"I have not noticed any such thing, though perhaps none of us could identify it," replied the captain.
"It is found growing out in triangular form from just above the roots of the tree. In a large one it is twelve or fifteen feet long. It makes a natural plank two inches thick, which may be trimmed into any shape with the biliong."
The party were ready to depart; and they made all sorts of courteous gestures to their hosts, especially the ladies. The women asked them for tobacco, as Achang interpreted the requests. They had none, but some of the seamen supplied them with all they had about them.
CHAPTER X.
THE MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF THE DYAKS.
After seeing the sleeping accommodations of the Dyaks, consisting of a mat on a rather uneven floor, the Americans concluded to pass the night on board of the yacht. They invited Mr. Eng to supper on board, and he passed the evening with them in the cabin.
"You have seen the Dyaks at home now, young gentlemen; how do you like the looks of them?" asked the guest, after the meal had been disposed of.
"I think they are the pleasantest savages I have ever met," replied Louis.
"I am afraid you did not appreciate the young women who were so attentive to you, Mr. Belgrave," continued the agent.