a sign of friendship.

"These blacks are a very peaceful tribe, I see," said Dick to the Hindu.

The Mahatma smiled tolerantly at his warriors. "_My_ ways are ways of
peace," he said quietly. "But these savage souls are just emerging.
They will learn through suffering. But just now they are known to be
the most warlike tribe in the jungles of Africa. Offer any one of them
their choice between a feast and a big battle and they'd take the
battle every time. And make no mistake about it, Dick Sahib, if I had
not been here to protect you, this present life would be over for you
and your young friend."

"I have no doubt of that, Mahatma Sikandar. And now as my men are
refreshed I think we should go on to the rescue of our little friend."

"That will only be the beginning of your jungle journey. Another
search will carry you far, far into its depths."

"Have you seen more?" asked Dick. "Tell me all, Mahatma Sikandar."

"It is not well for you to know all, Dick Sahib. For that reason a
cloud comes between me and your search. But this much I can tell you.
Through suffering and dangers you will finally win. Make ready, my
friend. The time is short."

"Your tribesmen are great warriors. Could you not send them with us to
help us in our search?"

"My ways are ways of peace, my son. I cannot send my men into battle.
But this I will do. Mutaba, one of the best trackers of game, who
knows the jungle as you do your house, he will guide you to the village
of the Muta-Gungas."

"We thank you, Mahatma Sikandar. The jungle is a new country to me and
my tribes of Taharans and Gorols. It will save us many weary steps."

The Mahatma suddenly raised himself. "Here, Mutaba! Make ready my
litter. I accompany Dick Sahib into the jungle."

"Say," whispered Dan to his chum, "I'm not sure I want Old Whiskers
along. He's something of a frost. I don't like him."

But Dick was giving orders to Raal, who joyously set his men to
saddling their horses.

"Let's get ready," he said. "We've got a big job ahead of us, if
Mahatma Sikandar knows what he's talking about."

"Okay!" answered Dan Carter. "I'm ready and waiting! Come on!"

CHAPTER IX

THE BAD NEWS BREAKS

"Let's go!" said Dick.

"We're on our way," Dan replied with a smile on his round face. "Oh
boy!" he added, "what a relief to have a good square meal under my belt
again. Honest, Dick, that trek across the desert was terrible! When I
tighte