“Before doing so let me talk with him.”
The warrior was sent for, and when he appeared, the Professor smiled. He recognized him, as the leader of the party which had captured him.
It did not require anyone to explain that this man was the ideal messenger, if his physique was any indication. He was the most speedy one in the tribe, and had never been outrun by any other on the island. He was the most handsome savage the Professor had seen.
To this man he explained the need of informing his friends of their intentions, and if attacked to maintain their position at all hazards. That he was well aware of the risk attending such a mission; that he did not wish to order him to go, but if he felt like undertaking the mission he would be rewarded whether he succeeded or failed, and if he succeeded it would be the means of making his people strong and powerful.
The youth, for he was still a very young man, could hardly comprehend the character of such an order. It was so unlike anything he had known in his tribe. “I will go,” was all he said.
There was no paper or other material of like character available, and the boys were called in by the Professor. “Can you find me any plantain leaves?” he asked.
The boys were at a loss to know what the Professor meant.
“Have you noticed what the Berees use to thatch their huts with?”
“You mean the long and wide leaves?”
“Oh, yes; we saw plenty of them near here.”