e; and Frobisher observing the man's manner, became more
than ever convinced that there was treachery in the wind, and determined
to be thoroughly on his guard, day and night.

But there was no time to think about such matters just now; the river
was rising higher every moment, and if the carts were to be got safely
across without the loss of men, mules, or cargo, it was necessary to set
things in motion immediately. On the opposite bank of the stream were
now collected some of the Sam-riek drivers who had run along so as to be
"in at the death" as they fully expected, and Frobisher sharply ordered
them back to their posts, telling them to get the caravan in motion and
prepare to cross.

The men had seen their leader negotiate the ford in safety, so they were
not quite so timid as might have been expected, and as the heavily-laden
carts formed a kind of anchorage and support to both mules and drivers,
the young man soon had the satisfaction of seeing the entire caravan
safely on the desired side without loss, when he immediately got the
procession once more in motion toward Yong-wol.

During the whole of that day they travelled along the jungle road, with
the thick, solid greenery hemming them in on each side, and the sun
pouring down upon them like a flame. Ling marched along, silent and
morose, never speaking a word unless Frobisher actually addressed him or
ordered him to translate some command to the men; and it was with
unfeigned thankfulness that, just as the sun was about to set, the young
man saw, not far ahead of him, a small clearing somewhat similar to the
one where they had camped on the previous evening, and determined to
spend the night there.

The carts were drawn up in precisely similar formation, and supper was
cooked; and by the time that this was disposed of, all hands were more
than ready to seek their couches. Frobisher had already pitched his
tent, and had just entered it to get his cutlass and second revolver
when Ling came up to him.

"Me keep filst watch, mastel, same as last night," he remarked
ingratiatingly.

Frobisher looked fixedly at him for a few moments, and Ling lowered his
eyes.

"No, my man," answered the Englishman; "I keep first watch to-night.
You kept it yesterday, I keep it to-day. Now run away and get your
rest, Ling. I expect you need it after your experience this morning."

Ling gritted his teeth under his long, scanty moustache. This
arrangement would not suit