The famous inventor opened the door of the cage and stepped down into the court-yard.
At this the aborigine came to a halt not ten paces distant.
He spoke to Frank in a strange tongue.
Frank did not attempt to make it out, but replied:
“I cannot talk your language, sir.”
Again the little man spoke. Frank repeated his declaration.
The pigmy gesticulated furiously and swung his lance threateningly. But Frank tried to pacify him by resorting to signs.
This had some little effect.
The pigmy understood partly the signs Frank made.
The young inventor pointed to the Steam Man and talked and gesticulated. The pigmy’s confidence seemed to be gained and he approached nearer.