The Wonder Island Boys: Treasures of the Island | Page 8

remarked John.
"But if we do that it will be necessary for some one to go to the place
selected for the landing of the Pioneer, and tell them of our plans, and
what we have learned," said Harry.
"That is what I have in mind. But before doing that we must investigate
this portion of the island more carefully. My plan is as follows: Along
this ridge, further to the east, is a sheltered spot, or a place where the
rocks form a sort of cove, and which can be easily defended. If the
natives have not reached that quarter it will make an ideal retreat for us,
and where we can defend ourselves for an indefinite time."
"But why should we take up time to find a place like that if you intend
to take steps toward meeting the natives?"
"It will be used to fall back upon."
"Oh, then you intend to take measures against them at once?"
"Not for the first day, at least. As soon as we are established there we
will investigate the region to the east, and if we find the shore line
closer on the eastern shore, we can then send a runner with a message

to the landing place, giving them the information."
The boys now understood. It was evident that it would have been bad
policy to retreat in face of the enemy, if such he should prove to be.
Something must be done to divert the natives for the time being. This
would give them time to communicate with their vessel.
"There is one thing that must be remembered. The savages know of our
presence here. They are now on the alert, and we are being watched
with the greatest vigilance. If they think there is an opportunity for
fresh victims it will stimulate them to the greatest exertions."
"I agree with you in that view," said Uraso, as John finished speaking.
CHAPTER II
THE SAVAGES ON THE HILL
After a hurried breakfast the party marched along the southern crest of
the hill, keeping as much out of view of the watchers on the northern
side as possible. The course adopted was one well calculated to deceive
the natives, for while the main bulk of the party silently left the
camping place, a half dozen of their companions were left behind, and
they were particular to remain exposed at intervals, so that the
departure of the main party would not be discovered.
To those left behind, John said: "Remain here until you hear firing. In
that event you will know that we have met them, and that fact will be
sufficient notice that your duty here is at an end. Uraso has begged the
privilege of being with you, and you know that is an assurance of your
safety in any event."
The place suggested by John was not over two miles distant. Muro
went ahead with one of the most reliable men of his tribe, and at
intervals this runner was sent back with the information that the course
was clear.
Everything pointed to the success of the scheme, until they were within

sight of the place, when the runner came back hurriedly with the
information that Muro had seen the first of the natives, and he felt
certain that they were at the place selected for their fort.
The party halted. The runner returned, and John sent back a messenger
to Uraso, advising him to come forward at once. Within fifteen minutes
the messenger returned with the startling information that the natives
were between them and Uraso.
This was, indeed, surprising. Either they were experts at stalking
enemies, or they had been fortunate enough to bring up a force in such
a position as to make Uraso's escape a most hazardous one.
"We must make the best of the situation," said John. "Let us prepare to
receive them, if they are determined to attack us."
"But what shall we do about Uraso?" asked Harry, in some
consternation.
"I think Uraso knows how to take care of the situation. He is shrewd
enough to outwit them, and if there is any danger from that quarter, he
will let us know."
"But how can he let us know if his messenger cannot get through?"
John smiled, as he looked at George, and responded: "You have
evidently forgotten that Uraso has the best signaling instrument in the
world, the gun."
"Certainly; I had forgotten that. But what shall we do if--" His voice
was cut short by a shot from the direction of Uraso's position.
"There it is," said Harry. "Two more shots!"
The scout from the rear now came in on a leap. "They are coming this
way," he hurriedly informed John.
"Who are coming?" asked John.

"The natives."
"Lie down!" he