"Lord," said Bosambo, when the question was put to him, "I have not left my city by day or by night. As you find me, so have I been—sitting before my hut thinking of holy things and your lordship's goodness."
"Give me that box," said Sanders.
He took it in his hand and snapped it open. He looked at the dials for a long time; then he looked at Bosambo, and that worthy man returned his glance without embarrassment.
"Bosambo," said Sanders, "my little devil tells me that you have travelled for many miles——"
"Lord," said the bewildered chief, "if it says that it lies."
"It is true enough for me," said Sanders. "Now I tell you that you have gone too far, and therefore I fine you and your people fifty goats, also I increase your taxation, revoke your hunting privileges in the Isisi forest, and order you to find me fifty workmen every day to labour in the Government service."
"Oh, ko!" groaned Bosambo, standing on one leg in his anguish. "That is just, but hard, for I tell you, Lord Sandi, that I did raid the Akasava, yet how your devil box should know this I cannot tell, for I wrapped it in cloth and hid it under my bed."
"You did not carry it?" asked Sanders incredulously.
"I speak the truth, and my wife shall testify," said Bosambo.
He called her by name, and the graceful Kano girl who domineered him came to the door of his hut.