Page:Life in Java Volume 1.djvu/262

244 and was soon observed by the Nakoda, or captain, who was looking through his telescope. On first perceiving Aruman, the captain took him for an apparition, but when he came closer, perceiving that he was of real flesh and blood, he invited him on board, where he ordered to be set before him a sailor's usual repast in the East, namely, rice and salt fish, much to the annoyance of the crew, who for some time could not divest themselves of the idea that the little boy must have been buoyed up in the water by some evil spirit.

"During the meal, of which the child partook plentifully, he recounted his adventures and sorrows, his story calling forth the sympathy and indignation of his hearers. In the meantime, the eye of the Nakoda had not been idle; he had discovered the tumpak cunchang which Aruman wore, and was very desirous to obtain them.

"'What use are those shoes to you?' said he.