He had had nothing to eat that day, and had not dared show himself in daylight by the water-side to drink.

Now, as he swam silently, he swallowed a few mouthfuls of water that lapped about his lips.

This did him good, and he walked with greater confidence in himself and others as he returned towards the fire.
Had he been betrayed by Lakamba all would have been over by this.

He made up a big blaze, and while it lasted dried himself, and then lay down by the embers.

He could not sleep, but he felt a great numbness in all his limbs.