"Take care," said Harry, as he took down and handed a gun to his companion, who smiled and nodded.
"Yes," he said; "but it isn't the first time I've had hold of a gun."
"Well, I know that, Phra. You needn't turn rusty about it. I only said so because it comes natural to warn any one to be careful."
"Hist! Listen," said the Prince, holding up his hand.
Harry had heard the sound at the same moment. It was a strange, rustling, creeping sound, as of horny scales passing over wood in the wall to their right.
A look of intelligence passed between the boys, and they stood listening for a few moments, which were quite sufficient to satisfy them that the object of their visit within was gliding slowly up between the bamboos of the open wall, probably to reach the palm-thatched roof.
But it was not to do so without hindrance, for after darting another look at his companion Phra cocked his gun, walked close to the wall, and after listening again and again he placed the muzzle of his piece about six inches from the thin teak matting-covered boarding, and fired.
The result was immediate. Whether hit or only startled by the shot, the reptile fell with a loud thud and there was the evident sound of writhing and twisting about.
"Well done, Phra! You've shot him!" cried Harry; "but if he dies there we shall have to take the floor up to get him out."
"What is it, boys? Have you seen the snake?"