He finished by pointing away to the north; but instead of going they stood staring till Ngati came forward, and said a few words in their own tongue.
The effect was electric; they all shouted, brandished their spears, danced wildly, and ended by throwing down their weapons before the officer, seizing him by the arms, and rubbing noses with him.
He submitted laughingly till the Maoris picked up their spears, and stood looking on, apparently quite satisfied that they were safe.
“Here, hi, Jack!” cried a hoarse brutal voice. “Look sharp, we want to get rid of these cords; where’s your knife?”
“Wait a little while, my friends,” said the officer sarcastically; “as soon as we get to the ship, you shall have them changed for irons.”
“Whorrt!” cried Mike.
“We were out in search of three convicts who murdered a couple of the guard, and escaped from Norfolk Island in a boat. I have fallen upon you by accident, and I have you safe.”
“Norfolk Island! Where’s Norfolk Island, mate?” said Mike coolly.
“Never heard o’ no such place,” said his vilest-looking companion, gruffly.
“Memory’s short, perhaps,” said the officer.