“Boat out there,” said the Chinaman.
“Where? What do you mean? Boat adrift in the straits?”
Some subtle change in Wang's bearing suggested his being out of breath; but he did not pant, and his voice was steady.
“No—row.”
It was Heyst now who was startled and raised his voice.
“Malay man, eh?”
Wang made a slight negative movement with his head.
“Do you hear, Lena?” Heyst called out. “Wang says there is a boat in sight—somewhere near apparently. Where's that boat Wang?”
“Round the point,” said Wang, leaping into Malay unexpectedly, and in a loud voice. “White men three.”
“So close as that?” exclaimed Heyst, moving out on the veranda followed by Wang. “White men? Impossible!”