They had not gone far, however, when Azito remarked that when hiding in the wood he had heard José cry out, as if he were being whipped.
"Why didn't you tell me before?" demanded Will, stopping short.
"It was so little to tell, señor," replied the man.
It was indeed a trifling matter to Azito. The Indians were accustomed to being struck, sometimes in punishment for faults, sometimes in wanton mischief and delight in witnessing pain. But it was no trifling matter to Will, and remembering the Chief's suggestion that Machado had captured José in order to discover from him the whereabouts of the hydroplane, Will resolved to retrace his steps, go to the house, and at least try to find out what was happening to the boy. When he told Azito this, the Indian said the señor was not wise.
"It must be done," replied Will.
"I will go, señor."
"No, no; stay where you are. You have done enough. Lend me your knife, and wait for me here."
He took the Indian's long knife, and having no belt, had to carry it in his hand.
"Which room did José's cries come from?" he asked.
"A room in the front, señor."