
-
-"You understand, then, father, that you follow me closely out of the
-hut, and slip to the back of it. I shall wrap the blanket about my
-shoulders and march round and round, to put the other sentry at ease.
-Then we shall disappear into the darkness, and I shall lead the way to
-our rendezvous. It will not be long before my absence will be noticed.
-Then, no doubt, the Somali sentry will discover the body of his comrade
-and your flight. But they can kick up as much row as they like, for we
-shall be in hiding, and even if we were discovered, we have sufficient
-guns with us to make a tough fight of it."
-
-"Depend upon it, we will," was the colonel's hearty response. "Put a
-weapon into my hand, and I will cause them to regret the day when they
-first made me captive. This Mullah and his followers shall find that
-their slave has strength for fighting, as well as for chopping wood and
-drawing water."
-
-"That reminds me, father. Here is the sentry's sword. Take it, for you
-may perhaps require something. I have the spear and my revolver."
-
-Having settled their arrangements, the two rose to their feet, and
-silently crept to the door. Then Jim gently pushed it open a few inches,
-and, thrusting his head out at the bottom, looked in the direction of
-the Mullah's house. Striding stalwartly out of the firelight, as he had
-done so often before, came the athletic watchman, his spear swinging
-easily over his shoulder, and his head held well in the air. That he was
-unsuspicious of the events which had happened so close at hand was
-evident, for as he walked he hummed a dismal native air in the sonorous
-tones common to these people, while his thoughts were undoubtedly far
-away. Most likely he was still thinking of his comrades who were
-attacking the infidel zareba, for he paused every now and again to
-listen, and stopped his song, only to be disappointed, however, and take
-to his lonely beat again with an impatient stamp of his foot.
-
-Now was the time for the fugitives, for the Mullah's hut suddenly cut
-off the warrior's figure. The next instant Jim pushed the door open
-quietly, and stepping out, stood there while his father emerged. Then,
-as the colonel darted round the hut, Jim placed the blanket about his
-shoulders, and, walking some distance to the left, waited for the
-appearance of the sentry again. The instant he caught sight of him he
-began to saunter forward, and yawned deeply again, as though he had only
-just awakened from a sleep in which he had indulged on the farther side
-of the building.
-
-Three times in succession did Jim make the complete circle, slouching
-round as though the effort were too much for him. Then, as he came
-opposite his father again, he tossed the blanket to one side, and,
-catching him by the arm, drew him away towards the village.
-
-"Now for the store-hut," he said in an exultant whisper, feeling as
-though all their difficulties were ended. "Come this way along the dark
-side of the street, and when we halt, lie down in the shadow of the
-wall, for it will be as well to see that we are not followed. After
-that, all we have to do is to slip across the street, open the door, and
-enter."
-
-"As simple as A, B, C, old boy. Lead the way, Jim, and you can rely upon
-my following your orders. Now, on you go!"
-
-Pressing forward, Jim quickly made his way along the darkest side of the
-village street, and, ere many minutes had passed, had reached a spot
-which was exactly opposite to the store-hut. And here, in accordance
-with the directions which he had already given, he threw himself flat
-upon the ground.
-
-"Good!" he whispered, when some little time had passed without a sound
-having disturbed the silence. "No one suspects us, so we may make ready
-to cross the street."
-
-"Hu-s-s-sh! Keep your eyes open," came his father's voice at that moment
-in warning tones, while his hand gripped Jim by the arm, and steadily,
-and with every caution, pushed it in a direction which pointed to a spot
-across the street and slightly to the left. Instantly Jim's eyes turned
-to the place, and peering into the darkness, he quickly became aware of
-the fact that a stealthy figure was moving there.
-
-"Was it the sentry who had suddenly discovered the absence of his
-comrade and the flight of the prisoner, or was it some other native of
-the village, whose suspicions had been aroused in some unforeseen
-manner?" Jim asked himself the question as he lay there, but for the
-moment could find no answer, for the stranger's figure was hidden almost
-completely, while his features were entirely invisible. Creeping along
-in the shadow of the farther wall, he soon reached a point which was
-exactly opposite to the fugitives, and separated only from them by a
-matter of a few yards. Then he crept slowly into the middle of the
-sun-dried road, and turning, faced the store-hut, bending his head
-forward as if he wished to inspect it closely. Fortunately for Jim and
-his father, the man had chosen a site to which a few stray rays of the
-watch-fire contrived to penetrate, and this light falling upon his face,
-revealed the fact that he was not the sentry, but the native who, when
-Jim's dagger was found, had suggested that the white prisoner and his
-rescuer had taken refuge in the store-hut. Evidently, in spite of the
-Mullah's derision, he had come at length to investigate the matter for
-himself. With a start of surprise our hero recognized him.
-
-"Our game is up," he whispered; "that is the man who declared to his
-companions that we must be hiding in the village. And now he has come to
-set the question at rest, and so that he should not incur the ridicule
-of his comrades, has selected this late hour in which to put in an
-appearance. What can we do?"
-
-"Do?" murmured the colonel. "We must manage to silence the fellow, or
-the whole village will be upon us. But I confess that it is almost an
-impossibility, for he is bound to discover us before we can get within
-reach of him. In that case, we must effectually silence him and then
-escape, for otherwise he would set his comrade upon us. Hush! he is
-looking in this direction."
-
-As he spoke the native turned round slowly, peering into the darkness in
-all directions, and, as his eyes fell upon the shadow in which they were
-lurking, he started backwards. Then, as if uncertain of his powers of
-vision, he crept a few paces closer, and, shading his eyes with both
-hands, as though they would help him to penetrate the darkness, stared
-suspiciously at the two figures crouching there. A second later he had
-given vent to a shout, and, turning upon his heel, fled down the street,
-making the air ring with his calls.
-
-Jim was utterly bewildered at the turn which events had taken, but
-Colonel Hubbard was a man who had faced danger in many forms, and whose
-wits had been sharpened upon many a field of battle. Realizing at once
-that this man would not only arouse his comrades, but would lead them in
-the pursuit, he, too, was upon his feet and dashing along between the
-houses before an instant had passed. Fear seemed to lend fleetness to
-his feet, for though the native spy sped onward at a rapid pace, he
-could not outdistance his pursuer. Indeed, the colonel seemed to come up
-with him by leaps and bounds, and then with one gigantic spring to land
-upon his shoulders. What followed Jim could not make out, but when
-Colonel Hubbard returned he knew that they were safe. The man whom he
-had followed had paid for his persistence with his life.
-
-Meanwhile Jim had not been idle. Grasping the fact that the store-house
-could not longer afford a safe shelter, he had at once darted across the
-street and hurled the door open. Then, as a figure appeared to bar his
-progress, and he heard the sharp click of a gun-lock, he called a loud
-warning to John Margetson, and leapt hurriedly aside. Well was it for
-him that he had the presence of mind to do so, for, suddenly aroused
-from the slumber into which he had fallen, Margetson had seized one of
-the Mullah's weapons which lay close to his hand, and, hearing the door
-burst open and the commotion outside, had discharged the contents into
-the darkness.
-
-"Steady, old man!" shouted our hero; "it's Jim, and I've come to tell
-you that we must make a bolt for it. Out you come at once!"
-
-To say that John Margetson was surprised at the sudden turn which events
-had taken was to express the situation mildly. For half an hour after
-Jim's departure he had remained in the store-hut, looking out through
-the aperture between the roof and the wall; but, wearied of seeing
-nothing, and having by now no small amount of confidence in the young
-fellow who had so miraculously come to rescue him, he had sat down upon
-a bag of dates, just to rest for a few moments. Then the heavy
-atmosphere within the hut--the aroma of dried dates and the store of
-wine--had overcome him, and little by little his eyelids had drooped
-till he was fast asleep. Roused by the alarm and by the opening of the
-door, he had started to his feet, and, rushing at once to the conclusion
-that the natives had discovered his lair, he immediately opened fire,
-without thought of the harm he might have done to his young companion.
-
-"What, you!" he exclaimed in bewilderment, appearing at the door with a
-smoking weapon in his hand. "Have I hurt you? Good heavens! Don't say
-that my bullet wounded you!"
-
-"There's nothing wrong with me; but I'm in a desperate hurry!" cried
-Jim again. "Bring your gun, and come along quickly, for we haven't a
-moment to lose."
-
-"But the prisoner, your father?"
-
-"He's here. I've managed to get him safely out of his cell, and now we
-must fly for our lives. Ah----"
-
-At that moment Jim became aware of the fact that a tall figure was
-rushing down upon them from the direction of the Mullah's house, and
-instantly realized that it must be the sentry who for a short period of
-time had claimed him as a comrade that evening. Already the man was
-within a few paces of him, and, with lowered spear-point, and shield
-held well forward so as to protect his body, came headlong towards them.
-
-"Look out!" shouted John Margetson.
-
-But Jim needed no warning, for, hazardous though the position was, he
-had never for one moment allowed his coolness to desert him. Without
-moving, therefore, from the spot upon which he stood, he turned
-slightly, and whipping the revolver from his waistcloth, levelled it at
-the advancing sentry. Click! Back went the lock as he gave the first
-pressure upon the trigger. Snap! The hammer fell; but there was no
-explosion, no bullet flew from the muzzle, for by an evil chance a
-splash of the river had damped the cap.
-
-Undaunted, however, Jim gave vent to an exclamation of annoyance, and
-then, without lowering his arm, jerked at the trigger again. Bang! This
-time the hammer had fallen upon an undamaged cartridge. Jim heard the
-bullet strike the man's breast, and then, ere the flash of the powder
-had died down, he saw him suddenly plunge forward, with arms thrown out
-before him, while spear and shield were cast high into the air. A second
-later, with a clatter which could be heard all over the village, the
-muscular figure of the unfortunate sentry came crashing to the ground,
-where it lay motionless.
-
-And now the Mullah's village, which a moment before had been peacefully
-slumbering, was suddenly plunged into a state of wildest turmoil. A very
-pandemonium seemed to have broken loose, for in all directions doors
-were flung wide open with a series of resounding bangs, while loud
-voices rent the silence of the night. Then, just as had happened on a
-previous evening, a tall figure suddenly appeared beside the flagstaff
-which stood upon the roof of the central dwelling, and the voice of the
-Mullah rang out clearly, drowning every other sound.
-
-"Catch them!" he shouted. "After them, every one of you! For if these
-impudent dogs escape this time we shall be for ever disgraced. Follow
-them, I say! Pick up their tracks, and when you have done so, I myself
-will lead you."
-
-"Come down, then, and show us the way now!" called out one of the few
-men who had been left in the village. "We can see no sign of them,
-though here, in front of the store-hut, are the bodies of two of our
-comrades."
-
-"A third is here!" shrieked another at this moment, happening to stumble
-upon the sentry who lay behind the prisoner's hut. "It is Abdul Hamid,
-who kept watch over our white slave. See," he continued, appearing a
-moment later, dragging the body towards the watch-fire, "he is dead.
-Allah has taken him, and the thrust of a sword has sent him to his end.
-Where are these infidels? Lead us, you who are our ruler, and show us
-that you have those powers of which you boast."
-
-That the incident which had so suddenly and unexpectedly aroused the
-village had angered the warriors there was little doubt, for they now
-came crowding round the Mullah's residence, and forgetting the humble
-manner in which they were apt to address him, demanded hotly that he
-should do something in the matter.
-
-"It is a disgrace to our manhood!" cried one of them bitterly. "If these
-men, whoever they may prove to be, escape us, the tribes who live within
-touch of our camp will jeer and point the finger of disdain at us, and
-will speak of us as women, fit only to toil in household work, and
-handle the staff with which our corn is crushed, instead of shield and
-spear. Up, then, and lead us in the pursuit!"
-
-That the indignant words had their due effect upon the Mullah was
-evident, for scarcely had the speaker ended the sentence when the door
-of the central hut flew open with a crash, and the leader sprang into
-the firelight, brandishing a sword above his head.
-
-"Ay!" he shouted. "Women we should be, and worse! Dogs, indeed, to let
-these men get safely away. You have called upon me to show you how to
-act, and, therefore, stand still now and listen. These are the facts, as
-I see them. Our brothers are abroad between this and the desert, and it
-would be a clever fugitive who could contrive to slip between their
-ranks, even upon a dark night such as this is. It is clear, therefore,
-that these infidels have turned their faces in another direction. To the
-river, then! Run down some of you, and see whether a trace of their
-flight cannot be discovered."
-
-At his order half a dozen of the men who surrounded him turned quickly,
-and rushing to the watch-fire, each picked up a smouldering brand, and
-ran off towards the river. By the time they had reached the banks the
-impact of the air upon the glowing ends of the wood had fanned them into
-flames, and converted them into excellent torches. Scattering with
-these in their hands, they proceeded to search every foot of the
-neighbourhood, and ere long came upon signs which rewarded them for
-their trouble. Then a shout rang out in the air.
-
-"Silence!" bellowed the Mullah, who had again taken his post upon the
-top of his hut. "Let every man remain quiet, so that we may hear what is
-said."
-
-"Our father is right," shouted the man again. "He is a wise leader,
-indeed, for here are sure signs of the dogs who have disturbed us. Boats
-are missing from the banks, and by the aid of my torch I can see them on
-the farther side. Wait while I go over to look further into the matter."
-
-There was a splash as the Somali plunged into the water, and then, as
-all eyes were turned in that direction, he could be seen swimming
-sturdily by the aid of one arm and his legs, while with the other he
-held the flaring stake above his head. About him the stream flashed and
-eddied, while the light was reflected from a thousand brilliant points,
-and clearly showed the seething wake which he left behind him. Then, ere
-he had traversed half the distance, another voice awoke the silence.
-
-"Ha! Here is another boat!" one of the searching party shouted. "I can
-see it stuck high and dry upon the reef which crosses the river at the
-foot of the village. It is stranded and empty."
-
-"And here are five more!" called the first, who had now reached the
-opposite side, making a funnel of his hands, so that his voice should
-carry the more surely; "and by their side, and for some feet on the
-marshy edge of the water, the mud and grass is trampled by a hundred
-feet. It is clear that this alarm was caused by more than one of the
-enemy."
-
-For a minute there was silence as the Mullah cogitated, and then mindful
-of the fact that he must not hesitate--for to do so would be to show
-weakness before his followers--he once more issued his orders.
-
-"Few or many, we must follow, and that at once," he called. "Therefore,
-I command that the greater part of you at once cross the water and
-search out the tracks of these invaders. Others shall mount the fleetest
-horses we possess, and gallop to their brothers with the word that they
-are to leap into their saddles and come hither like the wind. Then, with
-myself at their head to lead and guide them with my wisdom, we, too,
-will ford the stream and take up the chase. Be sure, my men, that Allah
-will aid us in this matter, as He has always done, for are we not brave
-and deserving of His favour?"
-
-His followers were eager to obey his words, and before a quarter of an
-hour had passed some fifteen of them rode down to the water's edge, and
-spurring their ponies into the water, swam them boldly across. Then with
-a forest of blazing torches held high above their heads, they took up
-the supposed tracks of the fugitives, and followed them to the rocky and
-hard ground beyond. But here their cunning and native craft were
-baffled, for not a scratch, not a hoof-mark could be seen upon the
-uneven surface, in spite of the fact that each one of the warriors was
-trained in such matters, and possessed eyes as keen as those of a
-ferret. An hour passed, and still they could make nothing of the
-difficulty, and were compelled to send one of their number to the Mullah
-with a message to that effect.
-
-"What! No further sign of them!" exclaimed the latter wrathfully,
-issuing from his hut. "I will return with you and see into this
-matter."
-
-Diving back into the darkness of his dwelling, he reappeared in a few
-minutes with a flowing robe about him and a rifle of modern workmanship
-in his hand. At a shout from one of the men near at hand, a pure-bred
-Arab, clean of limb, and with tossing mane, was led up by a native
-slave, who stood there, bridle in hand, holding the finely worked
-stirrup for his lord and master. Scarcely had he arrived when the
-leader, disdaining the aid so invitingly held out towards him, leapt
-with a bound into the saddle. With the certainty of a practised
-equestrian, his feet fell into the stirrups, while his left hand picked
-up the embroidered reins. Then, waving his rifle above his head, he
-plunged the cruel rowels with which his heels were armed into the flanks
-of the noble animal, which at once sprang forward with a bound that
-would have unseated any but an accomplished horseman. With a snort, and
-a shout from the rider, they plunged recklessly into the river, and
-began to swim across. It was grand to see the manner in which the Arab
-thoroughbred clambered to the top of the bank beyond, and shook himself
-there like a dog, while the gleam of the torches shone upon his silky
-coat. It was splendid, too, to watch this Mullah, forgetful of intrigue
-and of the arts by which he maintained his authority over his followers,
-become a man again. Tossing the reins upon the animal's neck, he placed
-a hand upon the pommel of the saddle, and then leapt lightly to the
-ground.
-
-"A torch!" he cried sharply. "Fools! Give me one of the brands, that I
-may search with my own eyes. Ha! Now follow behind me, and beware how
-you tread, for I wish not to be led away by the footprints which you
-yourselves have made."
-
-Cowed by his fierceness, the search-party promptly obeyed his orders,
-falling in behind him, and following every movement he made.
-
-"Let me start at the beginning, and then work from the river," cried the
-Mullah, striding to the edge of the water, where he sank to his ankles
-in the soft mud. "Here is the groove which the prow of the boat cut as
-it was run to the shore, and here, deeply impressed in the ooze, is the
-sandal-mark of the man who first leapt overboard. See!" He turned, and
-digging his heels into the ground, so as to lend power to his arms, he
-dragged the craft still higher. "And here are the prints of those who
-followed him. One, two--I count eight of them, but--what is this? Each
-one is broad and long and of precisely the same pattern. It is strange
-that all the infidels who landed here should be possessed of feet which
-do not differ in size. We must be careful, for this enemy of ours is a
-cunning one, and has already proved difficult to deal with."
-
-Something had awakened the suspicion of this crafty leader, for, as if a
-sudden thought had come to him, he bent low, till his head and beard
-almost swept the ground, and peered at the various depressions to be
-seen there. Then he stalked away from the edge of the water, bearing the
-torch at his feet, until he came to the broken ground beyond. He did not
-venture as yet, however, to give his views to those who accompanied him,
-but, satisfied that he would learn nothing more at that spot, he trudged
-across to where a second boat lay drawn up on the shore. Repeating
-precisely the same process as before, he passed to the third and fourth
-in succession, and, finally, to the last. Only then, when there was no
-longer room for doubt in his own mind, did he permit his warriors to
-gain an inkling of his thoughts. But now the evidence of a ruse was so
-clear that there was no fear of making a blunder, and consequently of
-losing prestige amongst his men. Therefore, calling them about him with
-a peremptory wave of the torch, he addressed them in deep tones, which
-trembled, so great was his anger.
-
-"Where would you be had you not myself to guide you?" he asked, staring
-each man in turn in the face. "You would be as children without a
-mother, as sheep without a herd. For, had it not been for my presence
-here to-night, you would have ridden your horses to this spot, and then,
-unmindful of the cunning of your enemies, would have galloped away into
-the country beyond, bent on hopeless pursuit. Listen! The dogs who came
-hither to-night, and disturbed the peace of our village, escaped by
-another way, leaving a trap behind them, in the hope that it would put
-you aside and give them a longer start. As I have said, had it not been
-for me, you would ere now have been gone on a useless mission, having
-fallen victims to this ruse."
-
-"A ruse?" shouted his followers, pressing closer in their eagerness. "We
-are not blind; but in this we cannot follow your thoughts, and cannot
-agree with all that you say."
-
-"Fools! Did I not declare that without your leader you are lost? Come
-with me, and I will show you the truth of my words."
-
-Grasping the nearest man by the shoulder, with such fierceness that he
-would have started back had not a hand detained him, the Mullah dragged
-him across the turf towards the spot where one of the native craft lay
-stranded. From there he proceeded to the others in turn, followed
-closely all the while by the remainder of the party.
-
-"Have you no eyes?" he demanded impatiently, directing their attention
-to the various footprints. "Measure the marks in your minds, and tell
-me, if you can, that they do not resemble one another. Look! The sandal
-upon the right foot of the infidel who planned this trap had had a
-portion of its inner edge cut away by some jagged stone, and the mud
-tells us of it as surely as could the owner. Then search about, and you
-will find that every print of the right foot, whether here or at the
-other landing-places, bears the same impression."
-
-Following the directions of their leader, the warriors ferreted about
-beside the river, like so many dogs hunting for rats; and then,
-convinced of the wisdom of the Mullah, they returned to his side,
-feeling more than ever that he was, indeed, a mighty man.
-
-"It is wonderful!" exclaimed one of them humbly. "You say truly that,
-had it not been for you, we should have entered upon a chase which would
-have been fruitless. Tell us, you who are our father, what is the
-reading that you gather from these signs. For my part, I could have
-sworn by Allah that no fewer than a hundred of the enemy had landed
-here."
-
-"A hundred! I read it that one alone came here, and having settled the
-boats in their various positions, swam back again to the village. Then,
-when the trap was ready, by which he hoped to smother his trail and
-throw dust in our eyes, he made the attempt which has proved successful.
-But he shall repent. By Allah! whom we all worship, and whose slaves we
-are, this dog of an infidel shall suffer. Here are my orders. Cross once
-more to the village, and then ride hard to join your comrades. Tell them
-that the fugitives are in their direction, and bid them capture them
-alive. When the day dawns, I shall expect to see my warriors riding back
-triumphant."
-
-Once more the Mullah treated each one in the party to a stern and
-critical inspection, and then, striding to where his Arab charger stood
-shivering in the cold night air, he vaulted into the saddle without
-touching the stirrup, and in a moment was plunging into the river again.
-With his rifle grasped in his left hand, and the reins hooked over the
-barrel, he forded the stream with the aid of the light cast by the
-flaming torch which he still retained. Half a minute sufficed for him to
-reach the opposite shore, when, turning in his saddle to take one
-backward glance at his followers, he tossed the brand into the river and
-spurred his animal on. A few paces brought him to his own dwelling,
-which was surrounded by a host of excited women, who were still ignorant
-of the cause of the uproar, and were fearful for their lives. But he
-thrust them aside haughtily, and springing nimbly to the ground,
-disappeared from view. A flickering light, however, showed that he did
-not seek repose, but was even then busily making preparations for the
-pursuit which was to be carried out on the morrow.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XVIII
-
-IN THE GOLD MINE
-
-
-While the Mullah is busy in the interior of his hut, making preparations
-for the following of the fugitives, should his men have failed to
-capture them before the morning dawns, let us go back to the three
-Englishmen, whom we last saw before the store-house of the village. From
-the moment when Colonel Hubbard had pursued the inquisitive Somali, and
-had brought him down in his tracks, events had happened with bewildering
-rapidity, and indeed Jim, when he had brought the sentry to the ground,
-seemed for some moments to be stunned.
-
-Luckily, however, the others were fully alive to the danger in which
-they stood, and well knew that delay would be fatal.
-
-"Rouse yourself! Quick! We must fly!" cried the colonel, in accents of
-alarm.
-
-"Yes, pull yourself together, for you are the only one who can lead us,"
-said John Margetson, grasping his young companion by the shoulder to
-emphasize his words. "Which way do we go, and where do we fly to?"
-
-At first the words had fallen upon Jim's ears indistinctly, and as if
-far away. But the rough shaking he received, the reminder that the
-safety of all the party depended upon himself, aroused him effectually,
-and with a start he was himself again.
-
-"Follow me to the ravine! This way!" he cried; and turning upon his
-heel, at once sped down the village street, with his comrades close
-behind him. When they reached the open, they swerved sharply to the
-left, and soon struck upon the rough path which Jim had used when coming
-to rescue his father. Without pause, without even turning his head to
-see if the others were following, Jim kept on at his fastest pace, being
-spurred to even greater exertions by the shouts and turmoil which he
-heard behind him. Not till he had put at least three-quarters of a mile
-between himself and the Mullah's village did he venture to come to a
-halt, and then it was to throw himself full length upon the grass, with
-which the countryside was thickly clad, and lie there breathing heavily,
-for the long sprint had told upon him severely. A short space of time,
-however, enabled all three to regain their breath once more, and then
-they discussed the situation in low tones.
-
-"What is the move now?" asked the colonel shortly, in the tones of a man
-who demands only what is absolutely necessary, and expects to receive a
-concise reply.
-
-"That depends, father. The ravine in which I left one of my followers
-with a couple of camels is situated barely a quarter of a mile away, and
-if it has proved sufficient to shelter him, it will also afford us a
-safe hiding-place. The question is, has he been discovered; and, if he
-has, then what shall our action be?"
-
-"H'm! I understand from what you whispered to me when I was still a
-prisoner that the Somali natives are stationed away in this direction,"
-said the colonel slowly, "and that another force has been despatched to
-attack your zareba. That being the case, we cannot hope to move during
-the daytime, and our only chance of safety is this ravine of which you
-speak. Therefore, I say, lead us to it at once, and should it prove to
-be occupied by the enemy, then let us go back on our trail, and while
-the Mullah and his following are hastening this way in pursuit, let us
-take post in the store-hut again. A few short moments will suffice to
-place it in a condition of defence. You tell me that there are
-muzzle-loaders there, and that there is an ample supply of ammunition,
-and of food and drink. Well and good; our movements are perfectly clear,
-and there can be no doubt of the course we must take. Failing the
-ravine, we'll look round as desperate men do who are cornered, and like
-rats who have no chance of escape; we will make for a spot in which we
-can die fighting, and which will give us an ample opportunity of making
-the enemy pay dear for their hatred of us."
-
-"Yes, father," chimed in Jim, catching his enthusiasm. "Should it turn
-out that we are compelled to do as you say, I have a little plan by
-which we could do even more harm to these warriors; for once safely in
-the hut, and our defences prepared, we could set fire to the remainder
-of the buildings, and with a few handfuls of gunpowder, which could be
-easily spared, blow down any of the surrounding walls which would be
-likely to offer covert to the enemy. But the ravine is our object now,
-and I propose that we make our way there quietly and without undue
-hurry, for were we to run towards it at any great pace, we should, as
-likely as not, come suddenly upon one or more of the scouts who are
-posted in this direction. That would be worse than finding that the
-ravine was already occupied, for a shout would bring scores of the
-Somalis about us, and we should be hemmed in in the open. Therefore, let
-us take it easy. If only we can choose a defensible site in the ravine,
-and finally reach the zareba, we need have little fear, for at any
-moment one or other of the forces about to march upon the Mullah may
-arrive upon the scene."
-
-"Put shortly and clearly, like a soldier!" exclaimed the colonel. "Lead
-on, my boy, for until we are out of this country you are in command. Not
-for one instant will I permit myself to interfere in your task. Carry it
-through by yourself, and thereby show your independence and your
-manliness. But when in a tight corner and uncertain how to act, do not
-fail to take counsel with those whose age and experience may prove of
-help, for that is the action of every astute leader."
-
-By now, all were sufficiently rested and had regained their breath, and
-therefore were in a position to take the path once more. Springing to
-their feet, they stood for the space of a few seconds to listen to the
-distant sounds which still came from the village, and to others which
-could be heard away in the open country towards which they were making.
-Then they pressed onward in single file, each one with his hand upon his
-weapon, his eyes peering into the darkness on every side, and his ears
-listening attentively for any noise which might betray the approach of
-an enemy.
-
-They had not gone many yards before Jim suddenly became aware of the
-fact that a couple of dim figures were advancing from the opposite
-direction, and instantly, without venturing to utter a word of warning,
-he stopped abruptly, and catching his father and John Margetson by the
-arms, pushed them to the right until they were in the centre of a clump
-of thorn-bushes, which grew thickly on either side. Neither of his
-companions needed an explanation of such conduct, for they, too, had
-caught sight of the strangers, and at once, obeying their leader's
-directions, crouched in the undergrowth, Jim and Margetson covering the
-strangers. And now as they watched, the soft call of an owl was heard,
-and, to the astonishment of Jim, it was repeated by the two men at whom
-they were looking. Again the sound broke upon the stillness, coming from
-a distance, and then, with the silence of ghosts, some fifteen natives
-filed into view, half a dozen being mounted upon ponies.
-
-"That is evidently their signal," whispered the colonel, "and we must be
-careful to remember it, for it may yet be of use to us. But--hush! They
-are talking."
-
-By now the group of warriors had halted upon the path within a few paces
-of the fugitives, and, little dreaming that the men they sought were so
-close at hand, began to discuss the situation in animated tones.
-
-[Illustration: THE WARRIORS HAD HALTED UPON THE PATH WITHIN A FEW PACES
-OF THE FUGITIVES.]
-
-"We are bewildered," said one of them, "for some minutes ago a comrade
-reached us from the village, telling us that the other white prisoner
-had escaped, and had flown beyond the river. But how can that be, for we
-know that the zareba away in the desert is still surrounded, and there
-can have been no one to help the slave? And yet this man of whom I speak
-reports that there is evidence that at least a hundred crossed to the
-village on the farther side of the water, and then went their way again
-in a southerly direction. The orders are that we at once return, and
-make ready to pursue them."
-
-"It is strange, indeed," chimed in a second. "As I stood at my post,
-thinking that nothing would occur to disturb the silence, I heard the
-report of a gun, and realized that the enemy was at work again. But I,
-too, cannot understand how there can be men abroad to harm us. Perhaps
-this is a mistake, and we shall do well to pause ere we draw in our
-lines, for it may fall out that this is only a ruse, and that the
-escaping prisoner is even now making his way in this direction."
-
-"Hark!" cried a third at this moment. "I think the sound of a galloping
-horseman just now fell upon my ears. Stand still, brothers, and be
-silent while I signal to him. If it is not answered, we shall know that
-it is this infidel for whom we are waiting; and then----"
-
-"Ah!"
-
-Each one of the group gave vent to a guttural exclamation, which denoted
-the delight he would feel should his long watch prove successful in the
-end. Then all waited in silence, while the man who had last spoken did
-as he had suggested. It was weird to hear that low cooing noise
-vibrating upon the midnight air, and still more wonderful to note how
-accurately the cry of the owl was reproduced. Twice in succession was it
-sent out from the throat of the warrior, and then as they listened,
-hoping against hope that it would not be repeated from the stranger, the
-distant splash and clatter of hoofs striking upon the path and upon the
-springy turf at its side ceased suddenly, and a wailing cry came shrilly
-in response. Then once more the galloping hoofs could be heard and very
-soon a horseman dashed up to the party. Not till he was almost upon
-them, and ran the danger of riding them down, did he attempt to pull in
-his steed, for the Somali loves a brilliant equestrian, and rather than
-save pain and distress to the animal he rides, prefers to pull upon its
-mouth until the bit cuts into the flesh, and the poor beast is dragged
-upon its quarters.
-
-"The order is reversed," cried the horseman, flinging his reins upon the
-neck of his mount and springing to the ground. "Our father, the Mullah,
-has with his great wisdom discovered a ruse, cunningly planned by the
-enemy. He finds that they have not fled beyond the river, but in this
-direction. He commands, therefore, that you set a careful watch, and
-bring the captives to him by dawn. If you are not successful, he
-himself will come out in the daylight and lead you. Those are his
-orders."
-
-"And we will see that they are carried out at once," cried one of the
-group. "Listen, comrades. It is useless for us to wait here expecting
-these infidels, for they would never dare to come by the path. It is in
-the bush that we shall find them, and in all probability nearer to the
-village than we are now. Let us separate from here, therefore, and ride
-away to right and left."
-
-The remainder of the natives hastily expressed their approval, and as
-time was of much importance, and they could not afford to indulge in
-delay, they at once parted with one another, and melted into the
-darkness as silently as they had come.
-
-"Things look brighter for us," said John Margetson, in a whisper,
-hastily interpreting all that had passed. "These men declare that it is
-useless watching the path along which we came, and that is a fact which
-will serve our purpose admirably, for, if I remember rightly, the ravine
-has its opening close beside a turn in the road, and it, too, should
-escape observation. Lead on, Jim, and let us make a run for this
-hiding-place."
-
-Springing to their feet, the trio emerged from the thorn-bushes, and
-taking the beaten track again, pressed on at a rapid pace, for, now that
-it was certain that their ruse had been discovered, it was of great
-importance to them to find a lair at an early moment. Otherwise, however
-carefully they hid themselves in the undergrowth, the search-parties
-would be certain to discover them at the first streak of daylight, and
-then their fate would be settled. Having traversed a few hundred yards,
-Jim, who was again leading the party, broke into a walk, and began to
-study carefully the left-hand edge of the road. Then he suddenly turned
-away on to the grass, and striding forward, halted, as the pale glimmer
-of water caught his eye.
-
-"The well which lies at the entrance to the ravine," he explained in a
-whisper. "We pass it by and then sweep round to the right until we are
-out of sight of the path. Then I shall give the signal arranged upon
-between Ali and myself. Follow closely, and be ready to come to a stop
-at any moment."
-
-He pressed forward, and gradually inclining towards his right till he
-judged that the path would no longer be visible had it been daytime, he
-stopped and gave vent to a low cough. Again he repeated the signal, and
-waited in silence for the answer. So long an interval elapsed that at
-last it appeared as if Ali Kumar must have been forced to leave his
-post, or as if he had fallen into the hands of the enemy. But just as
-Jim was about to repeat the signal for the third time, there was a cough
-close at hand, and someone seemed to start from the darkness and stand
-beside him.
-
-"I am here, master, and rejoice at your return," was said in a voice
-which was undoubtedly that of Ali Kumar. "Speak! Are you unhurt, and
-sound in wind and limb? And is one of the two who accompany you the
-Mullah's white slave, the father for whose rescue you yearned?"
-
-"I am strong and well, and my father is here, Ali. In addition, I have
-brought with me a second prisoner, the one whom you saw when you went to
-the village, and whom you took to be the colonel. But we have no time to
-chatter here, for the Mullah's followers are hotly in chase. It is a
-relief to find that you are still in the ravine, for it shows that it
-has escaped the search of the enemy. Take us farther into it, and show
-us a spot where we can defend ourselves, for you may be sure that these
-Somali people will go over the road again, and hunt each corner of the
-land as if they were dogs."
-
-"We have a grand hiding-place, master," was the answer, "though I cannot
-say that the ravine will escape a further search. However, there is that
-within these walls of earth which will aid us, should we be discovered,
-and from which we should be able to drive away every follower that this
-tyrant possesses. But, come, follow closely, and do not hesitate to hold
-out your hands on either side, for the path is rugged and dangerous, and
-in the dark it may well happen that one of you might strike his head
-against a rock, or tumble and break a limb."
-
-"Right! Push on like a good fellow! We'll look to ourselves."
-
-Ali at once turned about, and pushed on into the ravine at a swift pace,
-which taxed the efforts of those who came after him. Striking to the
-right, he soon came to a part which was shrouded in even denser
-darkness, and then began to mount slightly, following a track which
-seemed to cut its way along the side of the tiny valley.
-
-"Have a care, my masters," he whispered suddenly, turning round when he
-had traversed some forty yards of this path. "At this point our road
-bends abruptly to the left, and comes to an end at the entrance to an
-ancient mine, which your servant discovered by the merest chance. It is
-faced outside with hewn blocks of stone, and from that point runs back
-for some little way, widening as it does so. Then it divides, and
-numerous galleries pass away into the hill, but how far I dare not say,
-for I would not explore one of them to save my life. The opening is
-close at hand, and when we reach it, I warn you to bend low, for the
-archway is of no great height and would injure men of your stature."
-
-This news was a surprise indeed, and in other circumstances would have
-almost taken their breath away. But the excitement of the past few
-hours, the numerous incidents which had been crowded into their lives
-whilst in the Mullah's village, had left but little room for wonder.
-With scarcely a murmur, therefore, at the strange tidings which they had
-just heard, they demanded to be led on again, and followed the native,
-with only one thought in their minds--the longing to find themselves in
-some hiding-place, some haven in which they could take refuge, and, if
-necessary, defend themselves against attack.
-
-Pressing swiftly forward, Ali Kumar swung to the left, and ere long came
-to a halt for the second time.
-
-"We are here, my masters," he said. "Take heed of my words."
-
-Once more he advanced into the inky darkness, Jim and his two companions
-following without hesitation. It was soon evident to all that they had
-entered some underground chamber, for each felt a rough archway of hewn
-stones above his head, while his surroundings suddenly became even
-denser and less visible. Then the pungent smell of smouldering logs fell
-upon their nostrils, and in the distance they saw the faint glimmer of a
-fire. At the same time they noticed that camels were in the place, for
-the irregular outlines of two of these animals could be seen upon the
-floor away on the right, while, closer at hand, was a large pile of
-newly cut grass with which to feed them.
-
-Striking across the large entrance-hall of the mine, Ali strode to the
-fire and seized a brand, then he raised it above his head, and bade his
-followers look about them.
-
-"I have seen places like this elsewhere," he remarked, "and a hunter
-whom I accompanied from the coast informed me that they were the work
-of an ancient people who lived and throve hundreds of years ago. They
-discovered by their wisdom that gold lay hid among the hills and rocks,
-and straightway set their slaves and captives to labour in the mines.
-But these races of which my master spoke must have died out, and become
-almost forgotten, though the tribes who live in Africa still have
-legends which tell of their existence."
-
-"He speaks the truth," said Colonel Hubbard, going to the fire and
-helping himself to a piece of flaring timber, with which the better to
-inspect his surroundings. "I, too, have seen such works as these
-elsewhere in the continent of Africa, and so greatly has my curiosity
-and interest been aroused that I have explored some of the mines, and
-have gone to the trouble of hunting up literature upon the subject. It
-is currently reported, on the strength of an old legend, that Queen
-Sheba herself set sail from a point on the northern coast of Africa, not
-far removed from Berbera, and made her historic journey to the court of
-Solomon. No doubt her wealth was derived from mines like these, and it
-is even possible that as soon as this country is opened up, others may
-become rich from the same source, for an expert, who accompanied me when
-searching the old workings of which I have spoken, assured me that many
-of them were still capable of producing gold. But I must not forget that
-we are fugitives, and that even now the Mullah's followers are hunting
-for us. The question arises as to whether we should remain here or push
-on for Jim's zareba. I shall not venture to offer my opinion until I
-have heard him speak, for this is his adventure, and it is my wish that
-he should carry it through to the end."
-
-"And mine, too, colonel!" exclaimed John Margetson.
-
-"What you say is fair and right, for our young friend has shown most
-admirable coolness and a ready wit. We must remember that it was he who
-thought of entering the country on your behalf, and that he has already
-been the leader of a small following. To deprive him of that post at
-this moment would be mean indeed, and would cast a slur upon him. For
-myself, I have the utmost faith in his decision."
-
-At the words Jim flushed red with pleasure, for there was no doubt that
-they were said in earnest.
-
-"It is more than kind of you both," he began, after a short pause,
-during which he looked sharply about him. "As you have left this matter
-to me, I will settle it, if possible, but I ask you to correct me should
-you consider my decision unwise or unreasonable. When I consider that
-the surrounding country is overrun by enemies, and that to venture from
-this curious place would mean capture, I say at once that we should be
-fools even to dream of quitting such a spot. Why, look at it! That low
-and narrow arch is just the position which four desperate men should be
-able to defend so long as food and drink lasted, and it is my advice
-that we at once make plans to keep watch at the entrance, in case of
-discovery. Our future actions absolutely depend upon the existence of
-sufficient supplies."
-
-"Then you may call it certain that we have flesh and water to last us
-for a month," interposed Ali Kumar. "Look there, master! There we have a
-store of food, while yonder, in the corner of this great chamber, is a
-pool of clear spring water, into which a stream drains from the hillside
-continually, while the overflow disappears through a crevice in the
-floor."
-
-Turning suddenly upon his heel, the native shikari pointed to the two
-sleeping camels, and then away to one side of the entrance-hall. Looking
-in that direction, and by the aid of the torches, Jim and his comrades
-at once caught the reflection from the surface of a large pool of water,
-while a moment later, as they stood there listening, the gentle splash
-of a falling stream came to their ears.
-
-"Good!" said Jim, in tones of pleasure. "I reckon that, if we were to
-slay one of the beasts, we could cut the flesh into strips, as the Boers
-and Red Indians do, and cure it by placing it outside in the sun, or by
-drying it over a smoky fire. Yes, in my opinion, that absolutely settles
-the question. Our game is to stick to this place through thick and thin,
-and resist all attacks; and meanwhile two of our number can easily be
-spared to explore some of these workings which I see lead from this
-hall. Indeed, the more I think of it, the more certain am I that Ali's
-find will prove to be the very thing for us; for, supposing the Mullah
-and his men rush the entrance, we can still retire into one of the
-tunnels, and make things hot for them."
-
-"I fully agree with you, my boy," said Colonel Hubbard heartily. "So
-long as powder and shot last, we four men--for I count you equal to
-ourselves in strength and pluck--should be able to keep the enemy out.
-Then, if things get too hot for us, we shall retire, with food, and
-water too, if we can carry it, into the old workings and defy the
-Mullah's army. Indeed I doubt whether one of them would have the courage
-to pursue us underground, for these natives are superstitious fellows,
-and fear all kinds of imaginary things. Had it not been for that, they
-or their ancestors would have quickly investigated these mines, and
-would have turned them to account. But for generations they have been
-little better than savages, and have been pleased with an existence
-which has been spent partly in agricultural pursuits, and partly in
-raids upon their neighbours. And now, how are we to defend the
-position?"
-
-"I've an idea," cried John Margetson, suddenly snatching the torch from
-the colonel's hand and advancing to the entrance. "But, first of all, I
-should like to know from Ali the condition of affairs outside, for I
-confess that, though I have been for three years a slave to the Mullah,
-I have never been in this ravine. Indeed, amongst the Somalis, it is
-scarcely known, and I doubt whether a single one of them has ventured
-into it; for it is considered to be haunted, and that is quite
-sufficient to keep all inquisitive people away. But answer my question,
-Ali, like a good fellow."
-
-"The valley is a narrow one, and, indeed, when looked into from the
-hills above, is more like a deep pit with steeply sloping sides. A well
-stands at the opening, which is but a few yards in breadth. But, farther
-in, the walls give back quickly, and then slowly approach again, till a
-sharp angle is formed, in which this mine is situated. In the old days,
-of which my master's father has spoken, a paved road led down the centre
-of the ravine, and ascended easily to this entrance, and by that, no
-doubt, the slaves were wont to come to their work. But the store of
-water in this chamber has cut its way through the floor, and, issuing
-upon this stone, has, in course of time, cut a deep and wide furrow
-across it to its bed beyond, from which it flows to the well beside the
-village path. For that reason, my masters, I led you by a track which
-ascended the slope of the hill."
-
-"Then my plan should be of service to us," said John Margetson, who had
-closely followed Ali's explanation. "It seems to me that when the
-morning comes, and we have daylight to help us, we shall have an
-uninterrupted view of the whole ravine from this low-arched entrance of
-the mine, and shall be able to cover every foot of it with our rifles.
-But we must remember that these Somalis possess many firearms, and if
-they happen to discover us, and can get rid of their fears of the
-supernatural, they will lie upon the slopes about us and pour in their
-fire with certain aim, for the range will be a close one. Only then
-should we learn that to lie at the entrance would be impossible, for it
-would cost us our lives. Do you follow me, my friends?"
-
-"Quite easily!" exclaimed the colonel. "Had you had the training of a
-soldier, you could not have seen the danger more clearly. I am waiting
-impatiently to hear how you propose to get over the difficulty, which,
-there is no doubt, is a very real one."
-
-"Then listen, colonel. My idea is a very simple one, and had I not
-thought of it, you or your son would quickly have done so. Since life to
-us would be impossible, even though we were to lie flat upon the floor,
-my suggestion is that we set to work with what implements we have and
-dig a trench of sufficient depth just within the opening to allow us to
-obtain shelter. The earth which we remove can be thrown up in front, so
-that the hole need not be more than three feet in depth."
-
-"It seems a splendid proposal," cried Jim, who had been listening
-attentively. "I notice that the floor here is also paved with slabs of
-stone, but the earth beneath is soft, and quite loose, as you will see
-for yourself if you look at this large patch here, where the covering
-has been removed. That being the case, the sword which I took from the
-sentry who was watching over father's prison should be sufficient to
-thoroughly turn it up, and the remainder of the work can be finished
-with our hands. If we were to set to at it now, the job would be
-finished by daylight, and then all would be in readiness in case of
-attack."
-
-For some little time the fugitives stood thoughtfully considering the
-question, and then, taking care that the torches should not be brought
-too close to the entrance, they went there in a body and closely
-inspected the ground. Thrusting the long native sword into a crevice
-between two of the paving-slabs, the colonel rapidly levered one of them
-up, and lifted it out of its place. Then he put the point of the weapon
-upon the bare earth, and pressed firmly upon the handle, with the result
-that the blade sank into it easily until the hilt stopped its farther
-descent. A gentle tug released it, and, when it was held up to the
-light, they saw that it was not even stained.
-
-"We're in luck!" cried the colonel. "The soil beneath is composed of
-pure sand, and can be removed with the greatest ease. Look here!"
-
-Dropping upon his knees, he thrust his hands into the opening which he
-had made and drew them out filled with shining particles.
-
-"That explains the reason for these slabs, and for the paved road
-outside," he said; "for if they were not here, movement would have
-become most difficult, and the slaves, as they trudged to and fro with
-their bags of quartz or of gold-bearing sand, would have had a weary
-time indeed. Let us get to work at once, for the sooner the task is
-finished, the better."
-
-Placing their weapons upon the pavement close at hand, the party at once
-began to tear up the square slabs of stone. They found that, when one
-had been removed, the rest gave little trouble, and ere many minutes had
-passed they had cleared a long and narrow track across the opening of
-the mine. Then they began to shovel out handfuls of sand, and did not
-desist from their labour until a deep trench had been dug. And now, at
-Jim's suggestion, the slabs were relaid at the bottom, while a few were
-used as a narrow coping on the summit of the bank which they had thrown
-up in front of the trench. Through this four narrow embrasures were left
-to accommodate the muzzles of the guns, and were cut so deeply that the
-weapons could be fired whilst the heads of the defenders remained
-completely under cover.
-
-Two hours later the arched opening became more visible, and soon the
-rays of the sun were pouring down upon the land.
-
-"I vote for a meal," sang out the colonel cheerily. "We may as well have
-it now, while we are undisturbed, for we may not have the opportunity
-later, and besides, you remember the old tale that men fight better and
-more bravely when they have had all their wants satisfied."
-
-Nothing loth, for their exertions during the night had sharpened their
-appetites, the remainder of the party hastily agreed, and turned with
-questioning eyes towards Ali Kumar. The shikari was by no means
-disconcerted, and instantly crossing the entrance of the mine to where
-the camels lay, he returned with one of the saddle-bags, in which was
-stored the greater portion of the food which he and Jim had thoughtfully
-brought from the zareba.
-
-The fugitives had barely done justice to the meal when a low cry from
-Ali alarmed them, and, looking out through their embrasures, they caught
-sight of a group of dusky figures standing at the mouth of the ravine.
-That their eyes were fixed upon the old mine-workings was evident, and
-soon there was little doubt that the sight had attracted their
-attention. They remained close together, talking and waving their arms,
-and then, to the consternation of the defenders, they were seen to be
-searching for marks upon the ground. That success was likely to attend
-their efforts was without question, and indeed but a little time had
-elapsed before one of them gave vent to a shout, and called to his
-comrades to join him. An instant later the party separated, scrambling
-like so many monkeys up the steep slopes of the tiny valley, and, when
-they arrived at the top, each man instantly began to wave his arms
-aloft, and shout the news of the discovery to all who were within
-hearing.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XIX
-
-A STRATEGIC RETREAT
-
-
-There was no doubt that the hiding-place of the fugitives was now
-discovered, and that they must prepare to defend their position and
-their lives; for, knowing the character of the Mullah, they could not
-hope to escape from attack. Sooner or later, and as quickly as they
-could overcome their fears of the spot, the fierce followers would
-advance into the ravine and pour their bullets into the entrance to the
-mine. Indeed, in view of the fanatical hatred in which they held the
-infidels, it was more than probable that they would gather together in a
-body and throw themselves with the utmost ferocity upon the fugitives.
-But we must leave the little party for a few moments and once more fly
-to the coast and see how the preparations for invasion were progressing.
-
-The reader will recollect how a force had collected at Berbera, and,
-following in the wake of Jim's expedition, had marched across the
-lowlands and reached the highlands by the very pass in which the latter
-had so severely defeated the tribesmen. The rendezvous of the British
-troops had been Bohotle, which had already been strongly reinforced, and
-filled with supplies calculated to last at least six months. As a
-strategic base, this was the very best that the country offered in these
-parts, for it was practically on the fringe of the Hoad, and guarded the
-wells at which the last store of water could be obtained. From that
-point onwards a march of at least six days must be contemplated, across
-a waterless desert, before the invading force could reach the Mudug
-pasture lands in which the Mullah had made his home. From the farther
-fringe of the desert, two days at most would be occupied in marching
-upon the Mullah's stronghold, and after that much depended upon
-circumstances. If the enemy stood and faced the troops boldly, as he had
-boasted he would, there was every hope that short work would be made of
-his army, and that the same fate would befall him as had happened to the
-Khalifa in the Soudan. On the other hand, he or his men might suddenly
-become fearful of this small band marching against him, and might fly
-into the interior. If that were to happen, much would depend upon
-whether the force which had already set out from Obbia, and that which
-had left the Abyssinian frontier, were able to cut off his retreat and
-compel him to come to action. For the moment, no one could tell how the
-affair would turn out, but the troops at Bohotle were in the finest
-spirits, and confident of success. Making little of the privations
-before them, therefore, they welcomed the notes of the bugle which
-sounded the reveille on the morning selected for the advance, and fell
-into their ranks with faces which showed their enthusiasm. Had their
-leader but known the precarious position of Jim's zareba, and the fact
-that our hero himself, together with three friends, was at that moment
-awaiting the attack of the Mullah's whole force, he would have pushed on
-with even greater haste, for his men were fit and ready for any
-exertions. But though he was aware of the marching of a small expedition
-into the interior, and knew what its object was, he had received no
-tidings of the fortune or misfortune which had befallen it, and
-therefore, in accordance with the arrangements which he had so carefully
-drawn out, he did not venture to begin his march across the Hoad before
-the date which had been agreed upon. Now, however, the time for action
-had arrived, and with a feeling of enthusiasm which was not less than
-that displayed by his officers and men, he gave the order to march, and,
-having seen the advance guard leave the camp, sat there upon his pony in
-the glare of the morning sun, watching critically as each battalion and
-each portion of the transport corps passed him. Then waving a farewell
-to the unlucky ones who were to remain behind to garrison Bohotle, and
-who gave him a ringing cheer in return, he set his beast into a canter,
-and in due time took his post at the head of his men.
-
-The expedition which had been gathering at Obbia and elsewhere on the
-Abyssinian frontier had also set out on the date agreed upon, and were
-even then pushing forward as rapidly as possible in the hope of coming
-to close quarters with the Mullah.
-
-With this knowledge, let us return to the fugitives in the mine. Seated
-upon the edge of their trench, with their faces glued to the embrasures
-which perforated the low bank of sand in front of them, our hero and his
-comrades had kept their eyes intently fixed upon the Somali scouts, and
-had seen, with a thrill of excitement, that these men had already
-guessed their whereabouts.
-
-"They are signalling to the others," said Jim with an effort to keep his
-voice steady. "I suppose we must soon expect to have a large force
-attacking us."
-
-"That just depends upon how long it takes for the news to spread,"
-remarked the colonel, his calmness quite unruffled by the sudden
-excitement. "Unless those fellows who are waving and shouting from the
-top of the hill can be seen a long distance away, it seems to me that it
-may be many hours before the others are informed of our discovery, and
-consequently no serious attack will be made upon us for the present."
-
-"The deduction is a good one, but, unfortunately, the facts are not
-precise," interposed John Margetson, in tones which showed that the turn
-events had taken had not been without its effect upon him. "I am quite
-an old resident in this country, you must remember, and I shall tell you
-one of the many things which I have learnt. It is the power these
-natives have of transmitting news to one another across long distances.
-Those beggars whom you see up there, apparently waving their arms in a
-reckless manner, are, nevertheless, fully alert and quite aware of what
-they are doing. Just as we in the Navy use semaphores to convey our news
-to distant vessels, so do these Somali fellows roughly send their
-messages to one another by means of their arms. Look at that chap up
-there! He is standing alone on the summit of the hill, so that his
-figure is against the sky-line, while his comrades are taking care to
-keep well away from him, so that those who are looking on at a distance
-shall not be confused. You may take it from me that there is another
-native, a mile or more away, upon a second hill, and still another
-elsewhere. By their means the order to concentrate at this ravine will
-flash across the country, and the swift ponies which these Somalis
-possess will quickly bring them to the spot."
-
-"Then we must make up our minds for an early fight," said Jim calmly;
-"and, so far as I can see, we are fully prepared, and have no need to do
-more than sit where we are, awaiting developments. We've fed, and feel
-contented. For my part, having so recently had a brush with the native
-tribesmen, I feel confident that our chances are good, and that, so long
-as our ammunition lasts, we can defy these people."
-
-"That's just the way to take it, my boy," sang out Colonel Hubbard
-cheerily. "Recklessness in a soldier is, as a general rule, inexcusable,
-for he should take good care to count the odds. But I freely admit that
-the forlorn hope has on many occasions gained us a victory, though it is
-not advisable. But there is nothing like going into an engagement with
-full belief in yourself, for then you have every determination to be
-successful. As to the power these beggars have of signalling, it is an
-interesting piece of information, and one of which I was quite unaware.
-But the news does not absolutely astound me, for I have met with a
-similar thing elsewhere. For instance, look at the Kaffirs, who inhabit
-a land in which we have been so recently fighting. They have some
-extraordinary means of conveying tidings to one another. Indeed, the
-result of large engagements, and even of small skirmishes, was known by
-these people a hundred and more miles away long before our telegraphists
-had been able to send it over the wires. But we must not occupy our
-attention with these matters at the present moment, for there is no
-doubt that we are in for a struggle. I therefore propose that we inspect
-arms at once."
-
-Acting on this suggestion, all the available weapons were brought
-forward and their merits discussed. Then the ammunition was carefully
-counted out and put in a convenient spot. It was found that the party
-owned two modern rifles which Jim and Ali Kumar had brought with them
-from the zareba, and for which a large store of cartridges was
-available. Then there was the muzzle-loading gun which John Margetson
-had thoughtfully carried away from the store-hut, together with a
-quantity of powder and a bag of slugs, while in his belt he still
-retained the revolver which Jim had handed to him. As for the colonel,
-his son had presented him with the second revolver, so that each one of
-the party was fully armed, while there was one firearm over in case of
-accidents. In addition, they possessed the long double-handled native
-sword, in case of attack at close quarters.
-
-"It seems to me that we are excellently provided," remarked Jim, when
-the inspection was completed. "If we are careful not to throw away a
-shot, our ammunition should last for a considerable time. The bag of
-slugs will be the first to require replenishing, and in that case I
-should imagine a few chips from one of these stone slabs would answer
-the purpose just as well. But--I say--look at those fellows!"
-
-The group of Somali warriors, who had been standing upon the hill-top
-signalling to their friends, had become greatly enlarged, and within a
-very short space of time some two hundred men were stationed there,
-staring down into the ravine, and looking with suspicion at the entrance
-to the mine. But as yet not one had dared to enter the haunted valley,
-though they did not hesitate to crowd together at the opening, as if in
-the act of doing so.
-
-An hour later their numbers had increased to quite double, while a
-movement amongst them showed that some leader was expected. That it
-should prove to be the Mullah himself was not wonderful, for he had
-promised to help his followers to capture the runaways. His charger was
-soon seen upon the sky-line, while a figure stood with the reins hooked
-over his arm, listening to the words of his scouts.
-
-"Now something will happen," said the colonel calmly. "That rogue will
-find some means by which to quiet his followers' fears, though I doubt
-whether he will dare to lead them in person. See! He is haranguing them,
-and to show that there is no danger to be apprehended, he is descending
-into the valley alone. By Jove! With those rifles we could knock him
-over to a certainty. But fair play's a jewel, and for myself, I confess
-that I don't care to fire at a man unless I know that he is about to do
-the same to me; it's too much like murder to sight a weapon for a native
-clambering down the slope of a hill and pull the trigger on him. All the
-same, the prejudice is a silly one, for were we to drop him in his
-tracks, the chances are that his followers would decamp, and in that
-case the expeditions which are about to march into the country would
-find that they had little work to do. Look at the ruffian!"
-
-Clambering down the steep slope of the hill, it was not long before the
-Mullah had gained the centre of the ravine, where he stood for some few
-moments, observing the paved road which traversed it. Then he turned to
-his followers, and called loudly to them to come and join him.
-
-"Slide down, and have no fear!" he shouted in reassuring tones. "The
-story that this place is haunted is an old woman's tale, made only to
-frighten the children. But you are brave men, and there are your
-enemies, the infidel dogs, who have had the insolence to come hither. By
-Allah! I swear to you that no harm shall befall you, and I call upon you
-once more to join me, and then to rush with all your fury upon the
-mine."
-
-For a short space of time it was clear that his followers hesitated, but
-on the Mullah's repeating his assurances, they began to descend one by
-one, and then came sliding and running down in a body. Very soon they
-were collected together in the centre of the ravine, and at a shout from
-their leader they advanced towards the mine.
-
-"Now, Jim," whispered the colonel, "we're in your hands, for you are the
-senior officer at present."
-
-"Then hold your fire till I give the word," was the calm response, "and
-then you can blaze into them for all you are worth."
-
-Standing on the stone pavement at the bottom of their trench, each of
-the defenders carefully adjusted his weapon, Jim and Ali taking care to
-throw open the catch of their magazines, while John Margetson placed the
-spare revolver close at hand, so that, when his gun was discharged, he
-would still have something to fall back upon. Then, in absolute silence,
-and without allowing any portion of their figures to be observed, they
-waited with fast-beating hearts for the attack of the enemy. It came
-even sooner than they had expected, for, spurred on by the Mullah's
-words of encouragement, and by their own fanatical hatred of the
-infidel, the mass of Somali warriors came bounding towards the mine,
-those on the outer edge crushing towards the centre in their desire to
-take a part in the battle. As a result, they became closely jammed
-together, and arrived at the arched entrance in this formation.
-
-"Fire!" cried Jim, when they were only a few yards away.
-
-Instantly the guns of the defenders rang out and poured a perfect hail
-of missiles into the enemy. At such a close range it was impossible to
-miss one's aim, and therefore the losses sustained by the Somalis were
-very great. Indeed, so unexpected was the volley, and so disconcerted
-were they at the fall of their comrades, that all at once stopped their
-mad rush at the mine, and stood there aghast at the slaughter, and
-hesitating how to act. The breathing-space thus afforded was taken full
-advantage of by Jim and his friends, for, instantly reloading, they sent
-a second volley into the attackers. Its effect was excellent, for,
-finding that more of their fellow-warriors were falling, and that as yet
-not one of them had caught sight of the enemy, the Somalis gave vent to
-a howl of dismay, and retreated at the top of their speed. Nor did they
-pause until they had clambered from the ravine to the top of the slope
-outside.
-
-"That will make them think twice about the matter," said the colonel,
-with a chuckle. "And just look at their leader! He took particular care
-not to join in the attack, and was the very first to scramble away to a
-safe distance. However, a humbug, such as he is, will soon stir up the
-tribesmen again by reminding them that we are few in numbers, and that
-the score against us is a heavy one. Then, no doubt, we can expect a
-second attack, and, if I know their wily commander at all, he will adopt
-different tactics."
-
-How true the prophecy of the colonel was destined to be was soon found
-out, for, after retiring out of sight for a short period, the Somalis
-again appeared on the surrounding heights. Then they dropped silently
-into the ravine, and, lying down in the long grass at the foot of the
-hills, began to pour a hot fire into the mine. Soon, indeed, the air was
-alive with their slugs and bullets, which came whistling in through the
-opening. But, thanks to the trench which John Margetson had suggested,
-the defenders ran no danger of being hit, but sat down at the bottom,
-placidly listening to the uproar. For half an hour the fusillade
-continued without cessation, and, indeed, at the end of that time,
-became even louder and fiercer.
-
-"It sounds as though they had been strongly reinforced," remarked Jim,
-whose coolness had never for a moment deserted him. "I'll just take a
-look through one of our peep-holes and see what is happening, for it
-would never do to make the sudden discovery that they were rushing upon
-us again."
-
-Accordingly, taking every precaution not to expose himself to the
-bullets, he cautiously raised an eye to one of the embrasures, and
-closely inspected the ravine. He found that what he had thought had just
-occurred, for even then scores of men were climbing over the hill-tops,
-to slide at once into the valley beneath. Down below a large force of
-Somalis was gathered, and these, it was easy to perceive, were filled
-with excitement, and eager for the attack. They were shouting to one
-another, and brandishing their weapons.
-
-"We can expect a second rush in a few moments," said Jim, sinking into
-the trench again; "there are scores of the enemy, and it seems to me
-that we shall be wise if we at once take steps to arrange for a retreat.
-I cannot think that our four weapons will be sufficient to keep them
-out. No doubt we shall kill a number of them, but all are in such
-desperate earnest that those who survive will come on, in spite of their
-losses, and once they get to close quarters with us, we shall be done
-for. I suggest, therefore, that a couple of us go and investigate those
-passages, while the others keep watch here. Then, as soon as the advance
-begins, a shout will bring us together again."
-
-"A good soldier should always arrange for an orderly retirement,"
-remarked the colonel thoughtfully, "for it is not always wise to burn
-your boats behind you, or destroy your bridges. I must confess that in
-this case we shall be wise to do as my son suggests, for it will help us
-to fight the harder if we possess the knowledge that retreat is
-possible. At the same time, I am quite sure that we are men enough to
-stand to our guns to the very last, and, in spite of a means of
-retirement, to stick to our position so long as it is tenable."
-
-"Hear, hear!" sang out John Margetson, who, as the danger increased,
-seemed to become more cheerful. "Both of you have made most excellent
-proposals, and, as they do not need seconding, I shall show my approval
-by at once volunteering to form one of the exploring party."
-
-"Then Jim had better go with you, my friend. I will remain here with
-Ali, and when you hear a shout, come back to us as fast as you can."
-
-The question having thus been settled, and it being evident that there
-was no time for delay, the two who had been selected for the enterprise
-left their weapons on the edge of the sandbank, and, crawling from the
-trench, crept to the left, where they were quickly out of the range of
-the bullets. Then they sprang to their feet and ran to the fire, which
-still smouldered, and, snatching a couple of the largest brands, stepped
-towards the many openings which ran from the entrance-hall into the
-workings of the mine.
-
-"Which one?" asked John Margetson, holding his torch aloft. "All are of
-exactly the same size and appearance, so that it is difficult to make a
-choice."
-
-"Then I vote for the central arch," cried Jim. "Come along."
-
-Darting across the intervening space, which was swept by a cloud of
-bullets, they plunged into the dark opening, and then, with firebrands
-held well in front of them, advanced at as rapid a pace as possible.
-They found themselves in a tunnel, which was of sufficient height to
-allow them to stand easily. A glance on either side showed them that the
-walls were composed of bare rock, or of sandstone, while the roof was
-supported at short intervals by buttresses of stone on either hand, and
-by a girder of the same material stretched from summit to summit. Like
-the hall and the ravine outside, the floor was paved with square blocks,
-but in parts these had caved in, and the recesses were filled with dark
-pools of water. Elsewhere falls of the roof and of the sides had taken
-place, and obstructed the passage, but in no place did it close it
-completely. Indeed, in view of the fact that hundreds of years had
-probably passed since the workings had been constructed, their condition
-was marvellous, and reflected the greatest credit upon those who had
-slaved at their construction.
-
-But Jim and his comrade had little time for observing all these points,
-for they were conscious that their pressing needs would admit of no
-delay. Avoiding, therefore, the depressions and crevices in the floor,
-and clambering over the mounds formed by fallen rocks and _debris_ from
-the roof above, they pushed on at a pace which brought them many a
-bruise from projecting obstacles. But they never seemed to heed them,
-and, scrambling along, had quickly traversed some two hundred yards of
-the tunnel. At this point they came to a crossway, where a passage ran
-to right and left.
-
-"I should think that our best plan will be to take the direct road,"
-said Jim, coming to a halt. "However, we will just see where these two
-tunnels lead to. You take that on the right, John, while I go to the
-left. If after walking some twenty yards you find nothing extraordinary,
-return at once, and meet me here."
-
-Without discussing the question further, they separated at once. When
-they met again in the space of a couple of minutes, each reported that
-the crossway opened into a parallel tunnel a few yards away, and into
-still another farther on.
-
-"Then it looks as though the openings from the entrance-hall ran on into
-the hill, diverging slightly, and connected at this point by a
-cross-cut. Evidently our path lies right ahead."
-
-"You've hit the right nail this time, without a doubt," answered John
-Margetson. "Forward is the word."
-
-When they had advanced some two or three hundred yards farther, the
-explorers suddenly came to a spot where the workings converged, and here
-they found a chamber which was larger even than that at the entrance.
-From it again there were many exits, into which they dared not venture.
-However, they had already gone far enough to learn that, should the
-enemy prove too strong for them, they had a way of retreat which would
-enable them to elude pursuit for some time.
-
-"I doubt even whether these Somali beggars would dare to follow us as
-far as this," said John Margetson; "and if they do, I think we can
-guarantee that they shall be thoroughly scared. But I am firmly of
-belief that by pushing on we should come to an exit on the other side of
-this enormous hill, for the air here is perfectly pure and good, which
-is wonderful, when you come to consider the age of these workings. It
-looks, in fact, as though there was a perfect system of ventilation, a
-precaution which the ancients were too wise to neglect. Hullo! That was
-a shout."
-
-At that moment a loud cry reached their ears, the sound, indeed, seeming
-to be collected together and enlarged by the solid walls of the mine.
-There was no doubt that it came from the two defenders who were watching
-the Mullah's followers, and at once Jim and his companion took to their
-heels, and raced back at their fastest pace. Arrived at the
-entrance-hall, they flung their brands into the fire and darted across
-the floor to the trench, in which they at once took their places.
-
-"You have returned in the nick of time," remarked the colonel, in
-unruffled tones, "for those fellows outside are on the point of
-attacking. You can hear for yourself that the firing has ceased. But
-tell me, what luck have you had?"
-
-"Splendid, father. We've explored the central tunnel, and find that it
-runs on for a considerable distance before coming to a meeting-place in
-the centre of the hill, from which a second series of workings emerge.
-If we have to fly, there will be plenty of room in which to play
-hide-and-seek, and always a chance of turning upon our followers and
-punishing them."
-
-"Then we put the command in your hands as before, my boy, and leave it
-to you to give the word to retire. But, remember, all of you, that
-ammunition is valuable, and that you must not forget to carry every
-cartridge away with you."
-
-His last words were interrupted by a perfect babel of sounds which came
-from the ravine, and each of the defenders at once sprang to his
-position, and, looking through the embrasure, saw that the enemy had
-begun to advance. This time they had taken the precaution to observe
-some order, and collecting together into a long, tongue-like band, came
-rushing up the central road towards the entrance of the mine. As before,
-Jim waited calmly until they were within easy range, and then gave the
-word to fire. Immediately a volley flashed from the sandbank, and a
-number of the natives fell. Then the defenders emptied their magazines
-into the closely packed ranks, and set to work with all haste to load
-again. For the second time they repeated the process, causing great loss
-to the enemy. But, in spite of that fact, the latter still rushed
-forward with marvellous pluck, and with loud shouts. Leaping over the
-bodies of the fallen, shrieking with pain, and tumbling headlong to the
-ground in their haste, they struggled fiercely to get at the infidels.
-Arriving at the deep cutting which the stream had made through the
-pathway, the foremost leapt it successfully; but those behind were not
-able to see it till right upon its edge, and, pushed by those who
-followed them, fell into the abyss with wild shrieks. Soon some thirty
-of them had met with this fate, and the gulley was full to overflowing.
-But their comrades never paused, never even hesitated, but, roused to
-fury by the loss of their friends, and by the stinging hail of bullets
-which still swept amongst them, came on with fierce determination, and
-in such huge numbers that it quickly became clear that there was no
-stopping them.
-
-"Give them a last volley!" shouted Jim, raising his voice above the din.
-"Now, all together, and afterwards let us bolt."
-
-Waiting till all were prepared, the four defenders rapidly emptied their
-magazines into the enemy, until the barrels of their weapons were so hot
-that they blistered their fingers. Then snatching up the piles of
-ammunition which they had placed close at hand, they scrambled from the
-trench, and, running swiftly across the entrance-hall, dived into the
-central tunnel, for all the world like rabbits taking to their burrows.
-
-"Halt!" cried Jim sharply, at this moment. "Without a torch we shall be
-lost. Wait here till I get one."
-
-Returning, he ran to the fire, and quickly secured four flaming brands,
-then he rejoined his comrades, noticing as he was about to enter the
-workings that the cries of the attackers had suddenly ceased, and that
-they had all come to a halt outside the mine, as if too fearful to enter
-it. But scarcely had the fugitives traversed more than a hundred yards
-of the tunnel, when loud shouts and cries again rent the air, and being
-magnified by the enclosing walls, came echoing and reverberating into
-the working. Indeed, the natives had at last overcome their
-superstitious terrors, and, rendered desperate by the baffling tactics
-of the infidels, had flowed into the entrance-hall till it was packed
-with humanity. Then a second pause ensued, for the passages which led on
-into the hill looked dark and forbidding. However, a leader was
-forthcoming, who, imitating Jim's example, snatched at one of the fiery
-brands, and, having peered into each one of the tunnels in succession,
-finally waved to his comrades to divide and search all of them.
-
-Meanwhile the fugitives had sped on without a pause, and very soon
-arrived at the large chamber, which seemed to be the heart of the
-workings. And here they halted to listen for sounds of the pursuers.
-
-"It is perfectly clear," said the colonel, seating himself to regain his
-breath, "that these fellows have overcome their fears, and are in hot
-chase. It occurs to me at the same time that the movement we have made
-was a most excellent one, for the very fact that there are so many
-channels leading into the hill will cause the Somalis to divide up into
-parties. Then in the darkness they will lose one another, and in that
-way will fall easy victims to our rifles, if they happen to come up with
-us. My advice is that we sit here for a little while, and then take
-matters more easily, for we shall require all our powers later. Perhaps
-we shall find an exit, and in that case we shall be obliged to travel
-fast to the zareba."
-
-Accordingly the party crossed to the other side of the chamber, and
-entered the tunnel which stood opposite to that from which they had just
-emerged. Then lowering their torches, so that the flames could not be
-easily observed, they sat down to await events. Presently they became
-aware that some, at least, of the natives were close at hand, and
-prepared to push on, or repel the pursuers, as circumstances should
-dictate. But there was no need for interference on their part, for as
-they peered into the depths of the chamber, the glowing end of a
-firebrand suddenly appeared, the feeble light enabling them to perceive
-that five men only accompanied the bearer. They were on the point of
-levelling their rifles at these intruders when there was a shout from
-one of the side tunnels, and before the onlookers could realize what was
-about to happen, a second party of Somalis rushed into the open space,
-and mistaking the first for the flying infidels, threw themselves with
-spear and sword upon them.
-
-"I almost expected a catastrophe of that sort," whispered the colonel;
-"and it is very probable that it may occur elsewhere, for our pursuers
-are too angry to be cautious. I think we may safely leave them to
-themselves and push on now deeper into the mine."
-
-Acting upon this advice, the party stole silently away into the
-darkness, leaving the Somali warriors struggling desperately with one
-another. A trudge of nearly half a mile brought them to a point which
-seemed to be the farthest limit of the mine, for here galleries ran in
-every direction, and a glance at the rough surfaces of the walls showed
-that the workings had been deserted in a hurry, and not because gold was
-no longer to be found. Indeed, had it been possible, the three
-Englishmen would have gladly stayed to investigate the matter, for there
-were numerous interesting relics scattered about. But to delay then
-might have brought disaster to the party, and, therefore, they at once
-began to search for an exit.
-
-"I feel sure we are not far from the open air," cried Jim, suddenly
-coming to a stop in the centre of a wide space, from which the tiny
-galleries cut into the hill. "Come here, and you will feel quite a
-draught blowing upon your heads, and----By Jove! Look at my torch!"
-
-He held the brand above his head, and as he did so the dull red end
-began to glow brightly, and then, fanned by an invisible stream of air
-which played upon it, it burst into a brilliant flame, which effectually
-lit up the surroundings.
-
-"A grand find, my boy!" shouted the colonel, for the first time showing
-some trace of excitement. "By the aid of that flaring brand we shall
-find our way to liberty. Push on, and when you see the light die down,
-you will know at once that we are moving in the wrong direction."
-
-Jim needed no further encouragement, but, with his rifle grasped in one
-hand, strode forward, keeping his eye fixed upon the torch. And all the
-while he could feel the cold air blowing upon his face as it rushed into
-the workings through the ventilating shaft. Soon he came to a large
-square orifice, and entering it without hesitation, he went on till
-almost stopped by the pressure of the atmosphere. Following him closely,
-his companions were struck with wonder at the draught and watched in
-amazement as their torches kindled even brighter and sent long flames to
-the roof above.
-
-"It is almost beyond belief," murmured John Margetson, breaking in upon
-the silence, "and I cannot realize how it is that the ventilation of the
-mine is managed. In a coal-pit there would be an up-cast and a down-cast
-shaft, with some arrangement at the former to cause the air to rush in
-that direction. But here we have come across nothing of the sort."
-
-"It would take a week to discover the cause," answered the colonel, "but
-I have been through similar mines, and have come to the conclusion that
-the people who constructed them were most capable engineers. Hullo!
-What's that?"
-
-As he spoke, the party came to an abrupt halt, and gave vent to cries of
-delight, for away ahead of them was a square patch of light, the goal
-for which they had been aiming.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XX
-
-BACK TO THE COAST
-
-
-"The exit! A means by which we may make good our escape from the mine,
-leaving the enemy utterly baffled!" shouted the colonel, as the square
-of brilliant light suddenly came into view, permitting, for the second
-time since his rescue from the Mullah's village, his usual composure to
-give way to the excitement of the moment. "Phew! What a breeze! It is as
-much as one can do to force a path towards the opening, for the draught
-comes singing in like a magnified gale, and fairly makes one stagger."
-
-"Clever beggars, those old fellows who engineered the concern," gasped
-John Margetson, turning his face from the stream of air, so as to
-breathe more freely. "This is undoubtedly their ventilating shaft; and,
-George! how fond they must have been of a breeze. The hottest day in the
-tropics would be cool if spent in this tunnel, while in the winter----"
-
-"A case of freezing," laughed the colonel. "The gale fairly sweeps and
-rushes in, and the atmosphere must reach to the farthest corner and nook
-of the mine, and clear it thoroughly. It is marvellous."
-
-"It is fine, I admit," said Jim at this moment, joining in the
-conversation curtly; "but talking will not help us to get away from
-those fellows--will it, father?"
-
-"Quite right! The lad speaks the truth, and we deserve to be reproved,"
-was the smiling answer. "There is a time for everything, and at the
-present moment we have to think of our lives, and of the comrades whom
-we hope to join. But I will return here one of these days, when the
-Mullah has had his licking; and then how I shall enjoy exploring every
-inch of this place! But forward! What is the next move, Jim?"
-
-"Let us get to the opening and take a look out, father. Till then I
-cannot say. We may find that the Somalis are already there, expecting
-our arrival, and in that case we shall have to retire to the workings
-again. If not, we must hold a council, and discuss what we must do to
-get to the zareba. Of course, we might make for the coast alone; but,
-then, that would be leaving my friend in the lurch, for he is waiting
-for us patiently."
-
-"It would be the act of cowards," cried the colonel. "Our duty is to
-save ourselves, and to join hands with this gallant young fellow who has
-accompanied you into the country. Let us get ahead, my dear lad, for I
-must admit that this tunnel, at first so cool and invigorating, is now
-somewhat too cold for my liking. And then, the breeze comes in with such
-a rush that it is difficult to breathe, and talking is no easy matter."
-
-"Then on we go," said Jim shortly, turning to the opening at once, from
-which, like his companions, he had been glad to keep his face away.
-
-With torches held aloft, and spouting long streams of brilliant flame
-from their glowing ends, the little party sped on up the incline which
-led to the patch of daylight, their thoughts all the while bent upon the
-possible chances of ultimate escape. All realized that they had perhaps
-a thousand fanatical foes to deal with, and that many, many miles of
-rolling country intervened between themselves and the zareba away in
-the desert. Could they hope to make their way there without discovery?
-Was it not more than likely that before their weary feet had carried
-them more than a tenth of the distance, these fierce warriors would be
-upon them? But there was little use in imagining such things, and as
-nothing could be known for certain till the opening of the air-shaft was
-reached, they all hastened forward at as fast a pace as possible,
-gasping for air, with bodies leaning forward upon the column of wind
-pouring into the mine, fighting their way through its very centre.
-
-"Hurrah!" cried Jim at length, as his hand came in contact with the
-solid arch of masonry which marked the entrance. "The open sky again.
-And now for a look round."
-
-"Be cautious, master," came Ali's voice at this moment. "You have told
-me that these men who cry to Allah have scattered in search of the
-runaways. It may well be that some are even now close at hand, and will
-see you the instant your head appears. Be careful, therefore, I beg of
-you, for we cannot hope for such good fortune a second time."
-
-"He needs no warning, this leader of ours," said John Margetson, halting
-beside our hero. "Has he not already shown his cuteness? Leave him to
-manage the matter alone, friend Ali."
-
-"The words are filled with truth, sahib, and I am sorry," answered the
-native follower humbly. "I should know of his caution and wisdom even
-better than you do, seeing that I have marched beside him for many a
-day. But this danger has made me nervous. Never in my life before have I
-been in such peril, not even when the tribe attacked us in the pass on
-our way hither. Let my fears be my excuse, and forgive me. From this
-moment I shall maintain silence."
-
-Jim very cautiously looked about him, pushing the blades of grass aside
-to enable him to see clearly. As there were no trees or bushes to
-obstruct the view, he was soon able to inform his comrades that not a
-single one of the enemy was in sight.
-
-"They are all on the other side of the hill, rushing into the workings,"
-he said with a smile of relief; "and now it becomes a question as to
-whether we should move in the direction of the desert, or whether we
-should remain here till matters have calmed down. This is too serious a
-decision for me to arrive at alone, and therefore I call all of you in
-to help me."
-
-"Hum, a very difficult situation," said the colonel, pushing his way to
-the front and carefully surveying the surrounding country. "I see hills
-and valleys for a few miles, and then, as you have told me, a dead level
-extends to the zareba. This is the most dangerous point in our escape,
-for if we leave the mine, we throw comparative safety away. On the other
-hand, we cannot hope to remain here for long. Our provisions will soon
-become exhausted, and, moreover, once having overcome their fears, and
-having dared to enter the workings, these Somali warriors will penetrate
-to its farthest corners in search of their prisoners. Be sure of this:
-if the news of an advancing English column has angered the Mullah, this
-impudent and successful attempt to rescue prisoners from under his very
-eyes will rouse him to fury, and he will turn aside from the invading
-force in order to capture us. I confess that I hesitate. Here is a haven
-for a time. Out there, sunny and sweet as the country looks, it promises
-disaster."
-
-"He who hesitates is lost," whispered John Margetson in his ear. "Listen
-to me, colonel; and you, too, Jim. To remain here is impossible. That
-is how I read it, for in an hour we shall be discovered by the
-searchers. Therefore, there can be no question. That is our way.
-Forward, my friends."
-
-He pointed across the rolling expanse of grass, and would have emerged
-from the shaft, had not Jim detained him.
-
-"Steady," he said quietly. "To hop out there into the open may be to
-commit the greatest of errors. A glance at you would convince one of the
-enemy that you are the escaping sailor; and then what a shout there
-would be!"
-
-"Well? That would be the end of the matter."
-
-"Quite so," responded Jim coolly. "But look at me. Am I not like the
-average Somali warrior?"
-
-"Jove! The lad has a way to help us," shouted the colonel. "Silence
-while we listen to him. A Somali, my boy? Why, your disguise is
-undoubtedly excellent."
-
-"Then I shall take advantage of the fact, father. Stay here, all of you,
-while I slip out. If I am seen, I shall be just one of the Mullah's
-followers, and all the while shall be on the look-out so as to see how
-we can best escape. Ta, ta. Wait till I return."
-
-Before they could stretch out a friendly arm to detain him, Jim was
-outside the shaft, and was running up the slope of the hill. Anxiously
-did his comrades await his return, and more than once they were tempted
-to throw caution to the winds, and, giving way to their impatience, to
-rush into the open in search of their leader. But the calmness of the
-colonel held them back.
-
-"Trust the lad," he said, his head held proudly in the air. "He has done
-as well as any man, and has shown that he has pluck and plenty of
-brains. Give him a full half-hour before we make any movement. Ah, what
-are those sounds?"
-
-"The dogs in search of us," said Ali, placing his hand to his ear, and
-facing down the shaft. "These walls carry the sound as does the tube
-which they have in Aden. Have I not listened at one end to hear the
-sound of a comrade's voice? Have little fear, masters, for those men
-will hardly dare to follow us into this shaft."
-
-"Hush! Here is someone coming towards us!" exclaimed the colonel, in a
-warning whisper at this moment. "I think it is Jim; but it may not be.
-He is evidently hunting for the entrance."
-
-"It is the lad, sure enough," cried John Margetson, staring out of the
-shaft. "Look at the condition of his linen clothing. No self-respecting
-follower of Allah would dare to go abroad in such a dress. He is
-travel-soiled, and there can be no mistake as to his identity. I shall
-call to him."
-
-Thrusting his arm clear of the opening, he waved it, and called gently
-to Jim. A second or two later Jim appeared at the entrance of the shaft,
-his dusky features radiant with smiles.
-
-"Good news!" he cried eagerly. "Not one of the enemy on this side, so
-far as I have been able to observe, but all are in the ravine beyond,
-trying to screw up their courage to enter the mine as some of their
-comrades have done."
-
-"Then they do not suspect that we are on the farther side," said the
-colonel, in tones of relief. "Nevertheless, the question of escape is
-still one of difficulty."
-
-"I think not, father," answered Jim quietly. "We have a clear field
-before us, and scarcely forty miles to cover."
-
-"But, good gracious! that will take us a day and a half at least," cried
-his parent.
-
-"On foot--yes," said Jim gaily. "But on horseback, say a day at the
-most."
-
-"Horseback! What do you mean?" burst in those who were listening to him,
-eagerly pressing about their young leader.
-
-"Listen," was the smiling rejoinder. "I said that the followers of the
-Mullah were on the farther side of the hill, but I did not tell you that
-they had taken their animals to the ravine. Obviously, in such a small
-place, there would some overcrowding, for there is not too much room for
-the warriors themselves."
-
-"Then where are they, my boy?" demanded the colonel.
-
-"Come with me," was Jim's quiet answer, "but be careful not to show
-yourselves over the corner of the hill. The horses are grazing quietly
-in a little nook, a small valley which cuts into this long hill, and
-they are practically unwatched. That was a point about which I took a
-deal of trouble, and I ascertained without a doubt that only one man was
-stationed as a guard over the beasts. He, like his comrades, is all
-eagerness to help in our capture, and as I watched him, he was for ever
-staring into the ravine, and shouting words of encouragement to his
-fellows. He is the only man we have to fear at the present moment."
-
-"Then he is the only one who shall taste one of our bullets," said John
-Margetson brusquely. "This fellow must not be allowed to give the alarm,
-and though I do not like the action, still it is imperative that we
-should shoot him. Otherwise he will give the alarm, and we shall have
-the whole host galloping after us."
-
-"Running, you mean," replied Jim, with an easy laugh. "You see, we want
-more than a few ponies. A dozen are useless to us, for the remainder
-would carry the enemy in the same direction, and a long chase is a hard
-one, you know."
-
-"But you don't propose----" gasped the colonel, staring at his son in
-bewilderment.
-
-"Oh, yes, I do, father! If we are to escape, we shall have to take the
-bulk of the ponies for a few miles with us. A mile would not do, for
-these natives can run very fast. But after, say five miles, all but a
-very few would have fallen off, and the remainder we could easily
-account for. If we ride away, and leave the animals to the enemy, we
-shall be captives before the afternoon."
-
-For a minute all stared at their young leader in amazement at the daring
-of his plan; then smacking his thigh, as if to give expression to his
-thoughts, John Margetson broke the silence.
-
-"The Mullah will die of rage!" he gasped, while a smile of delight lit
-up his sun-tanned features. "Never before has he been so treated, and
-now to see his prisoners ride away, taking every horse he possesses,
-well----"
-
-Evidently the thought was too much for the gallant mate, for he lapsed
-into silence, and writhed, as if his feelings were too much for him. As
-for the colonel, with the keenness of a trained soldier, he at once
-grasped the importance of the proposed movement.
-
-"It is a capital plan," he said, with decision. "Every pony must come
-with us, and this fellow who watches them must be shot without mercy.
-Give me your rifle, Jim. I am too old a campaigner to have any qualms,
-and in such a case as this the act is justified. Now, what next?"
-
-"Forward," said Jim quietly. "When we reach the top of the hill, Ali
-will stop where he is, and we others shall turn to the right. Thirty
-yards from Ali, John Margetson will come to a stop; another interval,
-and father will do the same. All will wait till I am in position. I
-shall wave my arm, and then we shall all move to the ponies. Select a
-couple of the finest, and tie their halters together. Then mount, and
-set the remainder in motion. They are well-trained beasts, and will give
-us no difficulty."
-
-A glance was sufficient to show that his comrades comprehended his
-words, and at once turning, Jim led the way to the top of the rise.
-
-"Ah!" an exclamation burst from all of the fugitives at the sight of
-some two hundred horses grazing in a small valley below.
-
-"All the mounted men that the Mullah happens to have within call,"
-murmured John Margetson. "No doubt the remainder are at the attack of
-the zareba. Now for the fellow who is looking after the horses."
-
-"He has gone to take a look at his comrades," said Jim. "Forward again.
-Ali, you stay where you are."
-
-Turning to the right, the three Englishmen at once hurried forward, and
-obedient to the orders of their young leader, John Margetson and the
-colonel halted when they had gained the correct distance. Jim kept on
-till he was at a point slightly beyond the horses. Waiting only to make
-sure that the animals were now surrounded, he waved his hand to his
-comrades and at once walked quietly towards two spirited-looking ponies,
-which promised to be amongst the strongest and swiftest there.
-
-"Likely little beggars," he said to himself. "If they will allow me, I
-will become their owner for the time being."
-
-A few paces brought him beside one of the animals, and with a bound he
-was in the saddle. Then grasping the halter of the other, he made a turn
-with it through the bridle of the pony he rode. Then he began to round
-up that part of the troop between him and his comrades.
-
-"Look out!" came a shout in the colonel's voice; and turning swiftly,
-Jim saw a figure bounding across the grass towards him. Snap, bang! went
-a rifle, and a bullet discharged by the colonel whistled past the head
-of the pursuing Somali warrior. Bang! A second had no better effect, and
-ere a third could be attempted the man was upon our hero. Quick as
-lightning Jim dived his hand into his waistcloth, only to discover that
-his father had his revolver. He was apparently unarmed, while the Somali
-bore a flashing spear, and a huge sword at his girdle. "Ah, the sword!"
-thought Jim, and instantly recollected that he had thrust the weapon
-into the belt tied about his left forearm.
-
-How it happened Jim never knew, but in the shortest space of time he was
-riding forward, driving part of the troop before him, while behind,
-huddled upon his face upon the grass, was the Somali warrior, a murmured
-"Allah" on his dying lips.
-
-"A great stroke! Bravely and coolly done!" shouted the colonel, who had
-looked on anxiously, expecting the worst to happen, and blaming himself
-for his want of skill. "A running man is no easy object when one is
-mounted upon a fresh pony such as his; but all's well. It was a stroke!
-The lad has a head, and can look well to himself. I thought the spear
-was through him, and almost shouted, but he ducked at the very instant,
-and then--ah, I saw the blade go well home. But those fellows may have
-heard the shots, and if so, we shall soon be followed."
-
-"Forward!" came Jim's voice at this moment; and instantly all began to
-urge the troop of animals into a trot. Leaping from their saddles, they
-picked stones from the earth and then pelted the beasts, shouting at
-them till their trot broke into a gallop.
-
-"Now keep them to it, and if they try to stop, make a rush at them,"
-shrieked John Margetson, sitting his pony in an attitude which showed
-clearly that he was no horseman. "Forward! To the zareba!"
-
-It was a time of wild excitement, and each of the fugitives entered into
-the spirit of it thoroughly. Exhilarated by the quick movement over the
-rolling hills and valleys, with the smell of the horses in their
-nostrils, and the dust of four hundred heels in their eyes, they raced
-over the grass, driving the frantic animals before them. A thunderous
-sound filled the air as the animals galloped, but loud as it was it
-failed to drown that shout which came from behind.
-
-"Allah! Allah! They have escaped us, and are riding away! Back! Leave
-the mine, and run! Money and a high place will be given to those who
-come up with the infidel!"
-
-It was the Mullah who had heard the shots aimed at the sentry, and had
-climbed to the top of the hill to ascertain the cause.
-
-"Our friend, the Mullah, my late master," shouted the colonel, looking
-grimly over his shoulder. "Let them run, for to those who happen to come
-in touch with us we will give more than the Mullah can promise. Death to
-them, my friends! Forward, for liberty and comrades are there."
-
-Waving his weapon in the air, he looked at each of his comrades in turn,
-and smiled at them encouragingly. Then, with a shout at the animals
-directly in front of him, he sent them ahead at an even greater pace.
-
-An hour later, when the little band of fugitives turned in their
-saddles, and brought the horses to a standstill, not one of the Mullah's
-followers was in sight, all having fallen out from the chase.
-
-"We'll give the poor beasts a breather now," said Jim, dropping to the
-ground and going to his father's side. "We have put a good ten miles
-between us and the enemy, and I fancy we can say 'good-bye' to them."
-
-"But there must be no delaying," burst in John Margetson. "Though we
-have prevented immediate pursuit, there will be other horses in the
-village, and by now these are tearing in this direction. I advise that
-when we have waited for some ten minutes we select the best of these
-animals, and then press them forward. They are fine and wiry beasts, and
-will make little of the forty miles if ridden fairly. We will loosen the
-girths, and throw away all but the saddle and bridle, so as to relieve
-them of any unnecessary weight. Then, by changing from animal to animal,
-say every half-hour, we shall be able to reach the zareba without more
-than an occasional halt."
-
-Acting upon his words, the little band at once set about discarding
-those of the ponies which seemed to be in bad condition. Twenty of the
-finest were kept, and having been relieved of all forage-bags and other
-impediments, were driven ahead of the others.
-
-"The tracks will be plain to the enemy," said Jim, looking at the wide
-trail of trampled grass which the troop had left behind it; "so it will
-be useless to hide these remaining animals by driving them into a
-ravine. After all, till someone can escort them back, or the Mullah's
-men can run as far as this, the horses will be of no service to them.
-Are we all ready? Then on we go."
-
-Leaving the bulk of the horses panting upon the road, they set off
-again, and did not draw rein save to change from one animal to another,
-or to give the beasts a few moments' rest. By evening they were
-cantering over the sandy stretch of desert, and ere long they were in
-sight of the oasis where Tom and the remainder of the expedition had
-been quartered.
-
-"Now what shall we find?" said Jim, coming to a halt, and shading his
-eyes. "The falling sun makes it difficult to see, but everything seems
-quiet over there, and I can catch sight of none of the enemy."
-
-"An ominous sign," whispered John Margetson. "What if these fanatics
-have butchered every one of those who accompanied you from the coast?"
-
-"Then we must act alone and for ourselves," said the colonel.
-
-"There will be no need, my masters," came a voice at their elbows at
-this moment. "Your servant, Ali Kumar, is used to these desert sunsets,
-and can see where others are blinded by the glare. A flag flies from the
-summit of one of those trees, and men are coming out to greet us. They
-are friends. Yes, our comrades are safe and well."
-
-"Then forward to meet them," cried Jim. "I can place full reliance on
-what Ali says."
-
-Riding on again, it was not long before the fugitives met Tom and the
-native followers. Shouts and cries of welcome greeted them, and they
-were at once escorted back to the zareba.
-
-"And now tell us the news," said Jim quickly. "We have little time to
-rest, and if the enemy are not near at hand, we shall push ahead at
-once."
-
-"Then you have nothing to fear," answered Tom, with assurance. "The
-Mullah's followers have left us, and I have just been able to ascertain
-that they had had news of the approach of the English forces, and had
-been withdrawn to repel them. Meanwhile, I am glad to say that we have
-given an excellent account of ourselves. Thanks to the preparations
-made, when the enemy advanced we beat them back with ease. Time and
-again they rushed to the attack, but the barbed wire kept them at a
-distance, and our rifles mowed them down. How many we accounted for I
-cannot say, but large numbers were killed. In fact, they soon began to
-lose heart, and I fancy they were glad when the order suddenly reached
-them that they were to withdraw. And what of you?"
-
-"That you shall hear later," said Jim. "The order now is to retire.
-Strike camp at once. Load the beasts, and prepare to march in an hour at
-most."
-
-So rapidly were the orders carried out, and so eagerly did the natives
-fly to obey them, that within the time mentioned the whole of the
-expedition was marching north, _en route_ to the coast. Camels staggered
-along with tanks of sweet water upon their backs; others carried
-fresh-cut grass; while the remainder were laden with ammunition and food
-for the men. Ten days later all arrived at Berbera, where they attracted
-a great deal of attention. Having rewarded the followers with gifts of
-camels, and having taken farewell of Tom and of Ali Kumar, Jim, his
-father, and John Margetson took ship for England, where they arrived in
-due time.
-
-"Back, and alive!" gasped Mr. George Hubbard, when the colonel and Jim
-put in an appearance at his house. "It is astounding! I had expected to
-hear nothing more of you, and your arrival lifts a weight from my heart.
-How could it be otherwise when the news just comes to hand that a
-portion of the British expedition was hemmed in a few days ago by the
-Mullah, and, falling short of ammunition, suffered very heavy losses?
-However, though this reverse has put a stop to the campaign for a
-moment, it is certain to be renewed again, and then this Mullah will be
-crushed. Indeed, the cables have told us that, since the disaster to
-our own troops, the Abyssinians have come in contact with this host of
-Somali plunderers and have inflicted severe losses upon them. But sit
-down and let me have the yarn. Dear, dear! I declare that Jim is as
-brown as a berry, and looks quite a man."
-
-That the colonel was of the same opinion was evident, for very few days
-had passed ere he paid a visit to those in authority, and returned with
-smiling face and a big blue official envelope.
-
-"Open it," he said, handing it to Jim. "It is your commission in my old
-regiment, given you for the information which you were able to gather in
-Somaliland. In two months you and I will be on our way to India, there
-to join our brother officers."
-
-To say that our hero was delighted is to express the matter mildly. He
-was almost more excited than he had been when planning his father's
-rescue. From that moment all was bustle, for his uniform and many other
-things had to be obtained. In due time, however, the two set sail for
-India, and entered the Suez Canal. At Aden they left the ship for a few
-hours to find Tom and have a chat with him. As for John Margetson, he
-soon settled down to the routine of life in charge of a ship. Neither he
-nor the colonel, however, will ever forget those days when they were in
-the grip of the Mullah.
-
-
-THE END
-
-
-
-
-
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