hin fifteen minutes the
messenger returned with the startling information that the natives were
between them and Uraso.

This was, indeed, surprising. Either they were experts at stalking
enemies, or they had been fortunate enough to bring up a force in such a
position as to make Uraso's escape a most hazardous one.

"We must make the best of the situation," said John. "Let us prepare to
receive them, if they are determined to attack us."

"But what shall we do about Uraso?" asked Harry, in some consternation.

"I think Uraso knows how to take care of the situation. He is shrewd
enough to outwit them, and if there is any danger from that quarter, he
will let us know."

"But how can he let us know if his messenger cannot get through?"

John smiled, as he looked at George, and responded: "You have evidently
forgotten that Uraso has the best signaling instrument in the world, the
gun."

"Certainly; I had forgotten that. But what shall we do if--" His voice
was cut short by a shot from the direction of Uraso's position.

"There it is," said Harry. "Two more shots!"

The scout from the rear now came in on a leap. "They are coming this
way," he hurriedly informed John.

"Who are coming?" asked John.

"The natives."

"Lie down!" he commanded. "No one must fire until I give the command.
Oto, go to Muro at once, and tell him to come back immediately."

In the distance to the west could be seen little squads of natives
coming directly toward them. In the different groups were fully fifteen
men, all armed with spears and bows and arrows.

"Uraso is driving them this way; I am sure of that," remarked John, as
he watched their maneuvers.

"What makes you think so?" asked George.

"They are simply retreating, thinking, in all probability that they have
met our entire band. They do not know we are here."

"Brave Uraso! I hope he will not get into danger," said George. "There
they are now; see them on the ridge to--"

A shot from the direction of Muro now awoke them to action. The moment
that sound reached the oncoming savages, they halted, and huddled
together, evidently in confusion at the meaning of the new alarm.

"Ah! they are puzzled!" Then, after a pause, he continued: "I hope Muro
is not in trouble! I do not understand why his messenger has not
returned."

Within ten minutes of the report of the gun which has just been referred
to, the messenger sent by John, came in and stated that it was
impossible f