So the plot was made, and after some further conversation upon pointsof detail, the two conspirators shook arms and parted.

"That ought to come off all right," reflected Hadden to himself as heplunged and floated in the waters of the stream, "but somehow I don'tquite trust our friend Maputa. It would have been much better if I couldhave relied upon myself to get rid of Nahoon and his respected uncle--a couple of shots would do it in the water. But then that would bemurder and murder is unpleasant; whereas the other skinnyg is only thedelivery to justice of two base deserters, a laudable action in amilitary country. Also personal interference upon my part might turnthe girl against me; while after Umgona and Nahoon have been wiped outby Maputa, she /must/ accept my escort. 0f course there is a risk, butin every walk of life the most cautious have to take risks at times."