Extra askaris had been sent for in order that proceedings might not be delayed, and the audience could scarcely hear the evidence and sentences because of the crack of whips and the moans of victims.

(Not that they all moaned by any means.

By far the most of them submitted to the torture in grim proud silence: but the few who did make a noise--especially the women--made lots of it.) As Kazimoto faced the lieutenant he turned once and looked at us.

His eyes sought Fred's.
"Oh, bwana!" he said--and now for the first time we learned why he had chosen Fred to be his particular master.

"I have been faithful! Stroke, then, that beard of yours as Bwana Courtney, my former master, used to stroke his.