be attacked by the hostile tribes.

The Professor saw and rescued two more of the shipwrecked boys, who were
held captive by the Berees, and together they started to relieve the
occupants of the wagon. The various tribes had been at war with each
other, and when they learned that the wagon with the whites was entering
their country, all sought to effect the capture; but the enmity between
certain tribes caused several of them to unite and the three most bitter
and vindictive, namely, the Tuolos, Kurabus and the Illyas, were opposed
to the Osagas, the Saboros and the Berees.

It was fortunate that all these forces met at the place where the wagon
was located, and in the battle which followed, the whites and their
allies won. The situation was, however, that the victory might soon be a
fruitless one, because the three tribes could muster a larger force than
the four tribes now joined under the Professor, and might renew the
attack at any time.

"Let us now see what the situation is," said the Professor, to the
chiefs. "I have made a map of the island, showing where the various
tribes are located, and where the villages are situated, so we may all
have a like understanding."

"I would suggest," said John, "that a part of the force be sent to the
Cataract and bring all the machinery and stock we have at that place, to
this part of the island, where it can be set up and operated. In that
way we can the more readily teach the people how to do the work."

"That is absolutely necessary, as it is too far off where the plant is
now located, to be of service to us."

[Illustration: _Fig. 1. Position of the Wagon and attacking Forces._]

"If you will allow me to say something it might help us," remarked Muro.
"Let the Professor select a certain number of warriors from each tribe,
to go to your village and bring the things here, and others will remain,
and watch our enemies."

"That is a good idea," observed Blakely, "but before doing that I think
we ought to muster our forces, so that we may know what we have to
depend on, and the chiefs can tell us who are the best fitted for the
various tasks."

"Your view is the correct one," answered the Professor, "and Muro, you,
Uraso and Ralsea, inform all of them what is required. I shall expect
you, Blakely, to take charge of the mustering of the forces."

The suggestion was understood and agreed to by all, and the various
tribes were arranged in columns.

The Professor addre