Surely something had awakened the suspicion of the natives.
Suddenly some one spoke on board the craft.

The voice was audible, but the doctor, who was a master of Hindoostanee, could not catch what was said.

At the same instant a splash was heard, and the lank form bent over, as he pressed the long pole against the bottom of the river and resumed his slow walking toward the stern.

The noise of paddles, too, was heard again.

The craft had resumed its progress, and for an instant every one believed it was about to pass by.