They had probably heard from Yamba about the strange things I possessed, and the occult powers I was supposed to be gifted with.

A day or two after my landing, a curious thing happened--nothing more or less than the celebration of my marriage! I was standing near my boat, still full of thoughts of escape, when two magnificent naked chiefs, decked with gaudy pigments and feather head-dresses, advanced towards me, leading between them a young, dusky maiden of comparatively pleasing appearance.
The three were followed by an immense crowd of natives, and were within a few feet of me, when they halted suddenly.

One of the chiefs then stepped out and offered me a murderous-looking club, with a big knob at one end, which ugly weapon was known as a "waddy." As he presented this club the chief made signs that I was to knock the maiden on the head with it.

Now, on this I confess I was struck with horror and dismay at my position, for, instantly recalling what Yamba had told me, I concluded _that a cannibal feast was about to be given in my honour_, and that--worst horror of all--I might have to lead off with the first mouthful of that smiling girl.

Of course, I reflected they had brought the helpless victim to me, the distinguished stranger, to kill with my own hands.