“Go to ’em,” replied Shaddy coolly.
“But it will spring at you. It turned threateningly on me just now.”
“Don’t seem to on Master Rob, sir, and I don’t think it will. What do you say to going first, Mr Jovanni?”
“No,” said the lad shortly. “I don’t like animals.”
“Well, then, here goes,” said Shaddy coolly. “Don’t shoot, sir, unless the crittur turns very savage, and then not till I say, ‘Now!’”
He thrust the two canvas curtains apart quietly and stepped into the little open space astern, when once more the puma’s aspect changed and it turned upon the new-comer menacingly.
“Pat him again, Master Rob,” said Shaddy quietly. “I want to make friends too. Here, old chap,” he continued, sitting down, as Rob hurriedly patted and stroked the animal’s head, “let’s have a look at you. Come, may I pat you too?”
He stretched out his hand, but the puma drew back suspiciously, and, with the others watching the scene, he remained quiet while Rob redoubled his caresses, and the puma began to utter its low, rumbling, purring sound.
“Only wants time, Mr Brazier, sir,” said Shaddy quietly. “I don’t think the brute’s a bit savage. Only thinks we mean mischief and is ready to fight for himself. I could be friends with him in an hour or two. What’s best to be done—get him ashore?”
“Yes, as soon as possible.”