"Drop those, you rascal!"
The command came from Dick, and turning, the Carib found himself confronted by two men, five boys and a dog.
The articles in his hands fell to the dirt flooring with a bang, and he staggered back in terror.
"Americano—" he began, but could get no further.
"So we've caught you in the act," said Leander. "Pretty business for you to be in, isn't it?"
"Bumbum no understand," stammered the native.
"You stole our outfit," came from Robert Menden.
"Bumbum no steal anyt'ing, señor. Bumbum find t'ings on de mountain."
"You can't make us believe that yarn," cried Bob. "You knew the things belonged to us when you took them. You're a first-class sneak."
"Bumbum very honest, señor—nefer take not'ing, nefer!" And the Carib nodded earnestly.