that
they were not to reveal by word or deed that the Unmentionable One had
been pleased to return, but to wait like a wild cat at a fish pool until a
signal was given through the drums, when they were to smite swiftly at
every keeper of the demons and to flee immediately to their brethren in
the forest; that they were on no account to kill or wound
Eyes-in-the-hands nor any white man that was his, lest their powerful
ghosts exact a terrible penalty and refuse to be propitiated; that when
these things had been done would the spirit of Tarum issue further
instructions.

In composing this message Bernier had sought to gain the advantage of a
surprise attack and to secure the massacre of as many of the askaris as
possible; to save zu Pfeiffer and his white sergeants from the fate which
would await them should they fall into the hands of the Wongolo; to
minimise the loss of men which would occur were the tribe to attempt to
face the guns; afterwards to lure zu Pfeiffer away from his fortifications
and the open country, in order to compel him to fight in the forest where
he could not ascertain what force was against him; and in the meantime to
slip round and establish the idol in the Place of Kings, which act would
consolidate the moral of the tribe as well as cut the line of zu
Pfeiffer's communications with Ingonya.

As Bakahenzie listened gravely and attentively, Birnier keenly watched his
face. Although the mask did not quiver, a half suppressed grunt at the end
persuaded him that Bakahenzie was duly impressed, but he made no comment.
After regarding Mungongo solemnly putting away the machine Bakahenzie
remarked casually:

"In the village is a messenger from Eyes-in-the-hands who sends thee
greetings."

This was the first news that Birnier had received since his ascent to the
godhood. He had expected that sooner or later zu Pfeiffer would hear of
the presence of a white man, but he was rather startled at the inference
that zu Pfeiffer knew who he was. He made no visible sign as he waited.
Bakahenzie took snuff interestedly and continued:

"Eyes-in-the-hands bids thee to go unto the Place of Kings to eat the dust
before him."

Bakahenzie regarded him with keen eyes. Birnier considered swiftly. From
the latter part of the message he gathered that zu Pfeiffer was not aware
of his identity. His opinion of zu Pfeiffer's character suggested certain
psychological possibilities. His policy was to lure him away from his
f