CHAPTER XXXII.
AN UNEXPECTED DISCOVERY. AND A BOLD, RECKLESS DEFIANCE, WITH ITS CONSEQUENCES—PLANS OF ESCAPE, AND HEROIC RESOLVES.
When we returned to the shore and related to our friend what had passed, he was greatly distressed, and groaned in spirit; but we had not sat long in conversation when we were interrupted by the arrival of Tararo on the beach, accompanied by a number of followers bearing baskets of vegetables and fruits on their heads.
We advanced to meet him, and he expressed, through our interpreter, much pleasure in seeing us.
“And what, is it that my friends wish to say to me?” he inquired.
The teacher explained that we came to beg that Avatea might be spared.
“Tell him,” said Jack, “that I consider that I have a right to ask this of him, having not only saved the girl’s life, but the lives of his own people also; and say that I wish her to be allowed to follow her own wishes, and join the Christians.”
While this was being translated the chief’s brow lowered, and we could see plainly that our request met with no favourable reception. He replied with considerable energy and at some length.
“What says he?” inquired Jack.
“I regret to say that he will not listen to the proposal.
