---

CHAPTER 1: Aboard the "Congo Hope"

---

"Yep," Rodger Reed pushed another empty tumbler aside, "when I get back from this safari with a lot of fine specimens for my zoo, I'll bring you along. You're a fine drink mixer, Johnny."

The bartender grinned. Rodge grinned back. He was pleased with the bar; pleased with the whole steamboat, "Congo Hope"; pleased with his expedition. For years he had dreamed of penetrating Africa's darkness for rare animals to put in his park back in Evansville.

"Yes, sir!" Rodge banged a pudgy fist on the table, "I'll make the New York zoo look like a hicktown proposition!"

"Single-handed, Pop?"

Eleanor Reed, lovely in white, put an affectionate arm about her father's shoulders.

"Oh, uh --?"

Rodge looked up shamefacedly at this daughter and the man at her side. Nevin took in the empty tumblers with a sarcastic eye. His idea of an expedition was not drinking -- it was shooting everything in sight. For the past hour he had banged away at the crocodiles basking in the sun. Jigger, his valet, had taken count. All in all, Nevin had shot twenty of the beasts and was feeling very much like a big game hunter.

"Eleanor," Rodger Reed patted her hand, "what are you going to do with this sour-puss fiancé of yours? You'll have to train him to enjoy life."

NevIn was bored and looked it. But he was Penny Reed's choice of a husband for Eleanor. Rodge thought of this and asked, "Where's your mother, Eleanor?"

"In her cabin," Eleanor sighed, "reading another book on 'How to Cure Hay Fever' -- and complaining about the drums."

Up to this moment Rodge had not noticed the beating sound. Now he rose ponderously, and strode to a window. The girl followed. "So!" he beamed. "This is Africa!"

Eleanor's eyes shone like stars. "Yes, Dad! Don't you feel like an explorer?"

"Yep! and the bartender's been telling me of an expedition company. They have good guides -- men that know how to bag game. I'll get some fine specimens. I can just picture myself coming down Main Street! It'll be just as good as a circus parade!"

"Better!" Eleanor gave his arm a squeeze.

Nevin was pacing nervously. "That music's beginning to get on my nerves!"

"Is it?" Eleanor questioned. "I rather like it."

"Sure!" Rodge picked up a basket from the table and drummed on it. "The drums of AFRICA!"

"Drums of Africa or no drums of Africa," snapped Nevin, "That noise just burns me up!"

Penny Reed, entering the bar at that moment, looked every bit as annoyed as Nevin. She came at once to her husband's side. "Rodge! I wish you would -- " she began insistently, and sneezed. "I wish you would go to that savage's cabin and stop that dreadful noise."

Despite her hay fever, Penny was still pretty, still golden. But Ridge went on drumming on the basket. "Ridge!" Penny demanded. "You go and tell him to stop!"

"I will not! said Rodger Reed.

Nevin came forward with elaborate courtesy. "I'll go, Penny," he said and started for the door.

But the purser, who had drawn into the circle, put in a hasty word. "May I tell him? His Excellency might resent the intrusion." Bowing slightly, the purser went out.

Penny followed him with a lifted eyebrow. "His excellency?" Her voice went up several notes, then down. "I'd like to get a look at that noisemaker!"

The purser craved no such look. He went with lagging steps to the cabin of Ben Alleu Bey. His Excellency was reclining upon a couch. At his side sat a native girl. Another whirled to the music of the native orchestra. 

Walu, His Excellency's secretary, answered the purser's knock. His costume, as the others, was native, yet he wore horn-rimmed glasses. 

"I beg your pardon," said the purser, "but would you tell his Excellency that some of the passengers have requested a little respite from the music?"

The secretary's face was a study of honest indignation. "His Excellency is in the habit of giving orders!" he said loftily. "--not taking them!"

The purser shrugged his shoulders and walked back toward the salon. Eleanor and Nevin joined him.

"Isn't he going to stop?" Nevin snapped.

The purser shrugged helplessly. 

"Who is he?" Eleanor asked  curiously.

"He's Ben Alleu Bey!" said the purser.

"Acts as if he owns the boat!" Nevin barked.

The purser smiled. "It's quite possible he does," he said.

---

CHAPTER II:  Ben Alleu Bey

---

Both the purser's words and his tone aroused curiosity. "Ben Alleu Bey is an odd name," said Nevin. What's his nationality?"

"I don't know," the purser admitted. "He comes from around Nyamgira, deep in the jungle. He controls all the natives back there. Has a lot of emerald 
mines, too."

Eleanor was greatly interested. "Is he young?" she asked. "Good looking? Married?"

"I understand," the purser smiled, "he has a hundred odd wives." 

The three strolled along the promenade deck. 

"He's quite an extraordinary chap," the purser went on. "Travels the capitals of Europe every year. Spends his money like water. Brings back the best that civilization has to offer?"

"What does he do with it?" questioned Eleanor.

"I haven't seen it myself," the purser admitted, "but I've heard he has a beautiful palace back in the jungle -- lives like a king."

The three had reached the open window of His Excellency's cabin. Eleanor, with normal feminine curiosity, glanced in to meet the interested gaze of Ben Aleu Bey. Hurriedly she moved onward. 

"Walu!" His Excellency quickly summoned his secretary and spoke an order in Swahili. Walu produced a large jewel box. Ben Alleu Bey selected a ruby. A few moments later Walu was presenting it to the astonished girl. 

"His Excellency," Walu bowed deeply, "extends his humble greetings to the most beautiful lady." 

Automatically Eleanor accepted the jewel. But Nevin took one look at the glowing ruby and let out a roar. "Send it right back, Eleanor!" Snatching the jewel he thrust it back into Walu's hands. "Take this back -- boss -- sorry?"

"Why, certainly," Walu bowed politely. "I understand perfectly. Thank you." Bowing again graciously, he returned to his master with the rejected gift. Ben Alleu Bey took it without a word -- smiling. 

The "Congo Hope" neared the end of her run. Presently the river boat was tied up to the Toocompac Dock and the gangplank lowered.  The dock presented a scene of confusion and noise which increased as the passengers began to debark. Located at the far end of the were the safari headquarters. A sign advertised that any expedition could be completely outfitted. The manager of the safari company was now in earnest conversation with Olaf Flemish, one of the guides. 

"Listen, Olaf, they're rich Americans -- want to bring back rare animals for a zoo. You be a good boy, or it's the last expedition you'll ever do for this company."

"Don't worry about me, chief," Olaf gave his expansive sun helmet a twist. "How long do they want to be out?"

"Five or six weeks. And, remember -- no hootch!"

The Reed party were on the dock, segregating part of their luggage. Looking up suddenly, Eleanor saw Ben Alleu Bey coming down the gangplank. There were beautiful girls, servants laden with baggage, bundles and crates. Eager to obtain a picture of the colorful procession, Eleanor quickly reached for her camera. As she was focusing it, one of the servants, heavily laden and unable to see her, bumped into the camera. It was torn from her grasp and fell heavily. At that moment Ben Alleu Bey drew near. Shouting in his native tongue, he raised his walking stick and beat the poor man unmercifully about the head and shoulders. 

"Stop!" Eleanor cried in horror. "Oh -- stop!"

Thinking to make an impression on the girl, His Excellency continued the cruel beating. Rushing at him, Eleanor pulled the cane from his hands and struck him heavily across the neck. The wives and servants gasped in astonishment at the audacity of this white girl. But Eleanor faced the jungle monarch without a trace of fear. "Who do you think you are!" she demanded angrily, and, without waiting for an answer, stalked off to her father's party.

Walu came excitedly to the side of his master. "What happened?" he asked breathlessly.

Ben Alleu Bey quietly rubbed his neck where he had been struck. "Find out who's guiding the Reed party," he said calmly.

---

CHAPTER III: Two On Safari

---

All was commotion in the Reed party. Rodge worked strenuously, waving and shouting commands to Jigger and the sweating porters. Penny's excitement was almost bringing on a fit of hysterics. Eleanor had all she could do to calm both her father and mother. Nevin stood by, looking bored. 

The manager of the safari company, with Olaf Flemish at his side, strode into the scene of confusion and addressed Rodge. "Beg pardon -- Mr. Rodger Reed?"

"That's me!" Rodge said jovially. "I'm the manager of the Safari Co." The two men shook hands; then the manager introduced Olaf. "This is Olaf Flemish. He's guiding your safari."

At that moment, one of the natives dropped a crate marked "Handle With Care." The box split open and a bunch of oddly assorted mechanical toys spilled out on the dock. The impact sent a merry-go-round spinning; a jointed bulldog wagged his head; a tin soldier began marching in a circle. The unloading stopped as the natives gazed in astonishment at the antics of the toys. Eleanor collapsed in giggles on the nearest box, but Penny shook a wrathful finger in her husband's face. 

"I told you not to bring those silly knickknacks along! What do you think we are trying to do, Rodge -- buy Manhattan from the Indians?" She sneezed violently.

"But, dear," Rodge said feebly, "those toys are going to help us make friends with the hostile natives. All the best explorers take them."

Olaf now proved himself equal to his task. Under his direction the native porters collected the scattered toys and baggage. Soon the party moved on toward the town. Olaf, however, received an urgent message. At the first opportunity he left the Reeds and hurried to a secluded spot on the outskirts of Toocompac. He was met by Ben Alleu Bey and Walu. Their conversation was brief. Presently His Excellency handed Olaf a heavy purse. 

"Am I paying you well?" he inquired. "You understand my plan perfectly?"

"Oh, sure -- " Olaf hesitated. "But how am I going to alibi the girl's disappearance?"

"You do not trust me?" Ben Alleu Bey asked pointedly.

"Yes," Olaf jingled the money in his pockets, "I trust you."

His Excellency nodded in dismissal. "You will hear from me later."

Olaf returned thoughtfully to the Reed party and Ben Alleu Bey joined his safari. He was assisted at once to the back of a beautiful elephant. The women rode in litters. Men with machets led the colorful caravan. The boxes, bales, and crates, containing refrigerators, radios, bathtubs, and all the other luxuries of civilization, moved on into the jungle. Unlike the safari of His Excellency, Rodger Reed's party was disorderly and confused. There were about twenty natives to carry the tents, guns and the cages for the animals Rodge hoped to capture. Gradually, under Olaf's direction, order was 
restored. Penny, however, continued to flutter about, and, when she was shown to a litter, she protested lustily.

"I don't want to get into that thing!"

"But, dear," Rodge tried to hide his annoyance, "you don't want to walk! Not in the jungle!"

Penny sighed. "I do wish we could stay and rest for a few days before we get started."

"Be a sport, Penny!" Rodge begged. "You can't be tired before we're even away!"

"I've been tired of this whole thing --" Penny sneezed, "-- ever since you first got the idea."

Jigger came up quickly. "That's four, Mrs. Reed!"

"Four what?" asked Rodge.

"Mrs. Reed only sneezed four times this past hour!" Jigger said triumphantly. 

This put Penny in a better humor. She settled back in the litter.

Olaf made his way to Rodge. "All ready! he announced. 

"Swell! cried Rodge. "Let's start!"

With Olaf shouting orders to the porters, the safari got under way. Close behind Penny, also in a litter and with six guns at his side, Nevin traveled in comfort. Eleanor, however, preferred to walk and tramped along at her father's side. "This is going to be fun, Dad!" she cried excitedly.

Rodge beamed down on her. "Didn't I tell you it was going to be swell!"

Reaching up, she kissed him. 

"Hmmm!" Rodge said proudly. "If Evansville could only see us now?"

The Reed safari moved on toward the jungle.

---

CHAPTER IV: The Watchers Overhead

---

The Reed safari had been out three days. In groups of two and three, the porters led the way, hacking a path through the entwined foliage. Suddenly Nevin's attention was attracted by a pretty parrot on a tree. He took a bead on it and fired. The bird dropped to the ground.

"Tch . .  tch!" Jigger objected. "That poor parrot!"

Rodge came up explosively. "Nevin," he roared, "cutout that shooting! I'm trying to collect animals -- not kill them!" Looking about he spotted Olaf and shouted to him. Olaf came over. "Why don't we camp here?" Rodge wiped his brow. "We can work out from this country."

"Well," Olaf hesitated, "if you don't care about the white crocodiles --"

"I never saw a white crocodile," Rodge barked. "Did you?"

"No," Olaf admitted, "but the natives in the Nylamgira country say that they exist." 

Eleanor and Nevin drew in close enough to hear this. 

"White crocodiles!" Nevin said unbelievingly. "If there ARE any, I'll bet Olaf went and painted them!"

"Why should he do that?" Eleanor put in.

"Huh," Nevin snorted, "he wants to make the trip last as long as he can. He's getting paid for it, isn't he?"

Olaf was getting paid for it -- by Rodge Reed and by His Excellency -- and Ben Alleu had given orders to bring this safari to a certain spot. Olaf Flemish meant to carry out that order. So, in search of white crocodiles, the Reed party moved on again. Penny, jouncing in her litter, complained to Jigger who walked at her side. "This is ridiculous! And people will probably never even believe us when we tell them about this trip!"

Jigger sighed deeply. 

"I'll believe anything ANYBODY tells me about Africa from now on!" Penny sneezed. "And when," she gasped, "we could have done something sensible! Hired a yacht and gone fishing! Even the President finds that exciting enough!"

The safari drew near to a tropical river. Here a herd of elephants were bathing. Emerging from the jungle, the safari prepared to ford the stream.

"Move on there!" Olaf gave sharp orders. "Hold up that hammock. Watch the guns! Overhead with them!"

Koki, a native, translated the commands. "Keep the luggage dry!" he said in dialect. "Move on, men. Go!"

Lifting Eleanor to his shoulders, Koki waded through the water. Rodge, Nevin, and Jigger waded along at his side. 

"Look at that!" Rodge splashed unheedingly, his eyes upon the herd. "That's a sight I wanted to see -- those big fellows! Look how they're enjoying themselves! Saturday night in Africa!"

"They look quite tame," Eleanor marked from her perch.

"Don't you believe it!" Olaf came alongside. "They're not!"

The elephants rollicked and splashed in the water. As was his habit, Nevin reached for his gun. 

"Put down that gun, Nevin!" Rodge said sharply. 

But Nevin's finger was on the trigger. Quick as a flash Olaf jogged his hand. The rifle exploded, but missed the target.

"You fool!" Olaf hissed. "Do you want them to stampede?"

At the sound of the gunfire the elephants rose in the river and raised a disturbed trumpeting. Angrily they lumbered toward the interlopers. Olaf's commands were sharp. Hurriedly, with their rifles aimed at the menacing elephants, the safari made for the opposite bank. 

"Don't fire again!" Olaf shouted. "Or they'll stampede!"

Koki passed on the order. "Hurry on, men!" he interpreted. "We're not safe in this river!"

They reached the bank in safety and Rodge turned furiously upon Nevin. "Why did you fire that shot?" he demanded.

"What do you mean! Nevin said indignantly. "There's a whole herd of them!"

Eleanor's scorn was in her face and her voice. "And it's not your fault the herd is still whole!"

"Then," Nevin relaxed on a log, "will you tell me why we brought all these guns?"

"To give ourselves an even break!" thundered Rodge. "Not just to mow down all the animals in Africa!"

On, into the dense growth, the safari moved. Later that day each of its members was occupied with his own special duties in pitching camp. There was a great deal to be done to make a place livable in the heart of the jungle. Everyone worked tirelessly in the heavy moist heat of the jungle. High overhead in the tree tops an interested audience of two watched the activity below. Tarzan, the jungle king, and Cheta, his pet chimpanzee, gazed in wonder and amazement at the strange party. As the people below moved back and forth, Tarzan and Cheta leaped from branch to branch to obtain a full view. 
Cheta carried a coconut and nibbled it from time to time. Suddenly Rodge took off his had and mopped his brow. Overhead, his action was minimized. Taking the coconut from Cheta, Tarzan put it on his head. Then, lifting it as though it were a hat, he wiped his face with a leaf. Cheta doubled up with laughter. 

Nevin came up to Rodge. They talked, then Nevin whistled. Watching and listening, Tarzan and Cheta saw Eleanor come in answer to the sound. Tarzan was eager to try the whistle magic. He blew a few notes, but no girl appeared. Now Rodge whistled and Penny appeared. Tarzan was determined to make the magic work for him. He whistled and gestured, but still no girl came in answer. Frowning, Tarzan stared down. Nevin and Eleanor were talking earnestly. Then, arm in arm, they started off into the jungle. Motioning to Cheta, Tarzan followed them overhead. 

Tarzan was not the only watcher. A snarling leopard on a near-by limb took in their every move. Tarzan, from his higher position, saw the beast. Just as the leopard was about to spring Tarzan gave a wild cry of command. The leopard heard and obeyed, sneaking away into the jungle.

"That cry!" Eleanor gasped. "It sounded almost human!"

"It shouldn't be! said Nevin positively. 

Unmindful of the danger they had so narrowly escaped; unmindful of the watchers overhead, Eleanor and Nevin walked on deeper into the jungle. 
 

---

CHAPTER V: "Who Are You?"

---

Coming at length to a marsh, Eleanor and Nevin, looked about for a means to cross it. "We can't get over this!" the girl protested.

"Sure," Nevin pointed, "we can cross on those fallen logs."

Nevin worked his way cautiously, helping Eleanor to follow. Successfully Nevin crossed, but Eleanor, missing her footing, plunged into the marsh mire.

"Nevin!" she cried frantically. "Get me out! Help!"

On hands and knees the man crawled along the log. "Here!" he reached down. "Try and catch my hand."

Soon they discovered that all efforts to pull her out were useless. The mire was almost like quicksand.

"I've got to get something to pull you out," Nevin decided and crawled back to firm ground. 

"Oh, Nevin!" Eleanor was panic-stricken. "Come back! Don't leave me! Shout for help!"

But Nevin hurried on toward camp. As he disappeared, Tarzan and Cheta, who had witnessed this clumsy business with astonishment leaped down and seated themselves on the log. Terrified, Eleanor gazed at this strange, wild man and his companion. At last she found her voice. "Who -- who are you?" she breathed.

Tarzan whistled as he had seen the men do at camp. The girl stayed right where she was; however, she understood his gesture. "YOU want ME to come there?" she asked wonderingly.

Tarzan smiled and motioned again. 

"YOU come HERE and get me out of this!" Eleanor motioned from herself to him. 

Tarzan understood the gesture. He startled her with the suddenness and ease with which he pulled her out of the mud to the log beside him. Pointing a finger at himself he said by way of introduction: "Tar-zan!"

"Tarzan?" said Eleanor. "Oh, how do you do!" She pointed to herself. "I'm Eleanor."

Tarzan motioned to himself then to her. "Tarzan!" he beamed. "Eleanor!"

"That's right," Eleanor tried to smile. Then realizing what a mess she was, she disgustedly wiped away some of the clinging mud. Thinking to be of assistance, Tarzan helpfully grabbed her muddy garments and tore off a handful. Eleanor yelped and hit him as hard as she could. Thinking it was a game, Tarzan hit her back. She tumbled again into the mire. This seemed terribly funny to Tarzan. He laughed lustily. Eleanor was so angry, she cried. Tarzan stopped laughing. At the sight of her tears Tarzan's face softened. He reached down to help her out. 

"You go away from me you -- you brute!" Eleanor screamed. "Don't you touch me again -- I'll -- I'll bite you!"

Tarzan did not understand. He was about to grab her when Nevin's voice, from a distance, startled him. Grabbing hold of a limb he swung up and out of sight, followed closely by Cheta. No sooner had he disappeared than Nevin, carrying a rope, came forward with Jigger and Koki.

"Here we are," Nevin climbed onto the log. "Wasn't I quick?"

"Very," Eleanor said sarcastically. "I've only had time to be rescued once since you left!"

Nevin threw her a rope. With great effort, Nevin and Jigger pulled her out as Koki steadied the log. 

"My other rescuer didn't find it such hard work," Eleanor said ungratefully as she stepped to firm ground. 

"Oh, yeah?" said Nevin. "Hey, what're you talking about?"

"Nothing," the girl said airily. "Just that a big brute came along while you were gone and pulled me out. 

They started back toward camp. Jigger drew in close to Eleanor. "Were you molested by apes?" he questioned.

"No!" said Eleanor. "The man helped me and the ape just sat on the log and watched."

Nevin was annoyed. "Eleanor, you know there's no other man nearer here than our camp."

"There is, too!" the girl contradicted. "He came right out of the treetops in a one-piece bathing suit."

The three men looked at the girl as if she were out of her mind. "You've got a fever!" Nevin cried. 

"I have not!" Eleanor retorted. "The man helped and the ape watched, I tell you!"

"Then," Nevin said reasonably, "how did you get back in the swamp?"

"He pushed me in again!" This statement convinced the men that she was not herself. 

"I'm afraid," Jigger told Nevin confidentially, "this heat is too much for Miss Reed!" This, though Eleanor sore she was perfectly well, was the firm belief of her rescuers. They continued on their way through the tall grass. A lioness with two cubs sensed their approach and crouched against the earth. But Nevin had spotted her and raised his gun. 

"It's a lioness!" Eleanor followed Nevin's aim. "Don't, Nevin! Her cubs are with her!"

But Nevin fired. The mother staggered, and then limped into the grass. Bewildered by the shot, the cubs remained where they were. Glancing resentfully at Nevin, Eleanor picked them up. "These little rascals aren't your prizes, Nevin. I'm adopting them!"

So, bedraggled and muddy, and carrying the cubs, Eleanor came into camp. Rodge and Penny rushed to her in great relief, plying her with questions. Eleanor made her same answers. 

"A man pulled me out while the monkey watched."

"What is all this? Rodge asked in a worried tone. 

"It's true, Dad. A man and a chimpanzee dropped down out of the trees -- "

Nevin shook his head sadly. "She was still in the swamp when we got back," he said. "I think you'd better get her to bed." 

Penny thought so, too. Taking her daughter by one muddy arm, she led her off to their tent. Still clinging to the cubs, Eleanor marched unwillingly along. Eleanor put the cubs on the floor. They tumbled about for a few minutes then curled up in a ball sound asleep. Eleanor changed her wet, muddy clothes. She lay down and fell asleep almost immediately. She had not realized how tired she was. 

---

CHAPTER VI: Cheta Is Caged -- And Freed

---

The camp was dark and silent when Eleanor, in clean clothes, came out of her tent. She was still carrying the cubs. "Poor little dears," she murmured softly. "I forgot all about your suppers."

"Walking across the clearing Eleanor made her way to the cook tent. As she lifted the flap of the door, there came from the jungle the quiet call of the wounded lioness. Startled, Eleanor paused to listen. Then, as the call was not repeated, she went into the cook tent and busied herself warming some milk for the hungry cubs. 

The lioness, moving silently, was coming closer and closer to the camp. The cubs, sensing the approach of their mother, began to whine. In the treetops, Tarzan and Cheta slept peacefully. But a large parrot on a higher branch cackled noisily. He had seen the approach of the lioness. The bird's shrill voice wakened Cheta. She screamed at him to be silent. Then, glancing toward the ground, she saw the lioness close to the cook tent. Terrified, Cheta leaped up and down to arouse Tarzan, chattering a warning. Tarzan woke at once. One glance at the lioness, which was now about to enter the cook 
tent, and Tarzan swung down to the ground. Cheta followed closely.

When Eleanor saw the wounded mother, she was too terrified to scream. The lioness stalked forward, but her attention was at once diverted. Tarzan entered the tent. The lioness jumped at him and the two rolled tussling on the ground. It was a short, sharp battle. The lioness escaped from Tarzan's grasp and darted back to the cook tent. She looked at the cubs, not knowing which one to choose. Then, selecting one, she crept out at one end of the tent as Tarzan and Cheta entered at the other. Tarzan was quick to see that one of the cubs had been left behind. Picking up the little fellow, he ran after 
the lioness to return the cub. Cheta, however, remained in the tent and began exploring. She had the place to herself, for Eleanor was outside by now.

"Eleanor!" Rodge rushed up to her. "What is it?"

"The lioness!" gasped the girl "She came for her cubs."

Nevin came running toward them asking questions as he ran. "Lioness?" he said. "What scared her off."

"Tarzan did!" Eleanor exclaimed. "That man from the jungle! He fought her!"

Ridge looked at his daughter questioningly. "How much quinine did you take Eleanor?" he asked.

Before the girl could say that she had taken nothing, there came a lusty sneeze from inside the tent. 

"Is your mother in there?" Rodge asked.

"Why -- no," Eleanor said slowly.

Cheta had discovered the pepper pot. Sniffing it again, she gave another and a larger sneeze.

Jiggs came up in time to hear this second explosion. "What's up?" he questioned. 

At that moment the light in the cook tent went out. Cheta, realizing suddenly that the box she was holding was causing her to sneeze, threw it away. It had struck the lamp, plunging the room into darkness. 

Rodge jerked a thumb toward the unlighted tent. "Maybe that Tarzan IS in there! he said hoarsely.

Nevin strode forward. "I'll find out! he declared. "Come on Jigger. Come with me." The two dashed into the cook tent. Cheta sneezed again. 

"Is that you, Mrs. Reed?" Jiggs asked timidly.

At this point Cheta came up and grabbed hold of Jigger's leg. "Help, sir!" screamed the terrified man, throwing his arms about in the darkness. "Something captured me!"

Nevin had righted the lamp. Now he had a good view of Cheta as she stood chattering unhappily, her eyes streaming from the effects of the pepper. "It's all right, Jigger," Nevin breathed more freely. "She won't hurt you!"

Jigger's cries had brought Rodge to the scene. Behind him came Eleanor and Penny. "Did you catch him, Nevin?" Rodge said excitedly.

"No," Nevin said disgustedly. "Just a monkey. The fellow -- if there WAS one -- got away."

"If there WAS one! Eleanor cried indignantly. "Who do you think saved me from the lioness. This is the same monkey that was with him at the mud hole!"

Rodge was giving Cheta a critical inspection. "She's a good specimen," he told Jigger. "Put her in a cage."

Reluctantly Jigger led the helpless, crying Cheta out of the tent. The others emerged shortly.

"Well," Rodge yawned, "the excitement seems to be over for the night. Let's go to bed."

As quiet settled over the camp, Tarzan stalked the lioness, swinging through the tree by one hand and carrying the cub in the other. The mother paused to wash the human touch from her one cub and Tarzan dropped down at her side, depositing the other. The lioness repaid him with a grateful look, but Tarzan scarcely noticed. Leaping into the trees, he searched for Cheta. Unable to locate her, he swung to the ground.

The pepper had worn away. Cheta, now recovered, was furious to find herself in the cage. She chattered and screamed, shaking and pushing at the bars. Suddenly, Tarzan appeared. Seeing him, Cheta was instantly silent. Tarzan had never seen a cage before and he was puzzled. He felt about aimlessly for a few moments. Cheta, whimpering pathetically, struck her face through the bars, watching him with hopeful eyes. Suddenly Tarzan became impatient with this thing which kept his friend from him. In a burst of rage which added power to his terrific strength, he wrenched the bars apart. Cheta 
tumbled to his feet. For a moment Tarzan fondled the chimp. Then he swung up into the trees. Close behind him leaped the jubilant Cheta. 

---

CHAPTER VII: An Unusual Hunt

---

Every member of the Reed safari slept -- save one. Olaf Flemish, awaiting orders from His Excellency, lay in his hammock wide-awake. Presently there came through the jungle night a shrill cackling call. Instantly Olaf sat upright and looked over at Jigger, who shared the tent with him. Jigger was sound asleep. Stealthily the guide reached for his boots. Silently he emerged from the tent and moved off toward the jungle. Koki, lying on the ground, suddenly opened his eyes. Turning his head, he watched Olaf till the guide was hidden in the dense growth. Feeling sure that his exit was unnoticed, Olaf 
quickened his steps and soon approached a native concealed among the trees. 

"The bridge, Bwanna! said Ben Alleu Bey's servant. 

"All right," Olaf nodded. "I'll get them across it. Tell His Excellency to have his men there."

"Oiu, Bwanna," the native said softly and drew from his pocket a metal case with feathered darts. "Be sure keep point this away from mouth when you blow," cautioned the native. "Him kill quick!"

Taking the blow-pipe, Olaf nodded his assent. The native bowed and disappeared into the thicket. Olaf returned quickly to camp. Without moving a muscle, Koki watched him as he crept back to his hammock. 

All was quiet in the camp until morning dawned. The sun had given Jigger some courage. With an armful of bananas he tiptoed among the cages of captured animals to the spot where he had left Cheta. At the sight of the empty cage and gaping bars Jigger was at first amazed, then bewildered, and then frankly terrified. Dropping the bananas, he dashed from the spot. The white members of the safari were having breakfast as a Jigger came forward excitedly with his news. He burst into the tent. 

"She's gone! he gasped, motioning toward the cage. "Gone!"

"How could that happen?" Rodge rose hurriedly from the table and rushed toward the cage. The others followed closely. All paused in amazement at the sight of the bent bars. "Who --" Rodge's eyes bulged, "-- who could have done that?"

"I know!" Eleanor cried excitedly. "It was Tarzan! He's strong enough to have done it easily!"

"Nonsense!" snapped Nevin. "It would have taken ten men to bend those bars!"

"Look!" Jigger pointed to the ground. "There are footprints here."

Rodge bent to look. "Bare feet, too," he cried. "And just one set of prints." He looked thoughtfully at his daughter. "Maybe Eleanor hasn't had a sunstroke! Maybe there IS a Tarzan?"

High on a limb overhead and amused at their bewilderment, stood Tarzan watching the party below. Cheta came and stood at this side. Neither Tarzan nor his friend understood what was said, but Nevin suddenly came to a decision. He meant to go in search of this rare specimen called Tarzan. Nevin told the men his plan. Excitedly the men prepared for this unusual hunt. At length they gathered. Rodge, Nevin, and Jigger, together with Koki, Olaf, and a couple of safari natives, comprised the group which was now ready to leave camp. Penny stood by placidly, but Eleanor was discontented and showed it. 

"Now, Eleanor," Nevin donned his sun helmet, "you stay with your mother right here in camp till we round up this Tarzan fellow."

Eleanor put out a restraining hand. "But, Nevin," she pleaded, "why can you possibly want to capture HIM!"

Penny came to his side and added her word. "Yes, Nevin, why?" She sneezed, then added, "He's not an animal!"

Nevin's face was a study of noble purpose. "I'm not going to have any mysterious fellow hanging around our camp," he said largely. "Might murder us all in the night!"

Eleanor turned toward her father for understanding. But Rodge nodded. It was evident that he agreed with Nevin. Tarzan was a menace and must be controlled. In desperation Eleanor tried again to influence her fiancé. "But Nevin," she argued, "he's shown himself to be a friend -- not an enemy!"

"We'll see when we find him!" Nevin said stubbornly. He motioned to the other men and the group started off toward the jungle. Penny watched them for a moment. Then, shrugging her shoulders, she settled comfortably into a hammock and reached for a book. She was soon engrossed in her book and paid little attention to her daughter.  Eleanor, however, could not relax so readily. Despite Nevin's orders, she followed the men slowly to the edge of the clearing. There she stood undecidedly.

Glancing up from her book Penny called, "Come back, Eleanor! You're to stay here till they catch that wild man." 

Eleanor looked about for Tarzan in the tree tops. He was nowhere in sight. He had evidently gone farther into the jungle. She was near the edge of the clearing when Penny called again. "Eleanor, there is a box of chocolates in my suitcase. Get them for me, will you, please?" Eleanor went back to the camp and found the chocolates for her mother. Then she went on down the path toward the jungle again. 

Penny's voice was sharp, as she called again. "Eleanor! You're not to leave until they catch that man!"

Slowly the girl turned and looked back at her mother. "That's just what I don't want them to do!" she cried. 

---

CHAPTER VIII: Aerial Acrobatics

---

Despite her mother's urging, Eleanor remained at the edge of the clearing. She watched the hunting party until the jungle swallowed up all trace of the men. High in the tree overhead, Tarzan followed her every motion. Suddenly he whistled and beckoned in the way he had learned the day before and which was so interesting to him. Attracted by the whistle, Eleanor looked up. Casting a quick glance over her shoulder to make sure that her mother was not looking, she sneaked toward the tree in which Tarzan was perched. Tarzan was delighted with the successful result of his whistle. He felt that the whistling trick, by its magic, had summoned for him a new sort of playmate.

"Eleanor!" Penny said sharply, glancing up from her book. Her call ended in a scream of terror, for, suddenly, Tarzan swung down from the trees. Snatching up the approaching girl, he leaped upward with her in his arms. "Eleanor!" Penny gasped, and collapsed in a faint.

Despite Eleanor's screams of surprise and alarm, Tarzan carried her easily through the trees and out of sight. The safari natives, hearing her cries, rushed to the clearing in time to see them disappear in the thick foliage. The natives stood a moment in stunned astonishment. Then three of the men ran off into the jungle to tell Rodge of the astounding abduction. Eleanor continued to kick and struggle, but as they mounted to a dizzy height, terror and dizziness caused her to faint. Tarzan swung her limp figure to one of his favorite spots, a broad, mossy branch high up in a tree. Gently he eased her down. Then he sat regarding her with pleasurable curiosity till she began to revive. Presently the girl's eyes opened. She glared at her abductor. Then, realizing her dangerous position and distance from the ground, she cried in terror and threw her arms around Tarzan.  The jungle man was happily surprised. He was not accustomed to hugging, but it was pleasant. He grinned and moved closer. Eleanor immediately drew away from him Realizing that the girl was afraid of the height, and wanting another hug, Tarzan gave her a little push. Again Eleanor grabbed him. 

"If this is a joke," she cried angrily, "you certainly have a primitive sense of humor!" She pushed him away, and went on thoughtfully, "And you're certainly not civilized enough to go in for kidnapping?

Tarzan was glad to see her a little less angry. He nodded his head happily as Eleanor clung to him. At that moment there came a crashing through the branches. Eleanor clutched frantically at Tarzan again as Cheta swung into view, alighting near them. Seeing it was only the chimp, Eleanor was disgusted for her show of fear. Deliberately she looked down, measuring the distance to the ground. She started to climb down, but turned back quickly, hugging the tree trunk with both hands. Tarzan looked questioningly at the girl as if to say, "Is this what you wanted to do?" and began to swing from branch to 
branch. 

Eleanor's eyes were wide with wonder. The jungle man realized this was admiration for him and, like a little boy, he showed off is prowess. Gloriously he went through his acrobatics, somersaulting, leaping from limb to limb, doing aerial tricks that would put a circus performer to shame. In open-mouthed amazement, Eleanor watched the aerial acrobatics. Little by little she was so overcome with interest in what she was seeing, and with admiration of the physical beauty and power of this amazing man, that she grew less aware of her precarious position. 

Tarzan, thrilled by the joy of what he was doing, began to shout out of pure animal spirits. From the shouting he went on to give his own wild call. Eleanor forgot her fears. She saw only the remarkable performance. Her ears rang with the wild and glorious cry. The girl was not alone in her glad response. The wild beasts of the jungle heard the call, and, forsaking their various haunts, came in answer. Soon there were gathered at the foot of the tree an assortment of animals. An elephant, a zebra, a group of monkeys, and several lions stood below but looked upward toward their friend. In her fascination at Tarzan's antics, Eleanor had been unaware of the approach of the animals. Then, suddenly, they cried in answer. 

Looking down, Eleanor's eyes lighted upon the group of lions at the foot of the tree. The sight of the beasts sent the girl into a frenzy of fright. Hugging the tree-trunk she screamed in high-pitched terror. "Tarzan! Tarzan! Tarzan!"

Quickly the jungle king clambered to her side. Once more the girl threw her arms about him, sobbing. "Send them away! Tarzan! Please make them go away! I'm scared!" She pointed at the lions -- then motioned off toward the jungle. 

Tarzan understood fear. He had felt Cheta's body tremble when he had rescued her in times of danger. Gently he removed himself form the girl's clinging grasp. Raising his hands to his mouth, he let out a mighty howl. The sound rose and fell, reaching out into the secret, wild places of the jungle. Scarcely had the echo died when the lions below gave their answer. They replied with challenging roars. Then, in obedience to the command, they galloped off into the thicket. The elephant, zebra, and monkeys also heard and obeyed, returning as swiftly as they had come. 

Eleanor was now reduced to complete subjection. Tarzan was master of the situation. Gratefully she looked up into his face, smiling her complete trust. Cheta, too, had understood the girl's terror. Sympathetically the chimp sat near her, offering a coconut. Eleanor gazed at it helplessly.

Tarzan and Cheta exchanged a questioning look. Then the wise Cheta, realizing this creature did not know what to do with the fruit, broke it and nibbled a piece in demonstration. Tarzan now realized that he was hungry himself. One coconut was not enough for the three of them. He started down in search of food. 

"Tarzan!" Eleanor hurled herself at him. "Take me with you! Don't leave me alone!"

Motioning her to his back, Tarzan held her secure with one hand. With the other he swung easily through the trees with Cheta at his side. Through the tree tops Eleanor rode. She clung tightly to Tarzan's back. How incredible this was to be swinging lightly from one branch to another. Farther and farther into the tangled jungle where men seldom traveled the two went. Parrots screeched and monkeys chattered as they passed. Eleanor was astonished at herself. She thoroughly enjoyed the ride!

---

CHAPTER IX: Tarzan Plays Host

---

Arriving at the spot where he found his richest food supply, Tarzan gently lowered Eleanor to the ground. He motioned Cheta to hold the girl's hand while he went in search of food. 

"I'm not going to run away," smiled the girl.

Tarzan understood. Smiling he busied himself and soon had gathered an armful of coconuts. Breaking one, and holding the two halves together to retain the milk, he handed it to Eleanor. She tasted it, finding it refreshing. "It's good, Tarzan!" she said gratefully.

"Good! the jungle man repeated, beaming. "Good! Elean-or!" While Tarzan played host to Eleanor, Rodge and his hunting party searched the jungle to capture him. Presently the three natives overtook the men and began an excited jabbering. Koki, his eyes wide with alarm, translated the news.  "Boys say Tarzan take white girl from camp!"

"What!" roared Rodge. "Which way did they go?"

"Boys say," Koki explained, "they show you -- come!" They all dashed off toward the thicket. 

Tarzan, Eleanor, and Cheta had finished their meal. Empty coconut shells were scattered all about. Now the three started again through the jungle, with Tarzan in the lead. Presently Eleanor stopped. 

"Elean-or?" Tarzan paused, waiting for her. 

"I'm so hot and tired, Tarzan!" the girl came wearily to his side. "I want to go home."

"Home?" Tarzan repeated, not understanding. 

"Yes," Eleanor said urgently. She wiped the perspiration from her forehead. 

Tarzan thought he understood what was meant by "home." Flicking the perspiration from his own forehead, he pointed ahead. Grabbing the girl's hand, he led her onward, and down to the edge of a clear, clean pool. Motioning Eleanor to follow, Tarzan gave a whoop of delight and dived into the cool water. Eleanor was no longer afraid, and the water was very tempting. Pulling off her boots and tossing aside her skirt, she stood poised upon the rocks, a lovely figure in the sun. A moment later she, too, plunged into the tranquil pool.

Again Tarzan showed off boyishly, but this time Eleanor could hold her own with him. She matched him stunt for stunt as they swam and dived among the tangled flowers and vines in the water. Like a couple of beautiful water animals they played together until the daylight came to a soft dusk. Realizing her weariness, Tarzan fashioned a mossy bed. Here, comfortable and relaxed in her dry clothes, Eleanor rested. Soon she was fast asleep. In wonderment Tarzan sat and gazed tenderly upon this delightful creature. Her dark hair trailed softly across a rock. Reaching out a timid hand, Tarzan stroked it gently. It grew darker. Chirping, flutterings of birds, dim calls and roars came from the jungle on all sides. All was peaceful and secure. Little by little the watchful Tarzan grew drowsy, till at last he fell asleep on sentinel duty. 

Cheta awoke, next morning, with the sun and roused her friend. Making sure that Eleanor was all right, Tarzan examined the empty coconut shells strewn about, and then started off to forage for breakfast. Cheta frolicked at his side, chattering gaily. As they walked among the trees, Tarzan sharpened the end of a wooden spear with his knife. Looking up, he spotted a cluster of coconuts in a tree top. He lifted his spear and hurled it upward. Both the spear and the cluster of fruit fell to the ground. While Tarzan went farther into the jungle for more food, and while Eleanor slept peacefully, 

Rodge and his party drew in close to the pool. All through the night they had struggled through the jungle. Now they staggered with fatigue. Aimlessly, from time to time, they took turns in shouting Eleanor's name. "Eleanor! Eleanor!" the cries spread out feebly. The girl woke abruptly, startled at hearing her name called, and puzzled at her whereabouts. She listened intently. "Eleanor! Where are you?"

Recognizing Nevin's voice, she shouted back joyously. "Nevin! Dad! Here I am!"

Rodge and his party forgot fatigue and discomfort in their great relief. 

"Here!" Eleanor cried loudly. "This way!"

The men plunged into the thicket in the direction of the girl's voice. With renewed energy they threshed their way to the pool Emerging from the thicket, they presently came to the spot where Eleanor, looking none the worse for her adventure, awaited them. "My darling!" Rodge held out his arms. "I thought we'd lost you!"

Eleanor flew to him. "Oh, Dad! she laughed and cried at once. "I thought so, too!"

---

CHAPTER X: White Crocodiles

---

Eleanor was plied with questions. Was she all right? What had happened? Who had carried her off?

"It was Tarzan." the girl kept her eye on her father. "He just sort of showed me the sights of the jungle."

Nevin lifted his gun and looked about. "Where is he? Which way did he go? We'll get him this time!"

Eleanor realized Tarzan's danger. Looking directly at Rodge she said, "He left me here early yesterday. I stayed, thinking you'd find me. Tarzan must be miles away by now."

Nevin was disappointed and a little unbelieving, but Rodge was too relieved to have his daughter back to think long of anything else. "Well," he put his arm about her shoulders, "let's get back to your mother now as fast as we can."

"Poor mother!" Eleanor said contritely. "She must be frightened half to death!"

They started back to the camp. As they moved away from the pool, Eleanor turned her head and looked hopefully for Tarzan. He was not there. He had not come back.

It was much later when the jungle man returned and Cheta returned, their arms filled wit coconuts, grapes, and other fruits.  Tarzan's disappointment was keen when he discovered that the girl had gone. The fruit tumbled, unnoticed, from his hands. Cheta knew he felt badly and reached up a sympathetic hand. They stood so a moment, and then swung up into the trees and away. 

Eleanor had returned to her own people, but her heart remained in the jungle. Her listlessness and inattention caused some concern. Nevin was now occupied in cleaning his gun. Penny, in a near-by hammock, was eating chocolates. Eleanor came toward them restlessly. 

"Have some dear?" Penny offered the box. 

"No thanks," the girl said dully. 

Penny looked at her closely. "I believe you've lost your appetite. 

"She has," Nevin went on cleaning, "if she refuses candy."

Penny looked searchingly at her daughter. "Eleanor, is anything wrong?"

"NO, mother! the girl turned away in annoyance. 

Rodge and Olaf joined the group and Eleanor's loss of appetite was forgotten for the moment. "Sir," Olaf was saying earnestly, "I think we should break camp and go on!"

"Why," Rodge looked over toward teh cages, "I'm satisfied with the specimens I've bagged here."

"Yes," Olaf said pointedly, "but you haven't got your white crocodiles!"

Rodge pushed his helmet back on his head and mopped his brow. "Umm," he murmured. "Where did you say we'd find them?"

Encouraged by his interest, Olaf grew enthusiastic. "They're supposed to be pretty thick on the other side of a river a few kilometers from here. There's a bridge where we can cross --"

"A bridge!" Rodge broke in. "In this jungle?"

"It's crude," Olaf admitted, "but quite safe. The natives built it generations ago."

Rodge was won over. "All right. Tell the porters to pack up!"

Nevin, Eleanor, and Penny had listened with varying emotions.  Grasping his gun, Nevin got up eagerly. Penny, too, weary of the mosquitoes, was willing to move on. But Eleanor, who had been so listless, rushed to her father. "Oh, Dad -- don't go! You've had such good luck here!"

"No, I haven't," her father contradicted. "I haven't got my white crocodiles."

"But you will, darling!" Eleanor clung to his arm. "Don't be so impatient."

"Certainly I will," Rodge agreed with her, "--if I go looking for them. They're not looking for me. We'll have to find them. 

Nevin strode in closer. "What you really mean, Eleanor," he said peevishly, "is that you'd like to stay on here to see some more of --"

"Don't be silly! snapped the girl. 

Penny eased herself out of the hammock. "Goodness!" she said nervously. "He might kidnap you again!"

Despite herself, Eleanor's eyes roved toward the tree tops. "He's probably forgotten all about us."

"Huh!" Nevin snorted. "Well, I hope you'll forget all about him!"

The girl looked at him witheringly, but said no more. Rodge had scarcely listened to their conversation. His mind was upon the white crocodiles which he meant to add to the collection. A white crocodile, heading all the other animals, would make a parade down Main Street that was a parade! "Come on!" he took Nevin's arm. "We'd better help the men break camp."

"Yes," Nevin moved off at Rodge's side, casting a meaning look toward Eleanor. "We can't move on too soon to suit me!"

---

CHAPTER XI: At the Bridge

---

Many had heard tales of Ben Alleu Bey's palace in the heart of the jungle, but few had seen it. However, the stories of the magnificence of His Excellency's stronghold were true enough. The palace was fit for a king, and, in it, Ben Alleu Bey ruled as such. What he wanted, Ben Alleu Bey took. Now he emerged from the palace followed by the native who had given Olaf the blow-pipe. They moved onward toward teh palace entrance where an army of warriors was camped. As Ben Alleu Bey approached, the commanding warrior, a massive black man, ordered his underlings to attention to greet the potentate. 

"The Chief comes! Stand and greet him!" The warriors shouted and waved their spears in homage. Ben Alleu Bey accepted their greeting with little show of interest. Impatient and austere, he conferred with the commanding warrior. 

The leader bowed humbly. "We are at your command, Bwanna! he said.

His Excellency nodded shortly. "Go to the bridge," he said, "and camp there. A white safari will cross over into my domain. I want you to bring the girl 
here."

Again the commanding warrior bowed. "It will be so, Excellency!" He turned swiftly, instructing his men. Lifting his spear, he shouted, "We march to capture!" 

The warriors replied with a rumbling thunderous shout. 

"Follow me!" the commanding warrior called, and marched toward the bridge. Still shouting, the blacks followed. 

Even as Ben Alleu Bey's warriors marched toward the bridge, Olaf was leading the Reed party to the self-same destination. The way was rough, mountainous, and entwined with foliage. The safari moved onward slowly. Nevin, walking at Eleanor's side, paused suddenly and pointed. Eleanor followed the indicated direction and saw a small deer emerging from the thicket. Before she could prevent him, Nevin had raised his gun. The deer's leg was struck. It staggered, and limped into the thicket. 

Eleanor turned on the hunter angrily. "Do you have to kill everything you see?" she cried. "When you were a little boy you probably pulled wings off flies!"

Nevin ignored her jibe and ran in search of the wounded animal, but the deer was gone. "He got away!" Nevin grumbled, returning to Eleanor's side. "I suppose you're happy?"

"I am," said Eleanor flatly. "But I'd be happier still if you had missed him! Poor wounded thing."

As the safari moved onward, Tarzan and Cheta returned to the spot where the camp had been made. Only barren ground and refuse remained in the clearing. Tarzan stalked about forlornly with Cheta at his side. He whistled and gestured but Eleanor did not appear this time. Then, cupping his hand to his mouth, he shouted, "Elean-or! Elean-or!" Only an echo answered. Realizing that the girl had gone, the jungle man looked at the ground studying it intently. Suddenly he discovered the safari's trail and his face brightened. Hurrying forward in teh direction of the thicket, he swung up into the trees, followed by Cheta. 

Meanwhile the Reed safari had reached the bridge. It was crude, of the suspension type, spanning a canyon whose walls were high, jagged cliffs. Far below, at the bottom of the canyon, flowed the river.

"Is that the bridge you've been talking about?" asked Rodge.

Olaf nodded.

"Hmm," Rodge eyed it thoughtfully. "Looks mighty frail. Why don't we look for white crocodiles here? There may be some."

"This is not the place," Olaf pointed out. "We must cross the bridge and then go down to where the river winds around."

"I'm not so sure I want to risk it," Rodge said stubbornly.

Olaf bit his lip in annoyance. To have brought the safari thus far and to be thwarted now irked him immensely. On the other side of the bridge Ben Alleu Bey's warriors were waiting. Olaf talked glibly of the white crocodiles, but, in spite hisdesire to obtain the rare beasts, Rodge decided to camp where he was. 

Meanwhile Tarzan and Cheta, on the trail of the safari, overtook the wounded deer. Swinging down from the tree tops, Tarzan administered first aid to the wounded animal. Motioning to Cheta to hurry on, he formed a splint of twigs. With thongs cut from his loin cloth, he bandaged the deer's leg. Thus Tarzan, pausing for a deed of mercy, lost much valuable time. 

Olaf, intending to force the safari onward, grabbed hold of Koki's shoulder. "We go cross, Koki!" he hissed menacingly. "Me boss, savvy?"

"No," said Koki stubbornly. "You little boss. White man Reed big boss. Me tell him no go cross bridge. Ben Alleu Bey no good."

So Olaf knew that Koki had discovered the plan. As the loyal native moved away and toward the edge of the cliff, Olaf reached in his pocket for the blow-pipe. He inserted a feather, carefully put the pipe to his lips and blew. His aim was perfect. The dart struck Koki in the shoulder. Without a word he tumbled over the cliff and out of sight. Olaf was now boss of the expedition. Koki would question his authority no more. With a smile of satisfaction Olaf put the pipe back into his pocket.

---

CHAPTER XII: Eleanor is Captured

---

Eleanor and Nevin, on a tour of investigation, drew near the river. "That looks cool and nice," Nevin mopped his head. 

"Nevin," Eleanor said suddenly, "let's have a swim now!"

"Good idea!" the man agreed. 

Both hurried to the camp to change. Shortly after, Eleanor appeared in her bathing suit. Nevin, in swimming trunks, joined her on the riverbank. They dived in together. "I'll race you across!" Eleanor challenged.

"I'm game!" shouted Nevin. "Go ahead!"

Eleanor quickly outdistanced him, swimming with agility toward the opposite shore. Exhausted, Nevin slowed his pace and looked around. The noise of the splash attracted his attention. Following the sound he saw the ugly form of a crocodile. Panic-stricken, he shrieked to Eleanor. "Come back! Eleanor, come back!" Turning he swam desperately for the camp. 

Thinking that Nevin was giving up the race easily, Eleanor looked back, laughing. Then, suddenly, she saw the crocodile swimming toward her. Realizing her extreme danger the girl sized up the situation quickly. She was beyond mid-stream, closer to the farther shore from camp. Dipping her head into the water, she put all her strength, speed, and skill into racing for shore and safety. 

On the canyon rim the warriors watched her approach. Hidden as they were by the dense foliage of the jungle, they could not be seen by the members of the safari on the opposite side of the canyon. Presently the commanding warrior gave a sharp command. The men turned and started at once into the canyon.

Exhausted, Eleanor emerged from the water and fell panting on the bank. Her eyes roved longingly over toward the camp, but her return now seemed hopeless. Ben Alleu Bey's warrors had reached the thicket at the river's edge. They rushed out suddenly and grabbed the girl from the water. Eleanor cried out in fresh terror at the new danger. Quickly the men overpowered her. One mighty black swung her over his shoulder and carried her up the canyon wall. The others, forming a guard, followed.

Nevin heard Eleanor's cries. He could not see her and thought, naturally, that the crocodile had her. Reaching the shore, he climbed frantically up on the bank shouting as he went. "Help! Olaf! Koki! -- It's Eleanor!" The members of the safari rushed to him as he scrambled up over the bank, breathless and white. 

"I saw it!" Penny wept. "I saw him get her!"

At this Nevin crumpled up. Realizing his thought, Rodge added hastily. "It wasn't the croc -- some black men grabbed her on the other shore. Com on! We've got to get over that bridge! Quick! Take those guns and come on!"

Jigger rushed forward with Nevin's clothes and started helping him into them. The members of the safari sprang into action. With all possible speed they started to ascend the hazardous trail. Cheta had followed the safari as Tarzan had commanded. From the rim of the canyon she had seen the blacks capture Eleanor. She had witnessed Nevin's return to the camp and the hasty movement of the safari toward the bridge. Now she turned and darted frantically away to find Tarzan. 

Slowly, in spite of their desire for speed, the safari ascended from the canyon and approached the suspension bridge. With Rodge in the lead, the party started across. The crude bridge swayed under their weight, but Rodge moved on resolutely until Ben Alleu Bey's warriors shouted to him from the opposite canyon rim. Brandishing their spears the blacks ordered the safari to stop. Rodge tried to make himself understood.  "We've GOT to cross this bridge!" he shouted, and turned to Olaf. "Make them understand!" he said urgently. 

Olaf's attitude had undergone a sudden change. He was no longer the humble guide. He shouted in dialect to the commanding warrior. "Es man jozo gono -- Ben Alleu Bey -- friend!"

"Go," answered the commanding warrior. "No more."

Olaf turned to Rodge. "He says I can go on -- not you!" 

"Why not I?" Rodge demanded.

"You'll have to ask him," Olaf said sarcastically.

The commanding warrior was now stationed on the bridge. Olaf walked past him and continued across to the other side. Rudge and the others attempted to follow, but were forced back. As the safari faced this gloomy situation, Cheta raced wildly through the foliage, shouting to Tarzan. At last she heard him call in answer. Leaping excitedly up and down, the chimp waited for her friend. He came presently, swinging madly among the branches and rushing to her side. Cheta chattered her news frantically. Tarzan understood and swung off in great haste toward the bridge, motioning to Cheta to hurry. Side by side they raced through the tree tops. 

---

CHAPTER XIII: His Excellency Entertains

---

Under the watchful eyes of the warriors, the Reed party sat despondently among their luggage on the canyon rim. 

"Oh, Rodge!" Penny cried urgently, there must be some way we can get rid of them!"

"I wish I knew!" Rodge said dejectedly as he looked about. 

"I know!" Penny was elated. "The toys!"

"That's it! Rodge Reed leaped up with new hope and called to Nevin. "Get that bag of toys -- quick!" Nevin went for the bag. A warrior gripped Rodge, forcing him to sit down again. "It's something for you!" Rodge tried to explain. "Gifts! We've got presents for you!"

Thinking quickly, Penny brought out her lipstick and demonstrated its use by marking an "X" on the chest of the nearest warrior. This appealed to him. He grabbed it from her and used it freely. Presently Nevin brought the toys and dumped them out. Although they were terrified, Rodge, Penny Nevin, and Jigger wound up the toys. They clattered about, intriguing the blacks who swarmed near them. One warrior grabbed for Nevin's gun. Eager to keep peace, Nevin handed it over and the black spied his wrist watch. Realizing this was his chance to get back the gun, Nevin tossed his watch to the ground. As the warrior bent to pick it up, Nevin snatched the gun and struck him over the head. Immediately the warriors cast aside the toys and grappled with the members of the safari. 

The battle was raging furiously when Tarzan and Cheta swung overhead in the treetops. Dropping down Tarzan gripped one man and hurled him back at the others, sending them sprawling right and left. Penny had been aimlessly swinging a junior baseball bat. Cheta dropped down and yanked the bat from her hands. The, climbing onto a limb, Cheta swatted at the warriors. Realizing they had met a superman, the warriors retreated. Tarzan followed hotly across the bridge. Two of the blacks returned. Tarzan quickly overpowered them both and hurled them into the canyon below. The battle was 
over. Now the jungle king looked about for Eleanor. Grabbing Rodge's arm he cried questioningly, "Elean-or? Elean-or?"

She's captured!" Rodge motioned across the bridge. "Eleanor's GONE!"

"Gone!" Tarzan repeated and understood. He motioned to Rodge. "Stay!" he commanded and raced across the bridge.

The warriors, greatly reinforced and hurling spears, started onto the bridge. Realizing it would be impossible to cross, the jungle man leaped down into the river and swam for the opposite shore. A group of crocodiles swarmed after him; overhead, teh warriors continued to toss their spears. But Tarzan managed to elude both dangers. Reaching the bank, he pulled himself up and quickly disappeared into the thicket. Immediately the warriors followed in hot pursuit. 

Meanwhile, Ben Alleu Bey awaited word from his commanding warrior. High up on an ornamental divan, garbed in rich robes and laden with jewels, His Excellency entertained a number of guests with feasting, music and dancing. Usually this amused him, but now he was bored. Again and again he glanced at his wrist watch. At last two natives appeared at the entrance of the sunken garden. Ben Alleu Bey sat up, instantly alert, for they were bringing Eleanor forward. Several of the native girls stepped quickly up to her and draped a beautiful ostrich cape about her, thus concealing her bathing suit. 

The diners did not notice the girls approach. Ben Alleu Bey, in feigned surprise, rose to welcome her. "Welcome! I am honored! My people are greatly honored!"

"What's this all about?" Eleanor came to the point at once. "I fell in the river and these men of yours dragged me all these miles through brush and brambles -- "

Ben Alleu Bey chose to ignore her question. "Won't you sit down? he asked. 

"What for?" said Eleanor.

His Excellency clapped his hands. Several slaves forced her to be seated. Presently another slave appeared, carrying the same cane with which Eleanor had hit him at the boat landing. Taking the cane from teh slave, Ben Alleu Bey proceeded to whack him soundly across the back and shoulders three times. Now Eleanor began to realize why she had been brought here. Her eyes widened with fear. Seeming not to notice her terror, Ben Alleu Bey held the cane out to her. She started to take it, then drew back. Shrugging his shoulders, His Excellency ordered wine. Walu, the perfect secretary, winked knowingly as he went to carry out the order. 

As Eleanor sat frozen with fear, Tarzan had reached the palace. From his position in a tall tree he spied two native guards at the gate. Swinging down suddenly, he grabbed each by the shoulder and banged their heads together. They dropped in a heap. Tarzan quickly picked up one of their spears and with it vaulted up onto the wall over-looking the patio where His Excellency was entertaining. 

Standing on the trellis, he had a fine view of Eleanor in her ostrich robe. He looked fondly at her a moment, and then gave his low whistle and beckoned to her. At first Eleanor did not hear. Ben Alleu Bey was forcing the goblet of wine on her, commanding, "Drink!"

Tarzan whistled again, and Eleanor heard him. Her face lighted with a glad and grateful smile. Then, turning to the wall, she saw Tarzan.

Ben Alleu Bey, following her glance, also looked up.  Rising quickly, he was about to give a command when Eleanor quickly dashed the wine in his face. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Tarzan jumped down onto the divan. Picking up Ben Alleu Bey he dashed him bodily to the ground. Before the awestricken onlookers could come to life Tarzan grabbed Eleanor and raced with her toward the entrance. 

The natives started toward them and Tarzan stepped quickly to the long, richly-laden table. Picking up a handful of heavy, metal plates he hurled them left and right. Again he forced his way toward the entrance, just as the pursuing warriors, led by Olaf, made their appearance. Tarzan and Eleanor were trapped!

---

CHAPTER XIV: The Expedition Ends

---

Motioning Eleanor to hang onto his back, Tarzan grabbed one of the drapes that hung at his side from the balcony. With the girl on his shoulders, he swung with the drape onto the outer wall and out of sight. Before the startled guests and slaves could determine what had happened, Tarzan and Eleanor had reached the security of the tree tops. They went swinging back toward the bridge. 

Ben Alleu Bey, however, was not one to give in easily. Summoning his warriors, he ordered them to bring back the pair. 

At length, under a shower of native spears, Tarzan reached the bridge and dashed across. By a miracle neither he nor Eleanor were struck. Reaching the other side, Tarzan turned the exhausted girl over to her parents. 

Now Olaf and his warriors came dashing toward the swaying bridge. Riding in a hammock, Ben Alleu Bey was carried after them to the rim of the canyon. Tarzan decided instantly what he must do to save the Reed safari. Ripping out his knife, he quickly severed the ropes which held the suspension. The bridge collapsed. 

Olaf and the blacks plunged downward where the crocodiles waited hungrily. Olaf gave one terrible scream of agony -- then disappeared beneath the surface of the water. 

Ben Alleu Bey took defeat calmly. Shrugging his shoulders, he called for his hammock and was carried back to the palace. 

In triumph, Tarzan and Eleanor, astride an elephant, led the Reed party back to the town. The expedition had been a success. Every cage, except the one labeled, "White Crocodile" was filled. 

On the Toocompac dock the Reed safari prepared to leave for home. Nevin was busy posing for a photographer. On the ground about him were various pelts, heads, and tusks of animals. "Hmm," Nevin relaxed at last. "How many does that make?"

"Six dozen!" the photographer said wearily.

"Good!" Nevin smiled, but his expression quickly changed as he heard Eleanor and her parents in a heated conversation. 

"I forbid it, Eleanor!" Penny cried excitedly. "I told you before and I'm telling you again -- you shouldn't ever SEE him again!"

"Why not?" Rodge blustered.

"Why not!" Penny became more agitated. "The whole thing is ridiculous, Rodge!" She turned to the girl. "Can you picture us walking down the middle aisle --"

"And," Rodge interrupted grinning, "Tarzan leaping onto the chandelier --"

"I don't know what to do!" Eleanor said seriously. "But I MUST see him! I must!" She rushed away toward the edge of the jungle. Penny called to Nevin. "Can't YOU do something?" 

Nevin suddenly thought of something to do. Picking up his gun when Penny and Rodge were not looking, he stole away in the direction Eleanor had taken. Presently he spotted the girl and the jungle king on an elevation of ground. Their hands were clasped. They were gazing into each other's eyes. Suddenly Eleanor dropped the handclasp. Deep in thought, she walked away. Nevin took advantage of the break and fired at Tarzan, grazing his shoulder. Quick as lightning Tarzan grabbed a hanging limb and swung into the thicket whence the shot had come. Swinging down on the startled hunter, 
Tarzan grabbed the gun and broke it in two. Then he picked up Nevin and dashed him to the ground. After administering a good pounding, he threw the would-be killer into the air. Nevin fell heavily. 

With a sigh of relief Eleanor saw Nevin scramble to his feet and run as fast as he could toward the town. Nevin had deserved the beating -- and worse, but Eleanor was grateful that Tarzan had let him off so easily. Tarzan turned and she saw him feel the wound on his shoulder from which a stream of blood was trickling. Silently, as though he did not see her, he walked past the girl and into the jungle. Eleanor had said her good-bye and Tarzan did not wish to hear it again. 

From the direction of the dock there came the whistle of a boat. Eleanor gazed thoughtfully toward the dock, then back toward Tarzan who was disappearing in the dense undergrowth. Should she take the boat -- or should she stay!

"Tarzan!" she called suddenly. "Tarzan, wait! I'm coming with you!"

Thus it was, when the riverboat made its return voyage, that Eleanor was not aboard. Tarzan brought her a feast of fruit, and, as the boat gave its farewell whistle, Eleanor was instructing the jungle king in the ways of civilization by teaching him table manners. She laughed merrily at his awkward efforts to eat the fruit properly. Then, tweaking his ear, she ran off. Laughing, Tarzan followed. Through the flowering jungle they ran. As they touched the vines, bright colored flowers showered about them. Cheta followed them swinging along in the tree tops. From branch to branch she swung, 
chattering merrily all of the time. She seemed to sense and share the light-heartedness of the pair. 

Eleanor and Tarzan went on. Always they penetrated farther into the jungle and away from the boat landing. Eleanor raced on till she came to a pool. A moment she stood poised. Then she dived into the clear depths. Tarzan ran to the brink and dived in after her. Together they swam through the cool clear water. In and out among the bright water flowers. Side by side they swam in happy content. 

At the rail of the boat Penny and Rodge looked thoughtfully toward the jungle. Suddenly Penny sighed.

"I wonder," she said, "what folks in Evansville will say ---"

 THE END