"Could you persuade these ladies to let go of me ?" "Don't know," answered Jeekie.

"'Spect they doubtfully your wives; 'spect you have lots of wives here; don't get white man every day, so make most of him.

Best thing you do, kick out and teach them place.
Rub nose in dirt at once and make them good, that first-class plan with female.

I no like interfere in such delicate matter." Terrified by this information, Alan put out his strength and shook the women off him, whereon without seeming to take any offence they drew back to a little distance and began to bow, like automata.

Then Jeekie addressed them in their own language, asking them what they meant by defiling this mighty lord, born of the Heavens, with the touch of their hands, whereat they went on bowing more humbly than before.