directions. The Murhapa village
wore its usual appearance, so in contrast with what met the eyes of our
friends when they first saw it.

The Professor and the New Englander were waiting near the door for
Ashman to join them. As he came out, the former shook his head, with a
laugh, as an intimation that the young man in the ardor of his interest
had made a mistake.

Fred admitted that possibly he had forgotten himself, but added that it
was now too late to recall what had been done, and he was not sure that
he would do so, if the opportunity were given.

"At any rate," said he, "we are promised safe treatment for a couple of
days, provided we don't stray off or misbehave ourselves. Our visit
can't amount to anything after all, since we must start for home
whenever King Haffgo gives his command."

"A good deal may take place in two days," said the Professor
significantly.

"And a good deal _after_ five days," was the more significant remark of
Jared Long.

It was evident from these declarations that Grimcke and Long had in
mind the same thought; which came to Ashman himself, when the ruler of
the Murhapas made known to his guests that they must take their
departure within such a brief period.

While no one of the three would have dared to signify dissent, yet they
were not the men to come so many hundred miles, forcing their way
through endless dangers to turn about and retrace their steps at the
command of a savage who looked upon himself as king, simply because he
was able to lord it over a horde of barbarians.

It was no place to discuss their plans, in front of the "palace,"
especially as the natives were beginning to gather around them again,
and among them it was certain was more than one who understood the
English tongue "as she is spoke."

They were waiting for the coming of Ziffak, who was still within. He
was their chaperon, and without his guidance, they did not dare to move
from the spot.

"Hark!" suddenly exclaimed the Professor, raising his hand as a signal
for the whispering to cease.

The sound of voices was heard inside. They recognized the tones of
Ziffak, to which they had become accustomed since the previous night.
Those of King Haffgo were also distinguishable, and there could be no
doubt to whom the low silvery accents heard only occasionally belonged.

The alarming feature of it all was, that the king was in an
unmistakably angry mood. He not only talked fast but he talked loud