He began to credit the Portugoose with treachery, but he had no inclination to act on his message, since it conflicted with his plans.

He knew that Laputa must come into the Berg sooner or later, and he had resolved that his strategy must be to await him there.

But there was the question of my life.

He had every reason to believe that I was in the greatest danger, and he felt a certain responsibility for my fate.

With the few men at his disposal he could not hope to hold up the great Kaffir army, but there was a chance that he might by a bold stand effect my rescue.
Henriques had told him of the vow, and had told him that Laputa would ride in the centre of the force.