Thus we carried our roaring burdens along the narrow jungle pathway which led to the place of embarkation.
"They're quietening down again," said Gran'pa, as we unloaded. "Even a gorilla has enough sense to find out the futility of noise. Look! That big one's beginning to sulk. He'll probably maintain that attitude now and never utter another word. Let's give him some food, to show our approval."
We tried him with some of the white ribs of the pineapple leaf (a particular gorilla delicacy), but he refused. So did the others.
"Well, we can't waste time. They'll soon come round when they've got over their bad temper and begin to feel hungry. . . . We'd better get them aboard the 'planes."
Oakley had two on his machine, and Newland had the third.
It was a strange sight. The poor fellows looked so old-fashioned, sitting up in their chairs, with their curious little eyes peering from one side to another and their heads moving from side to side while the remainder of their bodies kept perfectly still. One could hardly believe that they were animals.
"As this is the first consignment," said Gran'pa, "I think you'd better pop over in Newland's 'plane, George, and see them put safely aboard 'The Pilgrim Father.' You'll also be able to keep an eye on the others. . . . I say, Oakley!"
"Yes?"
"Don't get too far apart on the way back. Mr. Barnett's coming, as well, to act as an observer for both of you!"
"Good!"