“Never mind,” I whispered; “let’s follow him.”
“Jimmy find Mass Joe fader right ’long this way,” cried the black. “Not go ’long other way.”
“Where is my father?”
“Big hut over ’cross,” said Jimmy.
“Let’s get round this way to it then,” I whispered. “Come along.”
The doctor was already in advance, following our guide, and after striking the earth a heavy blow with his waddy to get rid of his anger, Jimmy followed me, not able to understand that we could get to the opposite point by going round one way as readily as by the other.
It was very slow work and we had to labour hard, holding the bushes and trees so that they should not fly back upon those who followed us; but by dint of great care we got round at last to what, as far as I could judge, was the far side of the village, our principal guide being the sound of voices which came to us in a dull murmur that increased as we drew nearer, and at last we found ourselves similarly situated as to position, being at the back of another large hut.
Here we waited, listening to the buzz of voices, till I wondered in my impatience what they could be discussing, and longed to ask our guide, but feared lest I should confuse him, now that perhaps he was about to do us good service if left alone.
I was glad that I had kept quiet the next minute, for the doctor laid his hand upon my shoulder and whispered in my ear:
“There is no doubt about it, my lad. We have reached the right spot. Your father is a prisoner in this very hut, and the savages are discussing whether they will keep him here or take him away.”