But Issek was not a woman to be put down easily by a simpleton. She at once returned to the charge.
“No doubt Ippegoo is right,” she said, with forced calmness, “but he has talked of a message to Okiok. I dare say the wife of Okiok would like to hear what that message is.”
“Huk! That is true,” said Nuna quickly.
“And,” continued Issek, “Ippegoo speaks of the suspicions of Angut. What does he suspect? We would all like to know that.”
“Huk! huk! That is also true,” exclaimed every one.
“My son,” whispered Kunelik, “silence is the only hope of a fool. Speak not at all.”
Ippegoo was so accustomed to render blind and willing obedience to his mother that he instantly brought his teeth together with a snap, and thereafter not one word, good, bad, or indifferent, was to be extracted from the simple one.
From what he had revealed, however, it was evident that a speedy visit from the wonderful foreigner was to be looked for. The little party therefore broke up in much excitement, each member of it going off in bursting importance to spread the news in her particular circle, with exaggerations suitable to her special nature and disposition.
While they are thus engaged, we will return to the object of all their interest.
When Ippegoo fled from Angut, as already told, the latter worthy turned quickly to Rooney, and said—