“Because the great Dutch chief who rules at Batavia knows that Prabu is a descendant of the Prince Surapati, and also that he has been sailing about the island, and on the coast of Java, to incite the different chiefs and princes to rebellion against the Dutch.”
“The dog!” exclaimed Prabu, “but how can this be? is it possible a son can disgrace a father’s memory, for did not the late chief hate the Dutch, and with his son swear eternal war against them?”
“He did, sahib, but Mahomed loves honor and his country less than gold and power; besides, the Dutch governor has promised to make him Rajah of Blilling in place of the present Prince, who he fears—nay knows—is his enemy.”
“How know they this?” asked Prabu, in alarm.
“Mahomed has sent a messenger to the governor of Batavia, telling him.”
“But where is the Dutch grab?” asked Martin.
“At the mouth of the straits of Bali, awaiting the return of the prahu either to receive prisoners, when Mahomed has taken them, or to waylay the prahu in case she should escape from Mahomed.”
“But the prahu, know you where she is?”
“Almost within gun-shot, riding at single anchor, about two leagues from the town.”
“Now,” said Martin, sternly, “we are going to send the boat in search of the prahu; we will keep you here till its return, when, if we find you have spoken falsely, you shall be hanged like a dog.”