"But bwana!" cried Cazi Moto. "You see!"
"That is a magic," replied Kingozi curtly. "Now what is all this kalele about?"
"Bwana, these people say that messengers have come in telling of many white men and askaris marching in this direction."
"From where? But that does not matter--are they Inglishee or Duyche?"
"These shenzis do not know the difference."
"That is true. How far away are they?"
"Very near, bwana."
"Get my gun. Have Simba follow me. Here, you lead the way." They marched rapidly through the forest path and past the palace of M'tela, which Kingozi had never seen. The savage king came out, and Winkleman and his bodyguard soon followed.
"Oh, King," said Kingozi. "Now is the time to show to me that your friendship is true. As you know, other white men are coming, with warriors. I do not know yet whether these are Inglishee, who are my friends--and yours--or Duyche, who are my enemies. If they are Duyche they must be attacked and killed or captured, for we are at war."
He watched M'tela carefully while he spoke, and felt satisfaction at what he saw.