led the United States. A fierce murmur rippled
through the crowd at this piece of news. The dato raised his hand
for quiet.

"Let us hear them through. We are hungry; let them feed us. We will
fight for our freedom later, if necessary."

Haughtily Dato Kali Pandapatan faced the newcomers and bade them
speak. The interpreter explained that the men were United States
soldiers, and that their chief had commanded them to search the
islands for starving Moros and to relieve their suffering. The crafty
dato pondered long before he accepted their offer, all the while
watching for an attack. It was impossible for him to believe their
generosity could be genuine, so used was he to the treachery of Spanish
strangers. When the pack-train loaded with supplies appeared at the
head of the steep mountain pass, a cry went up from the hungry people,
and a rush was made toward it. When the supplies had been portioned
out to each family, and suspicion banished from the minds of the
natives, the "Americanos" were hailed as their saviors. Lieutenant
Lewis, in charge of the expedition, was offered every courtesy, and
the soldiers were showered with gifts of brass and trinkets. Dato
Kali Pandapatan vowed his allegiance to the soldiers and offered the
services of his tribe.

"Ask the dato if he has heard of the mysterious rice that has been
found on Lake Lanao, Ricardo," said Lieutenant Lewis.

The interpreter addressed the dato and learned that it was a well
known fact that rice had appeared on the surface of the lake from
no apparent source. As it had never been grown in that district,
the authorities were puzzled over the persistent rumors. If it could
be cultivated there, it might be possible to supply the tribes with
enough to avoid these frequent famines.

"He says he is not sure, sir, but travelers from that section all
bring the same tales of gathering rice in an eddy at one corner of the
lake. The tribes are very fierce around there, and as they will not
tolerate interference from strangers, no one has dared to investigate."

"I can easily believe it. General Bushing's expedition through that
country met with fearful opposition. It's a wonder to me that so
many of them came out alive." The lieutenant was silent for a time,
then said:

"Ask him if he has a swift runner, some one that he can trust."

Ricardo questioned the chief.

"Yes, sir, he says there is a boy named Piang, who is fleeter than
the wind, surer than the sun