“I will remain where I am till night-fall, for I dare not show myself all bruised like this. When it is dark I will slip out and continue my journey to the coast.”
“To Tamatave?” asked Laihova, naming the chief seaport on the eastern side of Madagascar.
“Yes, to Tamatave.”
“Do you go there to trade?”
“No. I go on important business.”
It was evident that, whatever his business might be, Mamba, for reasons best known to himself, resolved to keep his own counsel. Seeing this, his friend said—
“Well, I go to the eastward also, for Ravoninohitriniony awaits me there; but I fear that our English friends will be thrown into prison.”
“Do you think so?” asked Mamba, anxiously. “If you think I can be helpful I will give up my important business and remain with you.”
“You cannot help us much, I think. Perhaps your presence may be a danger instead of a help. Besides, I have friends here who have power. And have we not God to direct us in all things? No, brother, as your business is important, go.”
Mamba was evidently much relieved by this reply, and his friend saw clearly that he had intended to make a great personal sacrifice when he offered to remain.