"Because if we are trapped and caught, of what use is the price we might have gotten? Tell me that, wise one?" "We will not be trapped. And suppose you kill him--won't they track you just the same, Hendrick?" "No. We would leave his body on some crag where it would be found. The patrols would more quickly tire of chasing a killer when the damage is done. They want Grant alive." "Then let them have him alive--for a big price. Hendrick, listen--" "Well, what?" he demanded again. "What is your plan?" "Why--well, Hendrick, like this--" She stammered, and I realized that she had no plausible plan. She was fumbling, groping, urging upon De Boer that I must be ransomed alive. But she had not good reason for it. "Well?" he prompted impatiently. "You--can you raise Great New York on the audiphone, Hendrick?" "Yes," he said. "Hanley's office?" "Yes, no doubt. Chah--that would give him a start, wouldn't it? De Boer calmly calling him!" * * * * * He was laughing. I heard what sounded as though he were gulping another drink. "By damn, Jetta, you are not the timid bird you look. Call Hanley, eh?" "Yes. Can it be done and still bar his instruments from locating us?" "Yes, and bar his television. Believe it, Jetta. I have every device for hiding. But--call Hanley!" "Why not? ... Hendrick, stop!" I started. It seemed that he was embracing her; forcing half drunken caresses upon her. I scrambled through my tent doorway, but Gutierrez, who had come back on guard, at once seized me. "_Hui_--so haste! Back, you." The Spaniard spoke softly, and he was grinning. "The chief plays with woman's words, no? Charming senorita, though she dresses like a boy. But that is the more charming, eh? Listen to her, Grant." He gripped me, and prodded my side with the point of his knife blade. "Lie down Americano: we will listen." Jetta was insisting. "Hendrick, stop!" "Why?" * * * * * I could see them now. They were seated before the opening of De Boer's tent. A little stove in front of them. Coffee for Jetta, who was seated cross-legged, pouring it; a bowl of drink for De Boer. And some baked breadstuff dainties on a platter. "Hendrick--" She pushed him away as he leaned to embrace her. Although she was laughing with him, I could only guess at the chill of fear that might be in her heart. "Foolish, Hendrick!" "Foolish little bird, Jetta mine."