It was evident at least that nothing was suspected. So far they had played their part to perfection. But here was an unexpected hindrance. The leader refused to act without the sanction of Oko Sam, and a delay would be fatal.
"Insist on it," whispered Canaris hurriedly; "it is our only chance."
"Tell your master we cannot wait," replied Guy, in well feigned anger. "Every moment is precious, and we must hasten back to Makar Makalo. Give us the Englishmen at once or we will go away without them and tell Makar Makalo how you have treated his messengers."
This bold declaration had its effect.
The chief withdrew to a little distance and held a long conference with half a dozen of his companions.
Guy and Canaris remained calm and motionless on their camels, haughtily scanning the sea of threatening black faces that hemmed them in on all sides.
Their only ground for hope rested in the fear which Makar Makalo, by his summary dealings with these tribes, had inspired in them.
The single motive which in all probability hindered the head man from acceding at once to their demands was the dread of Oko Sam's displeasure in case that despotic monarch were rescued in the morning.
The eager confab was still going on as strenuously as ever when a tumult arose from the outskirts of the throng, and presently, amid hoarse cheering and applause, a man broke through the parted ranks of the people and limped feebly into the open space.
It was Oko Sam!