"It's more probably some filthy old beggar who fondly thinks he is going to get _backsheesh_ for disturbing us.

You stay here while I go and investigate!" But some nervous impulse goaded Stella.

She also started up, holding him back.

"Oh, don't go, Ralph! Don't go! Call one of the men! Call Peter!" He laughed at her agitation.

"My dear girl, don't be absurd! I don't want Peter to help me kick a beastly native.