Presently he reported to his master that the men were from Sibenga's Kraal, and had been sent to ask for the return of the four horses lent by the chief to Colonel Narfield on the memorable journey from Tabora.
"That's knocked our early morning excursion on the head, Tiny," declared Colin. "We'll have to inform Colonel Narfield, although I know for certain the horses were returned."
"Keep 'em long time wait, Massa Sinclair," suggested Tenpenny Nail. "If you gib de word I put 'em in clink one-time sharp."
Colin knew that Colonel Narfield was still asleep and that he was recovering from a slight attack of intermittent malaria. Also the lad had been long enough in East Africa to know that one way to impress the natives was to keep them waiting.
"Tell them to stop where they are, Tenpenny Nail," he ordered. "When the Great One thinks fit he will receive Sibenga's people."
The two chums and their Kruman servants went outside the stockade. The door was secured in order to keep the light-fingered natives from pilfering. Then, having seen their horses stabled, they went into the house and knocked at the door of Colonel Narfield's room.
"Some roguery here," decided Herbert Narfield, when Colin had explained the reason for the deputation's presence without. "The horses were sent back the morning following, and Sibenga's men who came with us were given presents to take to their master. Right-o, Colin; I'll see the beggars. Tell Blue Fly and Tenpenny Nail to admit them after they've left their arms outside the gate."
Leaving Colonel Narfield to complete his toilet, the two chums gave the necessary instructions to the Krumen.
A hotly-worded encounter ensued; the deputation being reluctant to be deprived of their weapons, while Tenpenny Nail was equally emphatic that they must do so. Neither side being disposed to give in, the Kruman told them in barrack-room English to clear out and shut the gate in their faces.
Sibenga's deputation were now on the horns of a dilemma. They dare not return to their chief without having delivered his message, and the door was shut to them unless they laid aside their arms.