“I’ll go, massa.”
“See!”
As Nelatu uttered this monosyllable he tapped his rifle.
Crookleg took the hint.
“I’se swear, massa, do dis ting right! Dis ole nigga don’t want no bullet through him karkiss. I’se swear to do as you say!”
With this asseveration he rose erect and entered boldly among the bushes, while Nelatu concealed himself behind them.
Warren started to his feet, calling out—
“Who’s there?”
“Hush, Massa Warren! It’s only me—ole Crookleg.”
“Come in, Crookleg.”