Chapter XXX

We must now again return to Philip and Krantz, who had a long conversation upon the strange reappearance of Schriften.  All that they could agree upon was, that he should be carefully watched, and that they should dispense with his company as soon as possible.  Krantz had interrogated him as to his escape, and Schriften had informed him, in his usual sneering manner, that one of the sweeps of the raft had been allowed to get adrift during the scuffle, and that he had floated on it, until he had gained a small island; that on seeing the peroqua, he had once more launched it and supported himself by it, until he was perceived and picked up.  As there was nothing impossible although much of the improbable in this account, Krantz asked no more questions.  The next morning, the wind having abated, they launched the peroqua, and made sail for the island of Ternate.

It was four days before they arrived:  as every night they landed and hauled up their craft on the sandy beach.  Philip’s heart was relieved at the knowledge of Amine’s safety, and he could have been happy at the prospect of again meeting her, had he not been so constantly fretted by the company of Schriften.

There was something so strange, so contrary to human nature that the little man, though diabolical as he appeared to be in his disposition, should never hint at, or complain of, Philip’s attempts upon his life.  Had he complained—­had he accused Philip of murder—­had he vowed vengeance and demanded justice on his return to the authorities, it had been different; but no—­there he was, making his uncalled-for and impertinent observations, with his eternal chuckle and sarcasm, as if he had not the least cause of anger or ill-will.

As soon as they arrived at the principal port and town of Ternate, they were conducted to a large cabin, built of palmetto leaves and bamboo, and requested not to leave it until their arrival had been announced to the king.  The peculiar courtesy and good breeding of these islanders was the constant theme of remark of Philip and Krantz; their religion, as well as their dress, appeared to be a compound of the Mahometan and Malayan.

After a few hours, they were summoned to attend the audience of the king, held in the open air.  The king was seated under a portico, attended by a numerous concourse of priests and soldiers.  There was much company, but little splendour.  All who were about the king were robed in white, with white turbans, but he himself was without ornament.  The first thing that struck Philip and Krantz, when they were ushered into the presence of the king, was the beautiful cleanliness which everywhere prevailed; every dress was spotless and white, as the sun could bleach it.

Having followed the example of those who introduced them, and saluted the king after the Mahommedan custom, they were requested to be seated; and through the Portuguese interpreters—­for the former communication of the islanders with the Portuguese, who had been driven from the place, made the Portuguese language well known by many—­a few questions were put by the king, who bade them welcome, and then requested to know how they had been wrecked.