CHAPTER X
THE PECULIAR SAVAGE BELIEFS AND CUSTOMS
The chief Marmo had now an opportunity to learn another lesson he was not prepared for. Many of the warriors objected to going on the expedition. The work at the factory and in the various occupations so fascinated them that they begged to be excused.
At the request of the Professor many were excused from going, care having been taken to consult the boys who had charge of the various parts of the business as to the ones which could best be spared.
Marmo mused over these things. He saw the great cordiality that existed between his warriors and the other tribes. He was also gratified to see some of his men making things which were novel to him, as they were fascinating to the men.
The Krishnos were all about and were the personal charges of the Professor. He had them, daily in the laboratory, and all seemed to be pleased and happy. Marmo wanted to know whether they desired to go home, but all declined. There seemed to be a fascination about the place he could not understand.
One evening the Professor saw a Tuolo worker stealthily coming up the pathway leading to the laboratory, and after looking about with a curi[p. 124]ous air, pushed open the door, and in the most subservient manner begged permission to speak.
The Professor took him by the hand and led him to a chair. "What is it you want, my man? Can I do anything for you!"
The hearty manner and smiling face of the Professor emboldened him to speak.