He would thus aim to secure a position from which he could hurl his javelin at him without detection.

Grimcke conceived this was certain to take place, and, if he remained where he was, nothing could save him from the treacherous assault.

It was a matter, therefore, of self preservation that dictated the brief retreat with the hope of thus disconcerting the savage.
The task which Grimcke had given himself was difficult indeed.

The ground was unfavorable for the peculiar twitching movement which he hoped would carry him out of danger.

He had gone barely a couple of yards when the bowman evidently suspected something of the kind, for he stopped short and stared inquiringly at the white man.
The latter extended his right hand as if to shake that of the savage, who stood motionless, making no sign of pleasure or displeasure.
Indeed, he remained so fixed in his position that Grimcke was convinced he was listening for the sound of the other miscreant stealing through the wood.