Before I had crawled ten paces I saw something white stretched along the ground.

It was the belly of the great snake, Baas, which lay upon its back quite dead.
"I know that it was dead, for I lit three wax matches, setting them to burn upon its tail and it never stirred, as any live snake will do when it feels fire.

Then I came home, Baas, feeling very proud because I had outwitted that great-grandfather of all snakes who killed Bena my friend, and had made the way clear for us to walk through the cave.
"That is all the story, Baas.

Now I must go to wash those dishes," and without waiting for any comment off he went, leaving us marvelling at his wit, resource and courage.
"What next ?" I asked presently.
"Nothing till to-night," answered Ragnall with determination, "when I am going to look at the snake which the noble Hans has killed and whatever lies beyond the cave, as you will remember Harut invited us to do unmolested, if we could." "Do you think Harut will keep his word, Ragnall ?" "On the whole, yes, and if he doesn't I don't care.

Anything is better than sitting here in this suspense." "I agree as to Harut, because we are too valuable to be killed just now, if for no other reason; also as to the suspense, which is unendurable.
Therefore I will walk with you to look at that snake, Ragnall, and so no doubt will Hans.