Page:Ran away from the Dutch; or, Borneo from south to north (IA cu31924023893609).pdf/45

 "Hush! be careful; that Dunkelhof is a regular spy."

They both crept between their blankéts 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.