As the witch-doctor stepped forward, a loud hiss arrested his steps.
“What in the devil’s name was that?”
“Look!” said Gobo, trembling; “there is something moving on the wall. Is it a snake?”
“Serpent or not, here goes.” A report rang out, followed by a wild cry, the rustling of leaves, and the fall of a heavy body.
“Carrambo! What have we here? A woman—a witch. Gobo, here is your serpent;” and the Captain laughed. “Do you hear that, you inside? If you do not keep quiet you will be served in the same way.”
The old woman, with a last effort, called to Hume: “Keep watch; they look for the secret place of hiding.”
“Be silent!” cried the Captain; “and, Ferrara, show us this place of treasure, if you have not lied.”
“I do not lie,” replied a deep voice, “and you have done wrong to shoot that woman. She has given warning of our search.”
“And what then? Are we afraid of a parcel of sick men? By the saints! I will give them this old witch for company.”
“Stay; here is the place. Yes—see the crack! Your knife, Captain, to force it open.”