It was a ripe Durian which had fallen from an immense height and missed him by a hairbreadth.
"Zank Got, you have escaped!" exclaimed the professor, looking back with a solemn countenance.
"I have indeed escaped what might have been a severe blow," said Nigel, stooping to examine the fruit, apparently forgetful that more might follow.
"Come--come avay.

My boy vill bring it.

Men are sometimes killed by zis fruit.

Here now ve vill dine." They sat down on a bank which was canopied by ferns.

While the boy was arranging their meal, Verkimier drew a heavy hunting-knife from his belt and applying it with an unusually strong hand to the Durian laid it open.