These were soon procured, long, fibrous, and strong. With a blunt instrument the Professor wrote the following message on the leaf:
“If you are attacked hold out to last extremity. I am coming to your assistance. The bearer, Sutoto, is our friend. Professor.”
“Do you think they will be able to read that?” asked Will.
“In a few moments you will see the message much plainer, as the texture of the leaf is crushed where I have gone over it with this instrument, and the lines will discolor the leaf.”
It was then folded up, and the Professor took a portion of his coat, and made it up into a thin, compact package, which the messenger concealed in his clothing. The boys watched him disappear with wonderful speed, directly to the north.
As this young man will be heard of frequently hereafter and take an important part in the history of the boys, it should be stated that he had wonderful energy and intelligence, and was the favorite of the great Chief Suros, the head of the Berees.
Fig. 14. The Plantain.
“It is my opinion,” said John, addressing Muro, “that the lesson we gave the Brabos to-day will either make them our friends or the most bitter enemies.”
Muro shook his head. “The Brabos are not good; they do not keep their word. They cheat and try to take everything away.”