“And come to me presently—I must have some talk with you about that affair.”
“Very good, Kandjeng toean.”
“Presently,” cried van Beneden, “presently why—” and then he struck up
“We won’t go home till morning …
Till daylight doth appear.”
The entire company joined in the well-known old tune. When the noise had somewhat subsided, Verstork continued;
“Duty, my friends, before pleasure. You will presently go and have your afternoon nap, then you will take a bath. I shall pursue this inquiry with the help of the wedono. This evening it is my intention to return to Santjoemeh with you; for the first thing to-morrow morning I must have an interview with the Resident. You have understood me, Wedono, have you not?”
“Yes, Kandjeng toean.”
“Very good then, I will not detain you.”
With a courtly bow, the dessa-chief took leave of the company and retired.