CHAPTER XIV.
THE MOTHER OF JEEKIE "Jeekie," said Alan next morning, "I tell you again that I have had enough of this place, I want to get out." "Yes, Major, that just what mouse say when he finish cheese in trap, but missus come along, call him 'Pretty, pretty,' and drown him all the same," and he nodded in the direction of the Asika's house.
"Jeekie, it has got to be done--do you hear me?
I had rather die trying to get away than stop here till the next two months are up.

If I am here on the night of the next full moon but one, I shall shoot that Asika and then shoot myself, and you must take your chance.

Do you understand ?" "Understand that foolish game and poor lookout for Jeekie, Major, but can't think of any plan." Then he rubbed his big nose reflectively and added, "Fahni and his people your slaves now, 'spose we have talk with him.

I tell priests to bring him along when they come with breakfast.
Leave it to me, Major." Alan did leave it to him, with the result that after long argument the priests consented or obtained permission to produce Fahni and his followers, and a little while after the great men arrived looking very dejected, and saluted Alan humbly.

Bidding the rest of them be seated, he called Fahni to the end of the room and asked him through Jeekie if he and his men did not wish to return home.
"Indeed we do, white lord," answered the old chief, "but how can we?
The Asika has a grudge against our tribe and but for you would have killed every one of us last night.