A sigh and a few muttered words took the lieutenant to his side; and on seeing him Ali started, and said something to him in the Malay tongue.
“Are you better?” said the lieutenant kindly.
“Better?” he said, “better? Where am I? what place is this?”
“You are on board the steamer. We found you drowning in the river.”
Ali clasped his forehead with his hands for a few moments, and then all seemed to come back like a flood.
“Yes,” he said hoarsely, “I know now. I was swimming to the island.”
“I see; and you were swept away,” said the lieutenant kindly. “I think you had better lie down, and have a good sleep,” he continued, as the young man struggled up.
“No, no!” cried Ali excitedly. “I recollect all now. Quick! call your men; there is great danger!”
“Come, come,” said the lieutenant gently, “calm yourself. Try and sleep.”
He laid his hand firmly on the young man’s arm, but Ali caught his wrist.