The boat answered her helm like a well-trained horse, and they went back on their course to see if they could fetch the light again.
"Yes, there it is."
"Then it's a signal," muttered Mr. Hume; "only to be seen by some one coming up-stream."
"Suppose it is meant for us?"
Mr. Hume went forward with his Express, and relieved Venning at the helm.
"We'll creep nearer in this time, but be ready to make a dash if it proves to be one of Hassan's watch-parties."
This time the Okapi hugged the shore, and stopped when it came opposite the light.
Out of the darkness came a low laugh. "I have been awaiting you, O great one; but you came so softly that I should not have known except for these wise ones here."
"Welcome, Muata!" The boat was run in now without further pause, and Mr. Hume leapt ashore with the line. "And who are the wise ones, chief, that could smell us out in the dark?"
"Who but the jackal and the wise woman?"