And now began the chapter of surprises, for the scout
had scarce informed the others of his discovery, and they
were yet preparing their weapons for a rush upon the fugi-
tive, when the man himself appeared in their midst, walking
openly and quietly, with his hands behind his back.
350 U/orl^s of P^obert Couis Steuepsop

"Ah, men!" says he, on his beholding them. "Here is
a fortunate encounter. Let us get back to camp."

Mountain had not mentioned his own weakness or the mas-
ter's disconcerting gaze upon the thicket, so that (with all the
rest) his return appeared spontaneous. For all that, a hub-
bub arose; oaths flew, fists were shaken, and guns pointed.
"Let us get back to camp," said the master. "I have
an explanation to make, but it must be laid before you all.
And in the meanwhile I would put up these weapons, one of
which 'might very easily go off and blow away your hopes of
treasure. I would not kill," says he, smiling, "the goose
with the golden eggs. ' '

The charm of his superiority once more triumphed; and
the party, in no particular order, set off on their return. By
the way he found occasion to get a word or two apart with
Mountain.
