Here the Captain turned to me and said:
"S'pose we condescend to let those devils get up?"
I waved my hand.
"Arise," said I, "noble priest and priestess, and resume your throne."
This was translated to the Papaloi and Mamanloi by my guide, whereupon they arose and stood looking at us as if waiting permission to reseat themselves.
"Tell them," said I, turning to the guide, "that they may seat themselves upon the throne, but they must prepare one for us also." While the guard was repeating this to the great people, I said hurriedly to the Skipper: "What a pity the Bo's'n isn't here! The ring is some use, after all. What do you really think it is, Captain, that makes them so servile?"
"I think the Grand Papaloi, who lost it probably where Cynthy found it, was a very great man, and that they tremble at the very sound of his name. He was protected, they say, by Christophe."
"Perhaps, like some kings I have heard of," said I, "they think that he gave us the symbol as a safeguard. Something like a signet ring."
"But where is the Grand Papaloi himself?" asked the Skipper.
"Thank you for reminding me," said I. "That's just what they may ask, so I must fix up a story." I then turned to the guard. "I have something to tell the priest and priestess," said I, "when our throne is prepared."