creeper, and uncorking it, he bade Nodwengo fill it up with water. This
done, he clasped his hands, and lifting his eyes to heaven, he prayed
aloud in the language of the Amasuka.

"O God," he prayed, "upon whose business I am here, grant, I beseech
Thee, that by Thy Grace power may be given to me to work this miracle in
the face of these people, to the end that I may win them to cease from
their iniquities, to believe upon Thee, the only true God, and to save
their souls alive. Amen."

Having finished his prayer, he took the bottle and shook it; then he
commanded Nodwengo to sit upon the ground and hold his father's head
upon his knee. Now, as all might see by many signs, the king was upon
the verge of death, for his lips were purple, his breathing was rare and
stertorous, and his heart stood well-nigh still.

"Open his mouth and hold down the tongue," said Owen.

The prince obeyed, pressing down the tongue with a snuff spoon. Then
placing the neck of the bottle as far into the throat as it would reach,
Owen poured the fluid it contained into the body of the king, who made a
convulsive movement and instantly seemed to die.

"He is dead," said one; "away with the false prophet!"

"It may be so, or it may not be so," answered Owen. "Wait for the half
of an hour; then, if he shows no sign of life, do what you will with
me."

"It is well," they said; "so be it."