tangled pathway which we traversed wound up the steep side of a mountain
spur, running almost down to the edge of the raised coral beach. Forcing
our way through the screw-pine, which obstructed us, we were soon
passing under the shade of some bamboos and banyans, when Denviers
motioned to some trees a little way ahead, and suddenly exclaimed:--

"Look out, Harold! These savage niggers mean mischief!"

I glanced carefully to where my companion directed me, and saw a number
of matchlocks pointed at us, while the heads of those who held them
peered cautiously forth. We raised our rifles to defend ourselves, for
we were completely covered by the shining barrels of the enemy, and for
a moment fully expected that the lighted port-fires would be applied to
their old-fashioned weapons. Seeing that we were closely guarded by the
others from any attempt to escape, the savages came out from their
lurking-places and advanced to meet us.

"It looks as if Hassan's incredible yarn is going to turn out true after
all," said Denviers to me, aside; "at all events, there are several
women carrying arms among those in front."

Upon getting close to us the savages passed on one side, and giving a
fierce yell of triumph as they did so, turned and followed behind, while
our guides or captors still inclosed us, except one of them who led the
way. The burden-bearers soon after this disappeared, and we saw no more
of the presents which we had brought.

"I expect we are in for it," said Denviers, as the savage led us towards
a narrow gap in the heart of the mountain up which we had been toiling.
Through this a number of the men passed in single file, and we were
bidden to follow them. We halted irresolutely and turned round, only to
see the wild horde pressing on behind, impatient at our delay.

"We must go on," said Denviers, "for we are completely surrounded."

The Arab pressed forward, anxious to be the first to test whatever
danger confronted us, but my companion prevented this, and Hassan was
compelled to take second place, while I followed him. We were absolutely
in the dark before we had proceeded a dozen yards through the cleft in
the mountain side, and then our worst fears were realized.

I heard a warning cry from Denviers, followed by Hassan's fierce answer,
as the savages gathered closely about us where the passage or cave mist
have widened out, and then I felt the grip of a hand upon my throat and
saw even in the gloom the