"Or a dead one from somewhere up the river," said the doctor. "But we'll soon prove it with our noses."
"Hooray! no need," cried Harry; "that's him;" for all at once the great reptile undulated in the water, struggled, splashed, and turned over, swam round, and went up the river again, passing out of sight.
"Well, you are pretty sportsmen! Why didn't you shoot?"
"I never thought of the gun," said Phra.
"Here, take us in your boat, and let's follow him, Mr. Cameron."
There was another shout before the doctor could answer, for the men could see that the reptile's strength was exhausted, it being once more upon its back, floating down the stream.
"We'll shoot this time," said Phra.
"There is no need, master," said Sree. "I think it is dead now."
"I came to have a chat with your father," said the doctor; "but I must make acquaintance with our friend yonder. Look here, Sree, take the boat and the rope and tow the brute ashore. Take care that it is dead first. Don't run any risks."
"No, Sahib," said the man, drawing his keen knife from his waist and trying its edge and point.