Boss has gone away.' 'Boss no sit down long-a Humpey ?' Wombo looked relieved, and while Bridget reassured him, the three moved on towards the crossing.

In answer to Lady Bridget's questioning the black-boy told his story as they went.

She already knew of Wombo's passion for the young gin, who was within the prohibited degree of relationship, therefore TABU to him, and who, moreover, was already legitimately wedded to a warrior of the tribe.

She knew also that McKeith had forbidden the black-boy, under pain of severe penalty, to seek the coveted bride.

Of course, it was all nonsense about his shooting the poor creature, though no doubt, in ordinary circumstances, he would have sent them off the station.