should they reach the open Chinese Sea, at this season of the year a thousand dangers would still stare them in the face. The chances would be a hundred to one that they would either perish or be captured. Yes; they will make for Sarawak—but only straight across the island."
"But that is a very long way, sir," said the Tomonggong, "and the dangers are not slight in that direction, as you well know."
"I know all that, Tomonggong, but those are dangers which they may hope to surmount; for believe me, they are bold and brave men who will venture anything. Come, we must not delay. Every moment is precious. Return to your dwelling and summon without loss of time the chiefs of the nearest kampongs. Let them collect about fifty men provisioned for a few days. They must all be fully armed and ready to start in two hours. I will come down to inspect and will then give further instructions."
"But, sir, will they be easily captured?"
"I doubt it and that is why I am ordering arms to be taken. I wish to capture them alive and unharmed. If, however, they defend themselves and use their weapons, then—" the Colonel hesitated—he knew the weight of his words.
The doctor stood pale and with clenched fists. After a few moments of reflection the Colonel resumed in a loud voice:
"If they use their weapons you are permitted to use yours. Let one of your most influential chiefs, such as Damboeng Papoendeh, lead the expedition. Send him here at once for orders."
The Colonel spoke with decision, like one accustomed to command. His spirit seemed to infect the Tomonggong, who rose
