In a low voice Jeekum called for those behind to fall a few paces to the rear.
Then came again the mysterious working of the man's fingers on Nathaniel's arm.
Was Jeekum signaling to him?
He could see Neil's white face still turned stoically to the front.
Evidently nothing had occurred to arouse his suspicions.

If the maneuvering of Jeekum's fingers meant anything it was intended for him alone.

Action had been the manna of his life.

The possibility of new adventure, even in the face of death, thrilled him.

He waited, breathless--and the strange pressure came again, so hard that it hurt his flesh.
There was no longer a doubt in his mind.