"Your message, my dear Koyala," he prompted. He used the term of endearment lingeringly, with a quick side glance at Muller, but the controlleur was oblivious to both.
"The message is for Mynheer Muller," Koyala announced icily.
"Ah? So?" Van Slyck swung the leg free and rose. "Then I am not needed. I bid the dear bother and sister adieux."
He made an elaborate French bow and started to leave. The embarrassed Muller made a hasty protest.
"Ho, kapitein!" he cried, "do not leave us. Donder en bliksem! the message may be for us both. Who is it from, Koyala?"
Van Slyck was divided between two desires. He saw that Muller was in a panic at the thought of being left alone with Koyala, and for that reason was keenly tempted to get out of sight as quickly as possible. On the other hand he was curious to hear her communication, aware that only a matter of unusual import could have called her from the bush. Undecided, he lingered on the steps.
"It was from Ah Sing," Koyala announced.
Van Slyck's indecision vanished. He stepped briskly back on the porch.
"From Ah Sing?" he exclaimed. "Mynheer Muller and I were just discussing his affairs. Does it concern the new resident we are to have?"
"It does," Koyala acknowledged.