Wal Jessop went to the chief, who acknowledged it was the custom to kill and eat prisoners of another tribe. Wal then tried to buy the wretch off, but the chief was firm. He could not interfere with the custom of the tribe.
That night a large fire was lighted in the marum, and they could see the flames flashing in the darkness.
They shuddered as they thought of what was about to take place; but as they were powerless to interfere they determined to steal away to the schooner.
Cautiously they went down to the beach and secured a canoe. Captain Manton sat in the bow, where there was a seat for the chief, and Wal and Edgar paddled.
Before they were half-way to the schooner the natives saw them, and, uttering loud cries, ran down to the beach. A large canoe was quickly launched, Meri took his place in the bow, and the pursuit commenced.
‘They will overhaul us before we reach the schooner,’ said Wal. ‘Our only plan is to frighten them. We have our rifles. You must send a bullet or two in their direction, Edgar. Do not harm anyone if you can help it, but strike the canoe somewhere near the chief. It will give him a shock, and may hinder the pursuit.’
The natives were fast nearing them, their canoe skimming along the water with wonderful swiftness. Meri stood up in the bow, spear in hand, and signalled them to stop. His dark figure was plainly seen in the moonlight which covered the sea with a soft, silvery glow.
Edgar put down his paddle and took up his rifle, which he levelled at the chief.
Meri saw him, but did not flinch. He turned to his men and urged them on.
Edgar took aim and fired at the bow of the canoe. It was a lucky shot, for just as he fired the bow of the canoe rose slightly, and the bullet splintered the wood under Meri’s feet.