“Viviz Gobernador!” came from the full, savage throats, and the cry was taken up by the multitude.
The dazed governor looked down at the prostrate figure at his feet, looked long, and sorrowed.
“But for the brave Piang I should have been lying there,” he murmured.
Piang supported by Kali watched this new chief.
“Come here, Piang,” said the governor. Fumbling with the collar of his white uniform, he loosened something.
“My lad, I thank you for your bravery,” he said, his voice shaking slightly. “For your timely arrival, and your courage. Your name shall be sent to the great chief at Washington.”
The words were repeated to the jungle boy, and his manly little chest swelled with pride.
“Piang, I am about to decorate you with the emblem of our government; these infantry cross-guns I shall pin on your breast.” The dignified governor reached forward to make good his words, but he paused in embarrassment, the noble speech dying on his lips. He gazed in dismay at the naked little savage, standing straight and expectantly before him.
“I shall place this emblem.” The officer began again. There was a titter among the spectators.
Piang, eagerly eyeing the treasure, wondered why the governor delayed. Suddenly a gleam of understanding broke over him, and he grinned, broadly. With the tip of his finger he touched the shining cross-guns, then his necklace of crocodile teeth. The situation was saved.