I shouldn't wonder if the Kaffirs in the Zoutpansberg had struck some rich pipe, and had the sense to keep quiet about it.

Maybe some day I'll take a run up to see you and look into the matter.' After this the talk turned on other topics till Tam, still nursing his grievance, asked a question on his own account.

'Did you ever come across a great big native parson called Laputa?
He came on board as we were leaving Durban, and I had to turn out of my cabin for him.' Tam described him accurately but vindictively, and added that 'he was sure he was up to no good.' Aitken shook his head.

'No, I don't know the man.

You say he landed here?
Well, I'll keep a look-out for him.