Jonah was taken aback, and modestly remonstrated against this humiliation on our part; but Chamai, by way of enforcing obedience to Hanno's injunction of silence, gave him a sharp blow across his mouth, and then came and took up with the rest of us his posture of outward reverence and awe.
Standing at the doorway in the character of Hono the priest, Hanno encouraged the people to re-enter their temple. Gradually the more courageous were induced to return, and ultimately about fifty, still tremulous with their recent alarm, were assembled in front of the shrine. Jono once again made the building ring with a tremendous blast, and Hanno delivered a brief oration, which seemed to have a soothing effect. The Suomi quietly retired, and we could hear them placing sentinels outside to prevent any one from entering.
Finding that we were not likely to be disturbed again, Hanno extinguished all the lights except two torches, and led us into the darkest corner of the temple, whither Jonah, after flinging off all his gew-gaws, was only too delighted to follow us.
CHAPTER XVIII.
JONAH WAXES AMBITIOUS.
"Where's my wine?" was Jonah's first inquiry.
"Coming in good time," I answered; "but you must have patience to wait, it may be a few months."
The giant looked aghast and stupified, until he was recalled to himself by a friendly poke from Chamai.
"Glad to see you amongst us again, old tippler!"