"They pretend also that they were hurt yesterday by the 'om-souf,' and they do not care about exposing themselves to it any more."
This is the Arabic name given to a plant covered with spines which lacerate the flesh and draw blood.
"Anything else?" asked M. de Morin.
"Yes; they state that to-day they will be in greater danger still if they push on through the marshes, because the hippopotami and crocodiles have neared us during the night, and surround us on all sides."
"And what have you done to overcome the insubordination of your men?"
"I have threatened them and beaten them; but they refuse to obey."
"It is a planned thing, then?"
"Yes; I fear it is a regular plot."
"Very well," exclaimed M. de Morin. "We shall never reach our journey's end if I do not bring these people to reason at once."
And, so saying, he went in the direction of a temporary bridge connecting his own boat with that of the escort.