[Contents]CHAPTER II.WHISPERING—LUCULLUS MISTAKEN FOR AN ANIMAL—JOHANNES’ PLAN—A GRATEFUL SMUGGLER—JOHANNES A GEOGRAPHER—A MIRACULOUS HAUL OF FISH—LA CUEILLE’S PROMISE—DRINKING WATER—DEPARTURE.It is necessary now to explain how the deserters came to be embarked in that funeral cortege and also how their project of escape had been planned and perfected. For this purpose we must go back some few days and change the scene to the dormitory of the fort of Kwala Kapoeas. The time is close upon midnight. Most of the men are wrapped in slumber and perfect silence prevails. No, not perfect silence; for in one remote corner there is a sound of suppressed conversation which challenges the notice of the officer on duty.“Silence in that corner! What can you have to talk about so late at night! Is not the day long enough for gossip?”This sharp rebuke was the signal for the talkers to cease, but not for long. Presently when silence reigned again, interrupted only by the loud snoring of the sleepers, a soft whispering made itself heard in that same dark corner to which the corporal had before referred.It was Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf continuing their interrupted conversation beneath their breath.[23]“I repeat,” observed the former, “I cannot endure this life any longer!”“Hush!” whispered his companion. “Don’t get so excited. We can’t hurry, so be patient.”“That is all you can say. Patience! We have been here two months already and how far are we advanced?”“How can we help it? One cannot break iron with his hands. You know that our enterprise is one in which we risk our necks.”“Quite so. Still if this should last much longer, I intend to take a leap into the river.”“That would be a treat for the crocodiles; but all the same it would be a poor way of gaining your liberty, unless you look upon death as your only possible liberator.”“Well I would rather be dead than remain a prisoner like this.”“But ‘dead is dead.’ I must own that I prefer——”Schlickeisen had no time to finish the sentence. Some one had crept unperceived between their beds. Two hands were pressed upon their shoulders as if to compel them to remain passive. Then a voice whispered in the softest accents:“Don’t talk so loud; you fail to notice that Corporal Dunkelhof has been listening this last quarter of an hour. If he has overheard any of your talk, you may expect to be reported to-morrow morning.”“For my part,” muttered Wienersdorf, “he may hear all we have said.”“You may tell that to your sister, but not to me,” said the visitor, still whispering. “If the Colonel should only hear a[24]tenth part of what you have been saying, you may be sure that you two would be under arrest before sunrise. Our Colonel is not to be trifled with.”“Oho! not quite so fast, please. Who are you? A listener can never be trusted,” said Schlickeisen in a menacing though subdued voice.“Don’t fear. Iwon’tbetray you. It matters little who I am. But look how the corporal is pricking up his ears.”And indeed there came an imperative voice, “Silence there in that corner. I shan’t speak any more. Those whowon’thear must feel.”Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen held their breath and everything remained quiet for a while. Suddenly their mysterious visitor bent over them and whispered almost inaudibly:“Come to the hut of Johannes to-morrow morning after breakfast.”The figure vanished under the beds and was soon lost in the darkness.The two Swiss kept quiet for a long time. When they perceived that the corporal had dropped off to sleep, Wienersdorf whispered to his companion the enquiry:“Who was that?”“Perhaps Johannes himself.”“He had a brown skin and the upper part of his body was naked.”“Can we trust him?”“Who knows? We may as well look in to-morrow morning and hear what he has to say.”[25]“Hush! be careful; that Dunkelhof is a regular spy.”They both crept between their blankets and were soon in a sound slumber.Next morning, after they had fetched their soup from the kitchen, they had to pass the hut of Johannes. They found him standing outside his door. Without uttering a word he moved away from the entrance as if inviting them to come in. They entered, put their pannikins on the floor and seated themselves on a bench.On a table before them lay already spread a choice repast prepared by Johannes. In addition to the ration of soup from the barrack kitchen, there was boiled rice, snow white and well granulated, dishes of sauces made of fish and vegetables, surrounded by some smaller dishes of pepper fried in oil and pounded with shrimp. There were also plates of dried venison and cod’s roe together with roasted meat. A duck, swimming in a palatable sauce, completed the cheer.“You are a Lucullus,” began Schlickeisen.“What kind of animal is that?” demanded Johannes.“No animal at all, but a Roman gourmand, who, however, could not compare with you.”“Laugh at me if you please, but sit down and eat. We can talk afterwards. I always find that I can reason better when I have satisfied the cravings of my stomach.”The Swiss did not wait for a second invitation but fell to and enjoyed themselves to their hearts’ content. Not a word was spoken during the repast. There was nothing heard but the smacking of lips and the clatter of knives and forks.[26]When the last bone had been picked and the feasters had wiped their greasy fingers, Johannes produced a box of tobacco. All three having filled their pipes, he began:“Now out with your business; you mean to bolt, don’t you?”Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf looked at each other interrogatively.“We are quite safe here,” continued Johannes. “Nobody can hear us. Come, out with it. You want to be off. Where to? Perhaps I can assist you.”The two Swiss exchanged a look of intelligence. After a while Wienersdorf said:“Well, yes; we did talk of a plan to desert, but there is a wide distance between talking and doing.”“I should think so. But tell me your plan.”“Oh, you can scarcely call it a plan yet. We have not been here long enough to know the country and without that knowledge no attempt is possible.”“You speak,” said Johannes, “like a learned man. But if you wait until you obtain the needed information you may be too old to desert. Did I hear you mention last night a Chinese craft?”“Yes; we have been given to understand that such a vessel calls here annually and we spoke of bribing the captain to conceal us on board and carry us to China.”“Bravo! Have you any money?”“We have about four hundred florins between us.”“Well! do you know what would happen? The Chinaman would coolly pocket your four hundred florins. He would duly receive you and hide you on board his vessel. But before leaving[27]Kwala Kapoeas he would drop a note to the Colonel who would despatch a cruiser after you. Your craft would be overhauled, both of you secured and the game would be up.”“But why should the captain act thus?”“In order to pocket your four hundred florins. Perhaps also to get into the good graces of the Colonel and be enabled to sell more of his wares. No, no, you must not dream of escaping that way. Listen to me. I also have resolved to desert and have thought of it a very long time, so that I may safely say my plans are well matured. Only I don’t like to enter upon such an undertaking by myself. La Cueille will go with me, but he is not sufficient. The aid of a few strong arms is what I greatly need. Now, what do you think?”“This La Cueille is a fearful drunkard. Is he the right fellow to confide in?”“One can’t be over-particular. He has a stout heart and fears nothing. Besides we intend to take only a very small quantity of liquor which I mean to keep under my own control. I am sure he is the best fellow in the world as long as he remains sober.”“But,” said Wienersdorf, “ought we not to learn your plans? What made you think of us?”“That is very easy to understand. I observed that you two kept aloof from the other men. You were always whispering in corners and couldn’t hold your tongues, even at night. I set myself to find out what was going on and I succeeded. I heard you speak together of deserting and then my heart leaped with joy, for I had found just what I wanted—a couple of sturdy fellows[28]who like myself are burning to get away. Now are you satisfied with my explanation?”“Quite; now tell us about your plan.”The three conspirators refilled their pipes and drew closer together. Johannes then proceeded to give a complete narrative not only of his plan, but also of the means he had provided to ensure its success.One dark evening while he was on sentry duty outside the fort, Baba Poetjieng came up to him and offered a bundle of cigars. The Chinaman commenced a conversation in the course of which he told Johannes that in a creek near by his rangkan lay hidden and that it contained a considerable quantity of opium which he was anxious to smuggle. He had succeeded in defiance of the cruisers and coast-guards in bringing the canoe up the river. Now was to come the most difficult part of the enterprise—passing the fort; and to accomplish this he hoped his friend Johannes would help him. The sly Chinaman carefully concealed the fact that his cargo really consisted of gunpowder and salt, the two greatest necessities of the Bandjarese insurgents. He pressed a few rix dollars into Johannes’ hand, who arranged with him that he would be at the same post again next evening when he would let him pass. Johannes begged for and obtained some opium, which he put by for future use in the execution of his plan. With this opium he drugged his fellow-guards and enabled the Celestial to smuggle his goods. This accomplished, the Chinaman was in his power and Johannes had no hesitation in unfolding his scheme of escape and demanding his aid and co-operation. Baba Poetjieng agreed to provide a well-fitted canoe manned by[29]three Dayaks. Johannes then made sundry small parcels of his and La Cueille’s clothing which he gave to him to convey to the canoe. The time fixed for the escape was the next change of the moon, darkness being necessary to ensure success. As it was now full moon, they had a fortnight left for making their final preparations.“Now,” said Johannes, “what do you think?”“We think it an excellent plan,” said Schlickeisen.“It does you credit,” added Wienersdorf. “But I fear there are still many difficulties to be overcome. We will get away without doubt; the fortress is not an enchanted castle—but when we shall have got away the question will be, whither are we to go?”“Where to go? Where but down the river—seawards—that is the way. Once at sea, we direct our course westward, keeping close in shore to evade the cruisers. In the day-time we will hide the canoe in one of the creeks which abound on the south coast, but at night we shall have to row as fast as we can. When we get to Cape Batoe Titi, thesouth-westerlypart of Borneo, our further course will be determined by the state of the weather. If everything is favorable we will run for the island of Biliton across the straits of Gaspar, and proceeding along the north of Banca reach at last the coast of Sumatra. Once there, our hardest task will be completed. We must skim along under the shadows of the thick forests until we come to Cape Basso. Thence, with a fair amount of luck, we run safely between the islands of the Riouw Archipelago and get to Singapore.”“I must own that you seem to be very well informed. Where did you learn all these particulars; from Baba Poetjieng?”[30]“No, no. My geography and topography come from the military school of Kedong-Kebo, where I was educated.”“But how long will it take us to reach Singapore?”“At least three or four weeks; but mind, the slightest misadventure may upset all our calculations.”A cold shudder passed over the two Swiss and both cried out simultaneously, “Four weeks on the ocean in a nut-shell!”“I beg your pardon; to be on the Java sea at this season is not such a dreadful affair. But you can do as you please—join or remain behind.”“Oh, no!” was the reply as both Swiss offered their hands. “We join you most certainly, even though the journey should lead to perdition.”After this emphatic ratification of their alliance the three friends separated and in order to disarm suspicion they returned by different routes to the fortress.Now commenced a series of preparations separately conducted but all equally directed to the perfection of their arrangements. Whatever fell in their way that was likely to be useful on their voyage was taken to Johannes’ hut and stored away. Thus they contrived to get together a supply of provisions and gunpowder without much difficulty. What, however, taxed their ingenuity to obtain, was a supply of rifle bullets. These they managed to smuggle during target practice, by substituting blank cartridges. Of course when a miss was proclaimed as the result of their firing, their comrades laughed and jeered, but they only looked as innocent as they could and quickly stored away the abstracted bullet. Their stock of animal food also received an important[31]addition most unexpectedly. The garrison organized a fishing-party after the Dayak method. They closed the creeks with a kind of bamboo matting during the flood-tides which followed the full moon. At the ebb the shallow bed of the moat was left so swarming with fish that they were bailed out by basketsfull. Johannes bought up the greatest part of this catch at a price so unusually high that it attracted the Colonel’s attention. When questioned by him Johannes explained that he intended to dry the fish for sale and that he had already disposed of it to Baba Poetjieng at a fair profit. This pretended speculation served also another purpose. It enabled Baba Poetjieng to visit Johannes’ hut and carry away all the fish without exciting suspicion. The cleaning and curing were undertaken by Johannes with the aid of La Cueille, who had been fully recognized as one of the alliance by Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen. They were most careful to warn the intemperate Walloon against the dangers of inebriety and they made him promise not to taste gin until at least they had started on their journey.“I faithfully promise,” says La Cueille, “not to touch a drop of spirits.”“Amen,” responded Johannes.“Do you mean to keep this promise throughout?” Wienersdorf asked.“By the sacred Lady of Scherpenheuvel,” answered the Walloon.“We can now welcome you into our brotherhood. Each of us must do his best to promote the success of our enterprise. Our motto must be ‘Every one for everybody.’By-the-bye,[32]Johannes, how are we now situated in respect to provisions?”Johannes explained that there were deposited with Baba Poetjieng five bags of rice, each weighing one hundred and twenty-five pounds.“But we are surely not expected to live on rice?” asked Schlickeisen.“Certainly not,” answered Johannes. “What am I providing dried fish for? The Chinaman supplies us with salt, pepper and curry. We shall also have a barrel of salt beef and pork. Don’t imagine, however, that you are going to fare as at your mother’s table. It is enough that we shall not know want. What troubles me most is the drinking water. Supposing each man to need three pints a day that will make for a month’s voyage eighty gallons or eight barrels of ten gallons each. These will take up considerable space and greatly diminish our comforts.”“Do you mean to carry water for the whole journey?”“Well, it would be the best plan, but I am afraid it is impracticable. I therefore propose to ship only two barrels.”“That is decidedly too little,” said Schlickeisen; “that is only half a pint per day.”“Listen. As long as we remain in the Lesser Dayak we need not touch our water. Nor shall we require to do so while on the coast of Borneo. We shall have to take refuge during the day in one of the many creeks in order to avoid the cruisers. Now there is no country in the world that has so many rivers opening into the sea as you find in the south of Borneo. Any of those streams will enable us to replenish our supply of water. We[33]shall have to be careful crossing to Biliton, for there we shall be at sea. It is a little better on the north coast of Banca, but where we shall find water in abundance is on the eastern coast of Sumatra. Such streams as the Reteh and the Indragiri will furnish enough to allay our thirst.”“You are a born geographer,” said Wienersdorf, “and I raise my hat in respect to your knowledge.”“What do you mean by raising your hat? I see only a shabby service cap.”“Well let us say we raise our caps; but really your explanation was so excellent that I should like you to complete it.”“Yes,” said Johannes, “I know you are as inquisitive as the monkey. But come, what is it you wish to know?”“How long will the voyage from Borneo to Sumatra occupy?”“If thesouth-eastmonsoon continues until we reach Banca we may reckon our speed at twenty miles a day; but that will be too much to expect, so we will say fifteen miles a day. Thus the voyage, barring accidents, will take seven days.”In such conversation was the time passed during the weary days of waiting. On the second day after the new moon Baba Poetjieng arrived at the fort. He pretended that his visit was to fetch away the last of the dried fish, which concluded his contract with Johannes, but his true object was to make final arrangements and to fix the hour for departure. The time was favorable. A native had just died of cholera and no one would undertake to bury him except the three Dayaks who were to accompany the deserters. The tide would continue to flow until half-past ten and would be followed by a rapid ebb. All chances[34]were therefore in their favor. As evening fell the four allies crept into the hut of Johannes, where they remained concealed until it was quite dark. They then stole out one by one, and passing behind the shrubs which lined the banks of the river, they reached the kampong unobserved and took their places in the canoe which was to carry the deceased to her last resting-place. About ten the coffin was taken to the boat, and at eleven o’clock came the priestesses who were to chant the hymns for the repose of the dead.The ebb tide had already commenced when they arrived; the two canoes therefore pulled away immediately from the landing-stage and passed the fort, with the results already known.[35]
[Contents]CHAPTER II.WHISPERING—LUCULLUS MISTAKEN FOR AN ANIMAL—JOHANNES’ PLAN—A GRATEFUL SMUGGLER—JOHANNES A GEOGRAPHER—A MIRACULOUS HAUL OF FISH—LA CUEILLE’S PROMISE—DRINKING WATER—DEPARTURE.It is necessary now to explain how the deserters came to be embarked in that funeral cortege and also how their project of escape had been planned and perfected. For this purpose we must go back some few days and change the scene to the dormitory of the fort of Kwala Kapoeas. The time is close upon midnight. Most of the men are wrapped in slumber and perfect silence prevails. No, not perfect silence; for in one remote corner there is a sound of suppressed conversation which challenges the notice of the officer on duty.“Silence in that corner! What can you have to talk about so late at night! Is not the day long enough for gossip?”This sharp rebuke was the signal for the talkers to cease, but not for long. Presently when silence reigned again, interrupted only by the loud snoring of the sleepers, a soft whispering made itself heard in that same dark corner to which the corporal had before referred.It was Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf continuing their interrupted conversation beneath their breath.[23]“I repeat,” observed the former, “I cannot endure this life any longer!”“Hush!” whispered his companion. “Don’t get so excited. We can’t hurry, so be patient.”“That is all you can say. Patience! We have been here two months already and how far are we advanced?”“How can we help it? One cannot break iron with his hands. You know that our enterprise is one in which we risk our necks.”“Quite so. Still if this should last much longer, I intend to take a leap into the river.”“That would be a treat for the crocodiles; but all the same it would be a poor way of gaining your liberty, unless you look upon death as your only possible liberator.”“Well I would rather be dead than remain a prisoner like this.”“But ‘dead is dead.’ I must own that I prefer——”Schlickeisen had no time to finish the sentence. Some one had crept unperceived between their beds. Two hands were pressed upon their shoulders as if to compel them to remain passive. Then a voice whispered in the softest accents:“Don’t talk so loud; you fail to notice that Corporal Dunkelhof has been listening this last quarter of an hour. If he has overheard any of your talk, you may expect to be reported to-morrow morning.”“For my part,” muttered Wienersdorf, “he may hear all we have said.”“You may tell that to your sister, but not to me,” said the visitor, still whispering. “If the Colonel should only hear a[24]tenth part of what you have been saying, you may be sure that you two would be under arrest before sunrise. Our Colonel is not to be trifled with.”“Oho! not quite so fast, please. Who are you? A listener can never be trusted,” said Schlickeisen in a menacing though subdued voice.“Don’t fear. Iwon’tbetray you. It matters little who I am. But look how the corporal is pricking up his ears.”And indeed there came an imperative voice, “Silence there in that corner. I shan’t speak any more. Those whowon’thear must feel.”Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen held their breath and everything remained quiet for a while. Suddenly their mysterious visitor bent over them and whispered almost inaudibly:“Come to the hut of Johannes to-morrow morning after breakfast.”The figure vanished under the beds and was soon lost in the darkness.The two Swiss kept quiet for a long time. When they perceived that the corporal had dropped off to sleep, Wienersdorf whispered to his companion the enquiry:“Who was that?”“Perhaps Johannes himself.”“He had a brown skin and the upper part of his body was naked.”“Can we trust him?”“Who knows? We may as well look in to-morrow morning and hear what he has to say.”[25]“Hush! be careful; that Dunkelhof is a regular spy.”They both crept between their blankets and were soon in a sound slumber.Next morning, after they had fetched their soup from the kitchen, they had to pass the hut of Johannes. They found him standing outside his door. Without uttering a word he moved away from the entrance as if inviting them to come in. They entered, put their pannikins on the floor and seated themselves on a bench.On a table before them lay already spread a choice repast prepared by Johannes. In addition to the ration of soup from the barrack kitchen, there was boiled rice, snow white and well granulated, dishes of sauces made of fish and vegetables, surrounded by some smaller dishes of pepper fried in oil and pounded with shrimp. There were also plates of dried venison and cod’s roe together with roasted meat. A duck, swimming in a palatable sauce, completed the cheer.“You are a Lucullus,” began Schlickeisen.“What kind of animal is that?” demanded Johannes.“No animal at all, but a Roman gourmand, who, however, could not compare with you.”“Laugh at me if you please, but sit down and eat. We can talk afterwards. I always find that I can reason better when I have satisfied the cravings of my stomach.”The Swiss did not wait for a second invitation but fell to and enjoyed themselves to their hearts’ content. Not a word was spoken during the repast. There was nothing heard but the smacking of lips and the clatter of knives and forks.[26]When the last bone had been picked and the feasters had wiped their greasy fingers, Johannes produced a box of tobacco. All three having filled their pipes, he began:“Now out with your business; you mean to bolt, don’t you?”Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf looked at each other interrogatively.“We are quite safe here,” continued Johannes. “Nobody can hear us. Come, out with it. You want to be off. Where to? Perhaps I can assist you.”The two Swiss exchanged a look of intelligence. After a while Wienersdorf said:“Well, yes; we did talk of a plan to desert, but there is a wide distance between talking and doing.”“I should think so. But tell me your plan.”“Oh, you can scarcely call it a plan yet. We have not been here long enough to know the country and without that knowledge no attempt is possible.”“You speak,” said Johannes, “like a learned man. But if you wait until you obtain the needed information you may be too old to desert. Did I hear you mention last night a Chinese craft?”“Yes; we have been given to understand that such a vessel calls here annually and we spoke of bribing the captain to conceal us on board and carry us to China.”“Bravo! Have you any money?”“We have about four hundred florins between us.”“Well! do you know what would happen? The Chinaman would coolly pocket your four hundred florins. He would duly receive you and hide you on board his vessel. But before leaving[27]Kwala Kapoeas he would drop a note to the Colonel who would despatch a cruiser after you. Your craft would be overhauled, both of you secured and the game would be up.”“But why should the captain act thus?”“In order to pocket your four hundred florins. Perhaps also to get into the good graces of the Colonel and be enabled to sell more of his wares. No, no, you must not dream of escaping that way. Listen to me. I also have resolved to desert and have thought of it a very long time, so that I may safely say my plans are well matured. Only I don’t like to enter upon such an undertaking by myself. La Cueille will go with me, but he is not sufficient. The aid of a few strong arms is what I greatly need. Now, what do you think?”“This La Cueille is a fearful drunkard. Is he the right fellow to confide in?”“One can’t be over-particular. He has a stout heart and fears nothing. Besides we intend to take only a very small quantity of liquor which I mean to keep under my own control. I am sure he is the best fellow in the world as long as he remains sober.”“But,” said Wienersdorf, “ought we not to learn your plans? What made you think of us?”“That is very easy to understand. I observed that you two kept aloof from the other men. You were always whispering in corners and couldn’t hold your tongues, even at night. I set myself to find out what was going on and I succeeded. I heard you speak together of deserting and then my heart leaped with joy, for I had found just what I wanted—a couple of sturdy fellows[28]who like myself are burning to get away. Now are you satisfied with my explanation?”“Quite; now tell us about your plan.”The three conspirators refilled their pipes and drew closer together. Johannes then proceeded to give a complete narrative not only of his plan, but also of the means he had provided to ensure its success.One dark evening while he was on sentry duty outside the fort, Baba Poetjieng came up to him and offered a bundle of cigars. The Chinaman commenced a conversation in the course of which he told Johannes that in a creek near by his rangkan lay hidden and that it contained a considerable quantity of opium which he was anxious to smuggle. He had succeeded in defiance of the cruisers and coast-guards in bringing the canoe up the river. Now was to come the most difficult part of the enterprise—passing the fort; and to accomplish this he hoped his friend Johannes would help him. The sly Chinaman carefully concealed the fact that his cargo really consisted of gunpowder and salt, the two greatest necessities of the Bandjarese insurgents. He pressed a few rix dollars into Johannes’ hand, who arranged with him that he would be at the same post again next evening when he would let him pass. Johannes begged for and obtained some opium, which he put by for future use in the execution of his plan. With this opium he drugged his fellow-guards and enabled the Celestial to smuggle his goods. This accomplished, the Chinaman was in his power and Johannes had no hesitation in unfolding his scheme of escape and demanding his aid and co-operation. Baba Poetjieng agreed to provide a well-fitted canoe manned by[29]three Dayaks. Johannes then made sundry small parcels of his and La Cueille’s clothing which he gave to him to convey to the canoe. The time fixed for the escape was the next change of the moon, darkness being necessary to ensure success. As it was now full moon, they had a fortnight left for making their final preparations.“Now,” said Johannes, “what do you think?”“We think it an excellent plan,” said Schlickeisen.“It does you credit,” added Wienersdorf. “But I fear there are still many difficulties to be overcome. We will get away without doubt; the fortress is not an enchanted castle—but when we shall have got away the question will be, whither are we to go?”“Where to go? Where but down the river—seawards—that is the way. Once at sea, we direct our course westward, keeping close in shore to evade the cruisers. In the day-time we will hide the canoe in one of the creeks which abound on the south coast, but at night we shall have to row as fast as we can. When we get to Cape Batoe Titi, thesouth-westerlypart of Borneo, our further course will be determined by the state of the weather. If everything is favorable we will run for the island of Biliton across the straits of Gaspar, and proceeding along the north of Banca reach at last the coast of Sumatra. Once there, our hardest task will be completed. We must skim along under the shadows of the thick forests until we come to Cape Basso. Thence, with a fair amount of luck, we run safely between the islands of the Riouw Archipelago and get to Singapore.”“I must own that you seem to be very well informed. Where did you learn all these particulars; from Baba Poetjieng?”[30]“No, no. My geography and topography come from the military school of Kedong-Kebo, where I was educated.”“But how long will it take us to reach Singapore?”“At least three or four weeks; but mind, the slightest misadventure may upset all our calculations.”A cold shudder passed over the two Swiss and both cried out simultaneously, “Four weeks on the ocean in a nut-shell!”“I beg your pardon; to be on the Java sea at this season is not such a dreadful affair. But you can do as you please—join or remain behind.”“Oh, no!” was the reply as both Swiss offered their hands. “We join you most certainly, even though the journey should lead to perdition.”After this emphatic ratification of their alliance the three friends separated and in order to disarm suspicion they returned by different routes to the fortress.Now commenced a series of preparations separately conducted but all equally directed to the perfection of their arrangements. Whatever fell in their way that was likely to be useful on their voyage was taken to Johannes’ hut and stored away. Thus they contrived to get together a supply of provisions and gunpowder without much difficulty. What, however, taxed their ingenuity to obtain, was a supply of rifle bullets. These they managed to smuggle during target practice, by substituting blank cartridges. Of course when a miss was proclaimed as the result of their firing, their comrades laughed and jeered, but they only looked as innocent as they could and quickly stored away the abstracted bullet. Their stock of animal food also received an important[31]addition most unexpectedly. The garrison organized a fishing-party after the Dayak method. They closed the creeks with a kind of bamboo matting during the flood-tides which followed the full moon. At the ebb the shallow bed of the moat was left so swarming with fish that they were bailed out by basketsfull. Johannes bought up the greatest part of this catch at a price so unusually high that it attracted the Colonel’s attention. When questioned by him Johannes explained that he intended to dry the fish for sale and that he had already disposed of it to Baba Poetjieng at a fair profit. This pretended speculation served also another purpose. It enabled Baba Poetjieng to visit Johannes’ hut and carry away all the fish without exciting suspicion. The cleaning and curing were undertaken by Johannes with the aid of La Cueille, who had been fully recognized as one of the alliance by Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen. They were most careful to warn the intemperate Walloon against the dangers of inebriety and they made him promise not to taste gin until at least they had started on their journey.“I faithfully promise,” says La Cueille, “not to touch a drop of spirits.”“Amen,” responded Johannes.“Do you mean to keep this promise throughout?” Wienersdorf asked.“By the sacred Lady of Scherpenheuvel,” answered the Walloon.“We can now welcome you into our brotherhood. Each of us must do his best to promote the success of our enterprise. Our motto must be ‘Every one for everybody.’By-the-bye,[32]Johannes, how are we now situated in respect to provisions?”Johannes explained that there were deposited with Baba Poetjieng five bags of rice, each weighing one hundred and twenty-five pounds.“But we are surely not expected to live on rice?” asked Schlickeisen.“Certainly not,” answered Johannes. “What am I providing dried fish for? The Chinaman supplies us with salt, pepper and curry. We shall also have a barrel of salt beef and pork. Don’t imagine, however, that you are going to fare as at your mother’s table. It is enough that we shall not know want. What troubles me most is the drinking water. Supposing each man to need three pints a day that will make for a month’s voyage eighty gallons or eight barrels of ten gallons each. These will take up considerable space and greatly diminish our comforts.”“Do you mean to carry water for the whole journey?”“Well, it would be the best plan, but I am afraid it is impracticable. I therefore propose to ship only two barrels.”“That is decidedly too little,” said Schlickeisen; “that is only half a pint per day.”“Listen. As long as we remain in the Lesser Dayak we need not touch our water. Nor shall we require to do so while on the coast of Borneo. We shall have to take refuge during the day in one of the many creeks in order to avoid the cruisers. Now there is no country in the world that has so many rivers opening into the sea as you find in the south of Borneo. Any of those streams will enable us to replenish our supply of water. We[33]shall have to be careful crossing to Biliton, for there we shall be at sea. It is a little better on the north coast of Banca, but where we shall find water in abundance is on the eastern coast of Sumatra. Such streams as the Reteh and the Indragiri will furnish enough to allay our thirst.”“You are a born geographer,” said Wienersdorf, “and I raise my hat in respect to your knowledge.”“What do you mean by raising your hat? I see only a shabby service cap.”“Well let us say we raise our caps; but really your explanation was so excellent that I should like you to complete it.”“Yes,” said Johannes, “I know you are as inquisitive as the monkey. But come, what is it you wish to know?”“How long will the voyage from Borneo to Sumatra occupy?”“If thesouth-eastmonsoon continues until we reach Banca we may reckon our speed at twenty miles a day; but that will be too much to expect, so we will say fifteen miles a day. Thus the voyage, barring accidents, will take seven days.”In such conversation was the time passed during the weary days of waiting. On the second day after the new moon Baba Poetjieng arrived at the fort. He pretended that his visit was to fetch away the last of the dried fish, which concluded his contract with Johannes, but his true object was to make final arrangements and to fix the hour for departure. The time was favorable. A native had just died of cholera and no one would undertake to bury him except the three Dayaks who were to accompany the deserters. The tide would continue to flow until half-past ten and would be followed by a rapid ebb. All chances[34]were therefore in their favor. As evening fell the four allies crept into the hut of Johannes, where they remained concealed until it was quite dark. They then stole out one by one, and passing behind the shrubs which lined the banks of the river, they reached the kampong unobserved and took their places in the canoe which was to carry the deceased to her last resting-place. About ten the coffin was taken to the boat, and at eleven o’clock came the priestesses who were to chant the hymns for the repose of the dead.The ebb tide had already commenced when they arrived; the two canoes therefore pulled away immediately from the landing-stage and passed the fort, with the results already known.[35]
CHAPTER II.WHISPERING—LUCULLUS MISTAKEN FOR AN ANIMAL—JOHANNES’ PLAN—A GRATEFUL SMUGGLER—JOHANNES A GEOGRAPHER—A MIRACULOUS HAUL OF FISH—LA CUEILLE’S PROMISE—DRINKING WATER—DEPARTURE.
WHISPERING—LUCULLUS MISTAKEN FOR AN ANIMAL—JOHANNES’ PLAN—A GRATEFUL SMUGGLER—JOHANNES A GEOGRAPHER—A MIRACULOUS HAUL OF FISH—LA CUEILLE’S PROMISE—DRINKING WATER—DEPARTURE.
WHISPERING—LUCULLUS MISTAKEN FOR AN ANIMAL—JOHANNES’ PLAN—A GRATEFUL SMUGGLER—JOHANNES A GEOGRAPHER—A MIRACULOUS HAUL OF FISH—LA CUEILLE’S PROMISE—DRINKING WATER—DEPARTURE.
It is necessary now to explain how the deserters came to be embarked in that funeral cortege and also how their project of escape had been planned and perfected. For this purpose we must go back some few days and change the scene to the dormitory of the fort of Kwala Kapoeas. The time is close upon midnight. Most of the men are wrapped in slumber and perfect silence prevails. No, not perfect silence; for in one remote corner there is a sound of suppressed conversation which challenges the notice of the officer on duty.“Silence in that corner! What can you have to talk about so late at night! Is not the day long enough for gossip?”This sharp rebuke was the signal for the talkers to cease, but not for long. Presently when silence reigned again, interrupted only by the loud snoring of the sleepers, a soft whispering made itself heard in that same dark corner to which the corporal had before referred.It was Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf continuing their interrupted conversation beneath their breath.[23]“I repeat,” observed the former, “I cannot endure this life any longer!”“Hush!” whispered his companion. “Don’t get so excited. We can’t hurry, so be patient.”“That is all you can say. Patience! We have been here two months already and how far are we advanced?”“How can we help it? One cannot break iron with his hands. You know that our enterprise is one in which we risk our necks.”“Quite so. Still if this should last much longer, I intend to take a leap into the river.”“That would be a treat for the crocodiles; but all the same it would be a poor way of gaining your liberty, unless you look upon death as your only possible liberator.”“Well I would rather be dead than remain a prisoner like this.”“But ‘dead is dead.’ I must own that I prefer——”Schlickeisen had no time to finish the sentence. Some one had crept unperceived between their beds. Two hands were pressed upon their shoulders as if to compel them to remain passive. Then a voice whispered in the softest accents:“Don’t talk so loud; you fail to notice that Corporal Dunkelhof has been listening this last quarter of an hour. If he has overheard any of your talk, you may expect to be reported to-morrow morning.”“For my part,” muttered Wienersdorf, “he may hear all we have said.”“You may tell that to your sister, but not to me,” said the visitor, still whispering. “If the Colonel should only hear a[24]tenth part of what you have been saying, you may be sure that you two would be under arrest before sunrise. Our Colonel is not to be trifled with.”“Oho! not quite so fast, please. Who are you? A listener can never be trusted,” said Schlickeisen in a menacing though subdued voice.“Don’t fear. Iwon’tbetray you. It matters little who I am. But look how the corporal is pricking up his ears.”And indeed there came an imperative voice, “Silence there in that corner. I shan’t speak any more. Those whowon’thear must feel.”Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen held their breath and everything remained quiet for a while. Suddenly their mysterious visitor bent over them and whispered almost inaudibly:“Come to the hut of Johannes to-morrow morning after breakfast.”The figure vanished under the beds and was soon lost in the darkness.The two Swiss kept quiet for a long time. When they perceived that the corporal had dropped off to sleep, Wienersdorf whispered to his companion the enquiry:“Who was that?”“Perhaps Johannes himself.”“He had a brown skin and the upper part of his body was naked.”“Can we trust him?”“Who knows? We may as well look in to-morrow morning and hear what he has to say.”[25]“Hush! be careful; that Dunkelhof is a regular spy.”They both crept between their blankets and were soon in a sound slumber.Next morning, after they had fetched their soup from the kitchen, they had to pass the hut of Johannes. They found him standing outside his door. Without uttering a word he moved away from the entrance as if inviting them to come in. They entered, put their pannikins on the floor and seated themselves on a bench.On a table before them lay already spread a choice repast prepared by Johannes. In addition to the ration of soup from the barrack kitchen, there was boiled rice, snow white and well granulated, dishes of sauces made of fish and vegetables, surrounded by some smaller dishes of pepper fried in oil and pounded with shrimp. There were also plates of dried venison and cod’s roe together with roasted meat. A duck, swimming in a palatable sauce, completed the cheer.“You are a Lucullus,” began Schlickeisen.“What kind of animal is that?” demanded Johannes.“No animal at all, but a Roman gourmand, who, however, could not compare with you.”“Laugh at me if you please, but sit down and eat. We can talk afterwards. I always find that I can reason better when I have satisfied the cravings of my stomach.”The Swiss did not wait for a second invitation but fell to and enjoyed themselves to their hearts’ content. Not a word was spoken during the repast. There was nothing heard but the smacking of lips and the clatter of knives and forks.[26]When the last bone had been picked and the feasters had wiped their greasy fingers, Johannes produced a box of tobacco. All three having filled their pipes, he began:“Now out with your business; you mean to bolt, don’t you?”Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf looked at each other interrogatively.“We are quite safe here,” continued Johannes. “Nobody can hear us. Come, out with it. You want to be off. Where to? Perhaps I can assist you.”The two Swiss exchanged a look of intelligence. After a while Wienersdorf said:“Well, yes; we did talk of a plan to desert, but there is a wide distance between talking and doing.”“I should think so. But tell me your plan.”“Oh, you can scarcely call it a plan yet. We have not been here long enough to know the country and without that knowledge no attempt is possible.”“You speak,” said Johannes, “like a learned man. But if you wait until you obtain the needed information you may be too old to desert. Did I hear you mention last night a Chinese craft?”“Yes; we have been given to understand that such a vessel calls here annually and we spoke of bribing the captain to conceal us on board and carry us to China.”“Bravo! Have you any money?”“We have about four hundred florins between us.”“Well! do you know what would happen? The Chinaman would coolly pocket your four hundred florins. He would duly receive you and hide you on board his vessel. But before leaving[27]Kwala Kapoeas he would drop a note to the Colonel who would despatch a cruiser after you. Your craft would be overhauled, both of you secured and the game would be up.”“But why should the captain act thus?”“In order to pocket your four hundred florins. Perhaps also to get into the good graces of the Colonel and be enabled to sell more of his wares. No, no, you must not dream of escaping that way. Listen to me. I also have resolved to desert and have thought of it a very long time, so that I may safely say my plans are well matured. Only I don’t like to enter upon such an undertaking by myself. La Cueille will go with me, but he is not sufficient. The aid of a few strong arms is what I greatly need. Now, what do you think?”“This La Cueille is a fearful drunkard. Is he the right fellow to confide in?”“One can’t be over-particular. He has a stout heart and fears nothing. Besides we intend to take only a very small quantity of liquor which I mean to keep under my own control. I am sure he is the best fellow in the world as long as he remains sober.”“But,” said Wienersdorf, “ought we not to learn your plans? What made you think of us?”“That is very easy to understand. I observed that you two kept aloof from the other men. You were always whispering in corners and couldn’t hold your tongues, even at night. I set myself to find out what was going on and I succeeded. I heard you speak together of deserting and then my heart leaped with joy, for I had found just what I wanted—a couple of sturdy fellows[28]who like myself are burning to get away. Now are you satisfied with my explanation?”“Quite; now tell us about your plan.”The three conspirators refilled their pipes and drew closer together. Johannes then proceeded to give a complete narrative not only of his plan, but also of the means he had provided to ensure its success.One dark evening while he was on sentry duty outside the fort, Baba Poetjieng came up to him and offered a bundle of cigars. The Chinaman commenced a conversation in the course of which he told Johannes that in a creek near by his rangkan lay hidden and that it contained a considerable quantity of opium which he was anxious to smuggle. He had succeeded in defiance of the cruisers and coast-guards in bringing the canoe up the river. Now was to come the most difficult part of the enterprise—passing the fort; and to accomplish this he hoped his friend Johannes would help him. The sly Chinaman carefully concealed the fact that his cargo really consisted of gunpowder and salt, the two greatest necessities of the Bandjarese insurgents. He pressed a few rix dollars into Johannes’ hand, who arranged with him that he would be at the same post again next evening when he would let him pass. Johannes begged for and obtained some opium, which he put by for future use in the execution of his plan. With this opium he drugged his fellow-guards and enabled the Celestial to smuggle his goods. This accomplished, the Chinaman was in his power and Johannes had no hesitation in unfolding his scheme of escape and demanding his aid and co-operation. Baba Poetjieng agreed to provide a well-fitted canoe manned by[29]three Dayaks. Johannes then made sundry small parcels of his and La Cueille’s clothing which he gave to him to convey to the canoe. The time fixed for the escape was the next change of the moon, darkness being necessary to ensure success. As it was now full moon, they had a fortnight left for making their final preparations.“Now,” said Johannes, “what do you think?”“We think it an excellent plan,” said Schlickeisen.“It does you credit,” added Wienersdorf. “But I fear there are still many difficulties to be overcome. We will get away without doubt; the fortress is not an enchanted castle—but when we shall have got away the question will be, whither are we to go?”“Where to go? Where but down the river—seawards—that is the way. Once at sea, we direct our course westward, keeping close in shore to evade the cruisers. In the day-time we will hide the canoe in one of the creeks which abound on the south coast, but at night we shall have to row as fast as we can. When we get to Cape Batoe Titi, thesouth-westerlypart of Borneo, our further course will be determined by the state of the weather. If everything is favorable we will run for the island of Biliton across the straits of Gaspar, and proceeding along the north of Banca reach at last the coast of Sumatra. Once there, our hardest task will be completed. We must skim along under the shadows of the thick forests until we come to Cape Basso. Thence, with a fair amount of luck, we run safely between the islands of the Riouw Archipelago and get to Singapore.”“I must own that you seem to be very well informed. Where did you learn all these particulars; from Baba Poetjieng?”[30]“No, no. My geography and topography come from the military school of Kedong-Kebo, where I was educated.”“But how long will it take us to reach Singapore?”“At least three or four weeks; but mind, the slightest misadventure may upset all our calculations.”A cold shudder passed over the two Swiss and both cried out simultaneously, “Four weeks on the ocean in a nut-shell!”“I beg your pardon; to be on the Java sea at this season is not such a dreadful affair. But you can do as you please—join or remain behind.”“Oh, no!” was the reply as both Swiss offered their hands. “We join you most certainly, even though the journey should lead to perdition.”After this emphatic ratification of their alliance the three friends separated and in order to disarm suspicion they returned by different routes to the fortress.Now commenced a series of preparations separately conducted but all equally directed to the perfection of their arrangements. Whatever fell in their way that was likely to be useful on their voyage was taken to Johannes’ hut and stored away. Thus they contrived to get together a supply of provisions and gunpowder without much difficulty. What, however, taxed their ingenuity to obtain, was a supply of rifle bullets. These they managed to smuggle during target practice, by substituting blank cartridges. Of course when a miss was proclaimed as the result of their firing, their comrades laughed and jeered, but they only looked as innocent as they could and quickly stored away the abstracted bullet. Their stock of animal food also received an important[31]addition most unexpectedly. The garrison organized a fishing-party after the Dayak method. They closed the creeks with a kind of bamboo matting during the flood-tides which followed the full moon. At the ebb the shallow bed of the moat was left so swarming with fish that they were bailed out by basketsfull. Johannes bought up the greatest part of this catch at a price so unusually high that it attracted the Colonel’s attention. When questioned by him Johannes explained that he intended to dry the fish for sale and that he had already disposed of it to Baba Poetjieng at a fair profit. This pretended speculation served also another purpose. It enabled Baba Poetjieng to visit Johannes’ hut and carry away all the fish without exciting suspicion. The cleaning and curing were undertaken by Johannes with the aid of La Cueille, who had been fully recognized as one of the alliance by Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen. They were most careful to warn the intemperate Walloon against the dangers of inebriety and they made him promise not to taste gin until at least they had started on their journey.“I faithfully promise,” says La Cueille, “not to touch a drop of spirits.”“Amen,” responded Johannes.“Do you mean to keep this promise throughout?” Wienersdorf asked.“By the sacred Lady of Scherpenheuvel,” answered the Walloon.“We can now welcome you into our brotherhood. Each of us must do his best to promote the success of our enterprise. Our motto must be ‘Every one for everybody.’By-the-bye,[32]Johannes, how are we now situated in respect to provisions?”Johannes explained that there were deposited with Baba Poetjieng five bags of rice, each weighing one hundred and twenty-five pounds.“But we are surely not expected to live on rice?” asked Schlickeisen.“Certainly not,” answered Johannes. “What am I providing dried fish for? The Chinaman supplies us with salt, pepper and curry. We shall also have a barrel of salt beef and pork. Don’t imagine, however, that you are going to fare as at your mother’s table. It is enough that we shall not know want. What troubles me most is the drinking water. Supposing each man to need three pints a day that will make for a month’s voyage eighty gallons or eight barrels of ten gallons each. These will take up considerable space and greatly diminish our comforts.”“Do you mean to carry water for the whole journey?”“Well, it would be the best plan, but I am afraid it is impracticable. I therefore propose to ship only two barrels.”“That is decidedly too little,” said Schlickeisen; “that is only half a pint per day.”“Listen. As long as we remain in the Lesser Dayak we need not touch our water. Nor shall we require to do so while on the coast of Borneo. We shall have to take refuge during the day in one of the many creeks in order to avoid the cruisers. Now there is no country in the world that has so many rivers opening into the sea as you find in the south of Borneo. Any of those streams will enable us to replenish our supply of water. We[33]shall have to be careful crossing to Biliton, for there we shall be at sea. It is a little better on the north coast of Banca, but where we shall find water in abundance is on the eastern coast of Sumatra. Such streams as the Reteh and the Indragiri will furnish enough to allay our thirst.”“You are a born geographer,” said Wienersdorf, “and I raise my hat in respect to your knowledge.”“What do you mean by raising your hat? I see only a shabby service cap.”“Well let us say we raise our caps; but really your explanation was so excellent that I should like you to complete it.”“Yes,” said Johannes, “I know you are as inquisitive as the monkey. But come, what is it you wish to know?”“How long will the voyage from Borneo to Sumatra occupy?”“If thesouth-eastmonsoon continues until we reach Banca we may reckon our speed at twenty miles a day; but that will be too much to expect, so we will say fifteen miles a day. Thus the voyage, barring accidents, will take seven days.”In such conversation was the time passed during the weary days of waiting. On the second day after the new moon Baba Poetjieng arrived at the fort. He pretended that his visit was to fetch away the last of the dried fish, which concluded his contract with Johannes, but his true object was to make final arrangements and to fix the hour for departure. The time was favorable. A native had just died of cholera and no one would undertake to bury him except the three Dayaks who were to accompany the deserters. The tide would continue to flow until half-past ten and would be followed by a rapid ebb. All chances[34]were therefore in their favor. As evening fell the four allies crept into the hut of Johannes, where they remained concealed until it was quite dark. They then stole out one by one, and passing behind the shrubs which lined the banks of the river, they reached the kampong unobserved and took their places in the canoe which was to carry the deceased to her last resting-place. About ten the coffin was taken to the boat, and at eleven o’clock came the priestesses who were to chant the hymns for the repose of the dead.The ebb tide had already commenced when they arrived; the two canoes therefore pulled away immediately from the landing-stage and passed the fort, with the results already known.[35]
It is necessary now to explain how the deserters came to be embarked in that funeral cortege and also how their project of escape had been planned and perfected. For this purpose we must go back some few days and change the scene to the dormitory of the fort of Kwala Kapoeas. The time is close upon midnight. Most of the men are wrapped in slumber and perfect silence prevails. No, not perfect silence; for in one remote corner there is a sound of suppressed conversation which challenges the notice of the officer on duty.
“Silence in that corner! What can you have to talk about so late at night! Is not the day long enough for gossip?”
This sharp rebuke was the signal for the talkers to cease, but not for long. Presently when silence reigned again, interrupted only by the loud snoring of the sleepers, a soft whispering made itself heard in that same dark corner to which the corporal had before referred.
It was Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf continuing their interrupted conversation beneath their breath.[23]
“I repeat,” observed the former, “I cannot endure this life any longer!”
“Hush!” whispered his companion. “Don’t get so excited. We can’t hurry, so be patient.”
“That is all you can say. Patience! We have been here two months already and how far are we advanced?”
“How can we help it? One cannot break iron with his hands. You know that our enterprise is one in which we risk our necks.”
“Quite so. Still if this should last much longer, I intend to take a leap into the river.”
“That would be a treat for the crocodiles; but all the same it would be a poor way of gaining your liberty, unless you look upon death as your only possible liberator.”
“Well I would rather be dead than remain a prisoner like this.”
“But ‘dead is dead.’ I must own that I prefer——”
Schlickeisen had no time to finish the sentence. Some one had crept unperceived between their beds. Two hands were pressed upon their shoulders as if to compel them to remain passive. Then a voice whispered in the softest accents:
“Don’t talk so loud; you fail to notice that Corporal Dunkelhof has been listening this last quarter of an hour. If he has overheard any of your talk, you may expect to be reported to-morrow morning.”
“For my part,” muttered Wienersdorf, “he may hear all we have said.”
“You may tell that to your sister, but not to me,” said the visitor, still whispering. “If the Colonel should only hear a[24]tenth part of what you have been saying, you may be sure that you two would be under arrest before sunrise. Our Colonel is not to be trifled with.”
“Oho! not quite so fast, please. Who are you? A listener can never be trusted,” said Schlickeisen in a menacing though subdued voice.
“Don’t fear. Iwon’tbetray you. It matters little who I am. But look how the corporal is pricking up his ears.”
And indeed there came an imperative voice, “Silence there in that corner. I shan’t speak any more. Those whowon’thear must feel.”
Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen held their breath and everything remained quiet for a while. Suddenly their mysterious visitor bent over them and whispered almost inaudibly:
“Come to the hut of Johannes to-morrow morning after breakfast.”
The figure vanished under the beds and was soon lost in the darkness.
The two Swiss kept quiet for a long time. When they perceived that the corporal had dropped off to sleep, Wienersdorf whispered to his companion the enquiry:
“Who was that?”
“Perhaps Johannes himself.”
“He had a brown skin and the upper part of his body was naked.”
“Can we trust him?”
“Who knows? We may as well look in to-morrow morning and hear what he has to say.”[25]
“Hush! be careful; that Dunkelhof is a regular spy.”
They both crept between their blankets and were soon in a sound slumber.
Next morning, after they had fetched their soup from the kitchen, they had to pass the hut of Johannes. They found him standing outside his door. Without uttering a word he moved away from the entrance as if inviting them to come in. They entered, put their pannikins on the floor and seated themselves on a bench.
On a table before them lay already spread a choice repast prepared by Johannes. In addition to the ration of soup from the barrack kitchen, there was boiled rice, snow white and well granulated, dishes of sauces made of fish and vegetables, surrounded by some smaller dishes of pepper fried in oil and pounded with shrimp. There were also plates of dried venison and cod’s roe together with roasted meat. A duck, swimming in a palatable sauce, completed the cheer.
“You are a Lucullus,” began Schlickeisen.
“What kind of animal is that?” demanded Johannes.
“No animal at all, but a Roman gourmand, who, however, could not compare with you.”
“Laugh at me if you please, but sit down and eat. We can talk afterwards. I always find that I can reason better when I have satisfied the cravings of my stomach.”
The Swiss did not wait for a second invitation but fell to and enjoyed themselves to their hearts’ content. Not a word was spoken during the repast. There was nothing heard but the smacking of lips and the clatter of knives and forks.[26]
When the last bone had been picked and the feasters had wiped their greasy fingers, Johannes produced a box of tobacco. All three having filled their pipes, he began:
“Now out with your business; you mean to bolt, don’t you?”
Schlickeisen and Wienersdorf looked at each other interrogatively.
“We are quite safe here,” continued Johannes. “Nobody can hear us. Come, out with it. You want to be off. Where to? Perhaps I can assist you.”
The two Swiss exchanged a look of intelligence. After a while Wienersdorf said:
“Well, yes; we did talk of a plan to desert, but there is a wide distance between talking and doing.”
“I should think so. But tell me your plan.”
“Oh, you can scarcely call it a plan yet. We have not been here long enough to know the country and without that knowledge no attempt is possible.”
“You speak,” said Johannes, “like a learned man. But if you wait until you obtain the needed information you may be too old to desert. Did I hear you mention last night a Chinese craft?”
“Yes; we have been given to understand that such a vessel calls here annually and we spoke of bribing the captain to conceal us on board and carry us to China.”
“Bravo! Have you any money?”
“We have about four hundred florins between us.”
“Well! do you know what would happen? The Chinaman would coolly pocket your four hundred florins. He would duly receive you and hide you on board his vessel. But before leaving[27]Kwala Kapoeas he would drop a note to the Colonel who would despatch a cruiser after you. Your craft would be overhauled, both of you secured and the game would be up.”
“But why should the captain act thus?”
“In order to pocket your four hundred florins. Perhaps also to get into the good graces of the Colonel and be enabled to sell more of his wares. No, no, you must not dream of escaping that way. Listen to me. I also have resolved to desert and have thought of it a very long time, so that I may safely say my plans are well matured. Only I don’t like to enter upon such an undertaking by myself. La Cueille will go with me, but he is not sufficient. The aid of a few strong arms is what I greatly need. Now, what do you think?”
“This La Cueille is a fearful drunkard. Is he the right fellow to confide in?”
“One can’t be over-particular. He has a stout heart and fears nothing. Besides we intend to take only a very small quantity of liquor which I mean to keep under my own control. I am sure he is the best fellow in the world as long as he remains sober.”
“But,” said Wienersdorf, “ought we not to learn your plans? What made you think of us?”
“That is very easy to understand. I observed that you two kept aloof from the other men. You were always whispering in corners and couldn’t hold your tongues, even at night. I set myself to find out what was going on and I succeeded. I heard you speak together of deserting and then my heart leaped with joy, for I had found just what I wanted—a couple of sturdy fellows[28]who like myself are burning to get away. Now are you satisfied with my explanation?”
“Quite; now tell us about your plan.”
The three conspirators refilled their pipes and drew closer together. Johannes then proceeded to give a complete narrative not only of his plan, but also of the means he had provided to ensure its success.
One dark evening while he was on sentry duty outside the fort, Baba Poetjieng came up to him and offered a bundle of cigars. The Chinaman commenced a conversation in the course of which he told Johannes that in a creek near by his rangkan lay hidden and that it contained a considerable quantity of opium which he was anxious to smuggle. He had succeeded in defiance of the cruisers and coast-guards in bringing the canoe up the river. Now was to come the most difficult part of the enterprise—passing the fort; and to accomplish this he hoped his friend Johannes would help him. The sly Chinaman carefully concealed the fact that his cargo really consisted of gunpowder and salt, the two greatest necessities of the Bandjarese insurgents. He pressed a few rix dollars into Johannes’ hand, who arranged with him that he would be at the same post again next evening when he would let him pass. Johannes begged for and obtained some opium, which he put by for future use in the execution of his plan. With this opium he drugged his fellow-guards and enabled the Celestial to smuggle his goods. This accomplished, the Chinaman was in his power and Johannes had no hesitation in unfolding his scheme of escape and demanding his aid and co-operation. Baba Poetjieng agreed to provide a well-fitted canoe manned by[29]three Dayaks. Johannes then made sundry small parcels of his and La Cueille’s clothing which he gave to him to convey to the canoe. The time fixed for the escape was the next change of the moon, darkness being necessary to ensure success. As it was now full moon, they had a fortnight left for making their final preparations.
“Now,” said Johannes, “what do you think?”
“We think it an excellent plan,” said Schlickeisen.
“It does you credit,” added Wienersdorf. “But I fear there are still many difficulties to be overcome. We will get away without doubt; the fortress is not an enchanted castle—but when we shall have got away the question will be, whither are we to go?”
“Where to go? Where but down the river—seawards—that is the way. Once at sea, we direct our course westward, keeping close in shore to evade the cruisers. In the day-time we will hide the canoe in one of the creeks which abound on the south coast, but at night we shall have to row as fast as we can. When we get to Cape Batoe Titi, thesouth-westerlypart of Borneo, our further course will be determined by the state of the weather. If everything is favorable we will run for the island of Biliton across the straits of Gaspar, and proceeding along the north of Banca reach at last the coast of Sumatra. Once there, our hardest task will be completed. We must skim along under the shadows of the thick forests until we come to Cape Basso. Thence, with a fair amount of luck, we run safely between the islands of the Riouw Archipelago and get to Singapore.”
“I must own that you seem to be very well informed. Where did you learn all these particulars; from Baba Poetjieng?”[30]
“No, no. My geography and topography come from the military school of Kedong-Kebo, where I was educated.”
“But how long will it take us to reach Singapore?”
“At least three or four weeks; but mind, the slightest misadventure may upset all our calculations.”
A cold shudder passed over the two Swiss and both cried out simultaneously, “Four weeks on the ocean in a nut-shell!”
“I beg your pardon; to be on the Java sea at this season is not such a dreadful affair. But you can do as you please—join or remain behind.”
“Oh, no!” was the reply as both Swiss offered their hands. “We join you most certainly, even though the journey should lead to perdition.”
After this emphatic ratification of their alliance the three friends separated and in order to disarm suspicion they returned by different routes to the fortress.
Now commenced a series of preparations separately conducted but all equally directed to the perfection of their arrangements. Whatever fell in their way that was likely to be useful on their voyage was taken to Johannes’ hut and stored away. Thus they contrived to get together a supply of provisions and gunpowder without much difficulty. What, however, taxed their ingenuity to obtain, was a supply of rifle bullets. These they managed to smuggle during target practice, by substituting blank cartridges. Of course when a miss was proclaimed as the result of their firing, their comrades laughed and jeered, but they only looked as innocent as they could and quickly stored away the abstracted bullet. Their stock of animal food also received an important[31]addition most unexpectedly. The garrison organized a fishing-party after the Dayak method. They closed the creeks with a kind of bamboo matting during the flood-tides which followed the full moon. At the ebb the shallow bed of the moat was left so swarming with fish that they were bailed out by basketsfull. Johannes bought up the greatest part of this catch at a price so unusually high that it attracted the Colonel’s attention. When questioned by him Johannes explained that he intended to dry the fish for sale and that he had already disposed of it to Baba Poetjieng at a fair profit. This pretended speculation served also another purpose. It enabled Baba Poetjieng to visit Johannes’ hut and carry away all the fish without exciting suspicion. The cleaning and curing were undertaken by Johannes with the aid of La Cueille, who had been fully recognized as one of the alliance by Wienersdorf and Schlickeisen. They were most careful to warn the intemperate Walloon against the dangers of inebriety and they made him promise not to taste gin until at least they had started on their journey.
“I faithfully promise,” says La Cueille, “not to touch a drop of spirits.”
“Amen,” responded Johannes.
“Do you mean to keep this promise throughout?” Wienersdorf asked.
“By the sacred Lady of Scherpenheuvel,” answered the Walloon.
“We can now welcome you into our brotherhood. Each of us must do his best to promote the success of our enterprise. Our motto must be ‘Every one for everybody.’By-the-bye,[32]Johannes, how are we now situated in respect to provisions?”
Johannes explained that there were deposited with Baba Poetjieng five bags of rice, each weighing one hundred and twenty-five pounds.
“But we are surely not expected to live on rice?” asked Schlickeisen.
“Certainly not,” answered Johannes. “What am I providing dried fish for? The Chinaman supplies us with salt, pepper and curry. We shall also have a barrel of salt beef and pork. Don’t imagine, however, that you are going to fare as at your mother’s table. It is enough that we shall not know want. What troubles me most is the drinking water. Supposing each man to need three pints a day that will make for a month’s voyage eighty gallons or eight barrels of ten gallons each. These will take up considerable space and greatly diminish our comforts.”
“Do you mean to carry water for the whole journey?”
“Well, it would be the best plan, but I am afraid it is impracticable. I therefore propose to ship only two barrels.”
“That is decidedly too little,” said Schlickeisen; “that is only half a pint per day.”
“Listen. As long as we remain in the Lesser Dayak we need not touch our water. Nor shall we require to do so while on the coast of Borneo. We shall have to take refuge during the day in one of the many creeks in order to avoid the cruisers. Now there is no country in the world that has so many rivers opening into the sea as you find in the south of Borneo. Any of those streams will enable us to replenish our supply of water. We[33]shall have to be careful crossing to Biliton, for there we shall be at sea. It is a little better on the north coast of Banca, but where we shall find water in abundance is on the eastern coast of Sumatra. Such streams as the Reteh and the Indragiri will furnish enough to allay our thirst.”
“You are a born geographer,” said Wienersdorf, “and I raise my hat in respect to your knowledge.”
“What do you mean by raising your hat? I see only a shabby service cap.”
“Well let us say we raise our caps; but really your explanation was so excellent that I should like you to complete it.”
“Yes,” said Johannes, “I know you are as inquisitive as the monkey. But come, what is it you wish to know?”
“How long will the voyage from Borneo to Sumatra occupy?”
“If thesouth-eastmonsoon continues until we reach Banca we may reckon our speed at twenty miles a day; but that will be too much to expect, so we will say fifteen miles a day. Thus the voyage, barring accidents, will take seven days.”
In such conversation was the time passed during the weary days of waiting. On the second day after the new moon Baba Poetjieng arrived at the fort. He pretended that his visit was to fetch away the last of the dried fish, which concluded his contract with Johannes, but his true object was to make final arrangements and to fix the hour for departure. The time was favorable. A native had just died of cholera and no one would undertake to bury him except the three Dayaks who were to accompany the deserters. The tide would continue to flow until half-past ten and would be followed by a rapid ebb. All chances[34]were therefore in their favor. As evening fell the four allies crept into the hut of Johannes, where they remained concealed until it was quite dark. They then stole out one by one, and passing behind the shrubs which lined the banks of the river, they reached the kampong unobserved and took their places in the canoe which was to carry the deceased to her last resting-place. About ten the coffin was taken to the boat, and at eleven o’clock came the priestesses who were to chant the hymns for the repose of the dead.
The ebb tide had already commenced when they arrived; the two canoes therefore pulled away immediately from the landing-stage and passed the fort, with the results already known.[35]