Appleton, Victor – Tom Swift in the Land of Wonders

–––––––––––––––––––

-164-

“I guess that will be the best way,” observed Ned. “These natives can doctor themselves for some things, better than we can.”

“Well, we’ll take him home,” suggested Tom. “He might keel over from loss of blood. Come on,” he added to Tal, indicating his object.

It was not far to the native’s hut from the place where the jaguar had been killed, and there Tom and Ned underwent another demonstration of affection as soon as those of Tal’s immediate family and the other natives understood what had happened.

“I hate this business!” complained Tom, after having been knelt to by the Indian’s wife and child, who called him the “preserver” and other endearing titles of the same kind. “Come on, let’s hike back.”

But Indian hospitality, especially after a life has been saved, is not so simple as all that.

“My life — my house — all that I own is yours,” said Tal in deep gratitude. “Take everything,” and he waved his hand to indicate all the possessions in his humble hut.

“Thanks,” answered Tom, “but I guess you need all you have. That’s a fine specimen of blow gun though,” he added, seeing one hanging on the wall. “I wouldn’t mind having one like that. If you get well enough to make me one,

–––––––––––––––––––

-165—

Tal, and some arrows to go with it, I’d like it for a curiosity to hang in my room at home.”

“The Se�or shall have a dozen,” promised the Indian.

“Look, Ned,” went on Tom, pointing to the native weapon. “I never saw one just like this. They use small arrows or darts, tipped with wild cotton, instead of feathers.”