“Well, what does all this mean?” demanded Captain Lynchman.
Somers again glanced at the major, and saw him give the scout a very slight, but energetic shake of the head, accompanied by a look which seemed to penetrate to the very soul of Tippy.
“Why don’t you speak?” demanded Lynchman, impatiently.
Tippy improved this opportunity, still gazing intently on Major de Banyan, to swallow the food in his mouth. He finished this operation, and Lynchman waited for him to explain his singular conduct.
“Have you lost your tongue?” cried he, jumping out of his chair.
“I cannot speak,” replied Tippy, exhibiting a great deal of emotion in his tones.
“Cannot speak! Do you know this man?”
“I do.”
“Who is he?”
“Let him answer for himself. It is not for me to speak in his presence.”