This state of affairs lasted for some seven months.
The old man gradually grew weaker, but he did not die.

Of course his condition quite precluded the idea of our leaving Babyan Kraals till all was over.

This was the more distressing to me because I had a nervous presentiment that Stella was incurring danger by staying there, and also because the state of her health rendered it desirable that we should reach a civilized region as soon as possible.

However, it could not be helped.
At length the end came very suddenly.

We were sitting one evening by Mr.Carson's bedside in his hut, when to our astonishment he sat up and spoke in a strong, full voice.
"I hear you," he said.