Hokosa saw him, and a great desire entered his heart to learn whether or no he had partaken of the poisoned fruit.

Also it occurred to him that it would be wise if, before the end came, he could contrive to divert all possible suspicion from himself, by giving the impression that he was now upon friendly terms with the great white teacher and not disinclined even to become a convert to his doctrine.
For a moment he hesitated, seeking an excuse.

One soon suggested itself to his ready mind.

That very morning the king had told him not obscurely that Owen had pleaded for his safety and saved him from being put upon his trial on charges of witchcraft and murder.

He would go to him, now at once, playing the part of a grateful penitent, and the White Man's magic must be keen indeed if it availed to pierce the armour of his practised craft.
So Hokosa went up and squatted himself down native fashion among a little group of converts who were waiting to see their teacher upon one business or another.