"We have heard many rumours.

Many nights in succession has my friend Reshid come here with bad tidings.
News travels fast along the coast.

But they may be untrue; there are more lies in men's mouths in these days than when I was young, but I am not easier to deceive now." "All my words are true," said Dain, carelessly.

"If you want to know what befell my brig, then learn that it is in the hands of the Dutch.
Believe me, Rajah," he went on, with sudden energy, "the Orang Blanda have good friends in Sambir, or else how did they know I was coming thence ?" Lakamba gave Dain a short and hostile glance.

Babalatchi rose quietly, and, going to the arm-rack, struck the gong violently.
Outside the door there was a shuffle of bare feet; inside, the guard woke up and sat staring in sleepy surprise.
"Yes, you faithful friend of the white Rajah," went on Dain, scornfully, turning to Babalatchi, who had returned to his place, "I have escaped, and I am here to gladden your heart.