It was a mischance that he had not expected.
He waited a minute or two, and then heard the cry again, but nearer.
He knew that it would come no more, but it confirmed him in his first opinion.
Henry had little fear of being caught, as the islet was so securely hidden, but he did not wish to take even a remote chance of its discovery.

Hence he ran to the eastward of it, intending as the darkness came, hiding his trail, to double back and regain the hut.
He proceeded at a long, easy gait, his mind not troubled by the pursuit.
It was to him merely an incident that should be ended as soon as possible, annoying perhaps, but easily cured.

So he swung lightly along, stopping at intervals among the bushes to see if any of the warriors had drawn near, but he detected nothing.

Now and then he looked up to the sky, willing that night should end this matter quickly and peacefully.
His wish seemed near fulfillment.

An uncommonly brilliant sun was setting.