A second later the chief entered, followed by ten others. They stopped short when they noticed that the boys were sitting up, and stared in wonder.
Bob and Joe threw their hands apart in a gesture of helplessness and smiled gratefully. Bob beckoned the men to come in the hut.
They stood undecidedly at first, but finally, convinced that these strangers meant no harm, moved on in the dwelling.
Then the boys did all they could to convey the idea that they were thankful to the Indians for saving them from death from exhaustion, and in the end it looked as if they had succeeded. Not until the big chief smiled, however, did they feel secure, for there were grim looks on the faces of all the savages. But when the chief showed his teeth in friendship, the youths felt that the battle was won. With the head native on their side things looked a great deal brighter.
“Now for something to eat,” said Bob to his chum. “I’m not particular what it is, just so it’s nourishing.”
He put his hands to his mouth, and began working his jaws as if chewing. Then he imitated drinking. The chief understood, and he gave directions to one of his men, who dashed off to another part of the village.
Meanwhile the others stood gazing at the youths, who in their sun-tanned condition were scarcely less dark than the Indians themselves.
In a short time the Indian returned with plates and pots of food, which he placed on the ground beside them.
“Do you suppose the stuff’s all right?” asked Joe, hesitating to begin eating.