Tarzan The Untamed

Edgar Rice Burroughs

ESL Easy Read

Reading Comprehension B1 • Original Text • Português Support

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Copyright

Fonte original — domínio público

Esta edição ESL Easy Read foi adaptada a partir de Tarzan The Untamed, de Edgar Rice Burroughs, publicado originalmente em 1919.

A obra original encontra-se em domínio público e pode ser utilizada, reproduzida, distribuída e adaptada de acordo com a legislação aplicável.

Autor

Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875–1950)

Estados Unidos

Esta obra foi publicada originalmente em 1919.

Nos Estados Unidos, obras publicadas antes de 1930 encontram-se normalmente em domínio público.

Com base no ano de publicação disponível, esta obra encontra-se em domínio público nos Estados Unidos desde 1º de janeiro de 2015.

Brasil

Autor: Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875–1950)

De acordo com a Lei nº 9.610/1998, os direitos patrimoniais expiram 70 anos após a morte do autor, contados a partir de 1º de janeiro do ano seguinte ao falecimento.

Edgar Rice Burroughs faleceu em 1950.

Situação no Brasil: DOMÍNIO PÚBLICO.

Portugal

Autor: Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875–1950)

De acordo com o Código do Direito de Autor e dos Direitos Conexos, a proteção patrimonial dura 70 anos após a morte do autor.

Edgar Rice Burroughs faleceu em 1950.

Situação em Portugal: DOMÍNIO PÚBLICO.

Dados da publicação original

Obra original: Tarzan The Untamed

Autor: Edgar Rice Burroughs

Primeira publicação: 1919

Primeiro editor: Redbook

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Esta adaptação ESL Easy Read

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Introdução

Como ler este livro

Cada livro desta coleção é apresentado em um nível de leitura simplificada, de acordo com o CEFR — Quadro Europeu Comum de Referência para Línguas.

A2 — Básico: indicado para leitores que já compreendem frases simples, vocabulário frequente e textos curtos sobre situações do cotidiano.

B1 — Intermediário: indicado para leitores que conseguem compreender as ideias principais de textos claros e acompanhar uma narrativa com vocabulário e estruturas de dificuldade moderada.

B2 — Intermediário avançado: indicado para leitores que já conseguem compreender textos mais complexos, acompanhar descrições detalhadas e reconhecer uma variedade maior de vocabulário e estruturas gramaticais.

Este livro foi adaptado para o nível B1.

Assim, você pode começar a lê-lo mesmo sem dominar completamente o inglês. O texto foi simplificado para facilitar a compreensão, preservando a história, os personagens e os acontecimentos principais da obra original.

Como usar as notas

No texto de leitura simplificada, cada parágrafo possui um link Pt/En. Esse link abre uma nota com a tradução em português do texto simplificado e o trecho correspondente no texto original em inglês.

No texto original em inglês, o link PT leva diretamente ao parágrafo correspondente na versão em português. Na tradução portuguesa, o link En retorna ao parágrafo correspondente no texto original.

A tradução para o português é feita a partir do texto em inglês simplificado, e não diretamente do texto original. O objetivo é ajudar você a compreender com precisão a frase simplificada que está estudando naquele momento.

O texto original em inglês é apresentado separadamente para a etapa seguinte do aprendizado, quando você já estiver preparado para ler e comparar a obra em sua forma original.

Cada nota contém links que permitem retornar exatamente ao parágrafo que você estava lendo.

Sobre este livro

Ambientado durante a Primeira Guerra Mundial, Tarzan, o Destemido acompanha o homem-macaco que retorna à sua propriedade na África após lutar na Europa, apenas para encontrá-la devastada por soldados alemães que mataram sua esposa, Jane. Movido por vingança, Tarzan persegue o oficial alemão responsável, Capitão Schneider, através da selva. A narrativa se divide em duas partes: primeiro, a caçada implacável de Tarzan pela selva, onde ele encontra uma civilização perdida de romanos antigos em um vale oculto; segundo, sua jornada ao Vale da Lua, uma terra misteriosa governada por uma rainha cruel. Pelo caminho, ele faz amizade com um leão e um guerreiro nativo, e enfrenta paisagens traiçoeiras, feras selvagens e inimigos humanos. O tom é aventureiro e sombrio, misturando ação pulp com a exploração característica de Burroughs da civilização versus selvageria. Os instintos primais e o código moral de Tarzan são testados enquanto ele equilibra sua busca por vingança com atos de heroísmo. A história progride através de encontros episódicos, culminando em um confronto com Schneider e a revelação de conspirações mais profundas. Personagens principais incluem Tarzan, o protagonista vingativo mas nobre; Capitão Schneider, o antagonista implacável; e figuras de apoio como o nativo leal e a rainha enigmática. O cenário muda da selva familiar para reinos ocultos fantásticos, enfatizando a imaginação criativa de Burroughs.

Nota editorial

A tradução para o português e a versão Reading Comprehension B1 foram geradas com apoio de inteligência artificial e submetidas a revisão editorial.

Em caso de dúvida ou observações, fale conosco.

MicMac from Las Vegas LLC
Contato: admin@micmacfromlasvegas.com

Outros livros e materiais

Materiais e outros livros da série ESL Easy Read:

Coleção A Selva de Burroughs

Tarzan of the Apes

The Return Of Tarzan

The Beasts Of Tarzan

The Son Of Tarzan

Tarzan and the Jewels Of Opar

Jungle Tales Of Tarzan

Tarzan The Untamed

Tarzan The Terrible

Tarzan and the Golden Lion

Tarzan and the Ant Men

Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle

Jungle Tales Of Tarzan — ESL Easy Read

Tarzan and the City of Gold

Tarzan and the Lion Man

Tarzan and the Lost Empire

Tarzan at the Earth's Core

Tarzan the Invincible

Tarzan Triumphant

The Tarzan Twins

V21 Popup Test

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Reading Comprehension B1

1 - Murder and Pillage

2 - The Lion's Cave

3 - In the German Lines

4 - When the Lion Fed

Murder and Pillage

Pt/En Hauptmann Fritz Schneider walked slowly and tiredly through the dark, quiet forest. He was sweating a lot on his head, face, and neck. His lieutenant walked next to him. Underlieutenant von Goss was behind them with some soldiers. These soldiers pushed the tired porters forward with their bayonets and rifle butts.

Pt/En Hauptmann Schneider could not reach the porters, so he became angry with the soldiers nearby. He was careful, though, because these soldiers had loaded rifles, and the three white men were alone with them deep in Africa.

Pt/En Half of the captain's soldiers marched in front of him, and the other half marched behind him. This protected the German captain from the dangers of the jungle. At the front of the group, two naked men, who were chained together, walked slowly. They were the native guides. They had many cruel wounds and bruises on their bodies.

Pt/En The text says that German civilization was starting to show its influence on the native people in Africa, just as it was affecting Belgium at that time, in the autumn of 1914.

Pt/En It was true that the guides had led the group the wrong way, but this often happened with African guides. It did not matter if they were lost by mistake or on purpose. Hauptmann Fritz Schneider knew he was lost in the African wilderness. He knew he had people with him who were weaker than him and could be hurt. He did not kill them immediately because he hoped they might help him find his way out, and also because he could continue to hurt them as long as they were alive.

Pt/En The people said they knew the way and led the group through a dark forest. They followed a narrow path made by many animals over a long time.

Pt/En In this place, Tantor the elephant went from a dusty area to the water. Buto the rhinoceros walked alone in the dark. At night, large cats walked quietly on soft feet under the thick trees, going to the open land where they hunted.

Pt/En The guides saw the open land suddenly. This gave them new hope. The captain felt relieved because after many days lost in the thick jungle, the wide area with tall grass, some trees, and green bushes showing a river in the distance seemed like paradise to him.

Pt/En The Hun smiled because he was relieved. He spoke kindly to his lieutenant. Then, he looked across the wide land with his binoculars. He searched the land until he stopped looking at a spot near the middle, close to the river's edge.

Pt/En Schneider told his friends they were lucky and asked if they could see the river.

Pt/En The lieutenant also looked through his glasses. He saw the same place that his superior officer was watching.

Pt/En He said that it was an English farm, likely Greystoke's, as there were no others in that part of British East Africa. He told the captain that God was with them.

Pt/En Schneider replied that they had found the English person before he could know that his country was at war with theirs. He said that the person should be the first to experience Germany's power.

Pt/En The lieutenant hoped that the person was at home so they could capture him. He said it would be very good for Captain Fritz Schneider if he brought the famous Tarzan of the Apes back as a prisoner of war.

Pt/En Schneider agreed, saying it would go well for both of them. However, he mentioned he would have to travel far to catch General Kraut before he reached Mombasa. He thought the English army would move quickly towards the Indian Ocean.

Pt/En A group of soldiers went towards the nice farm buildings of John Clayton, Lord Greystoke. They were feeling better, but they were disappointed because neither Tarzan of the Apes nor his son was there.

Pt/En Lady Jane did not know that Great Britain and Germany were at war. She was very kind to the officers and told her servants to prepare a big meal for the enemy soldiers.

Pt/En Tarzan of the Apes was traveling fast from Nairobi to his farm. He heard about the World War and knew the Germans might invade British East Africa. He was hurrying home to take his wife to a safer place. He had twenty warriors with him, but they were too slow for him.

Pt/En When Tarzan of the Apes needed to, he stopped being a civilized man. He took off his clothes, which were a sign of his civilization. In a moment, the polite English gentleman became a naked ape-man again.

Pt/En He thought only about his mate being in danger. He did not think of her as Lady Jane Greystoke. He thought of her as the woman he had won with his strong body and that he must protect with the same strength.

Pt/En A strong ape moved quickly through the forest and open land. He had one main goal and did not think about being tired or in danger.

Pt/En Manu, an old monkey, saw the ape pass. Manu remembered when Tarzan of the Apes was the king of the jungle, ruling over all the animals and plants.

Pt/En Numa, the lion, saw and smelled his old enemy, Tarzan, as he rested after a successful hunt.

Pt/En Tarzan was aware of Numa the lion and other jungle animals he passed. His senses were very sharp, and he noticed Numa before the lion noticed him.

Pt/En Tarzan heard the monkey Manu and even noticed the snake Sheeta before they sensed his presence.

Pt/En Tarzan was very strong and fast in the jungle, but he was still a normal person. He knew that he could not travel as fast as he wanted. He was frustrated because the long distance to his goal would take many hours of hard work.

Pt/En The journey took many days. He only slept for a few hours each night. He ate meat when he found it by chance while he was hungry. He would stop only briefly to hunt and cut a piece of meat.

Pt/En Finally, the long trip was ending. He was walking through the last part of the thick forest on the east side of his land. After he passed the forest, he stood at the edge of the plain and looked across his large home area towards his house.

Pt/En When Tarzan first looked, he saw that something was wrong. He noticed a thin line of smoke near where the barns used to be, but the barns were gone. Also, no smoke was coming from the bungalow chimney, which was strange.

Pt/En Tarzan quickly ran towards his home again, even faster than before. He felt a strong, unknown fear. Like animals, Tarzan seemed to have a special sense. Before he arrived, he already imagined what he would see.

Pt/En The cottage covered in vines was quiet and empty. The place where his large barns were had only smoking ashes. The homes of his strong helpers were gone, and the fields, pastures, and animal pens were empty. Vultures flew in circles over the dead bodies of people and animals.

Pt/En The ape-man felt a strong fear as he finally entered his home. The first thing he saw made him very angry and want to fight. Wasimbu, a tall man and the bodyguard of Lady Jane, was dead and fixed to the living-room wall.

Pt/En The furniture in the room was broken and thrown around. Dark, dry blood was on the floor and walls, showing that a terrible fight had happened inside. Another dead warrior lay across the piano. Three more loyal servants of the Greystoke family were dead in front of Lady Jane's room.

Pt/En The door to this room was closed. Tarzan looked sadly at the door, afraid to guess what terrible secret it hid.

Pt/En He slowly walked to the door and reached for the handle. After a moment, he stood up straight, pulled his shoulders back, held his head high, and opened the door. He walked into the room that held his most precious memories. His face was serious as he went to the couch where a still, silent person lay face down, someone who had once been full of life and love.

Pt/En Tarzan looked at the dead body. It was burned and he could not recognize it. He picked it up. When he saw how the person had died, he felt very sad, horrified, and full of hate.

Pt/En He did not need to see the broken German rifle or the blood-stained cap on the floor to know who had committed this terrible crime.

Pt/En For a short time, he hoped the burned body was not his mate. But when he saw the rings on her fingers, he lost all hope.

Pt/En He buried the burned body in the rose garden, which Jane Clayton had loved. Beside her, he buried the brave warriors who had died trying to protect her.

Pt/En Tarzan found other new graves at the side of the house. He looked in these graves to find more proof about who had done the terrible things while he was away.

Pt/En Tarzan dug up the bodies of twelve German soldiers. He looked at their uniforms and saw the marks that showed which company and regiment they were from. This told the ape-man that white officers had been in charge of these soldiers. He thought it would be easy to find out who these officers were.

Pt/En He went back to the rose garden and stood by the grave of his dead. He bowed his head in a quiet goodbye. As the sun went down behind the tall trees, he slowly walked away. He followed the clear footprints left by Captain Fritz Schneider and his soldiers.

Pt/En Tarzan felt pain like an animal that cannot speak. His great sadness made him unable to think about anything else. His mind was full of the terrible event. He could only think, "She is dead!" This thought hurt him like a headache. But his feet kept moving, following the path of the person who killed her. At the same time, he was watching and listening carefully for dangers in the jungle.

Pt/En As Tarzan's sadness slowly changed, a new feeling came. It was Hate. This hate felt real and strong, like a friend beside him. It gave him some comfort. It was a powerful hate for Germany and Germans. His hate was mostly for the person who killed his mate, but it included everything German. He stopped, looked up at the moon, and raised his hand. He cursed the people who did the terrible crime in the bungalow. He cursed their families, their children, and all their people. He silently promised to fight them until he died.

Pt/En Soon after, Tarzan felt better. Before, his future seemed empty. Now, it was full of things he could do. Thinking about these possibilities made him feel less sad. He had important work to do that would keep him busy.

Pt/En Tarzan had lost all signs of civilization and had become like the wild animal he was raised as. He had only pretended to be civilized for the woman he loved, thinking it made her happier. In truth, he always thought civilization was bad because it limited freedom in every way. He hated clothes, finding them uncomfortable and like chains that reminded him of the sad lives of people in cities. He felt clothes were a sign of the fake life of civilization, hiding the human body. Tarzan thought clothes looked silly on animals and people, as the only men he had seen before were naked like him. He admired strong, well-shaped bodies, whether animal or human, and could not understand why clothes were seen as more beautiful than healthy skin or muscles.

Pt/En Tarzan found more greed, selfishness, and cruelty in civilization than in his jungle home. Although civilization had given him a wife and friends he cared about, he never truly accepted it. He felt relieved to leave it behind. He returned to the jungle wearing only his loin cloth and carrying his weapons.

Pt/En Tarzan was armed with his father's hunting knife, a bow and arrows, and a long grass rope. He also carried a heavy war spear. He was not wearing the diamond-studded locket with his parents' pictures, which he had given to Jane Clayton before they married. She had worn it since, but it was not on her when he found her dead. Now, he wanted to find the murderers and also get back the stolen locket.

Pt/En As it neared midnight, Tarzan began to feel tired from his long journey. His chase after the murderers was not fast, but he was very determined. He wanted to get revenge on the Germans, and he was not in a hurry to do so.

Pt/En Tarzan had returned to a wild state, both inside and out. Like animals, he did not think about time in the same way humans do. Animals only care about the present moment. Tarzan understood time better than animals, but he moved slowly and calmly unless there was an urgent reason to act quickly.

Pt/En Tarzan wanted revenge, and he thought about it a lot. He didn't feel tired before because his mind was full of sadness and revenge. But now he was tired. So, he looked for a big tree where he had slept many times before.

Pt/En Dark clouds covered the moon and showed that a storm was coming. In the deep jungle, the shadows were very dark and scary, with sounds of leaves and branches, and quiet moments that could make you imagine dangerous animals. But Tarzan walked through it without worry, though he was always careful. He moved to higher trees if he sensed a lion was hunting nearby, or jumped aside when a rhinoceros walked towards him. Tarzan was ready to fight if needed, but he tried to avoid fights he didn't need.

Pt/En When Tarzan climbed into the tree he wanted, the moon was hidden by a big cloud. The wind was blowing hard, making loud noises in the jungle. Tarzan climbed higher to a strong part of the tree where he had built a small platform. It was very dark now because the sky was covered with thick, black clouds.

Pt/En Suddenly, Tarzan stopped and smelled the air. Then, he quickly jumped to a moving branch, then higher into the dark, and then to another branch. Something made him move so fast and carefully. If you were there, you would not have seen anything, not even the platform that was just above him and now was below. But as he swung over it, you would have heard a scary sound. Then, when the moon briefly appeared, you would have seen the platform and a dark shape on it. This shape was Sheeta, the panther.

Pt/En Tarzan growled back at the panther. His growl warned Sheeta that he was in Tarzan's place. But Sheeta did not want to leave. He looked up at Tarzan with a snarling face. Tarzan slowly moved closer along the branch until he was right above the panther. Tarzan held his father's hunting knife, which helped him control jungle animals. But he hoped he wouldn't need to use it. He knew that many jungle fights were won by growling, not fighting. Animals usually only fought with claws and teeth for food or when they wanted to mate.

Pt/En Tarzan stood by a tree and moved closer to Sheeta.

Pt/En Tarzan shouted at the panther, calling it a thief. The panther sat up, showing its teeth close to Tarzan's face. Tarzan growled and hit the panther's face with his knife. He told the panther that he was Tarzan of the Apes and that this was his home. He ordered the panther to leave or he would kill it.

Pt/En Tarzan spoke in the language of the jungle apes. It is unlikely the panther understood his words, but it knew Tarzan wanted to scare it away from a good hunting spot where animals might pass by at night.

Pt/En Suddenly, the panther attacked Tarzan with its claws, trying to scratch his face. But Tarzan was faster and avoided the blow. As the panther landed, Tarzan took out his spear and poked at its angry face. They continued to roar and growl at each other.

Pt/En The angry panther decided to climb up to Tarzan. But each time it tried to jump to Tarzan's branch, the spear point blocked its face. Tarzan also poked it when it moved back. Finally, the panther jumped up to the branch where Tarzan stood. Now they were face to face, and the panther thought it would get revenge and have a meal, believing the ape-man would be easy to defeat.

Pt/En The strong tree branch bent under the weight of two animals. Sheeta the panther walked carefully onto it, and Tarzan moved back slowly, making a low sound. The wind was very strong, making the tall trees move. The branch where Tarzan and Sheeta faced each other moved up and down like a boat in a storm. It was hard to see Goro because of the wind. Lightning flashed, lighting up the jungle and showing the two animals ready to fight.

Pt/En Tarzan moved Sheeta farther away from the tree trunk and onto the thin end of the branch, where it was harder to stand. The panther was angry because of spear wounds and was not being careful. Sheeta was in a place where he could barely keep his balance. Tarzan chose this moment to attack. He roared loudly, and jumped at the panther. Sheeta tried to scratch with one paw while holding onto the branch with the other. But Tarzan jumped over the dangerous claws and teeth. He landed on Sheeta's back and quickly stabbed him with his knife. In pain and anger, Sheeta went wild. He screamed and tried to turn around to reach Tarzan on his back. The branch moved wildly, and Sheeta almost fell. He grabbed for balance, but then fell into the darkness below with Tarzan still holding onto him. They crashed through branches as they fell. Tarzan held on tightly, knowing that in this fight to the death, one or both must die.

Pt/En Sheeta landed on his feet, but Tarzan's weight pushed him down. The knife was still in his side. The panther tried to stand up but fell back down. Tarzan felt Sheeta's strong muscles stop moving. Sheeta was dead. Tarzan stood on his dead enemy. He looked up at the stormy sky and screamed a loud victory cry, like a big ape.

Pt/En Tarzan had achieved his goal and driven the enemy away from his home. He gathered large leaves and climbed to his wet bed. He put some leaves on the poles of his shelter and lay down. He covered himself with the other leaves to stay dry from the rain. Even though the wind howled and thunder crashed, he fell asleep quickly.

The Lion's Cave

Pt/En The rain continued for a full day and night. It rained so hard that the path Tarzan was following disappeared. Tarzan felt cold and unhappy as he walked through the wet jungle. Manu the monkey, cold and shaking in the trees, shouted angrily at him but ran away. Even the lions and panthers did not bother Tarzan, the Tarmangani, as he walked past them.

Pt/En The sun shone on the second day, and Tarzan felt better on a wide, open plain. However, he was still a bit angry. He walked south, hoping to find the Germans again. He was in German East Africa. He planned to go around the mountains near Kilimanjaro. Then he would go east along the south side of the mountains to a railway that went to Tanga. He thought German soldiers would go to this railway.

Pt/En Two days later, from the southern side of Kilimanjaro, Tarzan heard cannons far away to the east. It was a cloudy afternoon. As he walked through a narrow valley, rain began to fall. Tarzan shook his head and made a sound to show he did not like it. He looked for a place to hide because he was tired of the cold and rain. He wanted to go towards the sound of the cannons because he knew Germans and English were fighting. For a moment, he felt proud that he was English. But then he thought, "No! Tarzan of the Apes is not English. English people are men, but Tarzan is like a ape." Still, he felt happy that Englishmen were fighting the Germans. He was sad that the English were humans and not great white apes like him.

Pt/En Tarzan thought, "Tomorrow, I will go that way and find the Germans." First, he needed to find shelter from the storm. He saw a low, narrow opening at the bottom of the cliffs that looked like a cave. He walked carefully towards it with his knife ready. He knew that if it was a cave, another animal might be living there. There were many rocks near the entrance. Tarzan decided that if the cave was empty, he would block the entrance. This would give him a quiet and safe night inside, away from the storm.

Pt/En Tarzan knelt near the cave and smelled the ground. He made a low growling sound and showed his teeth. He said the name "Numa," which was a lion. But he did not stop. He decided to check if the lion was there. The entrance was very low. Tarzan had to get on his hands and knees to put his head inside. Before he did, he looked and listened in all directions to make sure no one could surprise him from behind.

Pt/En When Tarzan first looked inside the cave, he saw a narrow tunnel with light at the other end. It was not too dark to see that no one was inside. He moved forward carefully. He knew it would be bad if the lion, Numa, suddenly came into the tunnel from the other side. But Numa did not come. Tarzan finally came out into the open. He was in a rocky area with very high walls on all sides. The tunnel went through the cliff, connecting the outside to this large, enclosed space. This area looked like it was made by water over a long time. A small stream came from the top of the mountain and fell into a pool at the bottom. A small stream then flowed through the tunnel to the valley. A large tree grew in the middle of the area, and some grass grew between the rocks.

Pt/En Tarzan saw bones of large animals and human skulls. He thought a man-eater had lived there for a long time. He decided to take the lion's lair that night and said Numa could roar outside.

Pt/En The ape-man walked into the gulch and found a dry tunnel to rest in. As he turned to leave, he heard something. He froze and looked at the tunnel entrance. A large lion with a black mane appeared. Its eyes stared at Tarzan, and it made a low growl.

Pt/En Tarzan shouted at the lion, calling it the brother of Dango. He was angry because the lion's return stopped his plan for a good night's sleep. Tarzan told the lion he was Tarzan of the Apes, the Lord of the Jungle, and that he would stay there that night.

Pt/En The lion, Numa, did not leave. It roared loudly and walked towards Tarzan. Tarzan threw a rock at the lion's face. He had often scared lions away before, but this time was different. The rock hit Numa's nose, and the lion became very angry.

Pt/En Numa roared loudly and ran very fast towards Tarzan. Tarzan quickly climbed a tree. He sat in the branches and shouted insults at the lion. Numa walked in circles below the tree, growling and roaring with anger.

Pt/En It was raining hard, making Tarzan uncomfortable and sad. He was angry, but he knew fighting the lion was too dangerous. The lion was much stronger, and Tarzan only had luck and quickness. So, he stayed in the tree while the rain fell. The lion walked around below, looking up at him.

Pt/En Tarzan looked for a way to escape the steep walls. He saw places where he could climb, but they looked difficult. He thought he could escape if the lion, Numa, moved away for a moment. However, Numa stayed where he was, even in the rain. Tarzan started to think that maybe it would be better to fight Numa than to stay cold and wet in the tree.

Pt/En While Tarzan was thinking, Numa suddenly turned and walked towards a tunnel without looking back. As soon as Numa disappeared, Tarzan jumped down from the tree and ran very fast towards the cliff. The lion came out of the tunnel immediately and chased Tarzan. Tarzan had a head start, but if he slipped on the wet rocks, he would fall right to Numa, and he would be in great danger.

Pt/En Tarzan climbed up the cliff quickly, like a cat, for about thirty feet. He found a safe place to stand and looked down. Numa was jumping up the wall, trying to reach him, but he kept falling back down. Numa could not climb the rocks. Tarzan watched him for a moment, then slowly and carefully climbed higher towards the top. He found handholds and footholds, and finally pulled himself over the edge. He picked up a rock, threw it at Numa, and then walked away.

Pt/En Tarzan found an easy way down into the valley. He was going to continue his journey towards the sound of guns when he stopped, thinking of an idea. He smiled and quickly went back to the entrance of Numa's tunnel. He listened for a moment and then started piling large rocks in front of the entrance. He had almost finished when Numa appeared inside the tunnel. The lion was very angry and tried to scratch and claw at the rocks, roaring loudly. But Tarzan was not afraid of the roars. He had heard lions roar many times in his life. He knew Numa could not reach him. So, Tarzan kept blocking the entrance until Numa could not get out. He made a face at the lion behind the rocks and then continued on his way, thinking that the lion would not eat any more people.

Pt/En That night, Tarzan slept under a rock. The next morning, he continued his journey, stopping only to hunt and eat. He was different from other animals because he did not let hunger stop his plans. He noticed that gunfire was loudest at dawn and dusk, and stopped during the night. On the second afternoon, he saw troops moving forward. They were taking animals like goats and cows with them, and porters carried food. The porters were chained, and the soldiers wore German uniforms. Tarzan watched them for two hours without being seen. He saw that their uniforms were different from one he had taken from a dead soldier. He then moved past them, still hidden. He had not killed these Germans because his main goal was to find the person who had killed his mate.

Pt/En After he found the person who killed his mate, he planned to kill all Germans he met. He intended to hunt them like hunters track dangerous animals.

Pt/En As he got closer to the fighting, there were more troops and army supplies, like trucks and carts pulled by oxen. He also saw many wounded soldiers going back. He guessed they were being taken to a train to go to a hospital, perhaps far away on the coast.

Pt/En At dusk, he reached a large camp in the mountains. Because he came from behind, the camp was not well-guarded. The few guards were not paying attention. It was easy for him to enter after dark and listen near the tents, hoping to find a clue about who killed his mate.

Pt/En He stopped near a tent where some native soldiers were sitting. He heard them speaking in their language. They said that the Waziri fought bravely, but they fought better and killed them all. After the fighting, their captain killed the woman. He shouted loudly outside until all the men were dead. A young officer named von Goss was braver. He came inside and told them to nail a wounded Waziri to the wall. Then he laughed loudly at the man's suffering, and the soldiers laughed too, thinking it was very funny.

Pt/En Tarzan hid like a wild animal near a tent. He watched a soldier very carefully. When the soldier walked away, Tarzan followed him into the shadows. He jumped on the soldier's back and pulled him down. Tarzan's strong hands grabbed the soldier's throat, stopping him from shouting. Then, Tarzan dragged his victim into the bushes to hide him.

Pt/En Tarzan told the soldier to make no sound. He spoke in the soldier's own language after he let go of his throat.

Pt/En The soldier breathed heavily and looked up with frightened eyes. He saw a brown body above him in the dark. He remembered Tarzan's great strength that had pulled him down easily. He decided not to try and escape.

Pt/En Tarzan asked the soldier for the name of the officer who had killed the woman at the bungalow where the soldier fought with the Waziri.

Pt/En The soldier, after he could speak again, replied that the officer's name was Hauptmann Schneider.

Pt/En The ape-man asked where he was.

Pt/En The other person replied that he was there, possibly at headquarters. He explained that many officers went to headquarters in the evening to get orders.

Pt/En Tarzan commanded him to lead him there. He threatened to kill him immediately if he was discovered and told him to get up.

Pt/En The black man stood up and led the way back through the camp using a longer, indirect path. They had to hide several times when soldiers walked by. Finally, they arrived near a large pile of hay. From behind it, the black man pointed to a two-story building in the distance.

Pt/En The black man said it was headquarters and that Tarzan could not go any closer unseen because many soldiers were nearby.

Pt/En Tarzan understood he could not continue traveling with the man. He stopped and looked at the man, thinking about what to do with him.

Pt/En Tarzan accused the man in a quiet but very serious voice. He said the man had helped to kill Wasimbu, who was a Waziri.

Pt/En The man shook with fear, and his legs felt weak. He explained that someone else had ordered them to do it.

Pt/En Tarzan asked who had given the order.

Pt/En The soldier answered that Underlieutenant von Goss had ordered it. He also said that von Goss was nearby.

Pt/En Tarzan told the man that he would find him. He accused the man of helping to crucify Wasimbu, a Waziri, and laughing while he suffered.

Pt/En The man was shocked by the accusation, feeling like he was sentenced to death. Tarzan grabbed him by the neck again. With great strength, Tarzan swung the man around and then threw him aside. After that, Tarzan headed towards General Kraut's headquarters.

Pt/En A guard stood at the back of the building. Tarzan moved towards him quietly, like a predator in the jungle. He stayed still when the guard looked his way and moved quickly when the guard looked away. When he was close enough, Tarzan waited for the guard to turn his back. Then, he quickly and silently attacked the guard and took his body towards the building.

Pt/En The first floor of the building was lit, but the upper floor was dark. Through the windows, Tarzan saw a large room with many officers talking and writing. The windows were open, so he could hear them. They talked about German victories in Africa and when the German army would reach Paris. Some thought the Kaiser was already there. They also spoke negatively about Belgium.

Pt/En In a smaller room at the back, a large, red-faced general sat behind a desk. Other officers were near him, and two stood in front of the general. The general was asking them questions and playing with an oil lamp on his desk. An aide entered and reported that Fräulein Kircher had arrived.

Pt/En The general told them to let the woman enter. He then nodded to the two officers, telling them they could go.

Pt/En The young woman entered and passed the officers. The officers stood up and greeted her. She bowed and smiled a little. She was very pretty, even though her riding clothes were dirty and her face had dust on it. She looked no older than nineteen.

Pt/En She walked to the table where the general was standing. She took a folded paper from her coat and gave it to him.

Pt/En The general asked the young woman to sit down. Another officer brought her a chair. No one spoke while the general read the paper.

Pt/En Tarzan looked at the people in the room. He thought one of them might be Hauptmann Schneider because two were captains. He believed the girl was a spy from the intelligence department. He did not find her attractive and felt he could easily harm her. Because she was German, he did not trust her, but he had more important work to do. He was looking for Hauptmann Schneider.

Pt/En The general finally looked up from his paper.

Pt/En He told the girl it was good. Then he ordered one of his helpers to bring Major Schneider.

Pt/En Tarzan was shocked to hear the name Major Schneider. He felt scared. He thought they had given a promotion to the man who killed his mate, probably because of that bad action.

Pt/En While the aide left, Tarzan listened to the others talk. He learned that the German forces had many more soldiers than the British and were winning. Tarzan hid in some bushes so he could see inside the room without being seen. He was waiting for a patrol to find the dead guard and start searching.

Pt/En Tarzan waited impatiently for the man he wanted. Soon, the aide returned with a medium-sized officer who had a fierce mustache. The officer walked to the table, stopped, saluted, and reported. The general accepted the salute and then turned to the girl.

Pt/En He told Fräulein Kircher that he wanted to introduce Major Schneider to her.

Pt/En Tarzan did not wait to hear more. He jumped through the window into the room where the Kaiser's officers were surprised to see him. He quickly went to the table and knocked over the lamp. It fell onto a general, who fell backward off his chair. Two officers tried to grab Tarzan, but he threw one at the other. The girl stood against the wall, and the other officers shouted for the guard. Tarzan only looked at one person. He grabbed Major Schneider, put him on his shoulder, and left through the window very fast. The officers were surprised and could not believe what had happened.

Pt/En He saw that the guard was not there. A moment later, he and Major Schneider were hiding in the shadows of a hay pile. Major Schneider could not cry out because Tarzan was holding him tightly. Now, Tarzan let go a little so the man could breathe.

Pt/En Tarzan warned him that if he made any noise, he would be choked again.

Pt/En After a long time and with great care, Tarzan got past the last guard. He made his captive walk in front of him and they moved west. Late that night, they crossed the railway, and Tarzan felt safer. The German complained, threatened, and asked questions, but Tarzan only pushed him with his sharp spear. Tarzan moved him along like he would move an animal, but he would have treated an animal with more respect.

Pt/En Tarzan thought about how to get revenge for Jane Clayton. He decided the person must die. He felt the person should suffer like Jane had suffered. But he knew that mental pain was worse than physical pain.

Pt/En All night, Tarzan kept the German awake. The German was tired and scared. Tarzan's silence made him nervous. The German tried to make Tarzan speak, but Tarzan only stayed silent and poked him with his spear. The German was hurt and tired. He often fell down, but Tarzan poked him to get up again with the spear.

Pt/En In the morning, Tarzan decided what to do. He smiled and found a place to rest. He wanted his prisoner to be ready for what would happen. Tarzan knew a stream nearby where he had crossed before. He knew it was a good place to hunt. He made a sign to the German to be quiet. They went to the stream. Tarzan saw deer drinking water. He pushed the German into the bushes. Tarzan squatted down and waited. The German watched Tarzan with scared eyes. In the morning light, the German saw Tarzan clearly for the first time. He felt more scared and confused than before.

Pt/En The German wondered who this almost naked white man was. He had heard Tarzan speak German very well. He watched Tarzan crouch in the bushes, still like a statue. Tarzan saw deer coming. He saw a young deer walk near him. Suddenly, Tarzan jumped and attacked the deer's throat. The deer fell down. Tarzan and the German had meat. Tarzan ate his meat raw, but he let the German cook his part.

Pt/En They rested until late afternoon. Then they started their journey again. The German was very scared because he did not know where they were going. He begged Tarzan for answers and mercy. But Tarzan continued walking in silence. He poked the German when he slowed down.

Pt/En After climbing and walking for three days, Tarzan and Schneider arrived at a high cliff. Schneider looked down into a small valley. There was one tree, a small stream, and some grass growing among rocks. Tarzan told Schneider to go down, but Schneider was afraid. Tarzan grabbed him and pushed him near the edge. Tarzan told him to go down. Schneider was very scared, perhaps more scared of Tarzan's silence than his spear.

Pt/En Schneider looked down nervously. As he was about to try, Tarzan stopped him. Tarzan told Schneider that he was Lord Greystoke and that Schneider had murdered his wife in the Waziri country. Tarzan explained this was why he had come for him and told him again to go down.

Pt/En Schneider fell to his knees. He cried out that he had not murdered Tarzan's wife and asked for mercy. He said he did not know anything about it.

Pt/En Tarzan told him to go down again, raising his spear. Tarzan knew Schneider was lying, which did not surprise him. He thought a man who would murder would also lie. Schneider still hesitated and begged. Tarzan poked him with the spear, and Schneider nervously slid down the cliff. Tarzan helped him over the difficult parts until they were near the bottom.

Pt/En Tarzan told Schneider to be quiet. He pointed to a cave entrance. Tarzan said a hungry lion was inside. He told Schneider that if he could reach the tree before the lion found him, he would live longer. But when he became too weak to hold on, the lion would eat him. Tarzan then pushed Schneider off the ledge to the ground below and told him to run.

Pt/En A German man named Schneider was running towards a tree because he was very scared. As he got close, a hungry lion jumped out of a cave. The lion tried to stop Schneider, but Tarzan watched them run, smiling a little.

Pt/En Schneider reached the tree just in time. As Tarzan climbed up the cliff, he heard the angry lion roaring below. He also heard a human voice that sounded strange and wild, almost like an animal.

Pt/En Tarzan looked back down into the valley from the top of the cliff. The German was holding onto a tree branch high up. Below him, the lion, Numa, was waiting.

Pt/En Tarzan looked up at the sun, Kudu. Then, he made a loud, strong sound, like a powerful ape, to show he had won.

In the German Lines

Pt/En Tarzan still wanted revenge. There were many Germans alive, and he could spend the rest of his life fighting them. However, even killing all of them would not be enough to make up for his great loss, and their deaths could not bring back the person he loved.

Pt/En Tarzan was near a German camp in the Pare Mountains. He heard that the British were losing the fight in Africa. At first, he did not think much about it. After his wife died, he felt he was no longer a man but an ape, and he wanted nothing to do with people.

Pt/En After dealing with Schneider, Tarzan hunted near Mount Kilimanjaro. He could not hunt near the armies. He thought about the German man he had left in a gulch with a hungry lion. He imagined the man was scared and thirsty, waiting for the lion. Tarzan wondered if the man would try to get water and if the lion would attack him.

Pt/En Tarzan started to think more about the English soldiers who were fighting hard. He was unhappy that the Germans were winning. This made him feel confused because he was finding it hard to forget he was English when he wanted to be like an ape. He could not stand the idea of Germans killing Englishmen while he was safe.

Pt/En Tarzan decided to go towards the German camp. He did not have a clear plan, but he wanted to cause trouble for the German leaders. On his way, he passed the gulch where he had left Schneider. He climbed up to look. The tree was empty, and the lion was not there. Tarzan threw a rock into the gulch. The lion came out, but it looked very thin and weak.

Pt/En Tarzan asked about the German. He wanted to know if the man had been eaten or if he was just bones when he fell from the tree.

Pt/En Tarzan spoke to Numa, the lion, and said that Numa looked very hungry. He noticed Numa had eaten all the grass and tree bark from his home. Tarzan then asked Numa if he wanted another German, and he smiled.

Pt/En Later, Tarzan found Bara, a deer, sleeping. Because Tarzan was hungry, he quickly killed and ate the deer. While he was eating, he heard Dango, a hyena, coming quietly. Tarzan picked up a branch and threw it at Dango, telling the hyena to go away. Dango was also hungry and strong, so he walked around Tarzan, looking for a chance to attack. Tarzan knew Dango was getting ready to fight. He took his spear and put it next to him, continuing to eat while watching the hyena.

Pt/En Tarzan felt no fear because he was used to the dangers of his wild home. He accepted these dangers as part of life, like people accept dangers in cities or farms. As he grew up in the jungle, he was ready to defend his food. Tarzan was brave and wise, which helped him survive.

Pt/En Dango might have attacked sooner, but Tarzan made loud growling sounds. These sounds, coming from a human-like creature, made Dango afraid and confused. Dango had attacked people before, but he had never heard a man make a sound like Tarzan's, which sounded more like an angry lion than a scared person.

Pt/En After Tarzan finished eating, he was going to throw a bone at Dango and leave. But he changed his mind. He picked up the deer's body and carried it towards the gulch. Dango followed for a short distance, growling. Then, Dango realized he was losing the meat and attacked. Tarzan quickly sensed Dango coming. He dropped the deer, turned, and raised his spear. He threw the spear with great power. The spear hit Dango in the neck and went through his body.

Pt/En Tarzan removed a spear from a hyena. He carried two dead animals to a ditch. He called a lion named Numa and told him to eat the animals. The lion then ate the deer.

Pt/En The next day, Tarzan saw the German army's positions. He watched from a hill and could see the British lines too. He had a very good view of the battlefield. Tarzan's sharp eyes saw machine guns that were hidden and listening posts in the empty land between the armies.

Pt/En While watching, Tarzan heard a single rifle shot from a hill below him. He stopped and listened for another shot to find the shooter. When he heard the second shot, he moved down the steep hill very quietly, like a panther.

Pt/En Tarzan came to a low cliff. Below him, he saw a German soldier hiding behind rocks and branches. The soldier was shooting from far behind his own lines. He had a special rifle with a telescope and was using binoculars to look at the British soldiers.

Pt/En The German soldier finished looking and picked up his rifle to shoot again. At that moment, Tarzan jumped from the cliff above. He landed on the soldier's back and grabbed his throat. The soldier struggled but quickly died. The German soldier did not know what attacked him.

Pt/En Tarzan hid behind rocks and branches. He looked down at the area below. He saw German soldiers in trenches nearby. A hidden machine gun was firing across the empty land between the armies. It was aimed at the British soldiers at an angle that made it hard for them to find the gun.

Pt/En Tarzan watched the scene and played with a dead German soldier's rifle. He looked at how the rifle worked. He looked back at the German trenches and adjusted the rifle's sights. Then, he aimed and shot. Tarzan was a very good shot. He had hunted large animals with guns before and practiced shooting targets. He was skilled with firearms without even knowing it. Now, he would hunt enemies. He smiled slightly as he squeezed the trigger. The rifle fired, and a German machine gunner fell. In three minutes, Tarzan killed the whole machine gun crew. He then saw a German officer and three other men come out of a shelter. Tarzan made sure no one else was nearby who could report how the Germans were shot when they were hidden.

Pt/En Tarzan adjusted his sights again and shot a machine gun crew far away to his right. He calmly killed all of them. Two machine guns were now silent. He saw soldiers running in the trenches and shot several of them. The Germans realized something was wrong. They knew an unknown sniper was watching them from a good position where he could see their trenches clearly. At first, they tried to find him in the empty land. But when an officer looked over the wall with a periscope and was shot in the head, they understood the sniper was behind the wall, not in front of it.

Pt/En A soldier found the bullet that killed his officer. This made the soldiers very excited because the bullet was made in Germany. Soldiers quickly spread the news. They began looking over the wall with periscopes to find the sniper. They soon found Tarzan's position. A machine gun was aimed at him. Before it could fire, its crew was dead. Other soldiers were forced to replace them. At the same time, two more machine guns were turned towards Tarzan and began firing.

Pt/En Tarzan knew he had to leave. He fired one last shot, put down the rifle, and disappeared into the hills. For a long time, he could hear the machine guns firing at the place he had been. He smiled, thinking about how much German ammunition was wasted.

Pt/En He thought that the Waziri people had suffered a lot because their leader Wasimbu was killed after being crucified, and for his dead friends. But he felt that they could never make up for the harm done to Jane, even if he killed all of them.

Pt/En After it became dark that night, he moved secretly around the sides of both armies. He went past the British guards and into the British area. Nobody saw him arrive, and nobody knew he was there.

Pt/En The main office for the Second Rhodesians was in a safe place, far from the front lines. They were allowed to use lights there. Colonel Capell was sitting at a table with a military map, talking to some officers. A big tree was above them, a lantern lit the table, and a small fire burned nearby. The enemy did not have airplanes, and no one from the German lines could see the lights.

Pt/En The officers talked about how the enemy had more soldiers than the British. They also discussed that the British could only defend their current positions and could not move forward. The British had already lost many men in attacks and were always pushed back by the large enemy forces. The colonel was also worried about hidden machine guns, which he mentioned several times during their talk.

Pt/En One young officer said that something had stopped the enemy's guns for a short time that afternoon. He was watching and did not understand what was happening, but it seemed like the enemy soldiers were having big problems in a part of their trench to the left. He thought they might have been attacked from behind. He remembered telling the colonel about it at the time. He saw dirt flying from the side of a cliff behind them and did not know what caused it.

Pt/En A man suddenly dropped from the tree above the officers. He was almost naked and looked very primitive. The officers were surprised and looked at him.

Pt/En The colonel asked the man who he was.

Pt/En The man answered that he was Tarzan of the Apes.

Pt/En One of the officers, a major, recognized him and called him Greystoke. He walked forward with his hand out.

Pt/En Tarzan took the offered hand and said his name was Preswick.

Pt/En The major apologized, saying he did not recognize Tarzan at first. He remembered seeing Tarzan in London wearing formal evening clothes, and noted how different he looked now.

Pt/En Tarzan smiled and spoke to the colonel. He explained that he had overheard their conversation and had just returned from behind the German lines. He offered his help.

Pt/En The colonel looked at Major Preswick, who quickly introduced Tarzan to the colonel and the other officers. Tarzan briefly explained why he was alone and following the Germans.

Pt/En The colonel asked Tarzan if he had come to join them.

Pt/En Tarzan replied that he would not join them regularly. He said he had to fight in his own way, but he could help them and enter the German lines whenever he wanted.

Pt/En Capell smiled and shook his head. He explained that it was not as easy as Tarzan thought. He mentioned that he had lost two very good and experienced officers from the Intelligence Department in the past week while trying to do it.

Pt/En Tarzan asked if it was more difficult than entering the British lines.

Pt/En The colonel was about to answer, but then he had a new idea. He looked at Tarzan with a questioning expression and asked who had brought him there and who had helped him pass the guards.

Pt/En Tarzan replied that he had just come through the German and British lines and had passed through their camp. He suggested they check if anyone had seen him.

Pt/En Capell insisted on knowing who had accompanied Tarzan.

Pt/En Tarzan told them he came alone. He explained that men from cities were not prepared for the jungle and that animals like monkeys were wiser. He said that people only survived because they had many numbers, weapons, and could think. He imagined that if he had many apes with human thinking, they could defeat the Germans. He also noted that if animals could work together, Africa would be free of people. Then, he asked if he could help them find hidden machine gun positions.

Pt/En The colonel agreed. Tarzan then showed on a map where three machine gun posts were located that were causing problems for the English. He pointed to a place on the map and said it was a weak point defended by local soldiers, but the machine guns were operated by white soldiers. He suggested a plan: the English could put their own soldiers in a trench and use their own machine guns to fire at the enemy trenches on the right.

Pt/En Colonel Capell smiled and said that the plan sounded very simple.

Pt/En Tarzan replied that it was easy for him because he knew the jungle and its people, including the Gomangani. He said he could clear that part of the trench without firing a shot. He told them to look for him again on the second night and then prepared to leave.

Pt/En The colonel asked him to wait, saying he would send an officer to help him pass through their military lines.

Pt/En Tarzan smiled and walked away. As he passed a small figure in a heavy officer's coat and cap, the firelight showed a familiar face. Tarzan thought it was an officer he knew from London. He continued through the British camp and lines, and the guards did not see him.

Pt/En Tarzan traveled all night through the foothills of Kilimanjaro. He was looking for something in a wooded area higher up. Three hours before morning, he smelled what he wanted. He climbed a tall tree and slept for a few hours.

When the Lion Fed

Pt/En Tarzan woke up when the sun was high. He got down from the tree and followed a scent into a deep ravine. He moved carefully because he knew the animal was close. He looked down from a branch and saw Horta the boar and other pigs. Tarzan took his bow and arrow and shot the largest pig. He shot another arrow quickly. The pigs were confused and ran away after six of them were killed or hurt.

Pt/En Tarzan climbed down and prepared the dead pigs. He worked quickly and skillfully. He did not sing or whistle like other men, which showed his jungle training. Animals in the jungle, especially apes, can become fierce as they get older. Life in the jungle is serious, especially when food is scarce, and this makes hunting a lifelong, serious task. Tarzan was serious when he worked, but he still had a sense of humor, which he used when he felt like it. It was a dark humor, but it was enough for him.

Pt/En Singing or whistling while working on the ground would make it hard to concentrate. Tarzan could focus all his senses on one task. While skinning the pigs, his eyes and hands were busy, but his ears and nose were also working. He listened to the forest and smelled the air. His nose was the first to notice Sabor the lioness when the wind changed.

Pt/En Tarzan knew a lioness smelled the dead pigs and was coming towards him from behind. He was finishing the last pig. He kept the five animal skins close to him. A tree was above him.

Pt/En Tarzan listened for the lioness but did not turn his head. When he finished with the last pig, he stood up. He heard the lioness getting closer. He picked up the six skins and one pig. As the lioness came into view, he climbed into the tree. He put the skins on a branch, sat down, and ate some meat. The lioness came out of the bushes, looked up at Tarzan, and then ate the other pig.

Pt/En Tarzan watched the lioness and smiled. He remembered a hunter who said lions only ate meat they killed themselves. Tarzan knew this was not true because he had seen lions eat dead animals.

Pt/En After eating, Tarzan worked on the animal skins. He cut them into long, thin strips. He sewed two skins together and made holes around the edges. He used a strip to pull the edges together, making a large bag with a string. He made four smaller bags from the other skins.

Pt/En Tarzan threw a fruit to the lioness. He put the rest of the pig in the tree and then went southwest. He carried his five new bags. He went to the edge of the place where he had put the lion Numa. He looked down carefully. Numa was not there, but Tarzan knew he was in the cave. Tarzan hoped Numa was sleeping because it was important that Numa did not see him.

Pt/En Tarzan carefully climbed down the cliff without making any noise. He often stopped and listened, looking towards the cave opening about 100 feet away. As he got closer to the bottom, it became more dangerous. He knew he would be safer if he could reach the bottom and get halfway to a tree in the middle of the gulch. From there, he felt he could escape Numa, either by running back to the cliff or to the tree. However, climbing the first 30 feet of the cliff quickly enough to escape the leaping lion would need a 20-foot running start, as there were few good places to hold on near the bottom. He remembered he had to run up that part like a squirrel the last time he escaped an angry Numa, and he only just managed to get away.

Pt/En Finally, Tarzan reached the floor of the gulch. He moved silently towards the tree. He was halfway there and Numa had not appeared. He reached the tree trunk, which had marks where the hungry lion had eaten the bark and wood. Tarzan began to wonder if Numa was really in the cave. He questioned if Numa had broken through the rocks Tarzan had used to block the cave entrance. Or perhaps Numa was dead? Tarzan doubted this, as he had recently fed the lion a whole deer and a hyena, and there was water in the gulch. He did not think Numa would have starved so quickly.

Pt/En Tarzan decided to go into the cave to look for Numa. But then he thought it would be easier to make Numa come out. He made a low growl. Soon, he heard a noise from the cave, and a wild-looking, thin lion rushed out, ready to fight. When Numa saw Tarzan sitting in the tree, looking healthy, the lion became very angry. Numa's eyes and nose told him Tarzan was the one who caused his problems and that Tarzan would be good to eat. The lion tried desperately to climb the tree. He jumped twice, reaching the lowest branches, but fell back down each time. He became angrier and angrier, growling and roaring loudly. Tarzan watched him, smiling, and made fun of the lion for not being able to reach him. He was happy that Numa was wasting his energy.

Pt/En Finally, Tarzan stood up and took his rope. He held the coils in one hand and the noose in the other. He stood with one foot on each of two branches that were at the same height, leaning his back against the tree trunk. He continued to shout insults at Numa. This made the beast jump up at him again. As Numa leaped, Tarzan quickly threw the noose over his head and around his neck. Tarzan pulled the rope tight. When Numa fell back to the ground, he was held swinging by his neck, with only his back feet touching the ground.

Pt/En Tarzan slowly moved along the branches away from the tree trunk. This stopped Numa from reaching the tree with his claws. Tarzan then tied the rope securely, lifting the lion completely off the ground. He dropped his five bags to the ground and jumped down himself. Numa was frantically trying to cut the grass rope with his front claws. Tarzan knew he had to work fast because Numa could cut the rope at any moment.

Pt/En Tarzan first put a large bag over Numa the lion's head and tied it. Then, with great effort and almost being hurt by the lion's claws, he tied Numa's four legs together using strips from pig skins.

Pt/En Numa was almost strangled by the bag. Tarzan climbed back into the tree, untied the rope, and lowered the lion. He then cut the noose from Numa's neck. Tarzan cut two holes in the front of the bag so Numa could see and breathe.

Pt/En Next, Tarzan put bags on Numa's paws. He tied the bags on the back paws tightly and also used straps above the legs. He secured the bags on the front paws above the knees. Now, Numa the lion was as harmless as Bara the deer.

Pt/En Numa started to wake up and struggled, but the pigskin strips holding his legs together were strong. Tarzan watched, believing the bonds would hold. However, Numa was very strong, and there was a chance he could break free. If he did, Tarzan's bags and ties would have to stop him.

Pt/En Numa breathed normally again and roared loudly. He struggled with great force for a short time, but he soon became tired. After more growling and trying to escape, Numa had a rope tied around his neck. This rope used a knot that would not tighten and strangle him.

Pt/En Tarzan tied one end of the rope to a tree. Then he cut the ropes on Numa's legs. Numa jumped up. The lion tried to shake off the strange things on his feet and the bag on his head. Tarzan watched Numa carefully, hoping his plan would work.

Pt/En Numa became very upset because he could not remove the things on his feet and head. He rolled, bit, scratched, and roared. He ran at Tarzan, but the rope stopped him. Tarzan hit Numa on the head with his spear. Numa fought back but fell down. After Tarzan hit him again, Numa seemed to know Tarzan was stronger. He stopped fighting and moved away.

Pt/En Tarzan left Numa tied to the tree. He opened the other end of the tunnel and went back to Numa. Numa growled as Tarzan came near. Tarzan pushed Numa aside and untied the rope. For a long time, Tarzan tried to make Numa go through the tunnel, but Numa did not want to. Finally, Tarzan used his spear to push Numa into the tunnel. Inside, Tarzan followed closely behind Numa with his sharp spear. This made Numa move forward. If Numa stopped, Tarzan poked him. Numa learned to keep moving. At the end of the tunnel, Numa ran out into the open world.

Pt/En Tarzan was still near the tunnel entrance when Numa ran out. Tarzan fell forward and was dragged across the ground. He got up, scratched and angry. Tarzan thought about punishing Numa, but he decided it was not a good idea.

Pt/En Tarzan had shown Numa how to be led. He made Numa walk forward. It was a strange journey. Numa first resisted, then slowly obeyed. By night, Numa was tired, hungry, and thirsty. Tarzan did not remove the bag from Numa's head, but he made a small hole so Numa could drink. Tarzan tied Numa to a tree for the night. He found food for himself and slept in a tree above Numa.

Pt/En The next morning, Tarzan, Numa (the lion), and Horta (the boar) continued their journey east, near Kilimanjaro. Jungle animals saw them and ran away. Numa smelled like a lion, but he looked strange. Tarzan, a giant "Tarmangani" (ape-man), was leading him. This unusual sight scared even the bravest animals.

Pt/En Sabor, a lioness, smelled her "lord and master" (Tarzan) mixed with Numa and Horta. She walked through the forest to see what was happening. Tarzan and Numa heard her coming. She made a soft, questioning sound because the strange mix of smells made her curious and a little afraid. Lions can be timid, and Sabor, being female, was very curious.

Pt/En Tarzan got his spear ready because he might have to fight to keep Numa. Numa stopped and looked angrily towards Sabor. He made a low growl. Just as Tarzan was about to tell Numa to move again, Sabor appeared. Behind her, Tarzan saw four adult lions following her.

Pt/En Tarzan decided not to push Numa to fight yet. If he did, the other lions might attack them all. Tarzan wanted to wait and see what the lions would do. He did not want to give up Numa, but he knew lions could be unpredictable.

Pt/En Sabor was a young, healthy lioness. The four male lions were strong and handsome. Three had short manes, but one, in front, had a beautiful black mane. Sabor stopped about 100 feet away from Tarzan. The male lions walked past her and stopped closer. They looked curious. Tarzan did not know what they would do. Numa stood silently next to Tarzan, watching the lions.

Pt/En The lioness made a small sound. Tarzan's lion roared loudly and ran towards the lion with the black mane. The lion Tarzan's lion ran towards was scared by this strong animal with a strange face. It turned and ran away with its friends and the female lion, with Tarzan still holding onto it.

Pt/En Numa, the lion, tried to follow them. Tarzan stopped him and hit him hard on the head with his spear when Numa became angry. The lion eventually moved away in the direction they were going. It took an hour for Numa to stop being upset. The lion was very hungry and in a bad mood, but Tarzan's strong lion-taming methods had calmed him. Now, Numa walked beside Tarzan like a large, friendly dog.

Pt/En It was dark when Tarzan and Numa reached the British soldiers' area. They had been delayed earlier by a German patrol that they had to avoid. Near the British sentries, Tarzan tied Numa to a tree and went on alone. He passed a sentry and other guards. He found his way to Colonel Capell's main office. He appeared before the officers there as if he had suddenly appeared from nowhere.

Pt/En The officers were surprised to see who had arrived. They smiled, and the colonel rubbed his head, confused.

Pt/En The colonel said that someone should be punished. He explained that it was not useful to have an outpost if a person could get through whenever they wanted.

Pt/En Tarzan smiled. He explained that they should not blame the Mangani because he was not a man, but Tarmangani. He said that any Mangani could enter their camp easily. If the Mangani were used as guards, no one could enter without them knowing.

Pt/En The colonel asked what the Mangani were. He thought they might be able to use some of them.

Pt/En Tarzan shook his head. He explained that the Mangani were great apes, his people. He said they could not use them as guards because they could not focus on one thing for long. They would be interested for a short time, but then they would lose interest. They might leave their posts to look for beetles instead. Tarzan said they had the minds of young children, which was why they stayed as they were.

Original English Text

1 - Murder and Pillage

2 - The Lion's Cave

3 - In the German Lines

4 - When the Lion Fed

Murder and Pillage

PT Hauptmann Fritz Schneider trudged wearily through the somber aisles of the dark forest. Sweat rolled down his bullet head and stood upon his heavy jowls and bull neck. His lieutenant marched beside him while Underlieutenant von Goss brought up the rear, following with a handful of askaris the tired and all but exhausted porters whom the black soldiers, following the example of their white officer, encouraged with the sharp points of bayonets and the metal-shod butts of rifles.

PT There were no porters within reach of Hauptmann Schneider so he vented his Prussian spleen upon the askaris nearest at hand, yet with greater circumspection since these men bore loaded rifles -- and the three white men were alone with them in the heart of Africa.

PT Ahead of the hauptmann marched half his company, behind him the other half -- thus were the dangers of the savage jungle minimized for the German captain. At the forefront of the column staggered two naked savages fastened to each other by a neck chain. These were the native guides impressed into the service of Kultur and upon their poor, bruised bodies Kultur's brand was revealed in divers cruel wounds and bruises.

PT Thus even in darkest Africa was the light of German civilization commencing to reflect itself upon the undeserving natives just as at the same period, the fall of 1914, it was shedding its glorious effulgence upon benighted Belgium.

PT It is true that the guides had led the party astray; but this is the way of most African guides. Nor did it matter that ignorance rather than evil intent had been the cause of their failure. It was enough for Hauptmann Fritz Schneider to know that he was lost in the African wilderness and that he had at hand human beings less powerful than he who could be made to suffer by torture. That he did not kill them outright was partially due to a faint hope that they might eventually prove the means of extricating him from his difficulties and partially that so long as they lived they might still be made to suffer.

PT The poor creatures, hoping that chance might lead them at last upon the right trail, insisted that they knew the way and so led on through a dismal forest along a winding game trail trodden deep by the feet of countless generations of the savage denizens of the jungle.

PT Here Tantor, the elephant, took his long way from dust wallow to water. Here Buto, the rhinoceros, blundered blindly in his solitary majesty, while by night the great cats paced silently upon their padded feet beneath the dense canopy of overreaching trees toward the broad plain beyond, where they found their best hunting.

PT It was at the edge of this plain which came suddenly and unexpectedly before the eyes of the guides that their sad hearts beat with renewed hope. Here the hauptmann drew a deep sigh of relief, for after days of hopeless wandering through almost impenetrable jungle the broad vista of waving grasses dotted here and there with open park like woods and in the far distance the winding line of green shrubbery that denoted a river appeared to the European a veritable heaven.

PT The Hun smiled in his relief, passed a cheery word with his lieutenant, and then scanned the broad plain with his field glasses. Back and forth they swept across the rolling land until at last they came to rest upon a point near the center of the landscape and close to the green-fringed contours of the river.

PT "We are in luck,"said Schneider to his companions."Do you see it?"

PT The lieutenant, who was also gazing through his own glasses, finally brought them to rest upon the same spot that had held the attention of his superior.

PT "Yes,"he said,"an English farm. It must be Greystoke's, for there is none other in this part of British East Africa. God is with us, Herr Captain."

PT "We have come upon the English schweinhund long before he can have learned that his country is at war with ours,"replied Schneider."Let him be the first to feel the iron hand of Germany."

PT "Let us hope that he is at home,"said the lieutenant,"that we may take him with us when we report to Kraut at Nairobi. It will go well indeed with Herr Hauptmann Fritz Schneider if he brings in the famous Tarzan of the Apes as a prisoner of war."

PT Schneider smiled and puffed out his chest."You are right, my friend,"he said,"it will go well with both of us; but I shall have to travel far to catch General Kraut before he reaches Mombasa. These English pigs with their contemptible army will make good time to the Indian Ocean."

PT It was in a better frame of mind that the small force set out across the open country toward the trim and well-kept farm buildings of John Clayton, Lord Greystoke; but disappointment was to be their lot since neither Tarzan of the Apes nor his son was at home.

PT Lady Jane, ignorant of the fact that a state of war existed between Great Britain and Germany, welcomed the officers most hospitably and gave orders through her trusted Waziri to prepare a feast for the black soldiers of the enemy.

PT Far to the east, Tarzan of the Apes was traveling rapidly from Nairobi toward the farm. At Nairobi he had received news of the World War that had already started, and, anticipating an immediate invasion of British East Africa by the Germans, was hurrying homeward to fetch his wife to a place of greater security. With him were a score of his ebon warriors, but far too slow for the ape-man was the progress of these trained and hardened woodsmen.

PT When necessity demanded, Tarzan of the Apes sloughed the thin veneer of his civilization and with it the hampering apparel that was its badge. In a moment the polished English gentleman reverted to the naked ape man.

PT His mate was in danger. For the time, that single thought dominated. He did not think of her as Lady Jane Greystoke, but rather as the she he had won by the might of his steel thews, and that he must hold and protect by virtue of the same offensive armament.

PT It was no member of the House of Lords who swung swiftly and grimly through the tangled forest or trod with untiring muscles the wide stretches of open plain -- it was a great he ape filled with a single purpose that excluded all thoughts of fatigue or danger.

PT Little Manu, the monkey, scolding and chattering in the upper terraces of the forest, saw him pass. Long had it been since he had thus beheld the great Tarmangani naked and alone hurtling through the jungle. Bearded and gray was Manu, the monkey, and to his dim old eyes came the fire of recollection of those days when Tarzan of the Apes had ruled supreme, Lord of the Jungle, over all the myriad life that trod the matted vegetation between the boles of the great trees, or flew or swung or climbed in the leafy fastness upward to the very apex of the loftiest terraces.

PT And Numa, the lion, lying up for the day close beside last night's successful kill, blinked his yellow-green eyes and twitched his tawny tail as he caught the scent spoor of his ancient enemy.

PT Nor was Tarzan senseless to the presence of Numa or Manu or any of the many jungle beasts he passed in his rapid flight towards the west. No particle had his shallow probing of English society dulled his marvelous sense faculties. His nose had picked out the presence of Numa, the lion, even before the majestic king of beasts was aware of his passing.

PT He had heard noisy little Manu, and even the soft rustling of the parting shrubbery where Sheeta passed before either of these alert animals sensed his presence.

PT But however keen the senses of the ape-man, however swift his progress through the wild country of his adoption, however mighty the muscles that bore him, he was still mortal. Time and space placed their inexorable limits upon him; nor was there another who realized this truth more keenly than Tarzan. He chafed and fretted that he could not travel with the swiftness of thought and that the long tedious miles stretching far ahead of him must require hours and hours of tireless effort upon his part before he would swing at last from the final bough of the fringing forest into the open plain and in sight of his goal.

PT Days it took, even though he lay up at night for but a few hours and left to chance the finding of meat directly on his trail. If Wappi, the antelope, or Horta, the boar, chanced in his way when he was hungry, he ate, pausing but long enough to make the kill and cut himself a steak.

PT Then at last the long journey drew to its close and he was passing through the last stretch of heavy forest that bounded his estate upon the east, and then this was traversed and he stood upon the plain's edge looking out across his broad lands towards his home.

PT At the first glance his eyes narrowed and his muscles tensed. Even at that distance he could see that something was amiss. A thin spiral of smoke arose at the right of the bungalow where the barns had stood, but there were no barns there now, and from the bungalow chimney from which smoke should have arisen, there arose nothing.

PT Once again Tarzan of the Apes was speeding onward, this time even more swiftly than before, for he was goaded now by a nameless fear, more product of intuition than of reason. Even as the beasts, Tarzan of the Apes seemed to possess a sixth sense. Long before he reached the bungalow, he had almost pictured the scene that finally broke upon his view.

PT Silent and deserted was the vine-covered cottage. Smoldering embers marked the site of his great barns. Gone were the thatched huts of his sturdy retainers, empty the fields, the pastures, and corrals. Here and there vultures rose and circled above the carcasses of men and beasts.

PT It was with a feeling as nearly akin to terror as he ever had experienced that the ape-man finally forced himself to enter his home. The first sight that met his eyes set the red haze of hate and bloodlust across his vision, for there, crucified against the wall of the living-room, was Wasimbu, giant son of the faithful Muviro and for over a year the personal bodyguard of Lady Jane.

PT The overturned and shattered furniture of the room, the brown pools of dried blood upon the floor, and prints of bloody hands on walls and woodwork evidenced something of the frightfulness of the battle that had been waged within the narrow confines of the apartment. Across the baby grand piano lay the corpse of another black warrior, while before the door of Lady Jane's boudoir were the dead bodies of three more of the faithful Greystoke servants.

PT The door of this room was closed. With drooping shoulders and dull eyes Tarzan stood gazing dumbly at the insensate panel which hid from him what horrid secret he dared not even guess.

PT Slowly, with leaden feet, he moved toward the door. Gropingly his hand reached for the knob. Thus he stood for another long minute, and then with a sudden gesture he straightened his giant frame, threw back his mighty shoulders and, with fearless head held high, swung back the door and stepped across the threshold into the room which held for him the dearest memories and associations of his life. No change of expression crossed his grim and stern-set features as he strode across the room and stood beside the little couch and the inanimate form which lay face downward upon it; the still, silent thing that had pulsed with life and youth and love.

PT No tear dimmed the eye of the ape-man, but the God who made him alone could know the thoughts that passed through that still half-savage brain. For a long time he stood there just looking down upon the dead body, charred beyond recognition, and then he stooped and lifted it in his arms. As he turned the body over and saw how horribly death had been meted he plumbed, in that instant, the uttermost depths of grief and horror and hatred.

PT Nor did he require the evidence of the broken German rifle in the outer room, or the torn and blood-stained service cap upon the floor, to tell him who had been the perpetrators of this horrid and useless crime.

PT For a moment he had hoped against hope that the blackened corpse was not that of his mate, but when his eyes discovered and recognized the rings upon her fingers the last faint ray of hope forsook him.

PT In silence, in love, and in reverence he buried, in the little rose garden that had been Jane Clayton's pride and love, the poor, charred form and beside it the great black warriors who had given their lives so futilely in their mistress' protection.

PT At one side of the house Tarzan found other newly made graves and in these he sought final evidence of the identity of the real perpetrators of the atrocities that had been committed there in his absence.

PT Here he disinterred the bodies of a dozen German askaris and found upon their uniforms the insignia of the company and regiment to which they had belonged. This was enough for the ape-man. White officers had commanded these men, nor would it be a difficult task to discover who they were.

PT Returning to the rose garden, he stood among the Hun trampled blooms and bushes above the grave of his dead -- with bowed head he stood there in a last mute farewell. As the sun sank slowly behind the towering forests of the west, he turned slowly away upon the still-distinct trail of Hauptmann Fritz Schneider and his blood-stained company.

PT His was the suffering of the dumb brute -- mute; but though voiceless no less poignant. At first his vast sorrow numbed his other faculties of thought -- his brain was overwhelmed by the calamity to such an extent that it reacted to but a single objective suggestion: She is dead! She is dead! She is dead! Again and again this phrase beat monotonously upon his brain -- a dull, throbbing pain, yet mechanically his feet followed the trail of her slayer while, subconsciously, his every sense was upon the alert for the ever-present perils of the jungle.

PT Gradually the labor of his great grief brought forth another emotion so real, so tangible, that it seemed a companion walking at his side. It was Hate -- and it brought to him a measure of solace and of comfort, for it was a sublime hate that ennobled him as it has ennobled countless thousands since -- hatred for Germany and Germans. It centered about the slayer of his mate, of course; but it included everything German, animate or inanimate. As the thought took firm hold upon him he paused and raising his face to Goro, the moon, cursed with upraised hand the authors of the hideous crime that had been perpetrated in that once peaceful bungalow behind him; and he cursed their progenitors, their progeny, and all their kind the while he took silent oath to war upon them relentlessly until death overtook him.

PT There followed almost immediately a feeling of content, for, where before his future at best seemed but a void, now it was filled with possibilities the contemplation of which brought him, if not happiness, at least a surcease of absolute grief, for before him lay a great work that would occupy his time.

PT Stripped not only of all the outward symbols of civilization, Tarzan had also reverted morally and mentally to the status of the savage beast he had been reared. Never had his civilization been more than a veneer put on for the sake of her he loved because he thought it made her happier to see him thus. In reality he had always held the outward evidences of so-called culture in deep contempt. Civilization meant to Tarzan of the Apes a curtailment of freedom in all its aspects -- freedom of action, freedom of thought, freedom of love, freedom of hate. Clothes he abhorred -- uncomfortable, hideous, confining things that reminded him somehow of bonds securing him to the life he had seen the poor creatures of London and Paris living. Clothes were the emblems of that hypocrisy for which civilization stood -- a pretense that the wearers were ashamed of what the clothes covered, of the human form made in the semblance of God. Tarzan knew how silly and pathetic the lower orders of animals appeared in the clothing of civilization, for he had seen several poor creatures thus appareled in various traveling shows in Europe, and he knew, too, how silly and pathetic man appears in them since the only men he had seen in the first twenty years of his life had been, like himself, naked savages. The ape-man had a keen admiration for a well-muscled, well-proportioned body, whether lion, or antelope, or man, and it had ever been beyond him to understand how clothes could be considered more beautiful than a clear, firm, healthy skin, or coat and trousers more graceful than the gentle curves of rounded muscles playing beneath a flexible hide.

PT In civilization Tarzan had found greed and selfishness and cruelty far beyond that which he had known in his familiar, savage jungle, and though civilization had given him his mate and several friends whom he loved and admired, he never had come to accept it as you and I who have known little or nothing else; so it was with a sense of relief that he now definitely abandoned it and all that it stood for, and went forth into the jungle once again stripped to his loin cloth and weapons.

PT The hunting knife of his father hung at his left hip, his bow and his quiver of arrows were slung across his shoulders, while around his chest over one shoulder and beneath the opposite arm was coiled the long grass rope without which Tarzan would have felt quite as naked as would you should you be suddenly thrust upon a busy highway clad only in a union suit. A heavy war spear which he sometimes carried in one hand and again slung by a thong about his neck so that it hung down his back completed his armament and his apparel. The diamond-studded locket with the pictures of his mother and father that he had worn always until he had given it as a token of his highest devotion to Jane Clayton before their marriage was missing. She always had worn it since, but it had not been upon her body when he found her slain in her boudoir, so that now his quest for vengeance included also a quest for the stolen trinket.

PT Toward midnight Tarzan commenced to feel the physical strain of his long hours of travel and to realize that even muscles such as his had their limitations. His pursuit of the murderers had not been characterized by excessive speed; but rather more in keeping with his mental attitude, which was marked by a dogged determination to require from the Germans more than an eye for an eye and more than a tooth for a tooth, the element of time entering but slightly into his calculations.

PT Inwardly as well as outwardly Tarzan had reverted to beast and in the lives of beasts, time, as a measurable aspect of duration, has no meaning. The beast is actively interested only in NOW, and as it is always NOW and always shall be, there is an eternity of time for the accomplishment of objects. The ape-man, naturally, had a slightly more comprehensive realization of the limitations of time; but, like the beasts, he moved with majestic deliberation when no emergency prompted him to swift action.

PT Having dedicated his life to vengeance, vengeance became his natural state and, therefore, no emergency, so he took his time in pursuit. That he had not rested earlier was due to the fact that he had felt no fatigue, his mind being occupied by thoughts of sorrow and revenge; but now he realized that he was tired, and so he sought a jungle giant that had harbored him upon more than a single other jungle night.

PT Dark clouds moving swiftly across the heavens now and again eclipsed the bright face of Goro, the moon, and forewarned the ape-man of impending storm. In the depth of the jungle the cloud shadows produced a thick blackness that might almost be felt -- a blackness that to you and me might have proven terrifying with its accompaniment of rustling leaves and cracking twigs, and its even more suggestive intervals of utter silence in which the crudest of imaginations might have conjured crouching beasts of prey tensed for the fatal charge; but through it Tarzan passed unconcerned, yet always alert. Now he swung lightly to the lower terraces of the overarching trees when some subtle sense warned him that Numa lay upon a kill directly in his path, or again he sprang lightly to one side as Buto, the rhinoceros, lumbered toward him along the narrow, deep-worn trail, for the ape-man, ready to fight upon necessity's slightest pretext, avoided unnecessary quarrels.

PT When he swung himself at last into the tree he sought, the moon was obscured by a heavy cloud, and the tree tops were waving wildly in a steadily increasing wind whose soughing drowned the lesser noises of the jungle. Upward went Tarzan toward a sturdy crotch across which he long since had laid and secured a little platform of branches. It was very dark now, darker even than it had been before, for almost the entire sky was overcast by thick, black clouds.

PT Presently the man-beast paused, his sensitive nostrils dilating as he sniffed the air about him. Then, with the swiftness and agility of a cat, he leaped far outward upon a swaying branch, sprang upward through the darkness, caught another, swung himself upon it and then to one still higher. What could have so suddenly transformed his matter-of-fact ascent of the giant bole to the swift and wary action of his detour among the branches? You or I could have seen nothing -- not even the little platform that an instant before had been just above him and which now was immediately below -- but as he swung above it we should have heard an ominous growl; and then as the moon was momentarily uncovered, we should have seen both the platform, dimly, and a dark mass that lay stretched upon it -- a dark mass that presently, as our eyes became accustomed to the lesser darkness, would take the form of Sheeta, the panther.

PT In answer to the cat's growl, a low and equally ferocious growl rumbled upward from the ape-man's deep chest -- a growl of warning that told the panther he was trespassing upon the other's lair; but Sheeta was in no mood to be dispossessed. With upturned, snarling face he glared at the brown-skinned Tarmangani above him. Very slowly the ape-man moved inward along the branch until he was directly above the panther. In the man's hand was the hunting knife of his long-dead father -- the weapon that had first given him his real ascendancy over the beasts of the jungle; but he hoped not to be forced to use it, knowing as he did that more jungle battles were settled by hideous growling than by actual combat, the law of bluff holding quite as good in the jungle as elsewhere -- only in matters of love and food did the great beasts ordinarily close with fangs and talons.

PT Tarzan braced himself against the bole of the tree and leaned closer toward Sheeta.

PT "Stealer of balus!"he cried. The panther rose to a sitting position, his bared fangs but a few feet from the ape-man's taunting face. Tarzan growled hideously and struck at the cat's face with his knife."I am Tarzan of the Apes,"he roared."This is Tarzan's lair. Go, or I will kill you."

PT Though he spoke in the language of the great apes of the jungle, it is doubtful that Sheeta understood the words, though he knew well enough that the hairless ape wished to frighten him from his well-chosen station past which edible creatures might be expected to wander sometime during the watches of the night.

PT Like lightning the cat reared and struck a vicious blow at his tormentor with great, bared talons that might well have torn away the ape-man's face had the blow landed; but it did not land -- Tarzan was even quicker than Sheeta. As the panther came to all fours again upon the little platform, Tarzan un-slung his heavy spear and prodded at the snarling face, and as Sheeta warded off the blows, the two continued their horrid duet of blood-curdling roars and growls.

PT Goaded to frenzy the cat presently determined to come up after this disturber of his peace; but when he essayed to leap to the branch that held Tarzan he found the sharp spear point always in his face, and each time as he dropped back he was prodded viciously in some tender part; but at length, rage having conquered his better judgment, he leaped up the rough bole to the very branch upon which Tarzan stood. Now the two faced each other upon even footing and Sheeta saw a quick revenge and a supper all in one. The hairless ape-thing with the tiny fangs and the puny talons would be helpless before him.

PT The heavy limb bent beneath the weight of the two beasts as Sheeta crept cautiously out upon it and Tarzan backed slowly away, growling. The wind had risen to the proportions of a gale so that even the greatest giants of the forest swayed, groaning, to its force and the branch upon which the two faced each other rose and fell like the deck of a storm-tossed ship. Goro was now entirely obscured, but vivid flashes of lightning lit up the jungle at brief intervals, revealing the grim tableau of primitive passion upon the swaying limb.

PT Tarzan backed away, drawing Sheeta farther from the stem of the tree and out upon the tapering branch, where his footing became ever more precarious. The cat, infuriated by the pain of spear wounds, was overstepping the bounds of caution. Already he had reached a point where he could do little more than maintain a secure footing, and it was this moment that Tarzan chose to charge. With a roar that mingled with the booming thunder from above he leaped toward the panther, who could only claw futilely with one huge paw while he clung to the branch with the other; but the ape-man did not come within that parabola of destruction. Instead he leaped above menacing claws and snapping fangs, turning in mid-air and alighting upon Sheeta's back, and at the instant of impact his knife struck deep into the tawny side. Then Sheeta, impelled by pain and hate and rage and the first law of Nature, went mad. Screaming and clawing he attempted to turn upon the ape-thing clinging to his back. For an instant he toppled upon the now wildly gyrating limb, clutched frantically to save himself, and then plunged downward into the darkness with Tarzan still clinging to him. Crashing through splintering branches the two fell. Not for an instant did the ape-man consider relinquishing his death-hold upon his adversary. He had entered the lists in mortal combat and true to the primitive instincts of the wild -- the unwritten law of the jungle -- one or both must die before the battle ended.

PT Sheeta, catlike, alighted upon four out-sprawled feet, the weight of the ape-man crushing him to earth, the long knife again imbedded in his side. Once the panther struggled to rise; but only to sink to earth again. Tarzan felt the giant muscles relax beneath him. Sheeta was dead. Rising, the ape-man placed a foot upon the body of his vanquished foe, raised his face toward the thundering heavens, and as the lightning flashed and the torrential rain broke upon him, screamed forth the wild victory cry of the bull ape.

PT Having accomplished his aim and driven the enemy from his lair, Tarzan gathered an armful of large fronds and climbed to his dripping couch. Laying a few of the fronds upon the poles he lay down and covered himself against the rain with the others, and despite the wailing of the wind and the crashing of the thunder, immediately fell asleep.

The Lion's Cave

PT The rain lasted for twenty-four hours and much of the time it fell in torrents so that when it ceased, the trail he had been following was entirely obliterated. Cold and uncomfortable -- it was a savage Tarzan who threaded the mazes of the soggy jungle. Manu, the monkey, shivering and chattering in the dank trees, scolded and fled at his approach. Even the panthers and the lions let the growling Tarmangani pass unmolested.

PT When the sun shone again upon the second day and a wide, open plain let the full heat of Kudu flood the chilled, brown body, Tarzan's spirits rose; but it was still a sullen, surly brute that moved steadily onward into the south where he hoped again to pick up the trail of the Germans. He was now in German East Africa and it was his intention to skirt the mountains west of Kilimanjaro, whose rugged peaks he was quite willing to give a wide berth, and then swing eastward along the south side of the range to the railway that led to Tanga, for his experience among men suggested that it was toward this railroad that German troops would be likely to converge.

PT Two days later, from the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro, he heard the boom of cannon far away to the east. The afternoon had been dull and cloudy and now as he was passing through a narrow gorge a few great drops of rain began to splatter upon his naked shoulders. Tarzan shook his head and growled his disapproval; then he cast his eyes about for shelter, for he had had quite enough of the cold and drenching. He wanted to hasten on in the direction of the booming noise, for he knew that there would be Germans fighting against the English. For an instant his bosom swelled with pride at the thought that he was English and then he shook his head again viciously."No!"he muttered,"Tarzan of the Apes is not English, for the English are men and Tarzan is Tarmangani;"but he could not hide even from his sorrow or from his sullen hatred of mankind in general that his heart warmed at the thought it was Englishmen who fought the Germans. His regret was that the English were human and not great white apes as he again considered himself.

PT "Tomorrow,"he thought,"I will travel that way and find the Germans,"and then he set himself to the immediate task of discovering some shelter from the storm. Presently he espied the low and narrow entrance to what appeared to be a cave at the base of the cliffs which formed the northern side of the gorge. With drawn knife he approached the spot warily, for he knew that if it were a cave it was doubtless the lair of some other beast. Before the entrance lay many large fragments of rock of different sizes, similar to others scattered along the entire base of the cliff, and it was in Tarzan's mind that if he found the cave unoccupied he would barricade the door and insure himself a quiet and peaceful night's repose within the sheltered interior. Let the storm rage without -- Tarzan would remain within until it ceased, comfortable and dry. A tiny rivulet of cold water trickled outward from the opening.

PT Close to the cave Tarzan kneeled and sniffed the ground. A low growl escaped him and his upper lip curved to expose his fighting fangs."Numa!"he muttered; but he did not stop. Numa might not be at home -- he would investigate. The entrance was so low that the ape-man was compelled to drop to all fours before he could poke his head within the aperture; but first he looked, listened, and sniffed in each direction at his rear -- he would not be taken by surprise from that quarter.

PT His first glance within the cave revealed a narrow tunnel with daylight at its farther end. The interior of the tunnel was not so dark but that the ape-man could readily see that it was untenanted at present. Advancing cautiously he crawled toward the opposite end imbued with a full realization of what it would mean if Numa should suddenly enter the tunnel in front of him; but Numa did not appear and the ape-man emerged at length into the open and stood erect, finding himself in a rocky cleft whose precipitous walls rose almost sheer on every hand, the tunnel from the gorge passing through the cliff and forming a passageway from the outer world into a large pocket or gulch entirely enclosed by steep walls of rock. Except for the small passageway from the gorge, there was no other entrance to the gulch which was some hundred feet in length and about fifty in width and appeared to have been worn from the rocky cliff by the falling of water during long ages. A tiny stream from Kilimanjaro's eternal snow cap still trickled over the edge of the rocky wall at the upper end of the gulch, forming a little pool at the bottom of the cliff from which a small rivulet wound downward to the tunnel through which it passed to the gorge beyond. A single great tree flourished near the center of the gulch, while tufts of wiry grass were scattered here and there among the rocks of the gravelly floor.

PT The bones of many large animals lay about and among them were several human skulls. Tarzan raised his eyebrows."A man-eater,"he murmured,"and from appearances he has held sway here for a long time. Tonight Tarzan will take the lair of the man-eater and Numa may roar and grumble upon the outside."

PT The ape-man had advanced well into the gulch as he investigated his surroundings and now as he stood near the tree, satisfied that the tunnel would prove a dry and quiet retreat for the night, he turned to retrace his way to the outer end of the entrance that he might block it with boulders against Numa's return, but even with the thought there came something to his sensitive ears that froze him into statuesque immobility with eyes glued upon the tunnel's mouth. A moment later the head of a huge lion framed in a great black mane appeared in the opening. The yellow-green eyes glared, round and unblinking, straight at the trespassing Tarmangani, a low growl rumbled from the deep chest, and lips curled back to expose the mighty fangs.

PT "Brother of Dango!"shouted Tarzan, angered that Numa's return should have been so timed as to frustrate his plans for a comfortable night's repose."I am Tarzan of the Apes, Lord of the Jungle. Tonight I lair here -- go!"

PT But Numa did not go. Instead he rumbled forth a menacing roar and took a few steps in Tarzan's direction. The ape-man picked up a rock and hurled it at the snarling face. One can never be sure of a lion. This one might turn tail and run at the first intimation of attack -- Tarzan had bluffed many in his time -- but not now. The missile struck Numa full upon the snout -- a tender part of a cat's anatomy -- and instead of causing him to flee it transformed him into an infuriated engine of wrath and destruction.

PT Up went his tail, stiff and erect, and with a series of frightful roars he bore down upon the Tarmangani at the speed of an express train. Not an instant too soon did Tarzan reach the tree and swing himself into its branches and there he squatted, hurling insults at the king of beasts while Numa paced a circle beneath him, growling and roaring in rage.

PT It was raining now in earnest adding to the ape-man's discomfort and disappointment. He was very angry; but as only direct necessity had ever led him to close in mortal combat with a lion, knowing as he did that he had only luck and agility to pit against the frightful odds of muscle, weight, fangs, and talons, he did not now even consider descending and engaging in so unequal and useless a duel for the mere reward of a little added creature comfort. And so he sat perched in the tree while the rain fell steadily and the lion padded round and round beneath, casting a baleful eye upward after every few steps.

PT Tarzan scanned the precipitous walls for an avenue of escape. They would have baffled an ordinary man; but the ape-man, accustomed to climbing, saw several places where he might gain a foothold, precarious possibly; but enough to give him reasonable assurance of escape if Numa would but betake himself to the far end of the gulch for a moment. Numa, however, notwithstanding the rain, gave no evidence of quitting his post so that at last Tarzan really began to consider seriously if it might not be as well to take the chance of a battle with him rather than remain longer cold and wet and humiliated in the tree.

PT But even as he turned the matter over in his mind Numa turned suddenly and walked majestically toward the tunnel without even a backward glance. The instant that he disappeared, Tarzan dropped lightly to the ground upon the far side of the tree and was away at top speed for the cliff. The lion had no sooner entered the tunnel than he backed immediately out again and, pivoting like a flash, was off across the gulch in full charge after the flying ape-man; but Tarzan's lead was too great -- if he could find finger or foothold upon the sheer wall he would be safe; but should he slip from the wet rocks his doom was already sealed as he would fall directly into Numa's clutches where even the Great Tarmangani would be helpless.

PT With the agility of a cat Tarzan ran up the cliff for thirty feet before he paused, and there finding a secure foothold, he stopped and looked down upon Numa who was leaping upward in a wild and futile attempt to scale the rocky wall to his prey. Fifteen or twenty feet from the ground the lion would scramble only to fall backward again defeated. Tarzan eyed him for a moment and then commenced a slow and cautious ascent toward the summit. Several times he had difficulty in finding holds but at last he drew himself over the edge, rose, picked up a bit of loose rock, hurled it at Numa and strode away.

PT Finding an easy descent to the gorge, he was about to pursue his journey in the direction of the still-booming guns when a sudden thought caused him to halt and a half-smile to play about his lips. Turning, he trotted quickly back to the outer opening of Numa's tunnel. Close beside it he listened for a moment and then rapidly began to gather large rocks and pile them within the entrance. He had almost closed the aperture when the lion appeared upon the inside -- a very ferocious and angry lion that pawed and clawed at the rocks and uttered mighty roars that caused the earth to tremble; but roars did not frighten Tarzan of the Apes. At Kala's shaggy breast he had closed his infant eyes in sleep upon countless nights in years gone by to the savage chorus of similar roars. Scarcely a day or night of his jungle life -- and practically all his life had been spent in the jungle -- had he not heard the roaring of hungry lions, or angry lions, or love-sick lions. Such sounds affected Tarzan as the tooting of an automobile horn may affect you -- if you are in front of the automobile it warns you out of the way, if you are not in front of it you scarcely notice it. Figuratively Tarzan was not in front of the automobile -- Numa could not reach him and Tarzan knew it, so he continued deliberately to choke the entrance until there was no possibility of Numa's getting out again. When he was quite through he made a grimace at the hidden lion beyond the barrier and resumed his way toward the east."A man-eater who will eat no more men,"he soliloquized.

PT That night Tarzan lay up under an overhanging shelf of rock. The next morning he resumed his journey, stopping only long enough to make a kill and satisfy his hunger. The other beasts of the wild eat and lie up; but Tarzan never let his belly interfere with his plans. In this lay one of the greatest differences between the ape-man and his fellows of the jungles and forests. The firing ahead rose and fell during the day. He had noticed that it was highest at dawn and immediately after dusk and that during the night it almost ceased. In the middle of the afternoon of the second day he came upon troops moving up toward the front. They appeared to be raiding parties, for they drove goats and cows along with them and there were native porters laden with grain and other foodstuffs. He saw that these natives were all secured by neck chains and he also saw that the troops were composed of native soldiers in German uniforms. The officers were white men. No one saw Tarzan, yet he was here and there about and among them for two hours. He inspected the insignia upon their uniforms and saw that they were not the same as that which he had taken from one of the dead soldiers at the bungalow and then he passed on ahead of them, unseen in the dense bush. He had come upon Germans and had not killed them; but it was because the killing of Germans at large was not yet the prime motive of his existence -- now it was to discover the individual who slew his mate.

PT After he had accounted for him he would take up the little matter of slaying ALL Germans who crossed his path, and he meant that many should cross it, for he would hunt them precisely as professional hunters hunt the man-eaters.

PT As he neared the front lines the troops became more numerous. There were motor trucks and ox teams and all the impedimenta of a small army and always there were wounded men walking or being carried toward the rear. He had crossed the railroad some distance back and judged that the wounded were being taken to it for transportation to a base hospital and possibly as far away as Tanga on the coast.

PT It was dusk when he reached a large camp hidden in the foothills of the Pare Mountains. As he was approaching from the rear he found it but lightly guarded and what sentinels there were, were not upon the alert, and so it was an easy thing for him to enter after darkness had fallen and prowl about listening at the backs of tents, searching for some clew to the slayer of his mate.

PT As he paused at the side of a tent before which sat a number of native soldiers he caught a few words spoken in native dialect that riveted his attention instantly:"The Waziri fought like devils; but we are greater fighters and we killed them all. When we were through the captain came and killed the woman. He stayed outside and yelled in a very loud voice until all the men were killed. Underlieutenant von Goss is braver -- he came in and stood beside the door shouting at us, also in a very loud voice, and bade us nail one of the Waziri who was wounded to the wall, and then he laughed loudly because the man suffered. We all laughed. It was very funny."

PT Like a beast of prey, grim and terrible, Tarzan crouched in the shadows beside the tent. What thoughts passed through that savage mind? Who may say? No outward sign of passion was revealed by the expression of the handsome face; the cold, gray eyes denoted only intense watchfulness. Presently the soldier Tarzan had heard first rose and with a parting word turned away. He passed within ten feet of the ape-man and continued on toward the rear of the camp. Tarzan followed and in the shadows of a clump of bushes overtook his quarry. There was no sound as the man beast sprang upon the back of his prey and bore it to the ground for steel fingers closed simultaneously upon the soldier's throat, effectually stifling any outcry. By the neck Tarzan dragged his victim well into the concealment of the bushes.

PT "Make no sound,"he cautioned in the man's own tribal dialect as he released his hold upon the other's throat.

PT The fellow gasped for breath, rolling frightened eyes upward to see what manner of creature it might be in whose power he was. In the darkness he saw only a naked brown body bending above him; but he still remembered the terrific strength of the mighty muscles that had closed upon his wind and dragged him into the bushes as though he had been but a little child. If any thought of resistance had crossed his mind he must have discarded it at once, as he made no move to escape.

PT "What is the name of the officer who killed the woman at the bungalow where you fought with the Waziri?"asked Tarzan.

PT "Hauptmann Schneider,"replied the black when he could again command his voice.

PT "Where is he?"demanded the ape-man.

PT "He is here. It may be that he is at headquarters. Many of the officers go there in the evening to receive orders."

PT "Lead me there,"commanded Tarzan,"and if I am discovered I will kill you immediately. Get up!"

PT The black rose and led the way by a roundabout route back through the camp. Several times they were forced to hide while soldiers passed; but at last they reached a great pile of baled hay from about the corner of which the black pointed out a two-story building in the distance.

PT "Headquarters,"he said."You can go no farther unseen. There are many soldiers about."

PT Tarzan realized that he could not proceed farther in company with the black. He turned and looked at the fellow for a moment as though pondering what disposition to make of him.

PT "You helped to crucify Wasimbu, the Waziri,"he accused in a low yet none the less terrible tone.

PT The black trembled, his knees giving beneath him."He ordered us to do it,"he plead.

PT "Who ordered it done?"demanded Tarzan.

PT "Underlieutenant von Goss,"replied the soldier."He, too, is here."

PT "I shall find him,"returned Tarzan, grimly."You helped to crucify Wasimbu, the Waziri, and, while he suffered, you laughed."

PT The fellow reeled. It was as though in the accusation he read also his death sentence. With no other word Tarzan seized the man again by the neck. As before there was no outcry. The giant muscles tensed. The arms swung quickly upward and with them the body of the black soldier who had helped to crucify Wasimbu, the Waziri, described a circle in the air -- once, twice, three times, and then it was flung aside and the ape-man turned in the direction of General Kraut's headquarters.

PT A single sentinel in the rear of the building barred the way. Tarzan crawled, belly to the ground, toward him, taking advantage of cover as only the jungle-bred beast of prey can do. When the sentinel's eyes were toward him, Tarzan hugged the ground, motionless as stone; when they were turned away, he moved swiftly forward. Presently he was within charging distance. He waited until the man had turned his back once more and then he rose and sped noiselessly down upon him. Again there was no sound as he carried the dead body with him toward the building.

PT The lower floor was lighted, the upper dark. Through the windows Tarzan saw a large front room and a smaller room in rear of it. In the former were many officers. Some moved about talking to one another, others sat at field tables writing. The windows were open and Tarzan could hear much of the conversation; but nothing that interested him. It was mostly about the German successes in Africa and conjectures as to when the German army in Europe would reach Paris. Some said the Kaiser was doubtlessly already there, and there was a great deal of damning Belgium.

PT In the smaller back room a large, red-faced man sat behind a table. Some other officers were also sitting a little in rear of him, while two stood at attention before the general, who was questioning them. As he talked, the general toyed with an oil lamp that stood upon the table before him. Presently there came a knock upon the door and an aide entered the room. He saluted and reported:"Fräulein Kircher has arrived, sir."

PT "Bid her enter,"commanded the general, and then nodded to the two officers before him in sign of dismissal.

PT The Fräulein, entering, passed them at the door. The officers in the little room rose and saluted, the Fräulein acknowledging the courtesy with a bow and a slight smile. She was a very pretty girl. Even the rough, soiled riding habit and the caked dust upon her face could not conceal the fact, and she was young. She could not have been over nineteen.

PT She advanced to the table behind which the general stood and, taking a folded paper from an inside pocket of her coat, handed it to him.

PT "Be seated, Fräulein,"he said, and another officer brought her a chair. No one spoke while the general read the contents of the paper.

PT Tarzan appraised the various people in the room. He wondered if one might not be Hauptmann Schneider, for two of them were captains. The girl he judged to be of the intelligence department -- a spy. Her beauty held no appeal for him -- without a glimmer of compunction he could have wrung that fair, young neck. She was German and that was enough; but he had other and more important work before him. He wanted Hauptmann Schneider.

PT Finally the general looked up from the paper.

PT "Good,"he said to the girl, and then to one of his aides,"Send for Major Schneider."

PT Major Schneider! Tarzan felt the short hairs at the back of his neck rise. Already they had promoted the beast who had murdered his mate -- doubtless they had promoted him for that very crime.

PT The aide left the room and the others fell into a general conversation from which it became apparent to Tarzan that the German East African forces greatly outnumbered the British and that the latter were suffering heavily. The ape-man stood so concealed in a clump of bushes that he could watch the interior of the room without being seen from within, while he was at the same time hidden from the view of anyone who might chance to pass along the post of the sentinel he had slain. Momentarily he was expecting a patrol or a relief to appear and discover that the sentinel was missing, when he knew an immediate and thorough search would be made.

PT Impatiently he awaited the coming of the man he sought and at last he was rewarded by the reappearance of the aide who had been dispatched to fetch him accompanied by an officer of medium size with fierce, upstanding mustaches. The newcomer strode to the table, halted and saluted, reporting. The general acknowledged the salute and turned toward the girl.

PT "Fräulein Kircher,"he said,"allow me to present Major Schneider--"

PT Tarzan waited to hear no more. Placing a palm upon the sill of the window he vaulted into the room into the midst of an astounded company of the Kaiser's officers. With a stride he was at the table and with a sweep of his hand sent the lamp crashing into the fat belly of the general who, in his mad effort to escape cremation, fell over backward, chair and all, upon the floor. Two of the aides sprang for the ape-man who picked up the first and flung him in the face of the other. The girl had leaped from her chair and stood flattened against the wall. The other officers were calling aloud for the guard and for help. Tarzan's purpose centered upon but a single individual and him he never lost sight of. Freed from attack for an instant he seized Major Schneider, threw him over his shoulder and was out of the window so quickly that the astonished assemblage could scarce realize what had occurred.

PT A single glance showed him that the sentinel's post was still vacant and a moment later he and his burden were in the shadows of the hay dump. Major Schneider had made no outcry for the very excellent reason that his wind was shut off. Now Tarzan released his grasp enough to permit the man to breathe.

PT "If you make a sound you will be choked again,"he said.

PT Cautiously and after infinite patience Tarzan passed the final outpost. Forcing his captive to walk before him he pushed on toward the west until, late into the night, he re-crossed the railway where he felt reasonably safe from discovery. The German had cursed and grumbled and threatened and asked questions; but his only reply was another prod from Tarzan's sharp war spear. The ape-man herded him along as he would have driven a hog with the difference that he would have had more respect and therefore more consideration for a hog.

PT Until now Tarzan had given little thought to the details of revenge. Now he pondered what form the punishment should take. Of only one thing was he certain -- it must end in death. Like all brave men and courageous beasts Tarzan had little natural inclination to torture -- none, in fact; but this case was unique in his experience. An inherent sense of justice called for an eye for an eye and his recent oath demanded even more. Yes, the creature must suffer even as he had caused Jane Clayton to suffer. Tarzan could not hope to make the man suffer as he had suffered, since physical pain may never approach the exquisiteness of mental torture.

PT All through the long night the ape-man goaded on the exhausted and now terrified Hun. The awful silence of his captor wrought upon the German's nerves. If he would only speak! Again and again Schneider tried to force or coax a word from him; but always the result was the same -- continued silence and a vicious and painful prod from the spear point. Schneider was bleeding and sore. He was so exhausted that he staggered at every step, and often he fell only to be prodded to his feet again by that terrifying and remorseless spear.

PT It was not until morning that Tarzan reached a decision and it came to him then like an inspiration from above. A slow smile touched his lips and he immediately sought a place to lie up and rest -- he wished his prisoner to be fit now for what lay in store for him. Ahead was a stream which Tarzan had crossed the day before. He knew the ford for a drinking place and a likely spot to make an easy kill. Cautioning the German to utter silence with a gesture the two approached the stream quietly. Down the game trail Tarzan saw some deer about to leave the water. He shoved Schneider into the brush at one side and, squatting next him, waited. The German watched the silent giant with puzzled, frightened eyes. In the new dawn he, for the first time, was able to obtain a good look at his captor, and, if he had been puzzled and frightened before, those sensations were nothing to what he experienced now.

PT Who and what could this almost naked, white savage be? He had heard him speak but once -- when he had cautioned him to silence -- and then in excellent German and the well-modulated tones of culture. He watched him now as the fascinated toad watches the snake that is about to devour it. He saw the graceful limbs and symmetrical body motionless as a marble statue as the creature crouched in the concealment of the leafy foliage. Not a muscle, not a nerve moved. He saw the deer coming slowly along the trail, down wind and unsuspecting. He saw a buck pass -- an old buck -- and then a young and plump one came opposite the giant in ambush, and Schneider's eyes went wide and a scream of terror almost broke from his lips as he saw the agile beast at his side spring straight for the throat of the young buck and heard from those human lips the hunting roar of a wild beast. Down went the buck and Tarzan and his captive had meat. The ape-man ate his raw, but he permitted the German to build a fire and cook his portion.

PT The two lay up until late in the afternoon and then took up the journey once again -- a journey that was so frightful to Schneider because of his ignorance of its destination that he at times groveled at Tarzan's feet begging for an explanation and for mercy; but on and on in silence the ape-man went, prodding the failing Hun whenever the latter faltered.

PT It was noon of the third day before they reached their destination. After a steep climb and a short walk they halted at the edge of a precipitous cliff and Schneider looked down into a narrow gulch where a single tree grew beside a tiny rivulet and sparse grass broke from a rock-strewn soil. Tarzan motioned him over the edge; but the German drew back in terror. The Ape-man seized him and pushed him roughly toward the brink."Descend,"he said. It was the second time he had spoken in three days and perhaps his very silence, ominous in itself, had done more to arouse terror in the breast of the Boche than even the spear point, ever ready as it always was.

PT Schneider looked fearfully over the edge; but was about to essay the attempt when Tarzan halted him."I am Lord Greystoke,"he said."It was my wife you murdered in the Waziri country. You will understand now why I came for you. Descend."

PT The German fell upon his knees."I did not murder your wife,"he cried."Have mercy! I did not murder your wife. I do not know anything about--"

PT "Descend!"snapped Tarzan, raising the point of his spear. He knew that the man lied and was not surprised that he did. A man who would murder for no cause would lie for less. Schneider still hesitated and pled. The ape-man jabbed him with the spear and Schneider slid fearfully over the top and began the perilous descent. Tarzan accompanied and assisted him over the worst places until at last they were within a few feet of the bottom.

PT "Be quiet now,"cautioned the ape-man. He pointed at the entrance to what appeared to be a cave at the far end of the gulch."There is a hungry lion in there. If you can reach that tree before he discovers you, you will have several days longer in which to enjoy life and then -- when you are too weak to cling longer to the branches of the tree Numa, the man-eater, will feed again for the last time."He pushed Schneider from his foothold to the ground below."Now run,"he said.

PT The German trembling in terror started for the tree. He had almost reached it when a horrid roar broke from the mouth of the cave and almost simultaneously a gaunt, hunger mad lion leaped into the daylight of the gulch. Schneider had but a few yards to cover; but the lion flew over the ground to circumvent him while Tarzan watched the race with a slight smile upon his lips.

PT Schneider won by a slender margin, and as Tarzan scaled the cliff to the summit, he heard behind him mingled with the roaring of the baffled cat, the gibbering of a human voice that was at the same time more bestial than the beast's.

PT Upon the brink of the cliff the ape-man turned and looked back into the gulch. High in the tree the German clung frantically to a branch across which his body lay. Beneath him was Numa -- waiting.

PT The ape-man raised his face to Kudu, the sun, and from his mighty chest rose the savage victory cry of the bull ape.

In the German Lines

PT Tarzan was not yet fully revenged. There were many millions of Germans yet alive -- enough to keep Tarzan pleasantly occupied the balance of his life, and yet not enough, should he kill them all, to recompense him for the great loss he had suffered -- nor could the death of all those million Germans bring back his loved one.

PT While in the German camp in the Pare Mountains, which lie just east of the boundary line between German and British East Africa, Tarzan had overheard enough to suggest that the British were getting the worst of the fighting in Africa. At first he had given the matter but little thought, since, after the death of his wife, the one strong tie that had held him to civilization, he had renounced all mankind, considering himself no longer man, but ape.

PT After accounting for Schneider as satisfactorily as lay within his power he circled Kilimanjaro and hunted in the foothills to the north of that mightiest of mountains as he had discovered that in the neighborhood of the armies there was no hunting at all. Some pleasure he derived through conjuring mental pictures from time to time of the German he had left in the branches of the lone tree at the bottom of the high-walled gulch in which was penned the starving lion. He could imagine the man's mental anguish as he became weakened from hunger and maddened by thirst, knowing that sooner or later he must slip exhausted to the ground where waited the gaunt man-eater. Tarzan wondered if Schneider would have the courage to descend to the little rivulet for water should Numa leave the gulch and enter the cave, and then he pictured the mad race for the tree again when the lion charged out to seize his prey as he was certain to do, since the clumsy German could not descend to the rivulet without making at least some slight noise that would attract Numa's attention.

PT But even this pleasure palled, and more and more the ape-man found himself thinking of the English soldiers fighting against heavy odds and especially of the fact that it was Germans who were beating them. The thought made him lower his head and growl and it worried him not a little -- a bit, perhaps, because he was finding it difficult to forget that he was an Englishman when he wanted only to be an ape. And at last the time came when he could not longer endure the thought of Germans killing Englishmen while he hunted in safety a bare march away.

PT His decision made, he set out in the direction of the German camp, no well-defined plan formulated; but with the general idea that once near the field of operations he might find an opportunity to harass the German command as he so well knew how to do. His way took him along the gorge close to the gulch in which he had left Schneider, and, yielding to a natural curiosity, he scaled the cliffs and made his way to the edge of the gulch. The tree was empty, nor was there sign of Numa, the lion. Picking up a rock he hurled it into the gulch, where it rolled to the very entrance to the cave. Instantly the lion appeared in the aperture; but such a different-looking lion from the great sleek brute that Tarzan had trapped there two weeks before. Now he was gaunt and emaciated, and when he walked he staggered.

PT "Where is the German?"shouted Tarzan."Was he good eating, or only a bag of bones when he slipped and fell from the tree?"

PT Numa growled."You look hungry, Numa,"continued the ape-man."You must have been very hungry to eat all the grass from your lair and even the bark from the tree as far up as you can reach. Would you like another German?"and smiling he turned away.

PT A few minutes later he came suddenly upon Bara, the deer, asleep beneath a tree, and as Tarzan was hungry he made a quick kill, and squatting beside his prey proceeded to eat his fill. As he was gnawing the last morsel from a bone his quick ears caught the padding of stealthy feet behind him, and turning he confronted Dango, the hyena, sneaking upon him. With a growl the ape-man picked up a fallen branch and hurled it at the skulking brute."Go away, eater of carrion!"he cried; but Dango was hungry and being large and powerful he only snarled and circled slowly about as though watching for an opportunity to charge. Tarzan of the Apes knew Dango even better than Dango knew himself. He knew that the brute, made savage by hunger, was mustering its courage for an attack, that it was probably accustomed to man and therefore more or less fearless of him and so he un-slung his heavy spear and laid it ready at his side while he continued his meal, all the time keeping a watchful eye upon the hyena.

PT He felt no fear, for long familiarity with the dangers of his wild world had so accustomed him to them that he took whatever came as a part of each day's existence as you accept the homely though no less real dangers of the farm, the range, or the crowded metropolis. Being jungle bred he was ready to protect his kill from all comers within ordinary limitations of caution. Under favorable conditions Tarzan would face even Numa himself and, if forced to seek safety by flight, he could do so without any feeling of shame. There was no braver creature roamed those savage wilds and at the same time there was none more wise -- the two factors that had permitted him to survive.

PT Dango might have charged sooner but for the savage growls of the ape-man -- growls which, coming from human lips, raised a question and a fear in the hyena's heart. He had attacked women and children in the native fields and he had frightened their men about their fires at night; but he never had seen a man-thing who made this sound that reminded him more of Numa angry than of a man afraid.

PT When Tarzan had completed his repast he was about to rise and hurl a clean-picked bone at the beast before he went his way, leaving the remains of his kill to Dango; but a sudden thought stayed him and instead he picked up the carcass of the deer, threw it over his shoulder, and set off in the direction of the gulch. For a few yards Dango followed, growling, and then realizing that he was being robbed of even a taste of the luscious flesh he cast discretion to the winds and charged. Instantly, as though Nature had given him eyes in the back of his head, Tarzan sensed the impending danger and, dropping Bara to the ground, turned with raised spear. Far back went the brown, right hand and then forward, lightning-like, backed by the power of giant muscles and the weight of his brawn and bone. The spear, released at the right instant, drove straight for Dango, caught him in the neck where it joined the shoulders and passed through the body.

PT When he had withdrawn the shaft from the hyena Tarzan shouldered both carcasses and continued on toward the gulch. Below lay Numa beneath the shade of the lone tree and at the ape-man's call he staggered slowly to his feet, yet weak as he was, he still growled savagely, even essaying a roar at the sight of his enemy. Tarzan let the two bodies slide over the rim of the cliff."Eat, Numa!"he cried."It may be that I shall need you again."He saw the lion, quickened to new life at the sight of food, spring upon the body of the deer and then he left him rending and tearing the flesh as he bolted great pieces into his empty maw.

PT The following day Tarzan came within sight of the German lines. From a wooded spur of the hills he looked down upon the enemy's left flank and beyond to the British lines. His position gave him a bird's-eye view of the field of battle, and his keen eyesight picked out many details that would not have been apparent to a man whose every sense was not trained to the highest point of perfection as were the ape-man's. He noted machine-gun emplacements cunningly hidden from the view of the British and listening posts placed well out in No Man's Land.

PT As his interested gaze moved hither and thither from one point of interest to another he heard from a point upon the hillside below him, above the roar of cannon and the crack of rifle fire, a single rifle spit. Immediately his attention was centered upon the spot where he knew a sniper must be hid. Patiently he awaited the next shot that would tell him more surely the exact location of the rifleman, and when it came he moved down the steep hillside with the stealth and quietness of a panther. Apparently he took no cognizance of where he stepped, yet never a loose stone was disturbed nor a twig broken -- it was as though his feet saw.

PT Presently, as he passed through a clump of bushes, he came to the edge of a low cliff and saw upon a ledge some fifteen feet below him a German soldier prone behind an embankment of loose rock and leafy boughs that hid him from the view of the British lines. The man must have been an excellent shot, for he was well back of the German lines, firing over the heads of his fellows. His high-powered rifle was equipped with telescope sights and he also carried binoculars which he was in the act of using as Tarzan discovered him, either to note the effect of his last shot or to discover a new target. Tarzan let his eye move quickly toward that part of the British line the German seemed to be scanning, his keen sight revealing many excellent targets for a rifle placed so high above the trenches.

PT The Hun, evidently satisfied with his observations, laid aside his binoculars and again took up his rifle, placed its butt in the hollow of his shoulder and took careful aim. At the same instant a brown body sprang outward from the cliff above him. There was no sound and it is doubtful that the German ever knew what manner of creature it was that alighted heavily upon his back, for at the instant of impact the sinewy fingers of the ape-man circled the hairy throat of the Boche. There was a moment of futile struggling followed by the sudden realization of dissolution -- the sniper was dead.

PT Lying behind the rampart of rocks and boughs, Tarzan looked down upon the scene below. Near at hand were the trenches of the Germans. He could see officers and men moving about in them and almost in front of him a well-hidden machine gun was traversing No Man's Land in an oblique direction, striking the British at such an angle as to make it difficult for them to locate it.

PT Tarzan watched, toying idly with the rifle of the dead German. Presently he fell to examining the mechanism of the piece. He glanced again toward the German trenches and changed the adjustment of the sights, then he placed the rifle to his shoulder and took aim. Tarzan was an excellent shot. With his civilized friends he had hunted big game with the weapons of civilization and though he never had killed except for food or in self-defense he had amused himself firing at inanimate targets thrown into the air and had perfected himself in the use of firearms without realizing that he had done so. Now indeed would he hunt big game. A slow smile touched his lips as his finger closed gradually upon the trigger. The rifle spoke and a German machine gunner collapsed behind his weapon. In three minutes Tarzan picked off the crew of that gun. Then he spotted a German officer emerging from a dugout and the three men in the bay with him. Tarzan was careful to leave no one in the immediate vicinity to question how Germans could be shot in German trenches when they were entirely concealed from enemy view.

PT Again adjusting his sights he took a long-range shot at a distant machine-gun crew to his right. With calm deliberation he wiped them out to a man. Two guns were silenced. He saw men running through the trenches and he picked off several of them. By this time the Germans were aware that something was amiss -- that an uncanny sniper had discovered a point of vantage from which this sector of the trenches was plainly visible to him. At first they sought to discover his location in No Man's Land; but when an officer looking over the parapet through a periscope was struck full in the back of the head with a rifle bullet which passed through his skull and fell to the bottom of the trench they realized that it was beyond the parados rather than the parapet that they should search.

PT One of the soldiers picked up the bullet that had killed his officer, and then it was that real excitement prevailed in that particular bay, for the bullet was obviously of German make. Hugging the parados, messengers carried the word in both directions and presently periscopes were leveled above the parados and keen eyes were searching out the traitor. It did not take them long to locate the position of the hidden sniper and then Tarzan saw a machine gun being trained upon him. Before it had gotten into action its crew lay dead about it; but there were other men to take their places, reluctantly perhaps; but driven on by their officers they were forced to it and at the same time two other machine guns were swung around toward the ape-man and put into operation.

PT Realizing that the game was about up Tarzan with a farewell shot laid aside the rifle and melted into the hills behind him. For many minutes he could hear the sputter of machinegun fire concentrated upon the spot he had just quit and smiled as he contemplated the waste of German ammunition.

PT "They have paid heavily for Wasimbu, the Waziri, whom they crucified, and for his slain fellows,"he mused;"but for Jane they can never pay -- no, not if I killed them all."

PT After dark that night he circled the flanks of both armies and passed through the British out-guards and into the British lines. No man saw him come. No man knew that he was there.

PT Headquarters of the Second Rhodesians occupied a sheltered position far enough back of the lines to be comparatively safe from enemy observation. Even lights were permitted, and Colonel Capell sat before a field table, on which was spread a military map, talking with several of his officers. A large tree spread above them, a lantern sputtered dimly upon the table, while a small fire burned upon the ground close at hand. The enemy had no planes and no other observers could have seen the lights from the German lines.

PT The officers were discussing the advantage in numbers possessed by the enemy and the inability of the British to more than hold their present position. They could not advance. Already they had sustained severe losses in every attack and had always been driven back by overwhelming numbers. There were hidden machine guns, too, that bothered the colonel considerably. It was evidenced by the fact that he often reverted to them during the conversation.

PT "Something silenced them for a while this afternoon,"said one of the younger officers."I was observing at the time and I couldn't make out what the fuss was about; but they seemed to be having a devil of a time in a section of trench on their left. At one time I could have sworn they were attacked in the rear -- I reported it to you at the time, sir, you'll recall -- for the blighters were pepperin' away at the side of that bluff behind them. I could see the dirt fly. I don't know what it could have been."

PT There was a slight rustling among the branches of the tree above them and simultaneously a lithe, brown body dropped in their midst. Hands moved quickly to the butts of pistols; but otherwise there was no movement among the officers. First they looked wonderingly at the almost naked white man standing there with the firelight playing upon rounded muscles, took in the primitive attire and the equally primitive armament and then all eyes turned toward the colonel.

PT "Who the devil are you, sir?"snapped that officer.

PT "Tarzan of the Apes,"replied the newcomer.

PT "Oh, Greystoke!"cried a major, and stepped forward with outstretched hand.

PT "Preswick,"acknowledged Tarzan as he took the proffered hand.

PT "I didn't recognize you at first,"apologized the major."The last time I saw you you were in London in evening dress. Quite a difference-- 'pon my word, man, you'll have to admit it."

PT Tarzan smiled and turned toward the colonel."I overheard your conversation,"he said."I have just come from behind the German lines. Possibly I can help you."

PT The colonel looked questioningly toward Major Preswick who quickly rose to the occasion and presented the ape-man to his commanding officer and fellows. Briefly Tarzan told them what it was that brought him out alone in pursuit of the Germans.

PT "And now you have come to join us?"asked the colonel.

PT Tarzan shook his head."Not regularly,"he replied."I must fight in my own way; but I can help you. Whenever I wish I can enter the German lines."

PT Capell smiled and shook his head."It's not so easy as you think,"he said;"I've lost two good officers in the last week trying it -- and they were experienced men; none better in the Intelligence Department."

PT "Is it more difficult than entering the British lines?"asked Tarzan.

PT The colonel was about to reply when a new thought appeared to occur to him and he looked quizzically at the ape-man."Who brought you here?"he asked."Who passed you through our out-guards?"

PT "I have just come through the German lines and yours and passed through your camp,"he replied."Send word to ascertain if anyone saw me."

PT "But who accompanied you?"insisted Capell.

PT "I came alone,"replied Tarzan and then, drawing himself to his full height,"You men of civilization, when you come into the jungle, are as dead among the quick. Manu, the monkey, is a sage by comparison. I marvel that you exist at all -- only your numbers, your weapons, and your power of reasoning save you. Had I a few hundred great apes with your reasoning power I could drive the Germans into the ocean as quickly as the remnant of them could reach the coast. Fortunate it is for you that the dumb brutes cannot combine. Could they, Africa would remain forever free of men. But come, can I help you? Would you like to know where several machinegun emplacements are hidden?"

PT The colonel assured him that they would, and a moment later Tarzan had traced upon the map the location of three that had been bothering the English."There is a weak spot here,"he said, placing a finger upon the map."It is held by blacks; but the machine guns out in front are manned by whites. If -- wait! I have a plan. You can fill that trench with your own men and enfilade the trenches to its right with their own machine guns."

PT Colonel Capell smiled and shook his head."It sounds very easy,"he said.

PT "It IS easy -- for me,"replied the ape-man."I can empty that section of trench without a shot. I was raised in the jungle -- I know the jungle folk -- the Gomangani as well as the others. Look for me again on the second night,"and he turned to leave.

PT "Wait,"said the colonel."I will send an officer to pass you through the lines."

PT Tarzan smiled and moved away. As he was leaving the little group about headquarters he passed a small figure wrapped in an officer's heavy overcoat. The collar was turned up and the visor of the military cap pulled well down over the eyes; but, as the ape-man passed, the light from the fire illuminated the features of the newcomer for an instant, revealing to Tarzan a vaguely familiar face. Some officer he had known in London, doubtless, he surmised, and went his way through the British camp and the British lines all unknown to the watchful sentinels of the out-guard.

PT Nearly all night he moved across Kilimanjaro's foothills, tracking by instinct an unknown way, for he guessed that what he sought would be found on some wooded slope higher up than he had come upon his other recent journeys in this, to him, little known country. Three hours before dawn his keen nostrils apprised him that somewhere in the vicinity he would find what he wanted, and so he climbed into a tall tree and settled himself for a few hours' sleep.

When the Lion Fed

PT Kudu, the sun, was well up in the heavens when Tarzan awoke. The ape-man stretched his giant limbs, ran his fingers through his thick hair, and swung lightly down to earth. Immediately he took up the trail he had come in search of, following it by scent down into a deep ravine. Cautiously he went now, for his nose told him that the quarry was close at hand, and presently from an overhanging bough he looked down upon Horta, the boar, and many of his kinsmen. Un-slinging his bow and selecting an arrow, Tarzan fitted the shaft and, drawing it far back, took careful aim at the largest of the great pigs. In the ape-man's teeth were other arrows, and no sooner had the first one sped, than he had fitted and shot another bolt. Instantly the pigs were in turmoil, not knowing from whence the danger threatened. They stood stupidly at first and then commenced milling around until six of their number lay dead or dying about them; then with a chorus of grunts and squeals they started off at a wild run, disappearing quickly in the dense underbrush.

PT Tarzan then descended from the tree, dispatched those that were not already dead and proceeded to skin the carcasses. As he worked, rapidly and with great skill, he neither hummed nor whistled as does the average man of civilization. It was in numerous little ways such as these that he differed from other men, due, probably, to his early jungle training. The beasts of the jungle that he had been reared among were playful to maturity but seldom thereafter. His fellow-apes, especially the bulls, became fierce and surly as they grew older. Life was a serious matter during lean seasons -- one had to fight to secure one's share of food then, and the habit once formed became lifelong. Hunting for food was the life labor of the jungle bred, and a life labor is a thing not to be approached with levity nor prosecuted lightly. So all work found Tarzan serious, though he still retained what the other beasts lost as they grew older -- a sense of humor, which he gave play to when the mood suited him. It was a grim humor and sometimes ghastly; but it satisfied Tarzan.

PT Then, too, were one to sing and whistle while working on the ground, concentration would be impossible. Tarzan possessed the ability to concentrate each of his five senses upon its particular business. Now he worked at skinning the six pigs and his eyes and his fingers worked as though there was naught else in all the world than these six carcasses; but his ears and his nose were as busily engaged elsewhere -- the former ranging the forest all about and the latter assaying each passing zephyr. It was his nose that first discovered the approach of Sabor, the lioness, when the wind shifted for a moment.

PT As clearly as though he had seen her with his eyes, Tarzan knew that the lioness had caught the scent of the freshly killed pigs and immediately had moved down wind in their direction. He knew from the strength of the scent spoor and the rate of the wind about how far away she was and that she was approaching from behind him. He was finishing the last pig and he did not hurry. The five pelts lay close at hand -- he had been careful to keep them thus together and near him -- an ample tree waved its low branches above him.

PT He did not even turn his head for he knew she was not yet in sight; but he bent his ears just a bit more sharply for the first sound of her nearer approach. When the final skin had been removed he rose. Now he heard Sabor in the bushes to his rear, but not yet too close. Leisurely he gathered up the six pelts and one of the carcasses, and as the lioness appeared between the boles of two trees he swung upward into the branches above him. Here he hung the hides over a limb, seated himself comfortably upon another with his back against the bole of the tree, cut a hind quarter from the carcass he had carried with him and proceeded to satisfy his hunger. Sabor slunk, growling, from the brush, cast a wary eye upward toward the ape-man and then fell upon the nearest carcass.

PT Tarzan looked down upon her and grinned, recalling an argument he had once had with a famous big-game hunter who had declared that the king of beasts ate only what he himself had killed. Tarzan knew better for he had seen Numa and Sabor stoop even to carrion.

PT Having filled his belly, the ape-man fell to work upon the hides -- all large and strong. First he cut strips from them about half an inch wide. When he had sufficient number of these strips he sewed two of the hides together, afterwards piercing holes every three or four inches around the edges. Running another strip through these holes gave him a large bag with a drawstring. In similar fashion he produced four other like bags, but smaller, from the four remaining hides and had several strips left over.

PT All this done he threw a large, juicy fruit at Sabor, cached the remainder of the pig in a crotch of the tree and swung off toward the southwest through the middle terraces of the forest, carrying his five bags with him. Straight he went to the rim of the gulch where he had imprisoned Numa, the lion. Very stealthily he approached the edge and peered over. Numa was not in sight. Tarzan sniffed and listened. He could hear nothing, yet he knew that Numa must be within the cave. He hoped that he slept -- much depended upon Numa not discovering him.

PT Cautiously he lowered himself over the edge of the cliff, and with utter noiselessness commenced the descent toward the bottom of the gulch. He stopped often and turned his keen eyes and ears in the direction of the cave's mouth at the far end of the gulch, some hundred feet away. As he neared the foot of the cliff his danger increased greatly. If he could reach the bottom and cover half the distance to the tree that stood in the center of the gulch he would feel comparatively safe for then, even if Numa appeared, he felt that he could beat him either to the cliff or to the tree, but to scale the first thirty feet of the cliff rapidly enough to elude the leaping beast would require a running start of at least twenty feet as there were no very good hand- or footholds close to the bottom -- he had had to run up the first twenty feet like a squirrel running up a tree that other time he had beaten an infuriated Numa to it. He had no desire to attempt it again unless the conditions were equally favorable at least, for he had escaped Numa's raking talons by only a matter of inches on the former occasion.

PT At last he stood upon the floor of the gulch. Silent as a disembodied spirit he advanced toward the tree. He was half way there and no sign of Numa. He reached the scarred bole from which the famished lion had devoured the bark and even torn pieces of the wood itself and yet Numa had not appeared. As he drew himself up to the lower branches he commenced to wonder if Numa were in the cave after all. Could it be possible that he had forced the barrier of rocks with which Tarzan had plugged the other end of the passage where it opened into the outer world of freedom? Or was Numa dead? The ape-man doubted the verity of the latter suggestion as he had fed the lion the entire carcasses of a deer and a hyena only a few days since -- he could not have starved in so short a time, while the little rivulet running across the gulch furnished him with water a-plenty.

PT Tarzan started to descend and investigate the cavern when it occurred to him that it would save effort were he to lure Numa out instead. Acting upon the thought he uttered a low growl. Immediately he was rewarded by the sound of a movement within the cave and an instant later a wild-eyed, haggard lion rushed forth ready to face the devil himself were he edible. When Numa saw Tarzan, fat and sleek, perched in the tree he became suddenly the embodiment of frightful rage. His eyes and his nose told him that this was the creature responsible for his predicament and also that this creature was good to eat. Frantically the lion sought to scramble up the bole of the tree. Twice he leaped high enough to catch the lowest branches with his paws, but both times he fell backward to the earth. Each time he became more furious. His growls and roars were incessant and horrible and all the time Tarzan sat grinning down upon him, taunting him in jungle billingsgate for his inability to reach him and mentally exulting that always Numa was wasting his already waning strength.

PT Finally the ape-man rose and un-slung his rope. He arranged the coils carefully in his left hand and the noose in his right, and then he took a position with each foot on one of two branches that lay in about the same horizontal plane and with his back pressed firmly against the stem of the tree. There he stood hurling insults at Numa until the beast was again goaded into leaping upward at him, and as Numa rose the noose dropped quickly over his head and about his neck. A quick movement of Tarzan's rope hand tightened the coil and when Numa slipped backward to the ground only his hind feet touched, for the ape-man held him swinging by the neck.

PT Moving slowly outward upon the two branches Tarzan swung Numa out so that he could not reach the bole of the tree with his raking talons, then he made the rope fast after drawing the lion clear of the ground, dropped his five pigskin sacks to earth and leaped down himself. Numa was striking frantically at the grass rope with his fore claws. At any moment he might sever it and Tarzan must, therefore, work rapidly.

PT First he drew the larger bag over Numa's head and secured it about his neck with the draw string, then he managed, after considerable effort, during which he barely escaped being torn to ribbons by the mighty talons, to hog-tie Numa -- drawing his four legs together and securing them in that position with the strips trimmed from the pigskins.

PT By this time the lion's efforts had almost ceased -- it was evident that he was being rapidly strangled and as that did not at all suit the purpose of the Tarmangani the latter swung again into the tree, unfastened the rope from above and lowered the lion to the ground where he immediately followed it and loosed the noose about Numa's neck. Then he drew his hunting knife and cut two round holes in the front of the head bag opposite the lion's eyes for the double purpose of permitting him to see and giving him sufficient air to breathe.

PT This done Tarzan busied himself fitting the other bags, one over each of Numa's formidably armed paws. Those on the hind feet he secured not only by tightening the draw strings but also rigged garters that fastened tightly around the legs above the hocks. He secured the front-feet bags in place similarly above the great knees. Now, indeed, was Numa, the lion, reduced to the harmlessness of Bara, the deer.

PT By now Numa was showing signs of returning life. He gasped for breath and struggled; but the strips of pigskin that held his four legs together were numerous and tough. Tarzan watched and was sure that they would hold, yet Numa is mightily muscled and there was the chance, always, that he might struggle free of his bonds after which all would depend upon the efficacy of Tarzan's bags and draw strings.

PT After Numa had again breathed normally and was able to roar out his protests and his rage, his struggles increased to Titanic proportions for a short time; but as a lion's powers of endurance are in no way proportionate to his size and strength he soon tired and lay quietly. Amid renewed growling and another futile attempt to free himself, Numa was finally forced to submit to the further indignity of having a rope secured about his neck; but this time it was no noose that might tighten and strangle him; but a bowline knot, which does not tighten or slip under strain.

PT The other end of the rope Tarzan fastened to the stem of the tree, then he quickly cut the bonds securing Numa's legs and leaped aside as the beast sprang to his feet. For a moment the lion stood with legs far outspread, then he raised first one paw and then another, shaking them energetically in an effort to dislodge the strange footgear that Tarzan had fastened upon them. Finally he began to paw at the bag upon his head. The ape-man, standing with ready spear, watched Numa's efforts intently. Would the bags hold? He sincerely hoped so. Or would all his labor prove fruitless?

PT As the clinging things upon his feet and face resisted his every effort to dislodge them, Numa became frantic. He rolled upon the ground, fighting, biting, scratching, and roaring; he leaped to his feet and sprang into the air; he charged Tarzan, only to be brought to a sudden stop as the rope securing him to the tree tautened. Then Tarzan stepped in and rapped him smartly on the head with the shaft of his spear. Numa reared upon his hind feet and struck at the ape-man and in return received a cuff on one ear that sent him reeling sideways. When he returned to the attack he was again sent sprawling. After the fourth effort it appeared to dawn upon the king of beasts that he had met his master, his head and tail dropped and when Tarzan advanced upon him he backed away, though still growling.

PT Leaving Numa tied to the tree Tarzan entered the tunnel and removed the barricade from the opposite end, after which he returned to the gulch and strode straight for the tree. Numa lay in his path and as Tarzan approached growled menacingly. The ape-man cuffed him aside and unfastened the rope from the tree. Then ensued a half-hour of stubbornly fought battle while Tarzan endeavored to drive Numa through the tunnel ahead of him and Numa persistently refused to be driven. At last, however, by dint of the unrestricted use of his spear point, the ape-man succeeded in forcing the lion to move ahead of him and eventually guided him into the passageway. Once inside, the problem became simpler since Tarzan followed closely in the rear with his sharp spear point, an unremitting incentive to forward movement on the part of the lion. If Numa hesitated he was prodded. If he backed up the result was extremely painful and so, being a wise lion who was learning rapidly, he decided to keep on going and at the end of the tunnel, emerging into the outer world, he sensed freedom, raised his head and tail and started off at a run.

PT Tarzan, still on his hands and knees just inside the entrance, was taken unaware with the result that he was sprawled forward upon his face and dragged a hundred yards across the rocky ground before Numa was brought to a stand. It was a scratched and angry Tarzan who scrambled to his feet. At first he was tempted to chastise Numa; but, as the ape-man seldom permitted his temper to guide him in any direction not countenanced by reason, he quickly abandoned the idea.

PT Having taught Numa the rudiments of being driven, he now urged him forward and there commenced as strange a journey as the unrecorded history of the jungle contains. The balance of that day was eventful both for Tarzan and for Numa. From open rebellion at first the lion passed through stages of stubborn resistance and grudging obedience to final surrender. He was a very tired, hungry, and thirsty lion when night overtook them; but there was to be no food for him that day or the next -- Tarzan did not dare risk removing the head bag, though he did cut another hole which permitted Numa to quench his thirst shortly after dark. Then he tied him to a tree, sought food for himself, and stretched out among the branches above his captive for a few hours' sleep.

PT Early the following morning they resumed their journey, winding over the low foothills south of Kilimanjaro, toward the east. The beasts of the jungle who saw them took one look and fled. The scent spoor of Numa, alone, might have been enough to have provoked flight in many of the lesser animals, but the sight of this strange apparition that smelled like a lion, but looked like nothing they ever had seen before, being led through the jungles by a giant Tarmangani was too much for even the more formidable denizens of the wild.

PT Sabor, the lioness, recognizing from a distance the scent of her lord and master intermingled with that of a Tarmangani and the hide of Horta, the boar, trotted through the aisles of the forest to investigate. Tarzan and Numa heard her coming, for she voiced a plaintive and questioning whine as the baffling mixture of odors aroused her curiosity and her fears, for lions, however terrible they may appear, are often timid animals and Sabor, being of the gentler sex, was, naturally, habitually inquisitive as well.

PT Tarzan un-slung his spear for he knew that he might now easily have to fight to retain his prize. Numa halted and turned his outraged head in the direction of the coming she. He voiced a throaty growl that was almost a purr. Tarzan was upon the point of prodding him on again when Sabor broke into view, and behind her the ape-man saw that which gave him instant pause -- four full-grown lions trailing the lioness.

PT To have goaded Numa then into active resistance might have brought the whole herd down upon him and so Tarzan waited to learn first what their attitude would be. He had no idea of relinquishing his lion without a battle; but knowing lions as he did, he knew that there was no assurance as to just what the newcomers would do.

PT The lioness was young and sleek, and the four males were in their prime -- as handsome lions as he ever had seen. Three of the males were scantily maned but one, the foremost, carried a splendid, black mane that rippled in the breeze as he trotted majestically forward. The lioness halted a hundred feet from Tarzan, while the lions came on past her and stopped a few feet nearer. Their ears were upstanding and their eyes filled with curiosity. Tarzan could not even guess what they might do. The lion at his side faced them fully, standing silent now and watchful.

PT Suddenly the lioness gave vent to another little whine, at which Tarzan's lion voiced a terrific roar and leaped forward straight toward the beast of the black mane. The sight of this awesome creature with the strange face was too much for the lion toward which he leaped, dragging Tarzan after him, and with a growl the lion turned and fled, followed by his companions and the she.

PT Numa attempted to follow them; Tarzan held him in leash and when he turned upon him in rage, beat him unmercifully across the head with his spear. Shaking his head and growling, the lion at last moved off again in the direction they had been traveling; but it was an hour before he ceased to sulk. He was very hungry -- half famished in fact -- and consequently of an ugly temper, yet so thoroughly subdued by Tarzan's heroic methods of lion taming that he was presently pacing along at the ape-man's side like some huge St. Bernard.

PT It was dark when the two approached the British right, after a slight delay farther back because of a German patrol it had been necessary to elude. A short distance from the British line of out-guard sentinels Tarzan tied Numa to a tree and continued on alone. He evaded a sentinel, passed the out-guard and support, and by devious ways came again to Colonel Capell's headquarters, where he appeared before the officers gathered there as a disembodied spirit materializing out of thin air.

PT When they saw who it was that came thus unannounced they smiled and the colonel scratched his head in perplexity.

PT "Someone should be shot for this,"he said."I might just as well not establish an out-post if a man can filter through whenever he pleases."

PT Tarzan smiled."Do not blame them,"he said,"for I am not a man. I am Tarmangani. Any Mangani who wished to, could enter your camp almost at will; but if you have them for sentinels no one could enter without their knowledge."

PT "What are the Mangani?"asked the colonel."Perhaps we might enlist a bunch of the beggars."

PT Tarzan shook his head."They are the great apes,"he explained;"my people; but you could not use them. They cannot concentrate long enough upon a single idea. If I told them of this they would be much interested for a short time -- I might even hold the interest of a few long enough to get them here and explain their duties to them; but soon they would lose interest and when you needed them most they might be off in the forest searching for beetles instead of watching their posts. They have the minds of little children -- that is why they remain what they are."

Versão em Português

1 - Assassinato e Pilhagem

2 - A Caverna do Leão

3 - Nas Linhas Alemãs

4 - Quando o Leão se Alimentou

Assassinato e Pilhagem

En O capitão Fritz Schneider caminhava cansado pelos corredores escuros da floresta. O suor escorria por sua cabeça redonda e ficava em suas bochechas pesadas e pescoço de touro. Seu tenente marchava ao lado dele, enquanto o subtenente von Goss vinha por último com um punhado de askaris, seguindo os carregadores cansados e quase exaustos. Os soldados negros, seguindo o exemplo de seu oficial branco, empurravam os carregadores para frente com as pontas afiadas das baionetas e as extremidades metálicas de seus fuzis.

En Não havia carregadores ao alcance do capitão Schneider, então ele direcionou sua raiva prussiana para os askaris mais próximos. Mas fez isso com maior cautela, porque esses homens carregavam fuzis carregados e os três homens brancos estavam sozinhos com eles no coração da África.

En Metade da companhia do capitão marchava à sua frente, e a outra metade marchava atrás. Dessa forma, os perigos da selva selvagem eram diminuídos para o capitão alemão. Na frente da coluna cambaleavam dois selvagens nus acorrentados pelo pescoço. Eles eram os guias nativos forçados ao serviço da civilização alemã, e seus pobres corpos machucados mostravam as marcas dessa civilização em muitas feridas e contusões cruéis.

En Assim, mesmo na África mais escura, a luz da civilização alemã começava a brilhar sobre os nativos indignos, assim como, na mesma época, no outono de 1914, ela derramava sua luz gloriosa sobre a infeliz Bélgica.

En Era verdade que os guias haviam desviado o grupo, mas esse é o jeito da maioria dos guias africanos. Não importava que a ignorância, e não a má intenção, tivesse causado seu fracasso. Para o capitão Fritz Schneider, bastava saber que estava perdido na selva africana e que tinha à mão seres humanos mais fracos do que ele, que poderiam ser feitos sofrer através da tortura. Ele não os matou imediatamente, em parte porque tinha uma leve esperança de que pudessem ajudá-lo a encontrar o caminho, e em parte porque, enquanto vivessem, ele poderia continuar a fazê-los sofrer.

En As pobres criaturas, esperando que a sorte eventualmente as guiasse pelo caminho correto, afirmaram que conheciam a rota. Continuaram liderando através de uma floresta sombria por uma trilha sinuosa, profundamente marcada pelos inúmeros animais que vagaram pela selva ao longo de muitas gerações.

En Neste lugar, Tantor, o elefante, viajou de seu banho de poeira até a água. Buto, o rinoceronte, moveu-se desajeitadamente e sozinho em sua majestosa solidão. À noite, os grandes felinos caminhavam silenciosamente sobre patas macias sob o denso dossel de árvores, dirigindo-se à planície aberta onde podiam caçar com mais eficiência.

En Quando os guias inesperadamente alcançaram a borda da planície, seus corações desanimados se encheram de esperança novamente. O capitão suspirou de alívio porque, após dias de peregrinação sem esperança por uma selva quase intransponível, a ampla vista de grama ondulante, salpicada de bosques abertos, e a distante linha sinuosa de arbustos verdes marcando um rio parecia um paraíso para o europeu.

En Aliviado, o alemão sorriu, trocou um comentário alegre com seu tenente e então examinou a vasta planície através de seus binóculos. Ele moveu os óculos para frente e para trás pela paisagem ondulante até que finalmente se fixaram em um ponto próximo ao meio, perto das bordas verdes do rio.

En Schneider disse a seus companheiros que eles estavam com sorte e perguntou se eles conseguiam ver.

En O tenente, que também estivera olhando através de seus binóculos, finalmente focou no mesmo local que havia chamado a atenção de seu superior.

En Ele concordou que era uma fazenda inglesa, provavelmente a de Greystoke, já que não havia outra igual naquela parte da África Oriental Britânica. Acrescentou que Deus estava ao lado deles.

En Schneider respondeu que eles haviam encontrado o inglês bem antes que ele pudesse saber que seu país estava em guerra com o deles. Declarou que o homem deveria ser o primeiro a experimentar o poder da Alemanha.

En O tenente expressou esperança de que o homem estivesse em casa para que pudessem capturá-lo. Observou que seria muito favorável para o capitão Fritz Schneider se ele trouxesse o famoso Tarzan dos Macacos como prisioneiro de guerra.

En Schneider sorriu orgulhosamente e concordou que seria bom para ambos. No entanto, disse que precisaria viajar uma longa distância para alcançar o general Kraut antes que ele chegasse a Mombaça, pois o exército inglês se moveria rapidamente em direção ao Oceano Índico.

En O pequeno grupo avançou pelo terreno aberto em direção às arrumadas construções da fazenda de John Clayton, Lord Greystoke, em um ânimo mais esperançoso. No entanto, estavam destinados a se decepcionar, pois nem Tarzan dos Macacos nem seu filho estavam em casa.

En Lady Jane, sem saber que uma guerra entre a Grã-Bretanha e a Alemanha havia começado, recebeu os oficiais com grande hospitalidade. Ela instruiu seu fiel Waziri a preparar um banquete para os soldados negros do inimigo.

En Bem ao leste, Tarzan dos Macacos apressava-se de Nairobi em direção à fazenda. Em Nairobi, ele soubera que a Guerra Mundial já havia começado e, esperando uma invasão alemã iminente da África Oriental Britânica, correu para casa para levar sua esposa a um lugar mais seguro. Ele estava acompanhado por cerca de vinte de seus guerreiros negros, mas mesmo esses experientes homens do mato se moviam devagar demais para o homem-macaco.

En Quando a necessidade exigia, Tarzan dos Macacos se desfazia da fina camada de sua civilização e das roupas restritivas que a marcavam. Em um instante, o refinado cavalheiro inglês se transformava no nu homem-macaco.

En Sua companheira estava em perigo. Naquele momento, um único pensamento dominava sua mente. Ele não pensava nela como Lady Jane Greystoke, mas como a fêmea que conquistara com sua força de ferro, e que devia manter e defender pelos mesmos meios poderosos.

En Não era um lorde da Câmara dos Lordes, mas um grande macaco que se movia com rapidez sombria pela floresta emaranhada e pelas vastas planícies. Ele era impulsionado por um único propósito, ignorando todo cansaço e perigo.

En O pequeno Manu, o macaco, reclamando e tagarelando nas árvores altas, viu-o passar e lembrou-se dos dias em que Tarzan dos Macacos reinara na selva, senhor sobre todas as suas criaturas.

En Numa, o leão, descansando ao lado de sua presa recente, piscou seus olhos amarelo-esverdeados e contraiu a cauda ao sentir o cheiro de seu antigo inimigo.

En Tarzan estava plenamente ciente de Numa, Manu e das outras bestas da selva enquanto se apressava para o oeste. Seu tempo na sociedade inglesa não embotara seus sentidos aguçados; seu nariz detectou Numa antes mesmo de o leão o perceber.

En Ele ouviu o barulhento pequeno Manu e até o suave farfalhar dos arbustos onde Sheeta se movia, antes que qualquer um desses animais o detectasse.

En Apesar de seus sentidos notáveis, velocidade e força, Tarzan ainda era humano. Ele estava agudamente ciente de que o tempo e a distância o limitavam, e ficava frustrado por não poder viajar com a velocidade do pensamento. As longas e tediosas milhas à frente exigiriam muitas horas de esforço incansável antes que ele finalmente alcançasse a planície aberta e seu objetivo.

En A jornada durou muitos dias. Ele dormia apenas algumas horas por noite e dependia do acaso para encontrar carne ao longo de sua rota. Se um antílope ou um javali cruzasse seu caminho enquanto ele estava com fome, ele pararia apenas o tempo suficiente para matá-lo e cortar um bife.

En Finalmente, a longa jornada chegou ao fim. Ele atravessou a última floresta densa no limite leste de sua terra, e então emergiu na borda da planície. De lá, ele olhou através de seu vasto território em direção à sua casa.

En Ao seu primeiro olhar, seus olhos se estreitaram e seus músculos se tensionaram. Mesmo de longe, ele podia ver que algo estava errado. Uma fina espiral de fumaça subia de onde os celeiros um dia estiveram, mas eles haviam desaparecido. Nenhuma fumaça saía da chaminé do bangalô, onde deveria haver fumaça.

En Mais uma vez, Tarzan correu para frente, ainda mais rápido do que antes, movido por um medo sem nome que vinha mais da intuição do que da razão. Como os animais, ele parecia possuir um sexto sentido. Muito antes de chegar ao bangalô, ele já havia formado uma imagem da cena que o receberia.

En A cabana coberta de videiras estava silenciosa e abandonada. Brasas fumegantes marcavam onde seus grandes celeiros um dia existiram. As cabanas de palha de seus trabalhadores leais haviam desaparecido, e os campos, pastagens e currais estavam vazios. Abutres subiam e circulavam sobre as carcaças de homens e animais.

En Um sentimento próximo ao terror tomou conta do homem-macaco quando ele finalmente se forçou a entrar em sua casa. A primeira visão que encontrou seus olhos encheu sua visão com uma névoa vermelha de ódio e sede de sangue. Lá, preso à parede da sala de estar, estava Wasimbu, o filho gigante do fiel Muviro e, por mais de um ano, o guarda-costas pessoal de Lady Jane.

En Os móveis virados e destruídos, as poças de sangue seco no chão e as marcas de mãos ensanguentadas nas paredes e na madeira mostravam algo do horror da batalha que havia sido travada no cômodo estreito. Sobre o piano de meia-cauda estava o corpo de outro guerreiro negro, e diante da porta do boudoir de Lady Jane estavam os corpos de mais três dos fiéis servos Greystoke.

En A porta daquele quarto estava fechada. Com os ombros caídos e os olhos opacos, Tarzan ficou olhando silenciosamente para o painel de madeira que escondia dele o horrível segredo que ele não ousava nem imaginar.

En Lentamente, com passos pesados, ele se moveu em direção à porta. Sua mão tateou em busca da maçaneta. Ele ficou parado por mais um longo minuto, então com um gesto repentino endireitou sua estrutura gigante, jogou os ombros poderosos para trás e, com a cabeça erguida e destemida, abriu a porta e atravessou a soleira para dentro do quarto que guardava suas memórias e associações mais queridas. Nenhuma mudança de expressão cruzou seu rosto severo e austero enquanto ele atravessava o quarto e ficava ao lado do pequeno sofá e da forma inanimada que estava deitada de bruços sobre ele — a coisa imóvel e silenciosa que um dia pulsara com vida, juventude e amor.

En Os olhos do homem-macaco permaneceram secos, mas apenas Deus poderia compreender a agitação dentro de sua mente ainda meio selvagem. Ele ficou por muito tempo olhando para o corpo carbonizado e irreconhecível, depois se abaixou e o levantou. Ao virá-lo e ver a brutalidade da morte, ele experimentou instantaneamente a mais profunda tristeza, horror e ódio.

En Ele não precisava do rifle quebrado na sala ao lado ou do boné manchado de sangue no chão para identificar quem havia cometido aquele crime sem sentido.

En Por um momento, ele se apegou à esperança de que o corpo enegrecido não era de sua companheira, mas quando viu e reconheceu os anéis em seus dedos, a última tênue esperança desapareceu.

En Em silêncio, amor e reverência, ele enterrou o corpo queimado no pequeno jardim de rosas que Jane Clayton amava. Ao lado dela, ele colocou os grandes guerreiros negros que deram suas vidas em vão enquanto protegiam sua senhora.

En De um lado da casa, Tarzan descobriu outras covas recém-cavadas. Nelas, ele buscou a prova final de quem realmente havia cometido as atrocidades durante sua ausência.

En Tarzan desenterrou os corpos de uma dúzia de soldados alemães e notou as insígnias em seus uniformes, revelando sua companhia e regimento. Essa informação foi suficiente para o homem-macaco concluir que oficiais brancos haviam comandado esses homens, e ele antecipou que seria simples identificar esses oficiais.

En Ele retornou ao roseiral, agora pisoteado pelos alemães, e parou sobre o túmulo de seus mortos. Com a cabeça baixa, fez uma despedida silenciosa. Enquanto o sol se punha atrás das florestas ocidentais, ele se virou e seguiu lentamente a trilha ainda clara do Hauptmann Fritz Schneider e sua companhia ensanguentada.

En Sua dor era tão muda e pungente quanto a de um animal sem fala. No início, sua imensa tristeza sobrecarregou seus pensamentos, deixando sua mente fixada em um único pensamento agonizante: que ela estava morta. Essa ideia pulsava em seu cérebro como uma dor surda, mas seus pés seguiam mecanicamente a trilha do assassino dela, enquanto seus instintos permaneciam alertas para os perigos da selva.

En De seu grande sofrimento emergiu outra emoção tão real que parecia um companheiro: o ódio. Esse ódio lhe trouxe consolo e conforto, um ódio sublime pela Alemanha e pelos alemães. Centrava-se no assassino de sua companheira, mas estendia-se a tudo que era alemão. Ele parou, ergueu o rosto para a lua e amaldiçoou os perpetradores do crime e toda a sua espécie, fazendo um juramento silencioso de travar uma guerra implacável contra eles até sua morte.

En Quase imediatamente, ele sentiu uma sensação de contentamento. Onde seu futuro parecia vazio, agora apresentava possibilidades que, se não felicidade, pelo menos trouxeram um alívio da tristeza absoluta. Ele tinha um grande trabalho pela frente que ocuparia seu tempo.

En Tarzan não apenas havia perdido todos os sinais externos de civilização, mas também havia retornado ao estado moral e mental da fera selvagem com a qual fora criado. O verniz da civilização só havia sido colocado por causa da mulher que amava, porque ele acreditava que isso a fazia mais feliz. Na verdade, ele sempre desprezou profundamente os ornamentos da chamada cultura. Para ele, civilização significava uma restrição da liberdade em todos os aspectos – liberdade de ação, pensamento, amor e ódio. Ele detestava roupas, que via como desconfortáveis, hediondas e restritivas, lembrando-lhe correntes que o prendiam à vida que observava nos pobres de Londres e Paris. As roupas simbolizavam a hipocrisia da civilização, um fingimento de que as pessoas se envergonhavam do corpo humano, feito à imagem de Deus. Tarzan havia observado como os animais pareciam bobos e patéticos com roupas humanas em vários shows itinerantes na Europa, e sentia o mesmo sobre os homens, já que os únicos homens que vira em seus primeiros vinte anos eram selvagens nus como ele. Ele tinha uma profunda admiração por corpos bem musculosos e proporcionais, fosse leão, antílope ou homem, e nunca conseguiu entender como as roupas poderiam ser consideradas mais bonitas do que a pele saudável ou as curvas graciosas dos músculos sob a pele flexível.

En Na civilização, Tarzan encontrara ganância, egoísmo e crueldade muito além do que conhecera na selva selvagem. Embora a civilização lhe tivesse dado sua companheira e vários amigos que ele amava e admirava, ele nunca a aceitou totalmente como a maioria das pessoas faz. Portanto, sentiu alívio quando finalmente a abandonou e tudo o que ela representava, retornando à selva vestindo apenas sua tanga e carregando suas armas.

En Tarzan carregava a faca de caça de seu pai no quadril esquerdo, e seu arco e aljava de flechas estavam pendurados nos ombros. Ao redor do peito e sob um braço, estava enrolada uma longa corda de capim, sem a qual ele se sentiria tão exposto quanto uma pessoa colocada de repente em uma rodovia movimentada apenas de cueca. Ele também carregava uma pesada lança de guerra, seja na mão ou pendurada nas costas. O medalhão cravejado de diamantes com retratos de seus pais, que ele sempre usara antes de dá-lo a Jane Clayton como prova de sua devoção, estava faltando. Ela o usara desde o casamento, mas não estava em seu corpo quando ele a encontrou morta. Agora sua busca por vingança também incluía uma busca pelo medalhão roubado.

En Por volta da meia-noite, Tarzan começou a sentir o esforço físico de sua longa viagem e percebeu que até mesmo seus músculos tinham limites. Sua perseguição aos assassinos não foi extremamente rápida; antes, combinava com seu estado mental, que era marcado por uma determinação teimosa de exigir mais do que olho por olho e mais do que dente por dente dos alemães. O elemento tempo desempenhava apenas um pequeno papel em seus planos.

En Interna e externamente, Tarzan havia se tornado uma fera, e na vida das feras, o tempo como duração mensurável não tem significado. Uma fera está ativamente interessada apenas no momento presente, e como é sempre agora, há uma eternidade para realizar objetivos. O homem-macaco naturalmente tinha um entendimento um pouco melhor das limitações do tempo, mas como as feras, ele se movia com deliberação majestosa, a menos que uma emergência exigisse ação rápida.

En A vingança tornou-se o estado natural de Tarzan, então ele não se apressou. Ele não se sentiu cansado antes porque seus pensamentos estavam cheios de tristeza e vingança, mas agora percebeu que estava exausto. Portanto, ele procurou uma árvore gigante onde havia passado muitas noites anteriores.

En Nuvens escuras se movendo rapidamente pelo céu ocultavam ocasionalmente a lua brilhante, avisando Tarzan de uma tempestade iminente. Na selva profunda, as sombras das nuvens criavam uma escuridão espessa que quase podia ser sentida — uma escuridão que poderia ter sido aterrorizante para uma pessoa comum, com folhas farfalhando e galhos estalando, e intervalos de silêncio que poderiam fazer alguém imaginar predadores escondidos. Mas Tarzan se movia por ela calmamente, embora sempre alerta. Ele mudava para galhos mais altos quando seus sentidos o avisavam de um leão em uma caça, ou se afastava quando um rinoceronte se aproximava, porque evitava lutas desnecessárias, embora estivesse pronto para lutar se necessário.

En Quando finalmente balançou para a árvore que procurava, a lua estava escondida por uma nuvem pesada, e os topos das árvores balançavam violentamente com um vento crescente que abafava os sons menores da selva. Tarzan subiu até uma bifurcação forte onde há muito tempo havia construído uma pequena plataforma de galhos. Agora estava muito escuro, ainda mais escuro do que antes, porque quase todo o céu estava coberto por nuvens negras e espessas.

En O homem-macaco fez uma pausa, suas narinas sensíveis testando o ar. Então, com velocidade e agilidade felinas, saltou para longe sobre um galho oscilante, lançou-se para cima através da escuridão para outro, depois para um mais alto. O que teria transformado sua escalada comum em um desvio tão cauteloso? Um observador não teria visto nada — nem mesmo a pequena plataforma que estivera logo acima dele e agora estava abaixo — mas, enquanto ele balançava sobre ela, teria ouvido um rosnado ameaçador. Quando a lua apareceu brevemente, a plataforma e uma forma escura sobre ela se tornaram visíveis: Sheeta, a pantera.

En Em resposta ao rosnado da pantera, um rosnado baixo e igualmente feroz veio do peito de Tarzan — um aviso de que Sheeta estava invadindo. Mas Sheeta não queria sair. Ele olhou para cima, para o homem-macaco de pele morena, com o rosto rosando. Muito lentamente, Tarzan moveu-se ao longo do galho até ficar diretamente acima da pantera. Ele segurava a faca de caça de seu falecido pai, a arma que lhe dera pela primeira vez domínio sobre as feras da selva, mas esperava não usá-la. Ele sabia que muitas batalhas na selva eram vencidas por rosnados ferozes em vez de combate real — a lei do blefe valia na selva como em qualquer lugar, e os animais geralmente só lutavam com presas e garras por questões de amor e comida.

En Tarzan se firmou contra o tronco da árvore e se inclinou em direção a Sheeta.

En Tarzan gritou com a pantera, chamando-a de ladra e se proclamando como Tarzan dos Macacos, reivindicando o covil como seu. Ele ordenou que a pantera saísse ou enfrentasse a morte.

En Embora Tarzan falasse na língua dos grandes macacos, é provável que Sheeta não entendesse as palavras. No entanto, a pantera entendeu que o macaco sem pelos pretendia assustá-lo para longe de um local bem escolhido onde a presa pudesse aparecer durante a noite.

En A pantera atacou Tarzan com suas garras, mas Tarzan foi mais rápido e desviou o golpe. Quando Sheeta pousou de volta na plataforma, Tarzan usou sua lança para cutucar o rosto rosnante. Os dois continuaram sua troca aterrorizante de rugidos e rosnados.

En Levada à fúria, a pantera decidiu subir para confrontar Tarzan. No entanto, cada vez que tentava pular para o galho, a ponta da lança de Tarzan bloqueava seu caminho. Eventualmente, a raiva superou a cautela, e Sheeta pulou para o mesmo galho. Agora cara a cara, a pantera acreditava que o homem-macaco seria uma presa fácil para vingança e uma refeição.

En O galho forte curvou-se sob o peso de Sheeta e Tarzan. Sheeta moveu-se cautelosamente sobre ele enquanto Tarzan recuava, rosnando. O vento havia se tornado uma ventania, de modo que até as maiores árvores balançavam e gemiam. O galho subia e descia como o convés de um navio em meio a uma tempestade. Goro estava oculto, mas os relâmpagos revelavam os dois animais enfrentando-se no galho oscilante.

En Tarzan recuou, atraindo Sheeta para mais longe do tronco da árvore, em direção à extremidade mais fina do galho, onde seu equilíbrio se tornou mais instável. A fera, enfurecida pelos ferimentos de lança, ignorou a cautela. Quando Sheeta mal conseguia se equilibrar, Tarzan avançou. Ele rugiu e saltou, mas em vez de cair ao alcance das garras de Sheeta, pulou por cima delas, virou-se no ar e aterrissou nas costas de Sheeta. Naquele momento, enfiou a faca no lado da pantera. Sheeta enlouqueceu de dor e raiva, gritando e arranhando, tentando se virar. Ele cambaleou no galho que balançava descontroladamente e então caiu na escuridão com Tarzan ainda agarrado a ele. Eles caíram atravessando galhos. Tarzan não soltou, sabendo que no combate mortal, um ou ambos deviam morrer.

En Sheeta caiu sobre as quatro patas, mas o peso de Tarzan o esmagou contra o chão, e a faca atingiu novamente. A pantera tentou se levantar, mas afundou. Tarzan sentiu os músculos relaxarem; Sheeta estava morto. Tarzan se levantou, colocou um pé sobre o corpo, ergueu o rosto para a tempestade e, enquanto o relâmpago brilhava e a chuva caía, ele gritou o grito de vitória de um macaco macho.

En Tendo expulsado o inimigo de seu covil, Tarzan juntou grandes folhas e subiu para seu sofá molhado. Ele colocou algumas folhas nos postes, deitou-se e cobriu-se com o restante. Apesar do vento e do trovão, ele adormeceu imediatamente.

A Caverna do Leão

En A chuva durou vinte e quatro horas, muitas vezes em torrentes, de modo que a trilha que ele estava seguindo foi completamente lavada. Frio e desconfortável, Tarzan se moveu pela selva molhada. Manu, o macaco, tremendo e tagarelando nas árvores, repreendeu e fugiu. Até as panteras e os leões deixaram o Tarmangani rosnante passar imperturbável.

En Dois dias depois, o sol retornou e uma planície aberta aqueceu o corpo de Tarzan, melhorando seu humor. No entanto, ele continuava sendo uma criatura mal-humorada e hostil enquanto se movia firmemente para o sul, esperando reencontrar o rastro dos alemães. Estava na África Oriental Alemã e planejava contornar as montanhas a oeste do Kilimanjaro, evitando seus picos acidentados, e então virar para leste ao longo do lado sul da cordilheira em direção à ferrovia que levava a Tanga. Sua experiência com homens o levava a acreditar que as tropas alemãs se reuniriam perto daquela ferrovia.

En Dois dias depois, nas encostas sul do Kilimanjaro, ele ouviu tiros de canhão distantes a leste. A tarde estava monótona e nublada; ao passar por um desfiladeiro estreito, grandes gotas de chuva começaram a cair sobre seus ombros nus. Balançando a cabeça e rosnando de desagrado, ele procurou abrigo, já que estava farto de frio e umidade. Queria apressar-se em direção ao barulho, sabendo que alemães estavam lutando contra ingleses. Por um momento, seu peito se encheu de orgulho por ser inglês, mas então balançou a cabeça ferozmente, murmurando que Tarzan dos Macacos não era inglês, pois os ingleses eram homens e ele era Tarmangani. Contudo, não conseguia esconder de si mesmo que seu coração se aquecia ao pensar que ingleses lutavam contra alemães, e lamentava que os ingleses fossem humanos e não grandes macacos brancos como ele agora se considerava.

En Ele pensou que amanhã viajaria por aquele caminho e encontraria os alemães, e então se dedicou a descobrir abrigo da tempestade. Logo viu uma entrada baixa e estreita que parecia ser uma caverna na base dos penhascos que formavam o lado norte do desfiladeiro. Com a faca desembainhada, aproximou-se cautelosamente, sabendo que se fosse uma caverna, provavelmente seria o covil de alguma outra fera. Grandes fragmentos de rocha jaziam diante da entrada, semelhantes a outros espalhados ao longo da base do penhasco. Ocorreu-lhe que, se a caverna estivesse desocupada, poderia barricar a porta e garantir uma noite tranquila e pacífica de descanso lá dentro. Que a tempestade rugisse lá fora; ele permaneceria seco e confortável até que parasse. Um pequeno riacho de água fria escorria para fora da abertura.

En Perto da caverna, Tarzan ajoelhou-se e cheirou o chão. Um rosnado baixo escapou dele, e seu lábio superior se curvou para expor suas presas de luta. Murmurou o nome Numa, mas não parou; o leão poderia não estar em casa, então ele investigaria. A entrada era tão baixa que ele teve que descer de quatro para enfiar a cabeça dentro, mas primeiro olhou, ouviu e cheirou em todas as direções atrás de si, não querendo ser pego de surpresa por aquele lado.

En Seu primeiro olhar dentro da caverna revelou um túnel estreito com luz do dia na extremidade oposta. O túnel não estava tão escuro que ele não pudesse ver que estava atualmente desocupado. Cautelosamente, rastejou em direção à extremidade oposta, plenamente consciente do que significaria se Numa entrasse repentinamente pela frente. Mas o leão não apareceu, e o homem-macaco emergiu no espaço aberto e se levantou, encontrando-se em uma fenda rochosa com paredes quase verticais de todos os lados. O túnel através do penhasco conectava o mundo exterior a uma grande bolsa ou barranco completamente cercado por paredes íngremes de rocha. Exceto pela passagem do desfiladeiro, não havia outra entrada. O barranco tinha cerca de cem pés de comprimento e cinquenta de largura, parecendo ter sido desgastado do penhasco pela queda d'água ao longo de muitas eras. Um pequeno riacho do eterno topo nevado do Kilimanjaro ainda gotejava sobre a borda rochosa da extremidade superior, formando uma pequena piscina no fundo do penhasco, de onde um riacho serpenteava para baixo através do túnel até o desfiladeiro além. Uma única árvore grande crescia perto do centro, e tufos de grama rija estavam espalhados entre as rochas no chão de cascalho.

En Tarzan observou os ossos de muitos animais grandes, incluindo vários crânios humanos. Ele percebeu que um devorador de homens estava ali há muito tempo. Decidiu tomar a toca do leão naquela noite, deixando Numa rugir do lado de fora.

En O homem-macaco havia avançado para dentro da ravina, examinando os arredores. Quando parou perto de uma árvore, satisfeito de que o túnel seria um refúgio seco e silencioso, virou-se para bloquear a entrada com pedregulhos. Mas então seus ouvidos sensíveis captaram um som, e ele congelou, olhando para a boca do túnel. Um enorme leão com uma juba preta apareceu, seus olhos amarelo-esverdeados fixos em Tarzan, e um rosnado baixo ecoou de seu peito.

En Tarzan gritou com raiva para o leão, chamando-o de irmão de Dango. Declarou-se Tarzan dos Macacos, Senhor da Selva, e anunciou que se instalaria ali naquela noite, ordenando que o leão fosse embora.

En O leão não foi embora. Em vez disso, rugiu ameaçadoramente e avançou em direção a Tarzan. Tarzan jogou uma pedra, acertando Numa no focinho. Em vez de fugir, o leão se tornou uma máquina enfurecida de ira.

En A cauda de Numa ergueu-se rígida e, com rugidos aterrorizantes, ele investiu contra Tarzan como um trem expresso. Tarzan mal alcançou a árvore e balançou-se para os galhos. Lá ele se agachou, lançando insultos ao rei dos animais enquanto Numa andava de um lado para o outro abaixo, rosnando e rugindo de fúria.

En A chuva se intensificou, aumentando a miséria e a frustração do homem-macaco. Ele estava furioso, mas sabia que lutar com um leão usando apenas sua agilidade e sorte contra tamanha força era tolice. Então, ele permaneceu na árvore, suportando a chuva constante, enquanto o leão circulava abaixo, lançando um olhar ameaçador para cima.

En Tarzan examinou os penhascos íngremes em busca de uma rota de fuga. Um homem comum teria ficado preso, mas o homem-macaco, habilidoso em escalar, viu vários pontos de apoio possíveis. Ele poderia escapar se Numa se movesse para o extremo da garganta. No entanto, Numa, apesar da chuva, não saiu. Tarzan começou a considerar seriamente se deveria arriscar uma luta em vez de permanecer frio, molhado e humilhado na árvore.

En Enquanto Tarzan ponderava suas opções, Numa de repente se virou e caminhou majestosamente em direção ao túnel sem olhar para trás. No momento em que ele desapareceu, Tarzan saltou da árvore e correu para o penhasco. O leão rapidamente saiu do túnel e avançou atrás dele, mas Tarzan tinha uma boa vantagem. Se ele conseguisse encontrar apoios na parede lisa, estaria seguro; mas se escorregasse nas rochas molhadas, cairia nas garras de Numa, onde até mesmo ele estaria indefeso.

En Com agilidade felina, Tarzan escalou trinta pés pelo penhasco antes de parar em uma saliência segura. Ele olhou para baixo para Numa, que saltava futilemente contra a parede, caindo para trás a cada tentativa. Depois de observar um momento, Tarzan continuou sua ascensão cautelosa até o topo. Várias vezes ele lutou por apoios, mas eventualmente se puxou para cima da borda, pegou uma pedra solta, jogou em Numa e se afastou.

En Encontrando uma descida fácil para a garganta, Tarzan estava prestes a continuar em direção aos canhões estrondosos quando um pensamento o parou. Um meio sorriso cruzou seu rosto. Ele voltou à entrada do túnel, ouviu e começou a empilhar pedras grandes lá dentro. Quase fechou a abertura quando o leão apareceu dentro, furioso, arranhando e rugindo. Mas Tarzan, que havia crescido em meio aos rugidos dos leões na selva, não teve medo. Ele sabia que Numa não poderia alcançá-lo, então selou calmamente a entrada. Quando terminou, fez uma careta para o leão escondido e retomou sua jornada para o leste, pensando que o devorador de homens não comeria mais homens.

En Naquela noite, Tarzan dormiu sob uma saliência rochosa. Na manhã seguinte, continuou sua jornada, parando apenas para caçar e comer. Diferente de outros animais selvagens, ele nunca permitia que seu apetite atrapalhasse seus planos. Essa distinção o diferenciava de seus companheiros da selva. Os disparos à frente flutuavam ao longo do dia, com picos ao amanhecer e ao anoitecer, e quase cessavam à noite. Na segunda tarde, ele encontrou tropas avançando em direção à frente. Pareciam grupos de saque, levando cabras e vacas, com carregadores nativos transportando grãos. Os carregadores estavam presos por correntes no pescoço, e os soldados usavam uniformes alemães, liderados por oficiais brancos. Tarzan os observou por duas horas sem ser visto. Notou que suas insígnias diferiam daquela que ele havia tirado de um soldado morto no bangalô. Então, seguiu adiante, escondido na vegetação densa. Ele havia encontrado alemães, mas não os matou, pois seu objetivo principal ainda era encontrar o indivíduo que havia matado sua companheira.

En Depois de encontrar o homem que havia matado sua companheira, Tarzan pretendia matar todos os alemães que encontrasse. Ele planejava caçá-los como caçadores profissionais perseguem feras devoradoras de homens.

En À medida que se aproximava da frente de batalha, as tropas se tornavam mais numerosas. Ele via caminhões motorizados, juntas de bois e todo o equipamento de um pequeno exército. Homens feridos andavam ou eram carregados para a retaguarda. Ele havia cruzado a ferrovia a certa distância e supôs que estavam sendo levados para um hospital de base, possivelmente até Tanga, na costa.

En Ao anoitecer, ele chegou a um grande acampamento escondido nos contrafortes das Montanhas Pare. Aproximando-se pela retaguarda, encontrou-o com pouca guarda, com sentinelas desatentas. Assim, após escurecer, ele entrou facilmente e se movimentou furtivamente, ouvindo atrás das barracas, em busca de pistas sobre o assassino de sua companheira.

En Ele parou perto de uma barraca onde soldados nativos estavam sentados e captou palavras em seu dialeto que prenderam sua atenção. Eles disseram que os Waziri lutaram como demônios, mas eles eram melhores lutadores e os mataram a todos. Quando a luta terminou, o capitão veio e matou a mulher. Ele ficou do lado de fora e gritou bem alto até que todos os homens estivessem mortos. O segundo-tenente von Goss foi mais corajoso; ele entrou, ficou perto da porta e ordenou que pregassem um Waziri ferido na parede, e então riu alto do sofrimento do homem. Todos riram, achando muito engraçado.

En Tarzan se escondeu nas sombras ao lado da tenda, agachado como uma fera sombria. Seu rosto não demonstrava emoção, apenas uma intensa vigilância. Quando um soldado se levantou e foi embora, Tarzan o seguiu em silêncio. Na escuridão atrás de alguns arbustos, ele saltou sobre o soldado, cobrindo sua boca para evitar qualquer grito, e o arrastou pelo pescoço para um local escondido.

En Ele avisou o homem em seu próprio dialeto tribal para ficar em silêncio enquanto soltava o aperto em sua garganta.

En O soldado ofegou por ar e olhou para cima com olhos assustados, vendo apenas um corpo nu e moreno acima dele. Lembrou-se da força tremenda que o havia dominado facilmente e não fez nenhuma tentativa de escapar.

En Tarzan perguntou o nome do oficial que havia matado a mulher no bangalô onde o soldado havia lutado com os Waziri.

En Assim que conseguiu falar novamente, o soldado respondeu que o oficial era Hauptmann Schneider.

En O homem-macaco exigiu saber onde ele estava.

En O outro respondeu que ele estava lá, possivelmente no quartel-general, explicando que muitos oficiais iam lá à noite para receber ordens.

En Tarzan ordenou que ele o levasse até lá, ameaçando que, se fosse descoberto, o mataria imediatamente. Ordenou que ele se levantasse.

En O homem negro se levantou e seguiu por uma rota indireta de volta pelo acampamento. Eles foram forçados a se esconder várias vezes enquanto soldados passavam, mas finalmente chegaram a uma grande pilha de feno enfardado. De trás da esquina dessa pilha, o homem negro apontou para um prédio de dois andares ao longe.

En Ele disse que era o quartel-general e que Tarzan não poderia ir mais longe sem ser visto, porque muitos soldados estavam por perto.

En Tarzan percebeu que não poderia continuar viajando com o homem negro. Ele se virou e olhou para ele por um momento, como se estivesse considerando o que fazer com ele.

En Tarzan acusou o homem, em uma voz baixa, mas ainda assim aterrorizante, de ter ajudado a crucificar Wasimbu, o Waziri.

En O homem negro tremeu, seus joelhos fraquejando. Ele implorou que alguém os havia ordenado a fazer aquilo.

En Tarzan exigiu saber quem havia ordenado que fosse feito.

En O soldado respondeu que foi o subtenente von Goss quem ordenou, e que von Goss também estava presente.

En Tarzan disse sombriamente que encontraria o homem e o acusou de ajudar a crucificar Wasimbu, o Waziri, e rir enquanto ele sofria.

En O homem cambaleou como se a acusação também tivesse pronunciado sua sentença de morte. Sem falar, Tarzan o agarrou pelo pescoço novamente. Não houve grito. Os músculos do homem-macaco se tensionaram e ele girou o corpo do soldado no ar três vezes, depois o jogou de lado. Após isso, Tarzan se virou e seguiu em direção ao quartel-general do general Kraut.

En Um guarda estava atrás do prédio, bloqueando o caminho. Tarzan rastejou de barriga em sua direção, usando cobertura como um predador da selva. Ele ficou parado quando o guarda olhava em sua direção e se movia rapidamente quando o guarda desviava o olhar. Logo estava perto o suficiente para atacar. Ele esperou até o guarda virar as costas, então se levantou e investiu silenciosamente sobre ele. Matou o guarda sem fazer barulho e carregou o corpo em direção ao prédio.

En O térreo estava iluminado, mas o andar superior estava escuro. Pelas janelas, Tarzan viu uma grande sala da frente com muitos oficiais e uma sala menor atrás dela. Alguns oficiais andavam e conversavam, outros escreviam em mesas. As janelas estavam abertas, então Tarzan podia ouvir a conversa, embora não lhe interessasse. Eles falavam sobre vitórias alemãs na África e se perguntavam quando o exército alemão chegaria a Paris. Alguns acreditavam que o Kaiser já estava lá, e criticavam fortemente a Bélgica.

En Na pequena sala dos fundos, um general grande e de rosto vermelho estava sentado atrás de uma mesa. Vários outros oficiais estavam sentados atrás dele, e dois estavam em pé, em atenção, diante dele enquanto ele os interrogava. Enquanto falava, o general brincava com uma lamparina a óleo sobre a mesa. Então houve uma batida, e um ajudante entrou, saudou e informou que Fräulein Kircher havia chegado.

En O general ordenou que a deixassem entrar e, em seguida, dispensou os dois oficiais com um aceno.

En A senhorita entrou e passou pelos oficiais, que se levantaram e a saudaram. Ela reconheceu a cortesia com uma reverência e um leve sorriso. Apesar de seu traje de equitação empoeirado e rosto sujo, ela era claramente muito bonita e jovem — não mais de dezenove anos.

En Ela se aproximou da mesa onde o general estava, tirou um papel dobrado do bolso interno do casaco e o entregou a ele.

En O general a convidou para sentar, e outro oficial trouxe uma cadeira. Ninguém falou enquanto o general lia o papel.

En Tarzan estudou as pessoas na sala, perguntando-se se um dos dois capitães poderia ser Hauptmann Schneider. Ele julgou que a garota era uma espiã da inteligência. Sua beleza não o comoveu; ele poderia tê-la matado sem remorso porque ela era alemã, mas ele tinha um trabalho mais importante — ele queria Hauptmann Schneider.

En Finalmente, o general ergueu os olhos do documento.

En Ele expressou aprovação à garota e então instruiu um ajudante a chamar o Major Schneider.

En O nome Major Schneider fez os pelos da nuca de Tarzan se eriçarem. O homem que havia matado sua companheira já tinha sido promovido, provavelmente por esse mesmo ato.

En Depois que o ajudante partiu, os outros conversaram, e Tarzan deduziu que as forças alemãs da África Oriental superavam significativamente os britânicos, que sofriam pesadas perdas. De sua posição oculta em um arbusto, Tarzan podia observar a sala sem ser visto, enquanto também permanecia escondido de qualquer um que passasse pelo posto de sentinela onde ele havia matado o guarda. Ele esperava que uma patrulha ou substituto logo descobrisse a sentinela desaparecida, o que desencadearia uma busca imediata e minuciosa.

En Tarzan esperou impacientemente pela chegada de sua presa. Finalmente, o ajudante retornou com um oficial de estatura mediana, cujo bigode feroz se projetava para cima. O oficial caminhou até a mesa, parou, saudou e fez seu relatório. O general retribuiu a saudação e então se virou para a garota.

En Ele pediu à senhorita Kircher que permitisse que ele apresentasse o Major Schneider a ela.

En Tarzan não esperou para ouvir mais. Colocando a mão no parapeito, ele saltou para dentro da sala, surpreendendo os oficiais do Kaiser. Em um passo, ele alcançou a mesa e varreu o lampião na barriga do general, fazendo-o cair para trás. Dois ajudantes atacaram; Tarzan pegou o primeiro e jogou no outro. A garota se encostou na parede. Outros pediram ajuda. Tarzan se concentrou apenas no Major Schneider, agarrou-o, jogou-o sobre o ombro e saltou pela janela tão rapidamente que os oficiais atônitos mal conseguiram compreender o que havia ocorrido.

En Ele viu que o posto do sentinela ainda estava vazio, e logo ele e seu prisioneiro estavam escondidos nas sombras do monte de feno. O Major Schneider não havia gritado porque Tarzan havia cortado sua respiração. Agora Tarzan afrouxou sua pegada ligeiramente para permitir que o homem respirasse.

En Ele o avisou que, se fizesse algum som, seria sufocado novamente.

En Com grande cautela e paciência, Tarzan passou pelo último posto avançado. Forçando seu prisioneiro a andar à frente, ele seguiu para o oeste até que, tarde da noite, eles cruzaram novamente a ferrovia, onde Tarzan se sentiu razoavelmente seguro de ser descoberto. O alemão xingou, resmungou, ameaçou e fez perguntas, mas sua única resposta foi outra cutucada da lança de guerra afiada de Tarzan. Tarzan o conduziu como teria conduzido um porco, exceto que teria tido mais respeito e consideração por um porco.

En Tarzan não havia considerado anteriormente os detalhes de sua vingança, mas agora refletia sobre a forma que o castigo deveria tomar. Ele tinha certeza de uma coisa: deveria terminar em morte. Como todos os homens e animais corajosos, Tarzan tinha pouco desejo natural de causar tortura — nenhum, na verdade — mas esta situação era diferente de qualquer outra que ele já havia enfrentado. Um profundo senso de justiça exigia olho por olho, e seu juramento recente exigia ainda mais. O homem deveria sofrer como ele havia feito Jane Clayton sofrer. Tarzan não podia esperar fazê-lo sentir exatamente a mesma tortura, pois a dor física nunca pode igualar a intensidade da angústia mental.

En Durante toda a longa noite, o homem-macaco conduziu o alemão exausto e aterrorizado adiante. O silêncio terrível de seu captor perturbava os nervos do huno. Se ao menos ele falasse! Repetidamente, Schneider tentava forçar ou persuadir uma palavra dele, mas o resultado era sempre o mesmo: silêncio contínuo e uma cutucada cruel da ponta da lança. Schneider estava sangrando e dolorido. Estava tão exausto que cambaleava a cada passo, muitas vezes caindo, apenas para ser cutucado de volta aos pés por aquela lança aterrorizante e implacável.

En Só pela manhã Tarzan tomou uma decisão, e ela veio como uma inspiração vinda de cima. Um sorriso lento tocou seus lábios, e ele imediatamente procurou um lugar para se deitar e descansar — ele queria que seu prisioneiro estivesse em forma para o que o aguardava. Adiante havia um riacho que Tarzan havia atravessado no dia anterior. Ele sabia que o vau era um local de beber e um ponto provável para uma morte fácil. Silenciosamente, alertando o alemão, eles se aproximaram do riacho. Pela trilha de caça, Tarzan viu veados prestes a sair da água. Ele empurrou Schneider para dentro do mato e, agachando-se ao lado dele, esperou. O alemão observou o gigante silencioso com olhos perplexos e assustados. No novo amanhecer, ele conseguiu ver bem seu captor pela primeira vez, e se antes estava perplexo e assustado, isso não era nada comparado ao que sentia agora.

En Schneider se perguntava quem poderia ser aquele selvagem branco quase nu. Ele o ouvira falar apenas uma vez — quando o advertiu para ficar em silêncio — em um alemão excelente e com tons cultos. Ele o observava agora como um sapo fascinado observa a cobra que está prestes a devorá-lo. Ele viu os membros graciosos e o corpo simétrico imóveis como uma estátua de mármore enquanto a criatura se agachava escondida na folhagem. Nem um músculo ou nervo se movia. Ele viu os veados se aproximando lentamente pela trilha, a favor do vento e desconfiados. Um cervo velho passou, depois um jovem e rechonchudo veio em frente ao gigante na emboscada. Os olhos de Schneider se arregalaram, e um grito de terror quase escapou ao ver a besta ágil saltar para a garganta do jovem cervo e ouvir dos lábios humanos o rugido de caça de um animal selvagem. O cervo caiu, e Tarzan e seu cativo tinham carne. O homem-macaco comeu a sua crua, mas permitiu que o alemão acendesse uma fogueira e cozinhasse sua porção.

En Os dois descansaram até o final da tarde, depois retomaram a jornada — uma jornada tão aterrorizante para Schneider por ele não saber seu destino que às vezes ele se arrastava aos pés de Tarzan, implorando por uma explicação e por misericórdia. Mas o homem-macaco continuava em silêncio, cutucando o huno em declínio sempre que ele vacilava.

En Eles chegaram ao destino ao meio-dia do terceiro dia. Após uma subida íngreme e uma curta caminhada, pararam na beira de um penhasco alto. Schneider olhou para um vale estreito onde uma única árvore crescia ao lado de um pequeno riacho, e grama fina crescia entre o solo rochoso. Tarzan fez um gesto para ele ir além da borda, mas o alemão recuou com medo. O homem-macaco o agarrou e o empurrou rudemente em direção ao abismo, ordenando que descesse. Era apenas a segunda vez em três dias que Tarzan falava; seu silêncio ameaçador pode ter assustado o alemão mais do que a ponta da lança pronta.

En Schneider olhou por cima da borda com medo e estava prestes a tentar descer quando Tarzan o parou. Ele declarou que era Lorde Greystoke e que Schneider havia assassinado sua esposa no país Waziri. Ele disse que agora Schneider entenderia por que ele tinha vindo buscá-lo, e novamente ordenou que descesse.

En O alemão caiu de joelhos, gritando que não havia assassinado a esposa de Tarzan e implorando por misericórdia. Ele insistiu que não sabia de nada sobre isso.

En Tarzan repetiu a ordem de forma brusca, levantando sua lança. Ele sabia que o homem estava mentindo e não ficou surpreso; um homem capaz de assassinar sem motivo mentiria facilmente. Schneider continuou hesitando e implorando. Tarzan cutucou-o com a lança, e Schneider, com medo, deslizou pela borda e começou a perigosa descida. Tarzan o ajudou nas partes mais difíceis até que estivessem a poucos metros do fundo.

En O homem-macaco disse para ele ficar quieto e apontou para a entrada de uma caverna no extremo do vale. Ele explicou que havia um leão faminto lá dentro. Se Schneider conseguisse alcançar a árvore antes que o leão o notasse, teria mais alguns dias de vida, mas quando ficasse fraco demais para se segurar nos galhos, o leão o devoraria. Então Tarzan o empurrou de seu apoio no chão abaixo e ordenou que corresse.

En Tremendo de terror, o alemão correu em direção à árvore. Ele estava quase lá quando um rugido horrível irrompeu da caverna e, no mesmo instante, um leão magro e faminto saltou para a luz do dia do desfiladeiro. Schneider tinha apenas alguns metros para percorrer, mas o leão disparou pelo chão para interceptá-lo, enquanto Tarzan observava a perseguição com um leve sorriso.

En Schneider venceu a corrida por pouco, e enquanto Tarzan escalava o penhasco até o topo, ele ouviu atrás de si, misturado ao rugido frustrado do leão, o balbucio de uma voz humana que parecia ainda mais bestial que a da fera.

En Na borda do penhasco, o homem-macaco se virou e olhou de volta para o desfiladeiro. Lá no alto da árvore, o alemão se agarrava desesperadamente a um galho, com o corpo esticado sobre ele. Abaixo dele estava Numa, o leão, à espera.

En O homem-macaco ergueu o rosto em direção a Kudu, o sol, e de seu peito possante veio o feroz grito de vitória de um macaco macho.

Nas Linhas Alemãs

En Tarzan ainda não havia alcançado a vingança completa. Muitos milhões de alemães ainda viviam — o suficiente para mantê-lo ocupado pelo resto da vida, mas não o suficiente, mesmo que ele os matasse a todos, para compensar a grande perda que sofrera. Nem a morte de todos esses milhões poderia trazer de volta sua amada.

En Tarzan tinha ouvido o suficiente no acampamento alemão para saber que os britânicos estavam perdendo. Inicialmente, ele não se importou, tendo renunciado à humanidade após a morte de sua esposa, considerando-se um macaco.

En Depois de lidar com Schneider, Tarzan caçou ao redor do Kilimanjaro. Ele imaginou o medo e a sede de Schneider na ravina com o leão, perguntando-se se o homem arriscaria descer para buscar água.

En O prazer de Tarzan em imaginar Schneider diminuiu à medida que ele pensava mais nos soldados ingleses perdendo para os alemães. Ele estava perturbado porque queria esquecer sua identidade inglesa, mas não suportava a ideia de alemães matando ingleses enquanto ele caçava em segurança.

En Tarzan decidiu se mover em direção ao acampamento alemão com um plano vago de perturbá-los. No caminho, ele verificou a ravina. A árvore estava vazia, então ele jogou uma pedra. O leão apareceu, magro e fraco.

En Tarzan gritou, perguntando onde estava o alemão e se o leão o havia comido ou se o homem havia caído da árvore como apenas ossos.

En Tarzan falou com Numa, o leão, e disse que Numa parecia muito faminto. Ele notou que Numa tinha comido toda a grama de sua toca e a casca da árvore o mais alto que conseguia alcançar. Tarzan então perguntou a Numa se ele gostaria de outro alemão, e com um sorriso se virou.

En Um pouco depois, Tarzan de repente encontrou Bara, o cervo, dormindo debaixo de uma árvore. Estando faminto, ele o matou rapidamente e sentou-se ao lado de sua presa para comer até se satisfazer. Enquanto roía o último pedaço de um osso, seus ouvidos agudos captaram o som de passos furtivos atrás dele. Virando-se, enfrentou Dango, a hiena, que se aproximava sorrateiramente. Com um rosnado, Tarzan pegou um galho caído e o atirou na criatura esquiva, dizendo-lhe para ir embora, mas Dango, faminta e poderosa, apenas rosnou e circulou lentamente, como se esperasse uma chance de atacar. Tarzan conhecia bem a hiena e entendia que a fome a estava tornando ousada. Ele desprendeu sua lança pesada e a colocou pronta ao seu lado enquanto continuava sua refeição, mantendo um olhar atento sobre a hiena.

En Tarzan não sentiu medo, pois a longa familiaridade com os perigos de seu mundo selvagem o havia acostumado a eles. Ele aceitava o que viesse como parte da existência de cada dia, assim como as pessoas aceitam os perigos comuns de uma fazenda, de um campo ou de uma cidade lotada. Criado na selva, ele estava pronto para defender sua caça de qualquer atacante com cautela razoável. Quando as condições eram favoráveis, Tarzan enfrentaria até o próprio Numa e, se forçado a fugir para se salvar, poderia fazê-lo sem vergonha. Nenhuma criatura mais corajosa percorria aquelas terras selvagens, e nenhuma era mais sábia — essas duas qualidades permitiram que ele sobrevivesse.

En A hiena poderia ter atacado mais cedo, mas foi contida pelos rosnados ferozes vindos do homem-macaco. Aqueles rosnados, saindo de lábios humanos, levantaram dúvida e medo no coração da hiena. Dango havia atacado mulheres e crianças nos campos nativos e assustado seus homens ao redor de suas fogueiras à noite, mas nunca tinha encontrado uma criatura humana que fizesse um som que lhe lembrasse mais um leão furioso do que um homem assustado.

En Quando Tarzan terminou sua refeição, ele estava prestes a se levantar e atirar um osso limpo na fera antes de seguir seu caminho, deixando os restos de sua caça para Dango. Mas um pensamento súbito o deteve. Em vez disso, ele pegou a carcaça do cervo, jogou-a sobre o ombro e partiu em direção à ravina. Dango o seguiu por alguns metros, rosnando, e então, percebendo que estava sendo roubado até mesmo de um gostinho da carne deliciosa, jogou a cautela ao vento e atacou. Instantaneamente, como se a natureza lhe tivesse dado olhos na nuca, Tarzan sentiu o perigo. Ele largou o cervo, virou-se com a lança erguida e, com um arremesso poderoso, cravou-a diretamente no pescoço de Dango, onde se juntava aos ombros, atravessando o corpo.

En Tarzan retirou a flecha da hiena, então carregou os dois animais mortos em direção à ravina. Abaixo, o leão Numa estava deitado sob uma árvore. Quando Tarzan chamou, Numa se levantou fracamente, mas ainda rosnou ferozmente. Tarzan jogou os dois corpos sobre a borda do penhasco e disse a Numa para comer, dizendo que poderia precisar do leão novamente. O leão, revigorado pela visão da comida, saltou sobre o cervo e devorou grandes pedaços.

En No dia seguinte, Tarzan avistou as linhas alemãs. De uma colina arborizada, ele olhou para o flanco esquerdo do inimigo e, além, para as linhas britânicas. Sua posição lhe dava uma visão completa do campo de batalha, e seus olhos afiados notaram muitos detalhes que homens comuns perderiam. Ele viu posições de metralhadoras habilmente escondidas da vista britânica e postos de escuta colocados bem longe na Terra de Ninguém.

En Enquanto Tarzan olhava ao redor, ouviu um único tiro de rifle vindo de um ponto abaixo dele na encosta, acima do barulho dos canhões e tiros de fuzil. Ele se concentrou no local onde um atirador de elite devia estar escondido. Esperou pacientemente pelo próximo tiro para localizar exatamente o atirador. Quando ele veio, Tarzan desceu a colina íngreme tão silenciosamente quanto uma pantera, pisando sem perturbar uma única pedra ou galho, como se seus pés pudessem ver.

En Logo, passando por um matagal, Tarzan chegou à borda de um penhasco baixo. Cerca de quatro metros e meio abaixo, ele viu um soldado alemão deitado de bruços atrás de uma barreira de pedras soltas e galhos que o escondia das linhas britânicas. O homem era um excelente atirador, posicionado bem atrás das linhas alemãs e atirando por cima de seus companheiros. Seu rifle tinha uma luneta, e ele estava usando binóculos para estudar a linha britânica, seja verificando seu último tiro ou procurando um novo alvo. Tarzan olhou rapidamente para a área que o alemão examinava e viu muitos bons alvos para um rifle colocado tão alto acima das trincheiras.

En O alemão, aparentemente satisfeito, largou os binóculos, pegou o rifle e mirou cuidadosamente. No mesmo instante, um corpo moreno saltou do penhasco acima. Não houve som, e o alemão provavelmente nunca soube o que o atingiu. Tarzan caiu pesadamente sobre suas costas e seus dedos fortes se fecharam em torno da garganta do alemão. Após uma breve luta, o atirador de elite morreu.

En Tarzan estava deitado atrás da barreira de rochas e galhos, observando a cena abaixo. As trincheiras alemãs estavam próximas, com oficiais e soldados se movendo. Uma metralhadora bem escondida varria a Terra de Ninguém de um ângulo que dificultava sua localização pelos britânicos.

En Tarzan brincou com o rifle do alemão morto, examinando seu mecanismo. Ajustou a mira, apontou e disparou. Embora só tivesse usado armas para caça ou prática de tiro ao alvo, era um excelente atirador. Agora caçava presas humanas. Matou a tripulação da metralhadora, depois um oficial e três homens. Certificou-se de que ninguém por perto pudesse questionar como alemães foram baleados em suas próprias trincheiras.

En Tarzan ajustou a mira para um tiro de longa distância e eliminou uma tripulação de metralhadora distante. Duas armas silenciaram. Enquanto os homens corriam pelas trincheiras, ele os abatia. Os alemães perceberam que um atirador oculto havia encontrado um ponto vantajoso. Quando um oficial foi baleado na cabeça enquanto usava um periscópio, entenderam que o atirador estava atrás da muralha traseira, não na frente.

En Um soldado pegou a bala que matou o oficial, e a excitação cresceu porque era de fabricação alemã. A notícia se espalhou, e periscópios vasculharam a retaguarda. Localizaram Tarzan, e uma metralhadora foi apontada para ele. Antes que pudesse disparar, sua tripulação jazia morta, mas outros homens foram forçados a substituí-los, e mais duas armas foram viradas em sua direção.

En Percebendo que a situação estava se tornando perigosa, Tarzan disparou um último tiro, largou o rifle e escapou para as colinas. Por muitos minutos, ouviu metralhadoras crepitando em sua antiga posição e sorriu com o desperdício de munição alemã.

En Ele refletiu que o inimigo havia pago um preço alto por Wasimbu, o líder waziri que eles crucificaram, e por seus camaradas mortos. No entanto, ele sentiu que nenhuma quantidade de mortes poderia jamais compensar o que fizeram a Jane.

En Após o anoitecer, ele se moveu pelos flancos de ambos os exércitos, passou despercebido pelas sentinelas britânicas e entrou em suas linhas. Ninguém o viu chegar e ninguém sabia de sua presença.

En O quartel-general dos Segundos Rodesianos estava localizado em um local abrigado, bem atrás das linhas, seguro da visão inimiga. Luzes eram permitidas ali. O coronel Capell sentou-se a uma mesa de campanha com um mapa militar estendido, conversando com vários oficiais. Acima, uma grande árvore fornecia cobertura; uma lanterna fraca tremeluzia sobre a mesa, e uma pequena fogueira queimava por perto. Como o inimigo não tinha aeronaves, as luzes não podiam ser vistas das trincheiras alemãs.

En Os oficiais discutiram como o inimigo tinha números superiores e como os britânicos só podiam defender sua posição atual, incapazes de avançar. Cada ataque resultara em pesadas perdas e fora repelido pela força inimiga maior. Metralhadoras escondidas eram uma preocupação particular para o coronel, pois ele as mencionava com frequência durante a conversa.

En Um dos jovens oficiais comentou que algo havia silenciado os canhões inimigos naquela tarde. Ele estava observando e não conseguia entender a comoção, mas os alemães pareciam estar em grande apuros em uma seção da trincheira à sua esquerda. Em certo momento, pensou que estivessem sendo atacados pela retaguarda, pois disparavam intensamente contra o lado de um penhasco atrás deles. Ele viu terra voando, mas não fazia ideia do que a causou.

En Um leve farfalhar veio dos galhos acima, e um corpo ágil e moreno caiu no meio dos oficiais. Mãos se moveram para os cabos das pistolas, mas ninguém se mexeu. Eles olharam maravilhados para o homem branco quase nu, notando suas roupas e armas primitivas, e então todos os olhos se voltaram para o coronel.

En O coronel exigiu, irritado, saber quem era o homem.

En O recém-chegado respondeu que era Tarzan dos Macacos.

En Um major exclamou o nome Greystoke e se adiantou com a mão estendida.

En Tarzan pegou a mão oferecida e se identificou como Preswick.

En O major se desculpou por não ter reconhecido Tarzan a princípio, observando que a última vez que se encontraram em Londres, Tarzan estava de smoking, e a diferença era considerável, como o próprio Tarzan teria que admitir.

En Tarzan sorriu e se dirigiu ao coronel. Disse que havia ouvido a conversa deles e que acabara de vir de trás das linhas alemãs, oferecendo sua ajuda.

En O coronel olhou interrogativamente para o major Preswick, que rapidamente apresentou Tarzan ao oficial comandante e aos outros oficiais. Tarzan explicou brevemente o que o havia trazido sozinho em perseguição aos alemães.

En O coronel perguntou se Tarzan tinha vindo para se juntar a eles.

En Tarzan balançou a cabeça e respondeu que não se juntaria regularmente; ele tinha que lutar do seu próprio jeito, mas poderia ajudá-los, já que podia entrar nas linhas alemãs sempre que quisesse.

En Capell sorriu e balançou a cabeça, explicando que não era tão simples quanto parecia. Ele revelou que havia perdido dois oficiais muito capazes do Departamento de Inteligência na semana anterior ao tentar a mesma tarefa, e eles estavam entre os mais experientes do departamento.

En Tarzan perguntou se a tarefa era mais desafiadora do que cruzar as linhas britânicas.

En O coronel estava prestes a responder quando um novo pensamento lhe ocorreu. Ele olhou para Tarzan com uma expressão curiosa e perguntou quem o havia trazido até ali e quem o havia deixado passar pelos postos avançados deles.

En Tarzan respondeu que acabara de viajar pelas linhas alemã e britânica e atravessar o acampamento deles. Ele sugeriu que enviassem uma mensagem para verificar se alguém o tinha visto.

En Capell insistiu ainda mais, exigindo saber quem havia acompanhado Tarzan.

En Tarzan respondeu que havia vindo sozinho. Então se ergueu em toda sua altura e disse aos homens que quando pessoas da civilização entravam na selva, estavam como mortos entre os vivos. Ele os comparou desfavoravelmente a Manu, o macaco, dizendo que o macaco era uma pessoa sábia em comparação. Expressou surpresa por eles sobreviverem, sugerindo que apenas seus grandes números, armas e capacidade de raciocínio os salvavam. Disse que se tivesse algumas centenas de grandes primatas com seu poder de raciocínio, poderia expulsar os alemães para o oceano tão rapidamente quanto eles pudessem alcançar a costa. Acrescentou que era uma sorte para eles que os animais burros não pudessem se unir, pois se pudessem, a África permaneceria para sempre livre de homens. Então se ofereceu para ajudar, perguntando se gostariam de saber onde várias posições de metralhadoras estavam escondidas.

En O coronel garantiu que eles gostariam disso, e momentos depois Tarzan havia traçado no mapa as localizações de três posições de metralhadoras que estavam incomodando os ingleses. Então ele colocou o dedo no mapa e apontou um ponto fraco, explicando que era mantido por soldados negros, mas as metralhadoras na frente eram operadas por soldados brancos. Ele disse que tinha um plano: eles poderiam preencher aquela trincheira com seus próprios homens e usar as próprias metralhadoras do inimigo para atirar ao longo das trincheiras à direita.

En O coronel Capell sorriu e balançou a cabeça, dizendo que o plano parecia muito fácil.

En Tarzan respondeu que era fácil para ele. Explicou que poderia esvaziar aquela seção da trincheira sem disparar um tiro. Ele havia sido criado na selva e conhecia o povo da selva, incluindo os Gomangani. Disse a eles que o procurassem novamente na segunda noite e então se virou para sair.

En O coronel pediu que ele esperasse, dizendo que enviaria um oficial para acompanhá-lo através das linhas.

En Tarzan sorriu e se afastou. Ao deixar o pequeno grupo perto do quartel-general, ele passou por uma figura envolta em um casaco pesado de oficial com a gola levantada e o boné puxado para baixo. A luz da fogueira iluminou brevemente o rosto, e Tarzan achou que parecia familiar. Ele presumiu que fosse algum conhecido de Londres, então seguiu pelo acampamento e pelas linhas britânicas sem ser notado pelas sentinelas.

En Tarzan percorreu as encostas do Kilimanjaro durante toda a noite, seguindo uma trilha desconhecida por instinto. Ele acreditava que o que procurava estava em uma encosta arborizada mais alta do que suas jornadas anteriores nesta terra desconhecida. Três horas antes do amanhecer, seu aguçado olfato lhe disse que estava perto, então ele subiu em uma árvore alta e se acomodou para algumas horas de sono.

Quando o Leão se Alimentou

En Quando Tarzan acordou, o sol estava alto. Ele esticou seus membros poderosos, passou os dedos pelo cabelo espesso e desceu levemente ao chão. Imediatamente seguiu o cheiro até um desfiladeiro profundo, movendo-se com cautela porque sentia que a presa estava perto. De um galho pendente, ele viu Horta, o javali, e muitos outros porcos. Ele desencabou o arco, selecionou uma flecha e mirou cuidadosamente no maior. Ele atirou rapidamente e, antes que a primeira flecha atingisse o alvo, já havia encaixado e disparado outra. Os porcos entraram em pânico, agitando-se até que seis jaziam mortos ou moribundos, e então fugiram para a mata fechada.

En Tarzan desceu, terminou com os porcos que ainda estavam vivos e esfolou as carcaças com grande habilidade. Ao contrário dos homens civilizados, ele não cantarolava nem assobiava enquanto trabalhava, um hábito de sua criação na selva. As feras da selva, especialmente os macacos, tornam-se ferozes após a maturidade; a vida lá é séria, e a caça é um trabalho para a vida toda. Tarzan encarava todo trabalho com seriedade, mas ainda mantinha um senso de humor — sombrio e às vezes macabro, mas suficiente para ele.

En Cantar ou assobiar enquanto trabalhava no chão teria tornado a concentração impossível. Tarzan podia direcionar cada um de seus cinco sentidos para sua tarefa específica. Enquanto esfolava os seis porcos, seus olhos e dedos trabalhavam intensamente, mas seus ouvidos e nariz permaneciam alertas — os ouvidos varrendo a floresta, o nariz analisando as brisas passageiras. Foi seu nariz que primeiro detectou Sabor, a leoa, quando o vento mudou.

En Tarzan percebeu que a leoa havia detectado o cheiro dos porcos recém-abatidos e estava se movendo contra o vento em direção a eles. Pela intensidade do cheiro e pela velocidade do vento, ele estimou a distância dela e soube que ela vinha por trás. Ele terminou calmamente o último porco, mantendo as cinco peles reunidas por perto. Uma árvore com galhos baixos estava acima dele.

En Ele não virou a cabeça, sabendo que ela ainda não estava visível, mas aguçou a audição para o primeiro som de sua aproximação. Quando terminou de remover a última pele, levantou-se. Ele ouviu a leoa nos arbustos atrás dele, ainda não muito perto. Recolhendo calmamente as seis peles e uma carcaça, balançou-se para cima nos galhos baixos exatamente quando a leoa apareceu entre duas árvores. Pendurou as peles sobre um galho, acomodou-se confortavelmente contra o tronco da árvore, cortou uma perna traseira da carcaça e começou a comer. A leoa rastejou para fora do mato, lançou um olhar cauteloso para cima em sua direção e então atacou a carcaça mais próxima.

En Tarzan olhou para a leoa e sorriu, lembrando-se de uma discussão com um famoso caçador que afirmava que o rei dos animais só comia presas que ele mesmo havia matado. Tarzan sabia melhor, pois já tinha visto leões se alimentarem de carniça também.

En Depois de se saciar, o homem-macaco voltou a trabalhar nas peles, que eram todas grandes e fortes. Ele cortou tiras com cerca de meia polegada de largura. Quando teve o suficiente, costurou duas peles juntas e depois fez furos a cada três ou quatro polegadas ao redor das bordas. Ele passou outra tira pelos furos, criando uma bolsa grande com um cordão. Fez quatro bolsas menores das peles restantes e ainda sobraram várias tiras.

En Quando isso foi feito, ele jogou uma fruta grande e suculenta em Sabor, guardou o restante do javali em uma forquilha da árvore e balançou-se para o sudoeste através dos terraços médios da floresta, carregando suas cinco bolsas. Ele foi direto para a borda da ravina onde havia aprisionado Numa, o leão. Muito furtivamente, aproximou-se da borda e espiou. Numa não estava à vista. Tarzan farejou e ouviu; não conseguia ouvir nada, mas sabia que Numa devia estar dentro da caverna. Ele esperava que o leão estivesse dormindo, pois muito dependia de Numa não o descobrir.

En Tarzan cautelosamente se abaixou sobre a borda do penhasco e começou a descer silenciosamente em direção ao fundo da ravina. Ele parava frequentemente, voltando seus olhos e ouvidos aguçados para a entrada da caverna a cerca de cem pés de distância. Ao se aproximar da base do penhasco, o perigo aumentava. Ele sabia que se conseguisse chegar ao fundo e percorrer metade da distância até a árvore no meio da ravina, estaria relativamente seguro. Mesmo que Numa aparecesse então, ele acreditava que poderia vencer o leão até o penhasco ou até a árvore. No entanto, escalar os primeiros trinta pés do penhasco rápido o suficiente para escapar do animal saltador exigiria uma arrancada de pelo menos vinte pés, porque havia poucos pontos de apoio perto da base. Ele já havia corrido pelos primeiros vinte pés como um esquilo para escapar de um Numa enfurecido, e só por pouco evitara as garras do leão.

En Por fim, ele estava no chão da ravina. Silencioso como um espírito, avançou em direção à árvore. Já estava na metade do caminho, e não havia sinal de Numa. Alcançou o tronco marcado de onde o leão faminto havia devorado a casca e até arrancado pedaços de madeira, mas Numa não apareceu. Enquanto subia para os galhos mais baixos, começou a se perguntar se o leão estava mesmo na caverna. Seria possível que Numa tivesse forçado a barreira de rochas que Tarzan usara para bloquear a entrada da passagem? Ou o leão estava morto? Tarzan duvidava desta última possibilidade, pois havia alimentado Numa com as carcaças inteiras de um cervo e uma hiena apenas alguns dias antes. O leão não poderia ter morrido de fome em tão pouco tempo, e o pequeno riacho que atravessava a ravina fornecia água em abundância.

En Tarzan estava prestes a descer para investigar a caverna, mas pensou que seria mais fácil atrair Numa para fora. Agindo assim, emitiu um rosnado baixo. Imediatamente ouviu movimento dentro da caverna, e um momento depois um leão de olhar selvagem e abatido avançou, pronto para enfrentar qualquer coisa que fosse comestível. Quando Numa viu Tarzan, gordo e saudável na árvore, tornou-se a personificação de uma fúria terrível. Seus olhos e nariz lhe disseram que aquela criatura era responsável por sua situação e que era boa para comer. Freneticamente, o leão tentou escalar o tronco da árvore. Duas vezes saltou alto o suficiente para agarrar os galhos mais baixos com as patas, mas ambas as vezes caiu de volta ao chão. Cada queda o deixava mais furioso. Seus rosnados e rugidos eram constantes e horríveis, enquanto Tarzan sentava-se sorrindo para ele, provocando-o com insultos da selva por sua incapacidade de alcançá-lo, e secretamente regozijando-se por Numa estar desperdiçando suas forças já enfraquecidas.

En Finalmente, o homem-macaco se levantou e desprendeu sua corda. Ele arrumou cuidadosamente as voltas na mão esquerda e o laço na direita, então tomou posição com cada pé em um dos dois galhos aproximadamente à mesma altura, pressionando as costas firmemente contra o tronco da árvore. Ali ficou, atirando insultos a Numa até que a besta foi novamente provocada a saltar para cima. Enquanto Numa subia, Tarzan deixou cair o laço sobre sua cabeça e em volta de seu pescoço. Com um movimento rápido, apertou a volta, e quando Numa escorregou de volta ao chão, apenas suas patas traseiras tocaram o solo, pois Tarzan o segurava balançando pelo pescoço.

En Movendo-se lentamente para fora sobre os dois galhos, Tarzan balançou Numa para longe, de modo que as garras do leão não pudessem alcançar o tronco da árvore. Então ele prendeu a corda após puxar Numa para fora do chão, deixou cair seus cinco sacos de couro de porco no chão e pulou ele mesmo. Numa estava golpeando freneticamente a corda de grama com as garras dianteiras. Ele poderia rompê-la a qualquer momento, então Tarzan tinha que trabalhar rapidamente.

En Tarzan primeiro colocou um grande saco sobre a cabeça de Numa e o prendeu em volta do pescoço com o cordão. Então, após considerável esforço e escapando por pouco de ser rasgado pelas garras do leão, ele conseguiu amarrar Numa, juntando suas quatro patas e amarrando-as firmemente com tiras cortadas de peles de porco.

En Nesse ponto, os esforços de Numa quase haviam cessado, pois ele estava sendo estrangulado, o que não era a intenção de Tarzan. Ele voltou para a árvore, desamarrou a corda de cima e baixou o leão ao chão. Então removeu o laço do pescoço de Numa, puxou sua faca e cortou dois buracos redondos na frente do saco sobre os olhos do leão para que Numa pudesse ver e respirar.

En Depois disso, Tarzan colocou os outros sacos sobre cada uma das patas perigosas de Numa. Ele prendeu os sacos nas patas traseiras não apenas apertando os cordões, mas também adicionando ligas que se fixavam firmemente acima dos jarretes. Ele prendeu os sacos das patas dianteiras de maneira semelhante acima dos joelhos. Agora Numa, o leão, estava tão inofensivo quanto Bara, o cervo.

En Logo Numa começou a mostrar sinais de retorno à vida. Ele ofegava e lutava, mas as inúmeras tiras de pele de porco que seguravam suas patas juntas eram resistentes. Tarzan observava, confiante de que elas segurariam, mas Numa era muito musculoso e sempre havia a chance de ele se libertar, após o que tudo dependeria da eficácia dos sacos e cordões de Tarzan.

En Depois que Numa retomou a respiração normal e conseguiu rugir seus protestos e fúria, seus esforços aumentaram a proporções titânicas por um curto período, mas como a resistência de um leão não é proporcional ao seu tamanho e força, ele logo se cansou e ficou imóvel. Em meio a novos rosnados e outra tentativa frustrada de se libertar, Numa finalmente se submeteu a ter uma corda colocada em volta do pescoço. Desta vez, porém, não era um laço que pudesse apertar e estrangulá-lo, mas um nó de volta, que não aperta nem desliza sob tensão.

En Tarzan prendeu uma ponta da corda ao tronco da árvore, em seguida, cortou rapidamente as amarras das pernas de Numa e se afastou enquanto o leão saltava sobre suas patas. A fera ficou com as pernas afastadas por um momento, então sacudiu cada pata para remover as estranhas coberturas que Tarzan havia colocado. Ele então tentou tirar o saco da cabeça com as patas. O homem-macaco observou atentamente, lança pronta, pensando se os sacos segurariam ou se seu plano daria em nada.

En Sem conseguir remover as coberturas que grudavam, Numa ficou frenético. Ele rolou no chão, lutando, mordendo, arranhando e rugindo; levantou-se e saltou no ar; investiu contra Tarzan, mas foi parado de repente pela corda. Tarzan se aproximou e bateu-lhe com força na cabeça com o cabo da lança. Numa empinou nas patas traseiras e revidou, mas recebeu um tapa na orelha que o fez cambalear. Após a quarta tentativa, o leão pareceu perceber que havia encontrado seu mestre; abaixou a cabeça e o rabo, e recuou, ainda rosnando.

En Tarzan deixou Numa amarrado à árvore, entrou no túnel para remover a barricada no outro extremo e depois voltou à ravina. Numa estava deitado em seu caminho e rosnou. Tarzan deu-lhe um tapa e desamarrou a corda da árvore. Seguiu-se uma luta de meia hora enquanto Tarzan tentava levar Numa pelo túnel, mas o leão se recusava obstinadamente a ser conduzido. Eventualmente, usando livremente a ponta de sua lança, Tarzan forçou Numa a avançar e o guiou para dentro da passagem. Uma vez lá dentro, seguindo de perto com a lança afiada, ele manteve Numa em movimento para a frente. Quando Numa hesitava, era cutucado; se recuava, era extremamente doloroso. O leão aprendeu rápido e continuou andando. No final do túnel, sentindo liberdade, ergueu a cabeça e o rabo e saiu correndo.

En Tarzan, ainda de mãos e joelhos dentro da entrada, foi pego de surpresa. Ele foi jogado de cara no chão e arrastado por cem jardas em terreno rochoso antes de Numa parar. Arranhado e irritado, Tarzan se levantou. Ele pensou em punir Numa, mas como raramente deixava seu temperamento sobrepor a razão, rapidamente abandonou a ideia.

En Tendo ensinado a Numa os fundamentos de ser conduzido, Tarzan o instigou a avançar, iniciando uma jornada tão estranha quanto a selva já havia visto. Aquele dia foi cheio de acontecimentos: desde rebelião aberta, o leão passou por estágios de resistência teimosa e obediência relutante até a rendição final. Ao anoitecer, ele estava muito cansado, com fome e sede. Tarzan não se arriscou a remover o saco da cabeça, mas cortou outro buraco para que Numa pudesse beber após o escurecer. Em seguida, amarrou o leão a uma árvore, encontrou comida para si mesmo e dormiu nos galhos acima de seu prisioneiro.

En Na manhã seguinte, eles continuaram sua jornada para o leste, serpenteando pelas colinas baixas ao sul do Kilimanjaro. As criaturas da selva que os viram fugiram imediatamente. Até os animais selvagens mais fortes ficaram assustados com a estranha visão de uma criatura com cheiro de leão, diferente de tudo que já tinham visto, sendo liderada por um gigante homem-macaco.

En A leoa Sabor sentiu o cheiro de seu companheiro misturado com o de um homem-macaco e um javali. Curiosa e um pouco assustada, ela trotou pela floresta para investigar. Tarzan e Numa ouviram seu gemido plangente. Embora os leões possam ser intimidadores, eles são frequentemente tímidos, e Sabor, sendo fêmea, era naturalmente inquisitiva.

En Tarzan preparou sua lança, sabendo que talvez tivesse que lutar para manter seu prêmio. Numa parou e se virou zangado em direção à leoa que se aproximava, rosnando baixo. No momento em que Tarzan ia cutucá-lo para seguir, Sabor apareceu, e atrás dela ele viu quatro leões adultos seguindo.

En Tarzan decidiu não provocar Numa a lutar, pois isso poderia trazer todo o bando sobre ele. Ele esperou para ver o que fariam. Não tinha intenção de desistir de seu leão sem lutar, mas sabia que os leões eram imprevisíveis.

En A leoa era jovem e graciosa, e os quatro machos estavam no auge — os leões mais bonitos que Tarzan já vira. Três tinham jubas esparsas, mas o líder tinha uma magnífica juba preta que ondulava enquanto ele andava. A leoa parou a cerca de trinta metros, enquanto os machos se aproximavam. Suas orelhas estavam eretas e pareciam curiosos. Tarzan não conseguia adivinhar suas intenções. Numa ficou em silêncio, atento.

En A leoa fez outro som suave, e o leão de Tarzan respondeu com um rugido poderoso antes de avançar em direção ao leão de juba preta. Confrontado por essa criatura de rosto estranho, o leão de juba preta se assustou, virou-se e fugiu com os outros, arrastando Tarzan atrás de si.

En Numa tentou seguir os outros leões, mas Tarzan o segurou. Quando Numa se virou para ele com raiva, Tarzan bateu-lhe com força na cabeça com sua lança. O leão balançou a cabeça e rosnou, mas finalmente continuou na direção original. Levou uma hora para que seu mau humor passasse, pois estava com muita fome e irritadiço. No entanto, os métodos enérgicos de Tarzan o haviam subjugado tão completamente que logo caminhou ao lado do homem-macaco como um grande cão dócil.

En Na escuridão, o par se aproximou do flanco direito britânico, tendo sido atrasado antes por uma patrulha alemã que precisavam evitar. Perto do posto avançado britânico, Tarzan amarrou Numa a uma árvore e seguiu sozinho. Ele passou despercebido por um sentinela e pelos guardas externos, e por um caminho indireto chegou ao quartel-general do Coronel Capell, onde apareceu diante dos oficiais reunidos como se materializasse do nada.

En Quando os oficiais reconheceram o visitante não anunciado, eles sorriram, e o coronel coçou a cabeça em confusão.

En O coronel comentou que alguém deveria ser fuzilado por isso. Ele acrescentou que seria inútil manter um posto avançado se qualquer um pudesse passar à vontade.

En Tarzan sorriu e disse a eles para não culparem os Mangani, explicando que ele próprio não era um homem, mas um Tarmangani. Ele disse que qualquer Mangani poderia entrar no acampamento deles quase sempre que quisesse, mas se eles usassem Mangani como sentinelas, ninguém poderia entrar sem ser detectado.

En O coronel perguntou o que eram os Mangani e sugeriu que eles poderiam recrutar alguns deles.

En Tarzan balançou a cabeça e explicou que os Mangani eram os grandes macacos, seu povo, mas não poderiam ser usados como guardas. Eles não tinham capacidade de se concentrar em uma única tarefa por muito tempo. Se ele lhes contasse sobre o plano, eles se interessariam brevemente, e ele poderia conseguir trazer alguns e explicar suas funções, mas logo perderiam o interesse. No momento mais crítico, poderiam vagar pela floresta procurando besouros em vez de ficar de vigia. Suas mentes eram como as de crianças pequenas, e por isso nunca avançavam.

Murder and Pillage

Português

O capitão Fritz Schneider caminhava cansado pelos corredores escuros da floresta. O suor escorria por sua cabeça redonda e ficava em suas bochechas pesadas e pescoço de touro. Seu tenente marchava ao lado dele, enquanto o subtenente von Goss vinha por último com um punhado de askaris, seguindo os carregadores cansados e quase exaustos. Os soldados negros, seguindo o exemplo de seu oficial branco, empurravam os carregadores para frente com as pontas afiadas das baionetas e as extremidades metálicas de seus fuzis.

Original English

Hauptmann Fritz Schneider trudged wearily through the somber aisles of the dark forest. Sweat rolled down his bullet head and stood upon his heavy jowls and bull neck. His lieutenant marched beside him while Underlieutenant von Goss brought up the rear, following with a handful of askaris the tired and all but exhausted porters whom the black soldiers, following the example of their white officer, encouraged with the sharp points of bayonets and the metal-shod butts of rifles.

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Português

Não havia carregadores ao alcance do capitão Schneider, então ele direcionou sua raiva prussiana para os askaris mais próximos. Mas fez isso com maior cautela, porque esses homens carregavam fuzis carregados e os três homens brancos estavam sozinhos com eles no coração da África.

Original English

There were no porters within reach of Hauptmann Schneider so he vented his Prussian spleen upon the askaris nearest at hand, yet with greater circumspection since these men bore loaded rifles -- and the three white men were alone with them in the heart of Africa.

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Português

Metade da companhia do capitão marchava à sua frente, e a outra metade marchava atrás. Dessa forma, os perigos da selva selvagem eram diminuídos para o capitão alemão. Na frente da coluna cambaleavam dois selvagens nus acorrentados pelo pescoço. Eles eram os guias nativos forçados ao serviço da civilização alemã, e seus pobres corpos machucados mostravam as marcas dessa civilização em muitas feridas e contusões cruéis.

Original English

Ahead of the hauptmann marched half his company, behind him the other half -- thus were the dangers of the savage jungle minimized for the German captain. At the forefront of the column staggered two naked savages fastened to each other by a neck chain. These were the native guides impressed into the service of Kultur and upon their poor, bruised bodies Kultur's brand was revealed in divers cruel wounds and bruises.

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Português

Assim, mesmo na África mais escura, a luz da civilização alemã começava a brilhar sobre os nativos indignos, assim como, na mesma época, no outono de 1914, ela derramava sua luz gloriosa sobre a infeliz Bélgica.

Original English

Thus even in darkest Africa was the light of German civilization commencing to reflect itself upon the undeserving natives just as at the same period, the fall of 1914, it was shedding its glorious effulgence upon benighted Belgium.

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Português

Era verdade que os guias haviam desviado o grupo, mas esse é o jeito da maioria dos guias africanos. Não importava que a ignorância, e não a má intenção, tivesse causado seu fracasso. Para o capitão Fritz Schneider, bastava saber que estava perdido na selva africana e que tinha à mão seres humanos mais fracos do que ele, que poderiam ser feitos sofrer através da tortura. Ele não os matou imediatamente, em parte porque tinha uma leve esperança de que pudessem ajudá-lo a encontrar o caminho, e em parte porque, enquanto vivessem, ele poderia continuar a fazê-los sofrer.

Original English

It is true that the guides had led the party astray; but this is the way of most African guides. Nor did it matter that ignorance rather than evil intent had been the cause of their failure. It was enough for Hauptmann Fritz Schneider to know that he was lost in the African wilderness and that he had at hand human beings less powerful than he who could be made to suffer by torture. That he did not kill them outright was partially due to a faint hope that they might eventually prove the means of extricating him from his difficulties and partially that so long as they lived they might still be made to suffer.

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Português

As pobres criaturas, esperando que a sorte eventualmente as guiasse pelo caminho correto, afirmaram que conheciam a rota. Continuaram liderando através de uma floresta sombria por uma trilha sinuosa, profundamente marcada pelos inúmeros animais que vagaram pela selva ao longo de muitas gerações.

Original English

The poor creatures, hoping that chance might lead them at last upon the right trail, insisted that they knew the way and so led on through a dismal forest along a winding game trail trodden deep by the feet of countless generations of the savage denizens of the jungle.

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Português

Neste lugar, Tantor, o elefante, viajou de seu banho de poeira até a água. Buto, o rinoceronte, moveu-se desajeitadamente e sozinho em sua majestosa solidão. À noite, os grandes felinos caminhavam silenciosamente sobre patas macias sob o denso dossel de árvores, dirigindo-se à planície aberta onde podiam caçar com mais eficiência.

Original English

Here Tantor, the elephant, took his long way from dust wallow to water. Here Buto, the rhinoceros, blundered blindly in his solitary majesty, while by night the great cats paced silently upon their padded feet beneath the dense canopy of overreaching trees toward the broad plain beyond, where they found their best hunting.

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Português

Quando os guias inesperadamente alcançaram a borda da planície, seus corações desanimados se encheram de esperança novamente. O capitão suspirou de alívio porque, após dias de peregrinação sem esperança por uma selva quase intransponível, a ampla vista de grama ondulante, salpicada de bosques abertos, e a distante linha sinuosa de arbustos verdes marcando um rio parecia um paraíso para o europeu.

Original English

It was at the edge of this plain which came suddenly and unexpectedly before the eyes of the guides that their sad hearts beat with renewed hope. Here the hauptmann drew a deep sigh of relief, for after days of hopeless wandering through almost impenetrable jungle the broad vista of waving grasses dotted here and there with open park like woods and in the far distance the winding line of green shrubbery that denoted a river appeared to the European a veritable heaven.

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Português

Aliviado, o alemão sorriu, trocou um comentário alegre com seu tenente e então examinou a vasta planície através de seus binóculos. Ele moveu os óculos para frente e para trás pela paisagem ondulante até que finalmente se fixaram em um ponto próximo ao meio, perto das bordas verdes do rio.

Original English

The Hun smiled in his relief, passed a cheery word with his lieutenant, and then scanned the broad plain with his field glasses. Back and forth they swept across the rolling land until at last they came to rest upon a point near the center of the landscape and close to the green-fringed contours of the river.

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Português

Schneider disse a seus companheiros que eles estavam com sorte e perguntou se eles conseguiam ver.

Original English

"We are in luck,"said Schneider to his companions."Do you see it?"

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Português

O tenente, que também estivera olhando através de seus binóculos, finalmente focou no mesmo local que havia chamado a atenção de seu superior.

Original English

The lieutenant, who was also gazing through his own glasses, finally brought them to rest upon the same spot that had held the attention of his superior.

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Português

Ele concordou que era uma fazenda inglesa, provavelmente a de Greystoke, já que não havia outra igual naquela parte da África Oriental Britânica. Acrescentou que Deus estava ao lado deles.

Original English

"Yes,"he said,"an English farm. It must be Greystoke's, for there is none other in this part of British East Africa. God is with us, Herr Captain."

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Português

Schneider respondeu que eles haviam encontrado o inglês bem antes que ele pudesse saber que seu país estava em guerra com o deles. Declarou que o homem deveria ser o primeiro a experimentar o poder da Alemanha.

Original English

"We have come upon the English schweinhund long before he can have learned that his country is at war with ours,"replied Schneider."Let him be the first to feel the iron hand of Germany."

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Português

O tenente expressou esperança de que o homem estivesse em casa para que pudessem capturá-lo. Observou que seria muito favorável para o capitão Fritz Schneider se ele trouxesse o famoso Tarzan dos Macacos como prisioneiro de guerra.

Original English

"Let us hope that he is at home,"said the lieutenant,"that we may take him with us when we report to Kraut at Nairobi. It will go well indeed with Herr Hauptmann Fritz Schneider if he brings in the famous Tarzan of the Apes as a prisoner of war."

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Português

Schneider sorriu orgulhosamente e concordou que seria bom para ambos. No entanto, disse que precisaria viajar uma longa distância para alcançar o general Kraut antes que ele chegasse a Mombaça, pois o exército inglês se moveria rapidamente em direção ao Oceano Índico.

Original English

Schneider smiled and puffed out his chest."You are right, my friend,"he said,"it will go well with both of us; but I shall have to travel far to catch General Kraut before he reaches Mombasa. These English pigs with their contemptible army will make good time to the Indian Ocean."

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Português

O pequeno grupo avançou pelo terreno aberto em direção às arrumadas construções da fazenda de John Clayton, Lord Greystoke, em um ânimo mais esperançoso. No entanto, estavam destinados a se decepcionar, pois nem Tarzan dos Macacos nem seu filho estavam em casa.

Original English

It was in a better frame of mind that the small force set out across the open country toward the trim and well-kept farm buildings of John Clayton, Lord Greystoke; but disappointment was to be their lot since neither Tarzan of the Apes nor his son was at home.

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Português

Lady Jane, sem saber que uma guerra entre a Grã-Bretanha e a Alemanha havia começado, recebeu os oficiais com grande hospitalidade. Ela instruiu seu fiel Waziri a preparar um banquete para os soldados negros do inimigo.

Original English

Lady Jane, ignorant of the fact that a state of war existed between Great Britain and Germany, welcomed the officers most hospitably and gave orders through her trusted Waziri to prepare a feast for the black soldiers of the enemy.

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Português

Bem ao leste, Tarzan dos Macacos apressava-se de Nairobi em direção à fazenda. Em Nairobi, ele soubera que a Guerra Mundial já havia começado e, esperando uma invasão alemã iminente da África Oriental Britânica, correu para casa para levar sua esposa a um lugar mais seguro. Ele estava acompanhado por cerca de vinte de seus guerreiros negros, mas mesmo esses experientes homens do mato se moviam devagar demais para o homem-macaco.

Original English

Far to the east, Tarzan of the Apes was traveling rapidly from Nairobi toward the farm. At Nairobi he had received news of the World War that had already started, and, anticipating an immediate invasion of British East Africa by the Germans, was hurrying homeward to fetch his wife to a place of greater security. With him were a score of his ebon warriors, but far too slow for the ape-man was the progress of these trained and hardened woodsmen.

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Português

Quando a necessidade exigia, Tarzan dos Macacos se desfazia da fina camada de sua civilização e das roupas restritivas que a marcavam. Em um instante, o refinado cavalheiro inglês se transformava no nu homem-macaco.

Original English

When necessity demanded, Tarzan of the Apes sloughed the thin veneer of his civilization and with it the hampering apparel that was its badge. In a moment the polished English gentleman reverted to the naked ape man.

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Português

Sua companheira estava em perigo. Naquele momento, um único pensamento dominava sua mente. Ele não pensava nela como Lady Jane Greystoke, mas como a fêmea que conquistara com sua força de ferro, e que devia manter e defender pelos mesmos meios poderosos.

Original English

His mate was in danger. For the time, that single thought dominated. He did not think of her as Lady Jane Greystoke, but rather as the she he had won by the might of his steel thews, and that he must hold and protect by virtue of the same offensive armament.

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Português

Não era um lorde da Câmara dos Lordes, mas um grande macaco que se movia com rapidez sombria pela floresta emaranhada e pelas vastas planícies. Ele era impulsionado por um único propósito, ignorando todo cansaço e perigo.

Original English

It was no member of the House of Lords who swung swiftly and grimly through the tangled forest or trod with untiring muscles the wide stretches of open plain -- it was a great he ape filled with a single purpose that excluded all thoughts of fatigue or danger.

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Português

O pequeno Manu, o macaco, reclamando e tagarelando nas árvores altas, viu-o passar e lembrou-se dos dias em que Tarzan dos Macacos reinara na selva, senhor sobre todas as suas criaturas.

Original English

Little Manu, the monkey, scolding and chattering in the upper terraces of the forest, saw him pass. Long had it been since he had thus beheld the great Tarmangani naked and alone hurtling through the jungle. Bearded and gray was Manu, the monkey, and to his dim old eyes came the fire of recollection of those days when Tarzan of the Apes had ruled supreme, Lord of the Jungle, over all the myriad life that trod the matted vegetation between the boles of the great trees, or flew or swung or climbed in the leafy fastness upward to the very apex of the loftiest terraces.

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Português

Numa, o leão, descansando ao lado de sua presa recente, piscou seus olhos amarelo-esverdeados e contraiu a cauda ao sentir o cheiro de seu antigo inimigo.

Original English

And Numa, the lion, lying up for the day close beside last night's successful kill, blinked his yellow-green eyes and twitched his tawny tail as he caught the scent spoor of his ancient enemy.

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Português

Tarzan estava plenamente ciente de Numa, Manu e das outras bestas da selva enquanto se apressava para o oeste. Seu tempo na sociedade inglesa não embotara seus sentidos aguçados; seu nariz detectou Numa antes mesmo de o leão o perceber.

Original English

Nor was Tarzan senseless to the presence of Numa or Manu or any of the many jungle beasts he passed in his rapid flight towards the west. No particle had his shallow probing of English society dulled his marvelous sense faculties. His nose had picked out the presence of Numa, the lion, even before the majestic king of beasts was aware of his passing.

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Português

Ele ouviu o barulhento pequeno Manu e até o suave farfalhar dos arbustos onde Sheeta se movia, antes que qualquer um desses animais o detectasse.

Original English

He had heard noisy little Manu, and even the soft rustling of the parting shrubbery where Sheeta passed before either of these alert animals sensed his presence.

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Português

Apesar de seus sentidos notáveis, velocidade e força, Tarzan ainda era humano. Ele estava agudamente ciente de que o tempo e a distância o limitavam, e ficava frustrado por não poder viajar com a velocidade do pensamento. As longas e tediosas milhas à frente exigiriam muitas horas de esforço incansável antes que ele finalmente alcançasse a planície aberta e seu objetivo.

Original English

But however keen the senses of the ape-man, however swift his progress through the wild country of his adoption, however mighty the muscles that bore him, he was still mortal. Time and space placed their inexorable limits upon him; nor was there another who realized this truth more keenly than Tarzan. He chafed and fretted that he could not travel with the swiftness of thought and that the long tedious miles stretching far ahead of him must require hours and hours of tireless effort upon his part before he would swing at last from the final bough of the fringing forest into the open plain and in sight of his goal.

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Português

A jornada durou muitos dias. Ele dormia apenas algumas horas por noite e dependia do acaso para encontrar carne ao longo de sua rota. Se um antílope ou um javali cruzasse seu caminho enquanto ele estava com fome, ele pararia apenas o tempo suficiente para matá-lo e cortar um bife.

Original English

Days it took, even though he lay up at night for but a few hours and left to chance the finding of meat directly on his trail. If Wappi, the antelope, or Horta, the boar, chanced in his way when he was hungry, he ate, pausing but long enough to make the kill and cut himself a steak.

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Português

Finalmente, a longa jornada chegou ao fim. Ele atravessou a última floresta densa no limite leste de sua terra, e então emergiu na borda da planície. De lá, ele olhou através de seu vasto território em direção à sua casa.

Original English

Then at last the long journey drew to its close and he was passing through the last stretch of heavy forest that bounded his estate upon the east, and then this was traversed and he stood upon the plain's edge looking out across his broad lands towards his home.

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Português

Ao seu primeiro olhar, seus olhos se estreitaram e seus músculos se tensionaram. Mesmo de longe, ele podia ver que algo estava errado. Uma fina espiral de fumaça subia de onde os celeiros um dia estiveram, mas eles haviam desaparecido. Nenhuma fumaça saía da chaminé do bangalô, onde deveria haver fumaça.

Original English

At the first glance his eyes narrowed and his muscles tensed. Even at that distance he could see that something was amiss. A thin spiral of smoke arose at the right of the bungalow where the barns had stood, but there were no barns there now, and from the bungalow chimney from which smoke should have arisen, there arose nothing.

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Português

Mais uma vez, Tarzan correu para frente, ainda mais rápido do que antes, movido por um medo sem nome que vinha mais da intuição do que da razão. Como os animais, ele parecia possuir um sexto sentido. Muito antes de chegar ao bangalô, ele já havia formado uma imagem da cena que o receberia.

Original English

Once again Tarzan of the Apes was speeding onward, this time even more swiftly than before, for he was goaded now by a nameless fear, more product of intuition than of reason. Even as the beasts, Tarzan of the Apes seemed to possess a sixth sense. Long before he reached the bungalow, he had almost pictured the scene that finally broke upon his view.

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Português

A cabana coberta de videiras estava silenciosa e abandonada. Brasas fumegantes marcavam onde seus grandes celeiros um dia existiram. As cabanas de palha de seus trabalhadores leais haviam desaparecido, e os campos, pastagens e currais estavam vazios. Abutres subiam e circulavam sobre as carcaças de homens e animais.

Original English

Silent and deserted was the vine-covered cottage. Smoldering embers marked the site of his great barns. Gone were the thatched huts of his sturdy retainers, empty the fields, the pastures, and corrals. Here and there vultures rose and circled above the carcasses of men and beasts.

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Português

Um sentimento próximo ao terror tomou conta do homem-macaco quando ele finalmente se forçou a entrar em sua casa. A primeira visão que encontrou seus olhos encheu sua visão com uma névoa vermelha de ódio e sede de sangue. Lá, preso à parede da sala de estar, estava Wasimbu, o filho gigante do fiel Muviro e, por mais de um ano, o guarda-costas pessoal de Lady Jane.

Original English

It was with a feeling as nearly akin to terror as he ever had experienced that the ape-man finally forced himself to enter his home. The first sight that met his eyes set the red haze of hate and bloodlust across his vision, for there, crucified against the wall of the living-room, was Wasimbu, giant son of the faithful Muviro and for over a year the personal bodyguard of Lady Jane.

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Português

Os móveis virados e destruídos, as poças de sangue seco no chão e as marcas de mãos ensanguentadas nas paredes e na madeira mostravam algo do horror da batalha que havia sido travada no cômodo estreito. Sobre o piano de meia-cauda estava o corpo de outro guerreiro negro, e diante da porta do boudoir de Lady Jane estavam os corpos de mais três dos fiéis servos Greystoke.

Original English

The overturned and shattered furniture of the room, the brown pools of dried blood upon the floor, and prints of bloody hands on walls and woodwork evidenced something of the frightfulness of the battle that had been waged within the narrow confines of the apartment. Across the baby grand piano lay the corpse of another black warrior, while before the door of Lady Jane's boudoir were the dead bodies of three more of the faithful Greystoke servants.

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Português

A porta daquele quarto estava fechada. Com os ombros caídos e os olhos opacos, Tarzan ficou olhando silenciosamente para o painel de madeira que escondia dele o horrível segredo que ele não ousava nem imaginar.

Original English

The door of this room was closed. With drooping shoulders and dull eyes Tarzan stood gazing dumbly at the insensate panel which hid from him what horrid secret he dared not even guess.

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Português

Lentamente, com passos pesados, ele se moveu em direção à porta. Sua mão tateou em busca da maçaneta. Ele ficou parado por mais um longo minuto, então com um gesto repentino endireitou sua estrutura gigante, jogou os ombros poderosos para trás e, com a cabeça erguida e destemida, abriu a porta e atravessou a soleira para dentro do quarto que guardava suas memórias e associações mais queridas. Nenhuma mudança de expressão cruzou seu rosto severo e austero enquanto ele atravessava o quarto e ficava ao lado do pequeno sofá e da forma inanimada que estava deitada de bruços sobre ele — a coisa imóvel e silenciosa que um dia pulsara com vida, juventude e amor.

Original English

Slowly, with leaden feet, he moved toward the door. Gropingly his hand reached for the knob. Thus he stood for another long minute, and then with a sudden gesture he straightened his giant frame, threw back his mighty shoulders and, with fearless head held high, swung back the door and stepped across the threshold into the room which held for him the dearest memories and associations of his life. No change of expression crossed his grim and stern-set features as he strode across the room and stood beside the little couch and the inanimate form which lay face downward upon it; the still, silent thing that had pulsed with life and youth and love.

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Português

Os olhos do homem-macaco permaneceram secos, mas apenas Deus poderia compreender a agitação dentro de sua mente ainda meio selvagem. Ele ficou por muito tempo olhando para o corpo carbonizado e irreconhecível, depois se abaixou e o levantou. Ao virá-lo e ver a brutalidade da morte, ele experimentou instantaneamente a mais profunda tristeza, horror e ódio.

Original English

No tear dimmed the eye of the ape-man, but the God who made him alone could know the thoughts that passed through that still half-savage brain. For a long time he stood there just looking down upon the dead body, charred beyond recognition, and then he stooped and lifted it in his arms. As he turned the body over and saw how horribly death had been meted he plumbed, in that instant, the uttermost depths of grief and horror and hatred.

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Português

Ele não precisava do rifle quebrado na sala ao lado ou do boné manchado de sangue no chão para identificar quem havia cometido aquele crime sem sentido.

Original English

Nor did he require the evidence of the broken German rifle in the outer room, or the torn and blood-stained service cap upon the floor, to tell him who had been the perpetrators of this horrid and useless crime.

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Português

Por um momento, ele se apegou à esperança de que o corpo enegrecido não era de sua companheira, mas quando viu e reconheceu os anéis em seus dedos, a última tênue esperança desapareceu.

Original English

For a moment he had hoped against hope that the blackened corpse was not that of his mate, but when his eyes discovered and recognized the rings upon her fingers the last faint ray of hope forsook him.

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Português

Em silêncio, amor e reverência, ele enterrou o corpo queimado no pequeno jardim de rosas que Jane Clayton amava. Ao lado dela, ele colocou os grandes guerreiros negros que deram suas vidas em vão enquanto protegiam sua senhora.

Original English

In silence, in love, and in reverence he buried, in the little rose garden that had been Jane Clayton's pride and love, the poor, charred form and beside it the great black warriors who had given their lives so futilely in their mistress' protection.

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Português

De um lado da casa, Tarzan descobriu outras covas recém-cavadas. Nelas, ele buscou a prova final de quem realmente havia cometido as atrocidades durante sua ausência.

Original English

At one side of the house Tarzan found other newly made graves and in these he sought final evidence of the identity of the real perpetrators of the atrocities that had been committed there in his absence.

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Português

Tarzan desenterrou os corpos de uma dúzia de soldados alemães e notou as insígnias em seus uniformes, revelando sua companhia e regimento. Essa informação foi suficiente para o homem-macaco concluir que oficiais brancos haviam comandado esses homens, e ele antecipou que seria simples identificar esses oficiais.

Original English

Here he disinterred the bodies of a dozen German askaris and found upon their uniforms the insignia of the company and regiment to which they had belonged. This was enough for the ape-man. White officers had commanded these men, nor would it be a difficult task to discover who they were.

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Português

Ele retornou ao roseiral, agora pisoteado pelos alemães, e parou sobre o túmulo de seus mortos. Com a cabeça baixa, fez uma despedida silenciosa. Enquanto o sol se punha atrás das florestas ocidentais, ele se virou e seguiu lentamente a trilha ainda clara do Hauptmann Fritz Schneider e sua companhia ensanguentada.

Original English

Returning to the rose garden, he stood among the Hun trampled blooms and bushes above the grave of his dead -- with bowed head he stood there in a last mute farewell. As the sun sank slowly behind the towering forests of the west, he turned slowly away upon the still-distinct trail of Hauptmann Fritz Schneider and his blood-stained company.

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Português

Sua dor era tão muda e pungente quanto a de um animal sem fala. No início, sua imensa tristeza sobrecarregou seus pensamentos, deixando sua mente fixada em um único pensamento agonizante: que ela estava morta. Essa ideia pulsava em seu cérebro como uma dor surda, mas seus pés seguiam mecanicamente a trilha do assassino dela, enquanto seus instintos permaneciam alertas para os perigos da selva.

Original English

His was the suffering of the dumb brute -- mute; but though voiceless no less poignant. At first his vast sorrow numbed his other faculties of thought -- his brain was overwhelmed by the calamity to such an extent that it reacted to but a single objective suggestion: She is dead! She is dead! She is dead! Again and again this phrase beat monotonously upon his brain -- a dull, throbbing pain, yet mechanically his feet followed the trail of her slayer while, subconsciously, his every sense was upon the alert for the ever-present perils of the jungle.

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Português

De seu grande sofrimento emergiu outra emoção tão real que parecia um companheiro: o ódio. Esse ódio lhe trouxe consolo e conforto, um ódio sublime pela Alemanha e pelos alemães. Centrava-se no assassino de sua companheira, mas estendia-se a tudo que era alemão. Ele parou, ergueu o rosto para a lua e amaldiçoou os perpetradores do crime e toda a sua espécie, fazendo um juramento silencioso de travar uma guerra implacável contra eles até sua morte.

Original English

Gradually the labor of his great grief brought forth another emotion so real, so tangible, that it seemed a companion walking at his side. It was Hate -- and it brought to him a measure of solace and of comfort, for it was a sublime hate that ennobled him as it has ennobled countless thousands since -- hatred for Germany and Germans. It centered about the slayer of his mate, of course; but it included everything German, animate or inanimate. As the thought took firm hold upon him he paused and raising his face to Goro, the moon, cursed with upraised hand the authors of the hideous crime that had been perpetrated in that once peaceful bungalow behind him; and he cursed their progenitors, their progeny, and all their kind the while he took silent oath to war upon them relentlessly until death overtook him.

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Português

Quase imediatamente, ele sentiu uma sensação de contentamento. Onde seu futuro parecia vazio, agora apresentava possibilidades que, se não felicidade, pelo menos trouxeram um alívio da tristeza absoluta. Ele tinha um grande trabalho pela frente que ocuparia seu tempo.

Original English

There followed almost immediately a feeling of content, for, where before his future at best seemed but a void, now it was filled with possibilities the contemplation of which brought him, if not happiness, at least a surcease of absolute grief, for before him lay a great work that would occupy his time.

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Português

Tarzan não apenas havia perdido todos os sinais externos de civilização, mas também havia retornado ao estado moral e mental da fera selvagem com a qual fora criado. O verniz da civilização só havia sido colocado por causa da mulher que amava, porque ele acreditava que isso a fazia mais feliz. Na verdade, ele sempre desprezou profundamente os ornamentos da chamada cultura. Para ele, civilização significava uma restrição da liberdade em todos os aspectos – liberdade de ação, pensamento, amor e ódio. Ele detestava roupas, que via como desconfortáveis, hediondas e restritivas, lembrando-lhe correntes que o prendiam à vida que observava nos pobres de Londres e Paris. As roupas simbolizavam a hipocrisia da civilização, um fingimento de que as pessoas se envergonhavam do corpo humano, feito à imagem de Deus. Tarzan havia observado como os animais pareciam bobos e patéticos com roupas humanas em vários shows itinerantes na Europa, e sentia o mesmo sobre os homens, já que os únicos homens que vira em seus primeiros vinte anos eram selvagens nus como ele. Ele tinha uma profunda admiração por corpos bem musculosos e proporcionais, fosse leão, antílope ou homem, e nunca conseguiu entender como as roupas poderiam ser consideradas mais bonitas do que a pele saudável ou as curvas graciosas dos músculos sob a pele flexível.

Original English

Stripped not only of all the outward symbols of civilization, Tarzan had also reverted morally and mentally to the status of the savage beast he had been reared. Never had his civilization been more than a veneer put on for the sake of her he loved because he thought it made her happier to see him thus. In reality he had always held the outward evidences of so-called culture in deep contempt. Civilization meant to Tarzan of the Apes a curtailment of freedom in all its aspects -- freedom of action, freedom of thought, freedom of love, freedom of hate. Clothes he abhorred -- uncomfortable, hideous, confining things that reminded him somehow of bonds securing him to the life he had seen the poor creatures of London and Paris living. Clothes were the emblems of that hypocrisy for which civilization stood -- a pretense that the wearers were ashamed of what the clothes covered, of the human form made in the semblance of God. Tarzan knew how silly and pathetic the lower orders of animals appeared in the clothing of civilization, for he had seen several poor creatures thus appareled in various traveling shows in Europe, and he knew, too, how silly and pathetic man appears in them since the only men he had seen in the first twenty years of his life had been, like himself, naked savages. The ape-man had a keen admiration for a well-muscled, well-proportioned body, whether lion, or antelope, or man, and it had ever been beyond him to understand how clothes could be considered more beautiful than a clear, firm, healthy skin, or coat and trousers more graceful than the gentle curves of rounded muscles playing beneath a flexible hide.

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Português

Na civilização, Tarzan encontrara ganância, egoísmo e crueldade muito além do que conhecera na selva selvagem. Embora a civilização lhe tivesse dado sua companheira e vários amigos que ele amava e admirava, ele nunca a aceitou totalmente como a maioria das pessoas faz. Portanto, sentiu alívio quando finalmente a abandonou e tudo o que ela representava, retornando à selva vestindo apenas sua tanga e carregando suas armas.

Original English

In civilization Tarzan had found greed and selfishness and cruelty far beyond that which he had known in his familiar, savage jungle, and though civilization had given him his mate and several friends whom he loved and admired, he never had come to accept it as you and I who have known little or nothing else; so it was with a sense of relief that he now definitely abandoned it and all that it stood for, and went forth into the jungle once again stripped to his loin cloth and weapons.

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Português

Tarzan carregava a faca de caça de seu pai no quadril esquerdo, e seu arco e aljava de flechas estavam pendurados nos ombros. Ao redor do peito e sob um braço, estava enrolada uma longa corda de capim, sem a qual ele se sentiria tão exposto quanto uma pessoa colocada de repente em uma rodovia movimentada apenas de cueca. Ele também carregava uma pesada lança de guerra, seja na mão ou pendurada nas costas. O medalhão cravejado de diamantes com retratos de seus pais, que ele sempre usara antes de dá-lo a Jane Clayton como prova de sua devoção, estava faltando. Ela o usara desde o casamento, mas não estava em seu corpo quando ele a encontrou morta. Agora sua busca por vingança também incluía uma busca pelo medalhão roubado.

Original English

The hunting knife of his father hung at his left hip, his bow and his quiver of arrows were slung across his shoulders, while around his chest over one shoulder and beneath the opposite arm was coiled the long grass rope without which Tarzan would have felt quite as naked as would you should you be suddenly thrust upon a busy highway clad only in a union suit. A heavy war spear which he sometimes carried in one hand and again slung by a thong about his neck so that it hung down his back completed his armament and his apparel. The diamond-studded locket with the pictures of his mother and father that he had worn always until he had given it as a token of his highest devotion to Jane Clayton before their marriage was missing. She always had worn it since, but it had not been upon her body when he found her slain in her boudoir, so that now his quest for vengeance included also a quest for the stolen trinket.

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Português

Por volta da meia-noite, Tarzan começou a sentir o esforço físico de sua longa viagem e percebeu que até mesmo seus músculos tinham limites. Sua perseguição aos assassinos não foi extremamente rápida; antes, combinava com seu estado mental, que era marcado por uma determinação teimosa de exigir mais do que olho por olho e mais do que dente por dente dos alemães. O elemento tempo desempenhava apenas um pequeno papel em seus planos.

Original English

Toward midnight Tarzan commenced to feel the physical strain of his long hours of travel and to realize that even muscles such as his had their limitations. His pursuit of the murderers had not been characterized by excessive speed; but rather more in keeping with his mental attitude, which was marked by a dogged determination to require from the Germans more than an eye for an eye and more than a tooth for a tooth, the element of time entering but slightly into his calculations.

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Português

Interna e externamente, Tarzan havia se tornado uma fera, e na vida das feras, o tempo como duração mensurável não tem significado. Uma fera está ativamente interessada apenas no momento presente, e como é sempre agora, há uma eternidade para realizar objetivos. O homem-macaco naturalmente tinha um entendimento um pouco melhor das limitações do tempo, mas como as feras, ele se movia com deliberação majestosa, a menos que uma emergência exigisse ação rápida.

Original English

Inwardly as well as outwardly Tarzan had reverted to beast and in the lives of beasts, time, as a measurable aspect of duration, has no meaning. The beast is actively interested only in NOW, and as it is always NOW and always shall be, there is an eternity of time for the accomplishment of objects. The ape-man, naturally, had a slightly more comprehensive realization of the limitations of time; but, like the beasts, he moved with majestic deliberation when no emergency prompted him to swift action.

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Português

A vingança tornou-se o estado natural de Tarzan, então ele não se apressou. Ele não se sentiu cansado antes porque seus pensamentos estavam cheios de tristeza e vingança, mas agora percebeu que estava exausto. Portanto, ele procurou uma árvore gigante onde havia passado muitas noites anteriores.

Original English

Having dedicated his life to vengeance, vengeance became his natural state and, therefore, no emergency, so he took his time in pursuit. That he had not rested earlier was due to the fact that he had felt no fatigue, his mind being occupied by thoughts of sorrow and revenge; but now he realized that he was tired, and so he sought a jungle giant that had harbored him upon more than a single other jungle night.

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Português

Nuvens escuras se movendo rapidamente pelo céu ocultavam ocasionalmente a lua brilhante, avisando Tarzan de uma tempestade iminente. Na selva profunda, as sombras das nuvens criavam uma escuridão espessa que quase podia ser sentida — uma escuridão que poderia ter sido aterrorizante para uma pessoa comum, com folhas farfalhando e galhos estalando, e intervalos de silêncio que poderiam fazer alguém imaginar predadores escondidos. Mas Tarzan se movia por ela calmamente, embora sempre alerta. Ele mudava para galhos mais altos quando seus sentidos o avisavam de um leão em uma caça, ou se afastava quando um rinoceronte se aproximava, porque evitava lutas desnecessárias, embora estivesse pronto para lutar se necessário.

Original English

Dark clouds moving swiftly across the heavens now and again eclipsed the bright face of Goro, the moon, and forewarned the ape-man of impending storm. In the depth of the jungle the cloud shadows produced a thick blackness that might almost be felt -- a blackness that to you and me might have proven terrifying with its accompaniment of rustling leaves and cracking twigs, and its even more suggestive intervals of utter silence in which the crudest of imaginations might have conjured crouching beasts of prey tensed for the fatal charge; but through it Tarzan passed unconcerned, yet always alert. Now he swung lightly to the lower terraces of the overarching trees when some subtle sense warned him that Numa lay upon a kill directly in his path, or again he sprang lightly to one side as Buto, the rhinoceros, lumbered toward him along the narrow, deep-worn trail, for the ape-man, ready to fight upon necessity's slightest pretext, avoided unnecessary quarrels.

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Português

Quando finalmente balançou para a árvore que procurava, a lua estava escondida por uma nuvem pesada, e os topos das árvores balançavam violentamente com um vento crescente que abafava os sons menores da selva. Tarzan subiu até uma bifurcação forte onde há muito tempo havia construído uma pequena plataforma de galhos. Agora estava muito escuro, ainda mais escuro do que antes, porque quase todo o céu estava coberto por nuvens negras e espessas.

Original English

When he swung himself at last into the tree he sought, the moon was obscured by a heavy cloud, and the tree tops were waving wildly in a steadily increasing wind whose soughing drowned the lesser noises of the jungle. Upward went Tarzan toward a sturdy crotch across which he long since had laid and secured a little platform of branches. It was very dark now, darker even than it had been before, for almost the entire sky was overcast by thick, black clouds.

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Português

O homem-macaco fez uma pausa, suas narinas sensíveis testando o ar. Então, com velocidade e agilidade felinas, saltou para longe sobre um galho oscilante, lançou-se para cima através da escuridão para outro, depois para um mais alto. O que teria transformado sua escalada comum em um desvio tão cauteloso? Um observador não teria visto nada — nem mesmo a pequena plataforma que estivera logo acima dele e agora estava abaixo — mas, enquanto ele balançava sobre ela, teria ouvido um rosnado ameaçador. Quando a lua apareceu brevemente, a plataforma e uma forma escura sobre ela se tornaram visíveis: Sheeta, a pantera.

Original English

Presently the man-beast paused, his sensitive nostrils dilating as he sniffed the air about him. Then, with the swiftness and agility of a cat, he leaped far outward upon a swaying branch, sprang upward through the darkness, caught another, swung himself upon it and then to one still higher. What could have so suddenly transformed his matter-of-fact ascent of the giant bole to the swift and wary action of his detour among the branches? You or I could have seen nothing -- not even the little platform that an instant before had been just above him and which now was immediately below -- but as he swung above it we should have heard an ominous growl; and then as the moon was momentarily uncovered, we should have seen both the platform, dimly, and a dark mass that lay stretched upon it -- a dark mass that presently, as our eyes became accustomed to the lesser darkness, would take the form of Sheeta, the panther.

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Português

Em resposta ao rosnado da pantera, um rosnado baixo e igualmente feroz veio do peito de Tarzan — um aviso de que Sheeta estava invadindo. Mas Sheeta não queria sair. Ele olhou para cima, para o homem-macaco de pele morena, com o rosto rosando. Muito lentamente, Tarzan moveu-se ao longo do galho até ficar diretamente acima da pantera. Ele segurava a faca de caça de seu falecido pai, a arma que lhe dera pela primeira vez domínio sobre as feras da selva, mas esperava não usá-la. Ele sabia que muitas batalhas na selva eram vencidas por rosnados ferozes em vez de combate real — a lei do blefe valia na selva como em qualquer lugar, e os animais geralmente só lutavam com presas e garras por questões de amor e comida.

Original English

In answer to the cat's growl, a low and equally ferocious growl rumbled upward from the ape-man's deep chest -- a growl of warning that told the panther he was trespassing upon the other's lair; but Sheeta was in no mood to be dispossessed. With upturned, snarling face he glared at the brown-skinned Tarmangani above him. Very slowly the ape-man moved inward along the branch until he was directly above the panther. In the man's hand was the hunting knife of his long-dead father -- the weapon that had first given him his real ascendancy over the beasts of the jungle; but he hoped not to be forced to use it, knowing as he did that more jungle battles were settled by hideous growling than by actual combat, the law of bluff holding quite as good in the jungle as elsewhere -- only in matters of love and food did the great beasts ordinarily close with fangs and talons.

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Português

Tarzan se firmou contra o tronco da árvore e se inclinou em direção a Sheeta.

Original English

Tarzan braced himself against the bole of the tree and leaned closer toward Sheeta.

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Português

Tarzan gritou com a pantera, chamando-a de ladra e se proclamando como Tarzan dos Macacos, reivindicando o covil como seu. Ele ordenou que a pantera saísse ou enfrentasse a morte.

Original English

"Stealer of balus!"he cried. The panther rose to a sitting position, his bared fangs but a few feet from the ape-man's taunting face. Tarzan growled hideously and struck at the cat's face with his knife."I am Tarzan of the Apes,"he roared."This is Tarzan's lair. Go, or I will kill you."

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Português

Embora Tarzan falasse na língua dos grandes macacos, é provável que Sheeta não entendesse as palavras. No entanto, a pantera entendeu que o macaco sem pelos pretendia assustá-lo para longe de um local bem escolhido onde a presa pudesse aparecer durante a noite.

Original English

Though he spoke in the language of the great apes of the jungle, it is doubtful that Sheeta understood the words, though he knew well enough that the hairless ape wished to frighten him from his well-chosen station past which edible creatures might be expected to wander sometime during the watches of the night.

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Português

A pantera atacou Tarzan com suas garras, mas Tarzan foi mais rápido e desviou o golpe. Quando Sheeta pousou de volta na plataforma, Tarzan usou sua lança para cutucar o rosto rosnante. Os dois continuaram sua troca aterrorizante de rugidos e rosnados.

Original English

Like lightning the cat reared and struck a vicious blow at his tormentor with great, bared talons that might well have torn away the ape-man's face had the blow landed; but it did not land -- Tarzan was even quicker than Sheeta. As the panther came to all fours again upon the little platform, Tarzan un-slung his heavy spear and prodded at the snarling face, and as Sheeta warded off the blows, the two continued their horrid duet of blood-curdling roars and growls.

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Português

Levada à fúria, a pantera decidiu subir para confrontar Tarzan. No entanto, cada vez que tentava pular para o galho, a ponta da lança de Tarzan bloqueava seu caminho. Eventualmente, a raiva superou a cautela, e Sheeta pulou para o mesmo galho. Agora cara a cara, a pantera acreditava que o homem-macaco seria uma presa fácil para vingança e uma refeição.

Original English

Goaded to frenzy the cat presently determined to come up after this disturber of his peace; but when he essayed to leap to the branch that held Tarzan he found the sharp spear point always in his face, and each time as he dropped back he was prodded viciously in some tender part; but at length, rage having conquered his better judgment, he leaped up the rough bole to the very branch upon which Tarzan stood. Now the two faced each other upon even footing and Sheeta saw a quick revenge and a supper all in one. The hairless ape-thing with the tiny fangs and the puny talons would be helpless before him.

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Português

O galho forte curvou-se sob o peso de Sheeta e Tarzan. Sheeta moveu-se cautelosamente sobre ele enquanto Tarzan recuava, rosnando. O vento havia se tornado uma ventania, de modo que até as maiores árvores balançavam e gemiam. O galho subia e descia como o convés de um navio em meio a uma tempestade. Goro estava oculto, mas os relâmpagos revelavam os dois animais enfrentando-se no galho oscilante.

Original English

The heavy limb bent beneath the weight of the two beasts as Sheeta crept cautiously out upon it and Tarzan backed slowly away, growling. The wind had risen to the proportions of a gale so that even the greatest giants of the forest swayed, groaning, to its force and the branch upon which the two faced each other rose and fell like the deck of a storm-tossed ship. Goro was now entirely obscured, but vivid flashes of lightning lit up the jungle at brief intervals, revealing the grim tableau of primitive passion upon the swaying limb.

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Português

Tarzan recuou, atraindo Sheeta para mais longe do tronco da árvore, em direção à extremidade mais fina do galho, onde seu equilíbrio se tornou mais instável. A fera, enfurecida pelos ferimentos de lança, ignorou a cautela. Quando Sheeta mal conseguia se equilibrar, Tarzan avançou. Ele rugiu e saltou, mas em vez de cair ao alcance das garras de Sheeta, pulou por cima delas, virou-se no ar e aterrissou nas costas de Sheeta. Naquele momento, enfiou a faca no lado da pantera. Sheeta enlouqueceu de dor e raiva, gritando e arranhando, tentando se virar. Ele cambaleou no galho que balançava descontroladamente e então caiu na escuridão com Tarzan ainda agarrado a ele. Eles caíram atravessando galhos. Tarzan não soltou, sabendo que no combate mortal, um ou ambos deviam morrer.

Original English

Tarzan backed away, drawing Sheeta farther from the stem of the tree and out upon the tapering branch, where his footing became ever more precarious. The cat, infuriated by the pain of spear wounds, was overstepping the bounds of caution. Already he had reached a point where he could do little more than maintain a secure footing, and it was this moment that Tarzan chose to charge. With a roar that mingled with the booming thunder from above he leaped toward the panther, who could only claw futilely with one huge paw while he clung to the branch with the other; but the ape-man did not come within that parabola of destruction. Instead he leaped above menacing claws and snapping fangs, turning in mid-air and alighting upon Sheeta's back, and at the instant of impact his knife struck deep into the tawny side. Then Sheeta, impelled by pain and hate and rage and the first law of Nature, went mad. Screaming and clawing he attempted to turn upon the ape-thing clinging to his back. For an instant he toppled upon the now wildly gyrating limb, clutched frantically to save himself, and then plunged downward into the darkness with Tarzan still clinging to him. Crashing through splintering branches the two fell. Not for an instant did the ape-man consider relinquishing his death-hold upon his adversary. He had entered the lists in mortal combat and true to the primitive instincts of the wild -- the unwritten law of the jungle -- one or both must die before the battle ended.

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Português

Sheeta caiu sobre as quatro patas, mas o peso de Tarzan o esmagou contra o chão, e a faca atingiu novamente. A pantera tentou se levantar, mas afundou. Tarzan sentiu os músculos relaxarem; Sheeta estava morto. Tarzan se levantou, colocou um pé sobre o corpo, ergueu o rosto para a tempestade e, enquanto o relâmpago brilhava e a chuva caía, ele gritou o grito de vitória de um macaco macho.

Original English

Sheeta, catlike, alighted upon four out-sprawled feet, the weight of the ape-man crushing him to earth, the long knife again imbedded in his side. Once the panther struggled to rise; but only to sink to earth again. Tarzan felt the giant muscles relax beneath him. Sheeta was dead. Rising, the ape-man placed a foot upon the body of his vanquished foe, raised his face toward the thundering heavens, and as the lightning flashed and the torrential rain broke upon him, screamed forth the wild victory cry of the bull ape.

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Português

Tendo expulsado o inimigo de seu covil, Tarzan juntou grandes folhas e subiu para seu sofá molhado. Ele colocou algumas folhas nos postes, deitou-se e cobriu-se com o restante. Apesar do vento e do trovão, ele adormeceu imediatamente.

Original English

Having accomplished his aim and driven the enemy from his lair, Tarzan gathered an armful of large fronds and climbed to his dripping couch. Laying a few of the fronds upon the poles he lay down and covered himself against the rain with the others, and despite the wailing of the wind and the crashing of the thunder, immediately fell asleep.

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The Lion's Cave

Português

A chuva durou vinte e quatro horas, muitas vezes em torrentes, de modo que a trilha que ele estava seguindo foi completamente lavada. Frio e desconfortável, Tarzan se moveu pela selva molhada. Manu, o macaco, tremendo e tagarelando nas árvores, repreendeu e fugiu. Até as panteras e os leões deixaram o Tarmangani rosnante passar imperturbável.

Original English

The rain lasted for twenty-four hours and much of the time it fell in torrents so that when it ceased, the trail he had been following was entirely obliterated. Cold and uncomfortable -- it was a savage Tarzan who threaded the mazes of the soggy jungle. Manu, the monkey, shivering and chattering in the dank trees, scolded and fled at his approach. Even the panthers and the lions let the growling Tarmangani pass unmolested.

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Português

Dois dias depois, o sol retornou e uma planície aberta aqueceu o corpo de Tarzan, melhorando seu humor. No entanto, ele continuava sendo uma criatura mal-humorada e hostil enquanto se movia firmemente para o sul, esperando reencontrar o rastro dos alemães. Estava na África Oriental Alemã e planejava contornar as montanhas a oeste do Kilimanjaro, evitando seus picos acidentados, e então virar para leste ao longo do lado sul da cordilheira em direção à ferrovia que levava a Tanga. Sua experiência com homens o levava a acreditar que as tropas alemãs se reuniriam perto daquela ferrovia.

Original English

When the sun shone again upon the second day and a wide, open plain let the full heat of Kudu flood the chilled, brown body, Tarzan's spirits rose; but it was still a sullen, surly brute that moved steadily onward into the south where he hoped again to pick up the trail of the Germans. He was now in German East Africa and it was his intention to skirt the mountains west of Kilimanjaro, whose rugged peaks he was quite willing to give a wide berth, and then swing eastward along the south side of the range to the railway that led to Tanga, for his experience among men suggested that it was toward this railroad that German troops would be likely to converge.

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Português

Dois dias depois, nas encostas sul do Kilimanjaro, ele ouviu tiros de canhão distantes a leste. A tarde estava monótona e nublada; ao passar por um desfiladeiro estreito, grandes gotas de chuva começaram a cair sobre seus ombros nus. Balançando a cabeça e rosnando de desagrado, ele procurou abrigo, já que estava farto de frio e umidade. Queria apressar-se em direção ao barulho, sabendo que alemães estavam lutando contra ingleses. Por um momento, seu peito se encheu de orgulho por ser inglês, mas então balançou a cabeça ferozmente, murmurando que Tarzan dos Macacos não era inglês, pois os ingleses eram homens e ele era Tarmangani. Contudo, não conseguia esconder de si mesmo que seu coração se aquecia ao pensar que ingleses lutavam contra alemães, e lamentava que os ingleses fossem humanos e não grandes macacos brancos como ele agora se considerava.

Original English

Two days later, from the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro, he heard the boom of cannon far away to the east. The afternoon had been dull and cloudy and now as he was passing through a narrow gorge a few great drops of rain began to splatter upon his naked shoulders. Tarzan shook his head and growled his disapproval; then he cast his eyes about for shelter, for he had had quite enough of the cold and drenching. He wanted to hasten on in the direction of the booming noise, for he knew that there would be Germans fighting against the English. For an instant his bosom swelled with pride at the thought that he was English and then he shook his head again viciously."No!"he muttered,"Tarzan of the Apes is not English, for the English are men and Tarzan is Tarmangani;"but he could not hide even from his sorrow or from his sullen hatred of mankind in general that his heart warmed at the thought it was Englishmen who fought the Germans. His regret was that the English were human and not great white apes as he again considered himself.

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Português

Ele pensou que amanhã viajaria por aquele caminho e encontraria os alemães, e então se dedicou a descobrir abrigo da tempestade. Logo viu uma entrada baixa e estreita que parecia ser uma caverna na base dos penhascos que formavam o lado norte do desfiladeiro. Com a faca desembainhada, aproximou-se cautelosamente, sabendo que se fosse uma caverna, provavelmente seria o covil de alguma outra fera. Grandes fragmentos de rocha jaziam diante da entrada, semelhantes a outros espalhados ao longo da base do penhasco. Ocorreu-lhe que, se a caverna estivesse desocupada, poderia barricar a porta e garantir uma noite tranquila e pacífica de descanso lá dentro. Que a tempestade rugisse lá fora; ele permaneceria seco e confortável até que parasse. Um pequeno riacho de água fria escorria para fora da abertura.

Original English

"Tomorrow,"he thought,"I will travel that way and find the Germans,"and then he set himself to the immediate task of discovering some shelter from the storm. Presently he espied the low and narrow entrance to what appeared to be a cave at the base of the cliffs which formed the northern side of the gorge. With drawn knife he approached the spot warily, for he knew that if it were a cave it was doubtless the lair of some other beast. Before the entrance lay many large fragments of rock of different sizes, similar to others scattered along the entire base of the cliff, and it was in Tarzan's mind that if he found the cave unoccupied he would barricade the door and insure himself a quiet and peaceful night's repose within the sheltered interior. Let the storm rage without -- Tarzan would remain within until it ceased, comfortable and dry. A tiny rivulet of cold water trickled outward from the opening.

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Português

Perto da caverna, Tarzan ajoelhou-se e cheirou o chão. Um rosnado baixo escapou dele, e seu lábio superior se curvou para expor suas presas de luta. Murmurou o nome Numa, mas não parou; o leão poderia não estar em casa, então ele investigaria. A entrada era tão baixa que ele teve que descer de quatro para enfiar a cabeça dentro, mas primeiro olhou, ouviu e cheirou em todas as direções atrás de si, não querendo ser pego de surpresa por aquele lado.

Original English

Close to the cave Tarzan kneeled and sniffed the ground. A low growl escaped him and his upper lip curved to expose his fighting fangs."Numa!"he muttered; but he did not stop. Numa might not be at home -- he would investigate. The entrance was so low that the ape-man was compelled to drop to all fours before he could poke his head within the aperture; but first he looked, listened, and sniffed in each direction at his rear -- he would not be taken by surprise from that quarter.

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Português

Seu primeiro olhar dentro da caverna revelou um túnel estreito com luz do dia na extremidade oposta. O túnel não estava tão escuro que ele não pudesse ver que estava atualmente desocupado. Cautelosamente, rastejou em direção à extremidade oposta, plenamente consciente do que significaria se Numa entrasse repentinamente pela frente. Mas o leão não apareceu, e o homem-macaco emergiu no espaço aberto e se levantou, encontrando-se em uma fenda rochosa com paredes quase verticais de todos os lados. O túnel através do penhasco conectava o mundo exterior a uma grande bolsa ou barranco completamente cercado por paredes íngremes de rocha. Exceto pela passagem do desfiladeiro, não havia outra entrada. O barranco tinha cerca de cem pés de comprimento e cinquenta de largura, parecendo ter sido desgastado do penhasco pela queda d'água ao longo de muitas eras. Um pequeno riacho do eterno topo nevado do Kilimanjaro ainda gotejava sobre a borda rochosa da extremidade superior, formando uma pequena piscina no fundo do penhasco, de onde um riacho serpenteava para baixo através do túnel até o desfiladeiro além. Uma única árvore grande crescia perto do centro, e tufos de grama rija estavam espalhados entre as rochas no chão de cascalho.

Original English

His first glance within the cave revealed a narrow tunnel with daylight at its farther end. The interior of the tunnel was not so dark but that the ape-man could readily see that it was untenanted at present. Advancing cautiously he crawled toward the opposite end imbued with a full realization of what it would mean if Numa should suddenly enter the tunnel in front of him; but Numa did not appear and the ape-man emerged at length into the open and stood erect, finding himself in a rocky cleft whose precipitous walls rose almost sheer on every hand, the tunnel from the gorge passing through the cliff and forming a passageway from the outer world into a large pocket or gulch entirely enclosed by steep walls of rock. Except for the small passageway from the gorge, there was no other entrance to the gulch which was some hundred feet in length and about fifty in width and appeared to have been worn from the rocky cliff by the falling of water during long ages. A tiny stream from Kilimanjaro's eternal snow cap still trickled over the edge of the rocky wall at the upper end of the gulch, forming a little pool at the bottom of the cliff from which a small rivulet wound downward to the tunnel through which it passed to the gorge beyond. A single great tree flourished near the center of the gulch, while tufts of wiry grass were scattered here and there among the rocks of the gravelly floor.

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Português

Tarzan observou os ossos de muitos animais grandes, incluindo vários crânios humanos. Ele percebeu que um devorador de homens estava ali há muito tempo. Decidiu tomar a toca do leão naquela noite, deixando Numa rugir do lado de fora.

Original English

The bones of many large animals lay about and among them were several human skulls. Tarzan raised his eyebrows."A man-eater,"he murmured,"and from appearances he has held sway here for a long time. Tonight Tarzan will take the lair of the man-eater and Numa may roar and grumble upon the outside."

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Português

O homem-macaco havia avançado para dentro da ravina, examinando os arredores. Quando parou perto de uma árvore, satisfeito de que o túnel seria um refúgio seco e silencioso, virou-se para bloquear a entrada com pedregulhos. Mas então seus ouvidos sensíveis captaram um som, e ele congelou, olhando para a boca do túnel. Um enorme leão com uma juba preta apareceu, seus olhos amarelo-esverdeados fixos em Tarzan, e um rosnado baixo ecoou de seu peito.

Original English

The ape-man had advanced well into the gulch as he investigated his surroundings and now as he stood near the tree, satisfied that the tunnel would prove a dry and quiet retreat for the night, he turned to retrace his way to the outer end of the entrance that he might block it with boulders against Numa's return, but even with the thought there came something to his sensitive ears that froze him into statuesque immobility with eyes glued upon the tunnel's mouth. A moment later the head of a huge lion framed in a great black mane appeared in the opening. The yellow-green eyes glared, round and unblinking, straight at the trespassing Tarmangani, a low growl rumbled from the deep chest, and lips curled back to expose the mighty fangs.

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Português

Tarzan gritou com raiva para o leão, chamando-o de irmão de Dango. Declarou-se Tarzan dos Macacos, Senhor da Selva, e anunciou que se instalaria ali naquela noite, ordenando que o leão fosse embora.

Original English

"Brother of Dango!"shouted Tarzan, angered that Numa's return should have been so timed as to frustrate his plans for a comfortable night's repose."I am Tarzan of the Apes, Lord of the Jungle. Tonight I lair here -- go!"

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Português

O leão não foi embora. Em vez disso, rugiu ameaçadoramente e avançou em direção a Tarzan. Tarzan jogou uma pedra, acertando Numa no focinho. Em vez de fugir, o leão se tornou uma máquina enfurecida de ira.

Original English

But Numa did not go. Instead he rumbled forth a menacing roar and took a few steps in Tarzan's direction. The ape-man picked up a rock and hurled it at the snarling face. One can never be sure of a lion. This one might turn tail and run at the first intimation of attack -- Tarzan had bluffed many in his time -- but not now. The missile struck Numa full upon the snout -- a tender part of a cat's anatomy -- and instead of causing him to flee it transformed him into an infuriated engine of wrath and destruction.

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Português

A cauda de Numa ergueu-se rígida e, com rugidos aterrorizantes, ele investiu contra Tarzan como um trem expresso. Tarzan mal alcançou a árvore e balançou-se para os galhos. Lá ele se agachou, lançando insultos ao rei dos animais enquanto Numa andava de um lado para o outro abaixo, rosnando e rugindo de fúria.

Original English

Up went his tail, stiff and erect, and with a series of frightful roars he bore down upon the Tarmangani at the speed of an express train. Not an instant too soon did Tarzan reach the tree and swing himself into its branches and there he squatted, hurling insults at the king of beasts while Numa paced a circle beneath him, growling and roaring in rage.

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Português

A chuva se intensificou, aumentando a miséria e a frustração do homem-macaco. Ele estava furioso, mas sabia que lutar com um leão usando apenas sua agilidade e sorte contra tamanha força era tolice. Então, ele permaneceu na árvore, suportando a chuva constante, enquanto o leão circulava abaixo, lançando um olhar ameaçador para cima.

Original English

It was raining now in earnest adding to the ape-man's discomfort and disappointment. He was very angry; but as only direct necessity had ever led him to close in mortal combat with a lion, knowing as he did that he had only luck and agility to pit against the frightful odds of muscle, weight, fangs, and talons, he did not now even consider descending and engaging in so unequal and useless a duel for the mere reward of a little added creature comfort. And so he sat perched in the tree while the rain fell steadily and the lion padded round and round beneath, casting a baleful eye upward after every few steps.

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Português

Tarzan examinou os penhascos íngremes em busca de uma rota de fuga. Um homem comum teria ficado preso, mas o homem-macaco, habilidoso em escalar, viu vários pontos de apoio possíveis. Ele poderia escapar se Numa se movesse para o extremo da garganta. No entanto, Numa, apesar da chuva, não saiu. Tarzan começou a considerar seriamente se deveria arriscar uma luta em vez de permanecer frio, molhado e humilhado na árvore.

Original English

Tarzan scanned the precipitous walls for an avenue of escape. They would have baffled an ordinary man; but the ape-man, accustomed to climbing, saw several places where he might gain a foothold, precarious possibly; but enough to give him reasonable assurance of escape if Numa would but betake himself to the far end of the gulch for a moment. Numa, however, notwithstanding the rain, gave no evidence of quitting his post so that at last Tarzan really began to consider seriously if it might not be as well to take the chance of a battle with him rather than remain longer cold and wet and humiliated in the tree.

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Português

Enquanto Tarzan ponderava suas opções, Numa de repente se virou e caminhou majestosamente em direção ao túnel sem olhar para trás. No momento em que ele desapareceu, Tarzan saltou da árvore e correu para o penhasco. O leão rapidamente saiu do túnel e avançou atrás dele, mas Tarzan tinha uma boa vantagem. Se ele conseguisse encontrar apoios na parede lisa, estaria seguro; mas se escorregasse nas rochas molhadas, cairia nas garras de Numa, onde até mesmo ele estaria indefeso.

Original English

But even as he turned the matter over in his mind Numa turned suddenly and walked majestically toward the tunnel without even a backward glance. The instant that he disappeared, Tarzan dropped lightly to the ground upon the far side of the tree and was away at top speed for the cliff. The lion had no sooner entered the tunnel than he backed immediately out again and, pivoting like a flash, was off across the gulch in full charge after the flying ape-man; but Tarzan's lead was too great -- if he could find finger or foothold upon the sheer wall he would be safe; but should he slip from the wet rocks his doom was already sealed as he would fall directly into Numa's clutches where even the Great Tarmangani would be helpless.

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Português

Com agilidade felina, Tarzan escalou trinta pés pelo penhasco antes de parar em uma saliência segura. Ele olhou para baixo para Numa, que saltava futilemente contra a parede, caindo para trás a cada tentativa. Depois de observar um momento, Tarzan continuou sua ascensão cautelosa até o topo. Várias vezes ele lutou por apoios, mas eventualmente se puxou para cima da borda, pegou uma pedra solta, jogou em Numa e se afastou.

Original English

With the agility of a cat Tarzan ran up the cliff for thirty feet before he paused, and there finding a secure foothold, he stopped and looked down upon Numa who was leaping upward in a wild and futile attempt to scale the rocky wall to his prey. Fifteen or twenty feet from the ground the lion would scramble only to fall backward again defeated. Tarzan eyed him for a moment and then commenced a slow and cautious ascent toward the summit. Several times he had difficulty in finding holds but at last he drew himself over the edge, rose, picked up a bit of loose rock, hurled it at Numa and strode away.

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Português

Encontrando uma descida fácil para a garganta, Tarzan estava prestes a continuar em direção aos canhões estrondosos quando um pensamento o parou. Um meio sorriso cruzou seu rosto. Ele voltou à entrada do túnel, ouviu e começou a empilhar pedras grandes lá dentro. Quase fechou a abertura quando o leão apareceu dentro, furioso, arranhando e rugindo. Mas Tarzan, que havia crescido em meio aos rugidos dos leões na selva, não teve medo. Ele sabia que Numa não poderia alcançá-lo, então selou calmamente a entrada. Quando terminou, fez uma careta para o leão escondido e retomou sua jornada para o leste, pensando que o devorador de homens não comeria mais homens.

Original English

Finding an easy descent to the gorge, he was about to pursue his journey in the direction of the still-booming guns when a sudden thought caused him to halt and a half-smile to play about his lips. Turning, he trotted quickly back to the outer opening of Numa's tunnel. Close beside it he listened for a moment and then rapidly began to gather large rocks and pile them within the entrance. He had almost closed the aperture when the lion appeared upon the inside -- a very ferocious and angry lion that pawed and clawed at the rocks and uttered mighty roars that caused the earth to tremble; but roars did not frighten Tarzan of the Apes. At Kala's shaggy breast he had closed his infant eyes in sleep upon countless nights in years gone by to the savage chorus of similar roars. Scarcely a day or night of his jungle life -- and practically all his life had been spent in the jungle -- had he not heard the roaring of hungry lions, or angry lions, or love-sick lions. Such sounds affected Tarzan as the tooting of an automobile horn may affect you -- if you are in front of the automobile it warns you out of the way, if you are not in front of it you scarcely notice it. Figuratively Tarzan was not in front of the automobile -- Numa could not reach him and Tarzan knew it, so he continued deliberately to choke the entrance until there was no possibility of Numa's getting out again. When he was quite through he made a grimace at the hidden lion beyond the barrier and resumed his way toward the east."A man-eater who will eat no more men,"he soliloquized.

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Português

Naquela noite, Tarzan dormiu sob uma saliência rochosa. Na manhã seguinte, continuou sua jornada, parando apenas para caçar e comer. Diferente de outros animais selvagens, ele nunca permitia que seu apetite atrapalhasse seus planos. Essa distinção o diferenciava de seus companheiros da selva. Os disparos à frente flutuavam ao longo do dia, com picos ao amanhecer e ao anoitecer, e quase cessavam à noite. Na segunda tarde, ele encontrou tropas avançando em direção à frente. Pareciam grupos de saque, levando cabras e vacas, com carregadores nativos transportando grãos. Os carregadores estavam presos por correntes no pescoço, e os soldados usavam uniformes alemães, liderados por oficiais brancos. Tarzan os observou por duas horas sem ser visto. Notou que suas insígnias diferiam daquela que ele havia tirado de um soldado morto no bangalô. Então, seguiu adiante, escondido na vegetação densa. Ele havia encontrado alemães, mas não os matou, pois seu objetivo principal ainda era encontrar o indivíduo que havia matado sua companheira.

Original English

That night Tarzan lay up under an overhanging shelf of rock. The next morning he resumed his journey, stopping only long enough to make a kill and satisfy his hunger. The other beasts of the wild eat and lie up; but Tarzan never let his belly interfere with his plans. In this lay one of the greatest differences between the ape-man and his fellows of the jungles and forests. The firing ahead rose and fell during the day. He had noticed that it was highest at dawn and immediately after dusk and that during the night it almost ceased. In the middle of the afternoon of the second day he came upon troops moving up toward the front. They appeared to be raiding parties, for they drove goats and cows along with them and there were native porters laden with grain and other foodstuffs. He saw that these natives were all secured by neck chains and he also saw that the troops were composed of native soldiers in German uniforms. The officers were white men. No one saw Tarzan, yet he was here and there about and among them for two hours. He inspected the insignia upon their uniforms and saw that they were not the same as that which he had taken from one of the dead soldiers at the bungalow and then he passed on ahead of them, unseen in the dense bush. He had come upon Germans and had not killed them; but it was because the killing of Germans at large was not yet the prime motive of his existence -- now it was to discover the individual who slew his mate.

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Português

Depois de encontrar o homem que havia matado sua companheira, Tarzan pretendia matar todos os alemães que encontrasse. Ele planejava caçá-los como caçadores profissionais perseguem feras devoradoras de homens.

Original English

After he had accounted for him he would take up the little matter of slaying ALL Germans who crossed his path, and he meant that many should cross it, for he would hunt them precisely as professional hunters hunt the man-eaters.

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Português

À medida que se aproximava da frente de batalha, as tropas se tornavam mais numerosas. Ele via caminhões motorizados, juntas de bois e todo o equipamento de um pequeno exército. Homens feridos andavam ou eram carregados para a retaguarda. Ele havia cruzado a ferrovia a certa distância e supôs que estavam sendo levados para um hospital de base, possivelmente até Tanga, na costa.

Original English

As he neared the front lines the troops became more numerous. There were motor trucks and ox teams and all the impedimenta of a small army and always there were wounded men walking or being carried toward the rear. He had crossed the railroad some distance back and judged that the wounded were being taken to it for transportation to a base hospital and possibly as far away as Tanga on the coast.

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Português

Ao anoitecer, ele chegou a um grande acampamento escondido nos contrafortes das Montanhas Pare. Aproximando-se pela retaguarda, encontrou-o com pouca guarda, com sentinelas desatentas. Assim, após escurecer, ele entrou facilmente e se movimentou furtivamente, ouvindo atrás das barracas, em busca de pistas sobre o assassino de sua companheira.

Original English

It was dusk when he reached a large camp hidden in the foothills of the Pare Mountains. As he was approaching from the rear he found it but lightly guarded and what sentinels there were, were not upon the alert, and so it was an easy thing for him to enter after darkness had fallen and prowl about listening at the backs of tents, searching for some clew to the slayer of his mate.

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Português

Ele parou perto de uma barraca onde soldados nativos estavam sentados e captou palavras em seu dialeto que prenderam sua atenção. Eles disseram que os Waziri lutaram como demônios, mas eles eram melhores lutadores e os mataram a todos. Quando a luta terminou, o capitão veio e matou a mulher. Ele ficou do lado de fora e gritou bem alto até que todos os homens estivessem mortos. O segundo-tenente von Goss foi mais corajoso; ele entrou, ficou perto da porta e ordenou que pregassem um Waziri ferido na parede, e então riu alto do sofrimento do homem. Todos riram, achando muito engraçado.

Original English

As he paused at the side of a tent before which sat a number of native soldiers he caught a few words spoken in native dialect that riveted his attention instantly:"The Waziri fought like devils; but we are greater fighters and we killed them all. When we were through the captain came and killed the woman. He stayed outside and yelled in a very loud voice until all the men were killed. Underlieutenant von Goss is braver -- he came in and stood beside the door shouting at us, also in a very loud voice, and bade us nail one of the Waziri who was wounded to the wall, and then he laughed loudly because the man suffered. We all laughed. It was very funny."

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Português

Tarzan se escondeu nas sombras ao lado da tenda, agachado como uma fera sombria. Seu rosto não demonstrava emoção, apenas uma intensa vigilância. Quando um soldado se levantou e foi embora, Tarzan o seguiu em silêncio. Na escuridão atrás de alguns arbustos, ele saltou sobre o soldado, cobrindo sua boca para evitar qualquer grito, e o arrastou pelo pescoço para um local escondido.

Original English

Like a beast of prey, grim and terrible, Tarzan crouched in the shadows beside the tent. What thoughts passed through that savage mind? Who may say? No outward sign of passion was revealed by the expression of the handsome face; the cold, gray eyes denoted only intense watchfulness. Presently the soldier Tarzan had heard first rose and with a parting word turned away. He passed within ten feet of the ape-man and continued on toward the rear of the camp. Tarzan followed and in the shadows of a clump of bushes overtook his quarry. There was no sound as the man beast sprang upon the back of his prey and bore it to the ground for steel fingers closed simultaneously upon the soldier's throat, effectually stifling any outcry. By the neck Tarzan dragged his victim well into the concealment of the bushes.

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Português

Ele avisou o homem em seu próprio dialeto tribal para ficar em silêncio enquanto soltava o aperto em sua garganta.

Original English

"Make no sound,"he cautioned in the man's own tribal dialect as he released his hold upon the other's throat.

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Português

O soldado ofegou por ar e olhou para cima com olhos assustados, vendo apenas um corpo nu e moreno acima dele. Lembrou-se da força tremenda que o havia dominado facilmente e não fez nenhuma tentativa de escapar.

Original English

The fellow gasped for breath, rolling frightened eyes upward to see what manner of creature it might be in whose power he was. In the darkness he saw only a naked brown body bending above him; but he still remembered the terrific strength of the mighty muscles that had closed upon his wind and dragged him into the bushes as though he had been but a little child. If any thought of resistance had crossed his mind he must have discarded it at once, as he made no move to escape.

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Português

Tarzan perguntou o nome do oficial que havia matado a mulher no bangalô onde o soldado havia lutado com os Waziri.

Original English

"What is the name of the officer who killed the woman at the bungalow where you fought with the Waziri?"asked Tarzan.

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Português

Assim que conseguiu falar novamente, o soldado respondeu que o oficial era Hauptmann Schneider.

Original English

"Hauptmann Schneider,"replied the black when he could again command his voice.

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Português

O homem-macaco exigiu saber onde ele estava.

Original English

"Where is he?"demanded the ape-man.

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Português

O outro respondeu que ele estava lá, possivelmente no quartel-general, explicando que muitos oficiais iam lá à noite para receber ordens.

Original English

"He is here. It may be that he is at headquarters. Many of the officers go there in the evening to receive orders."

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Português

Tarzan ordenou que ele o levasse até lá, ameaçando que, se fosse descoberto, o mataria imediatamente. Ordenou que ele se levantasse.

Original English

"Lead me there,"commanded Tarzan,"and if I am discovered I will kill you immediately. Get up!"

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Português

O homem negro se levantou e seguiu por uma rota indireta de volta pelo acampamento. Eles foram forçados a se esconder várias vezes enquanto soldados passavam, mas finalmente chegaram a uma grande pilha de feno enfardado. De trás da esquina dessa pilha, o homem negro apontou para um prédio de dois andares ao longe.

Original English

The black rose and led the way by a roundabout route back through the camp. Several times they were forced to hide while soldiers passed; but at last they reached a great pile of baled hay from about the corner of which the black pointed out a two-story building in the distance.

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Português

Ele disse que era o quartel-general e que Tarzan não poderia ir mais longe sem ser visto, porque muitos soldados estavam por perto.

Original English

"Headquarters,"he said."You can go no farther unseen. There are many soldiers about."

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Português

Tarzan percebeu que não poderia continuar viajando com o homem negro. Ele se virou e olhou para ele por um momento, como se estivesse considerando o que fazer com ele.

Original English

Tarzan realized that he could not proceed farther in company with the black. He turned and looked at the fellow for a moment as though pondering what disposition to make of him.

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Português

Tarzan acusou o homem, em uma voz baixa, mas ainda assim aterrorizante, de ter ajudado a crucificar Wasimbu, o Waziri.

Original English

"You helped to crucify Wasimbu, the Waziri,"he accused in a low yet none the less terrible tone.

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Português

O homem negro tremeu, seus joelhos fraquejando. Ele implorou que alguém os havia ordenado a fazer aquilo.

Original English

The black trembled, his knees giving beneath him."He ordered us to do it,"he plead.

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Português

Tarzan exigiu saber quem havia ordenado que fosse feito.

Original English

"Who ordered it done?"demanded Tarzan.

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Português

O soldado respondeu que foi o subtenente von Goss quem ordenou, e que von Goss também estava presente.

Original English

"Underlieutenant von Goss,"replied the soldier."He, too, is here."

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Português

Tarzan disse sombriamente que encontraria o homem e o acusou de ajudar a crucificar Wasimbu, o Waziri, e rir enquanto ele sofria.

Original English

"I shall find him,"returned Tarzan, grimly."You helped to crucify Wasimbu, the Waziri, and, while he suffered, you laughed."

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Português

O homem cambaleou como se a acusação também tivesse pronunciado sua sentença de morte. Sem falar, Tarzan o agarrou pelo pescoço novamente. Não houve grito. Os músculos do homem-macaco se tensionaram e ele girou o corpo do soldado no ar três vezes, depois o jogou de lado. Após isso, Tarzan se virou e seguiu em direção ao quartel-general do general Kraut.

Original English

The fellow reeled. It was as though in the accusation he read also his death sentence. With no other word Tarzan seized the man again by the neck. As before there was no outcry. The giant muscles tensed. The arms swung quickly upward and with them the body of the black soldier who had helped to crucify Wasimbu, the Waziri, described a circle in the air -- once, twice, three times, and then it was flung aside and the ape-man turned in the direction of General Kraut's headquarters.

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Português

Um guarda estava atrás do prédio, bloqueando o caminho. Tarzan rastejou de barriga em sua direção, usando cobertura como um predador da selva. Ele ficou parado quando o guarda olhava em sua direção e se movia rapidamente quando o guarda desviava o olhar. Logo estava perto o suficiente para atacar. Ele esperou até o guarda virar as costas, então se levantou e investiu silenciosamente sobre ele. Matou o guarda sem fazer barulho e carregou o corpo em direção ao prédio.

Original English

A single sentinel in the rear of the building barred the way. Tarzan crawled, belly to the ground, toward him, taking advantage of cover as only the jungle-bred beast of prey can do. When the sentinel's eyes were toward him, Tarzan hugged the ground, motionless as stone; when they were turned away, he moved swiftly forward. Presently he was within charging distance. He waited until the man had turned his back once more and then he rose and sped noiselessly down upon him. Again there was no sound as he carried the dead body with him toward the building.

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Português

O térreo estava iluminado, mas o andar superior estava escuro. Pelas janelas, Tarzan viu uma grande sala da frente com muitos oficiais e uma sala menor atrás dela. Alguns oficiais andavam e conversavam, outros escreviam em mesas. As janelas estavam abertas, então Tarzan podia ouvir a conversa, embora não lhe interessasse. Eles falavam sobre vitórias alemãs na África e se perguntavam quando o exército alemão chegaria a Paris. Alguns acreditavam que o Kaiser já estava lá, e criticavam fortemente a Bélgica.

Original English

The lower floor was lighted, the upper dark. Through the windows Tarzan saw a large front room and a smaller room in rear of it. In the former were many officers. Some moved about talking to one another, others sat at field tables writing. The windows were open and Tarzan could hear much of the conversation; but nothing that interested him. It was mostly about the German successes in Africa and conjectures as to when the German army in Europe would reach Paris. Some said the Kaiser was doubtlessly already there, and there was a great deal of damning Belgium.

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Português

Na pequena sala dos fundos, um general grande e de rosto vermelho estava sentado atrás de uma mesa. Vários outros oficiais estavam sentados atrás dele, e dois estavam em pé, em atenção, diante dele enquanto ele os interrogava. Enquanto falava, o general brincava com uma lamparina a óleo sobre a mesa. Então houve uma batida, e um ajudante entrou, saudou e informou que Fräulein Kircher havia chegado.

Original English

In the smaller back room a large, red-faced man sat behind a table. Some other officers were also sitting a little in rear of him, while two stood at attention before the general, who was questioning them. As he talked, the general toyed with an oil lamp that stood upon the table before him. Presently there came a knock upon the door and an aide entered the room. He saluted and reported:"Fräulein Kircher has arrived, sir."

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Português

O general ordenou que a deixassem entrar e, em seguida, dispensou os dois oficiais com um aceno.

Original English

"Bid her enter,"commanded the general, and then nodded to the two officers before him in sign of dismissal.

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Português

A senhorita entrou e passou pelos oficiais, que se levantaram e a saudaram. Ela reconheceu a cortesia com uma reverência e um leve sorriso. Apesar de seu traje de equitação empoeirado e rosto sujo, ela era claramente muito bonita e jovem — não mais de dezenove anos.

Original English

The Fräulein, entering, passed them at the door. The officers in the little room rose and saluted, the Fräulein acknowledging the courtesy with a bow and a slight smile. She was a very pretty girl. Even the rough, soiled riding habit and the caked dust upon her face could not conceal the fact, and she was young. She could not have been over nineteen.

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Português

Ela se aproximou da mesa onde o general estava, tirou um papel dobrado do bolso interno do casaco e o entregou a ele.

Original English

She advanced to the table behind which the general stood and, taking a folded paper from an inside pocket of her coat, handed it to him.

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Português

O general a convidou para sentar, e outro oficial trouxe uma cadeira. Ninguém falou enquanto o general lia o papel.

Original English

"Be seated, Fräulein,"he said, and another officer brought her a chair. No one spoke while the general read the contents of the paper.

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Português

Tarzan estudou as pessoas na sala, perguntando-se se um dos dois capitães poderia ser Hauptmann Schneider. Ele julgou que a garota era uma espiã da inteligência. Sua beleza não o comoveu; ele poderia tê-la matado sem remorso porque ela era alemã, mas ele tinha um trabalho mais importante — ele queria Hauptmann Schneider.

Original English

Tarzan appraised the various people in the room. He wondered if one might not be Hauptmann Schneider, for two of them were captains. The girl he judged to be of the intelligence department -- a spy. Her beauty held no appeal for him -- without a glimmer of compunction he could have wrung that fair, young neck. She was German and that was enough; but he had other and more important work before him. He wanted Hauptmann Schneider.

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Português

Finalmente, o general ergueu os olhos do documento.

Original English

Finally the general looked up from the paper.

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Português

Ele expressou aprovação à garota e então instruiu um ajudante a chamar o Major Schneider.

Original English

"Good,"he said to the girl, and then to one of his aides,"Send for Major Schneider."

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Português

O nome Major Schneider fez os pelos da nuca de Tarzan se eriçarem. O homem que havia matado sua companheira já tinha sido promovido, provavelmente por esse mesmo ato.

Original English

Major Schneider! Tarzan felt the short hairs at the back of his neck rise. Already they had promoted the beast who had murdered his mate -- doubtless they had promoted him for that very crime.

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Português

Depois que o ajudante partiu, os outros conversaram, e Tarzan deduziu que as forças alemãs da África Oriental superavam significativamente os britânicos, que sofriam pesadas perdas. De sua posição oculta em um arbusto, Tarzan podia observar a sala sem ser visto, enquanto também permanecia escondido de qualquer um que passasse pelo posto de sentinela onde ele havia matado o guarda. Ele esperava que uma patrulha ou substituto logo descobrisse a sentinela desaparecida, o que desencadearia uma busca imediata e minuciosa.

Original English

The aide left the room and the others fell into a general conversation from which it became apparent to Tarzan that the German East African forces greatly outnumbered the British and that the latter were suffering heavily. The ape-man stood so concealed in a clump of bushes that he could watch the interior of the room without being seen from within, while he was at the same time hidden from the view of anyone who might chance to pass along the post of the sentinel he had slain. Momentarily he was expecting a patrol or a relief to appear and discover that the sentinel was missing, when he knew an immediate and thorough search would be made.

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Português

Tarzan esperou impacientemente pela chegada de sua presa. Finalmente, o ajudante retornou com um oficial de estatura mediana, cujo bigode feroz se projetava para cima. O oficial caminhou até a mesa, parou, saudou e fez seu relatório. O general retribuiu a saudação e então se virou para a garota.

Original English

Impatiently he awaited the coming of the man he sought and at last he was rewarded by the reappearance of the aide who had been dispatched to fetch him accompanied by an officer of medium size with fierce, upstanding mustaches. The newcomer strode to the table, halted and saluted, reporting. The general acknowledged the salute and turned toward the girl.

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Português

Ele pediu à senhorita Kircher que permitisse que ele apresentasse o Major Schneider a ela.

Original English

"Fräulein Kircher,"he said,"allow me to present Major Schneider--"

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Português

Tarzan não esperou para ouvir mais. Colocando a mão no parapeito, ele saltou para dentro da sala, surpreendendo os oficiais do Kaiser. Em um passo, ele alcançou a mesa e varreu o lampião na barriga do general, fazendo-o cair para trás. Dois ajudantes atacaram; Tarzan pegou o primeiro e jogou no outro. A garota se encostou na parede. Outros pediram ajuda. Tarzan se concentrou apenas no Major Schneider, agarrou-o, jogou-o sobre o ombro e saltou pela janela tão rapidamente que os oficiais atônitos mal conseguiram compreender o que havia ocorrido.

Original English

Tarzan waited to hear no more. Placing a palm upon the sill of the window he vaulted into the room into the midst of an astounded company of the Kaiser's officers. With a stride he was at the table and with a sweep of his hand sent the lamp crashing into the fat belly of the general who, in his mad effort to escape cremation, fell over backward, chair and all, upon the floor. Two of the aides sprang for the ape-man who picked up the first and flung him in the face of the other. The girl had leaped from her chair and stood flattened against the wall. The other officers were calling aloud for the guard and for help. Tarzan's purpose centered upon but a single individual and him he never lost sight of. Freed from attack for an instant he seized Major Schneider, threw him over his shoulder and was out of the window so quickly that the astonished assemblage could scarce realize what had occurred.

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Português

Ele viu que o posto do sentinela ainda estava vazio, e logo ele e seu prisioneiro estavam escondidos nas sombras do monte de feno. O Major Schneider não havia gritado porque Tarzan havia cortado sua respiração. Agora Tarzan afrouxou sua pegada ligeiramente para permitir que o homem respirasse.

Original English

A single glance showed him that the sentinel's post was still vacant and a moment later he and his burden were in the shadows of the hay dump. Major Schneider had made no outcry for the very excellent reason that his wind was shut off. Now Tarzan released his grasp enough to permit the man to breathe.

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Português

Ele o avisou que, se fizesse algum som, seria sufocado novamente.

Original English

"If you make a sound you will be choked again,"he said.

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Português

Com grande cautela e paciência, Tarzan passou pelo último posto avançado. Forçando seu prisioneiro a andar à frente, ele seguiu para o oeste até que, tarde da noite, eles cruzaram novamente a ferrovia, onde Tarzan se sentiu razoavelmente seguro de ser descoberto. O alemão xingou, resmungou, ameaçou e fez perguntas, mas sua única resposta foi outra cutucada da lança de guerra afiada de Tarzan. Tarzan o conduziu como teria conduzido um porco, exceto que teria tido mais respeito e consideração por um porco.

Original English

Cautiously and after infinite patience Tarzan passed the final outpost. Forcing his captive to walk before him he pushed on toward the west until, late into the night, he re-crossed the railway where he felt reasonably safe from discovery. The German had cursed and grumbled and threatened and asked questions; but his only reply was another prod from Tarzan's sharp war spear. The ape-man herded him along as he would have driven a hog with the difference that he would have had more respect and therefore more consideration for a hog.

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Português

Tarzan não havia considerado anteriormente os detalhes de sua vingança, mas agora refletia sobre a forma que o castigo deveria tomar. Ele tinha certeza de uma coisa: deveria terminar em morte. Como todos os homens e animais corajosos, Tarzan tinha pouco desejo natural de causar tortura — nenhum, na verdade — mas esta situação era diferente de qualquer outra que ele já havia enfrentado. Um profundo senso de justiça exigia olho por olho, e seu juramento recente exigia ainda mais. O homem deveria sofrer como ele havia feito Jane Clayton sofrer. Tarzan não podia esperar fazê-lo sentir exatamente a mesma tortura, pois a dor física nunca pode igualar a intensidade da angústia mental.

Original English

Until now Tarzan had given little thought to the details of revenge. Now he pondered what form the punishment should take. Of only one thing was he certain -- it must end in death. Like all brave men and courageous beasts Tarzan had little natural inclination to torture -- none, in fact; but this case was unique in his experience. An inherent sense of justice called for an eye for an eye and his recent oath demanded even more. Yes, the creature must suffer even as he had caused Jane Clayton to suffer. Tarzan could not hope to make the man suffer as he had suffered, since physical pain may never approach the exquisiteness of mental torture.

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Português

Durante toda a longa noite, o homem-macaco conduziu o alemão exausto e aterrorizado adiante. O silêncio terrível de seu captor perturbava os nervos do huno. Se ao menos ele falasse! Repetidamente, Schneider tentava forçar ou persuadir uma palavra dele, mas o resultado era sempre o mesmo: silêncio contínuo e uma cutucada cruel da ponta da lança. Schneider estava sangrando e dolorido. Estava tão exausto que cambaleava a cada passo, muitas vezes caindo, apenas para ser cutucado de volta aos pés por aquela lança aterrorizante e implacável.

Original English

All through the long night the ape-man goaded on the exhausted and now terrified Hun. The awful silence of his captor wrought upon the German's nerves. If he would only speak! Again and again Schneider tried to force or coax a word from him; but always the result was the same -- continued silence and a vicious and painful prod from the spear point. Schneider was bleeding and sore. He was so exhausted that he staggered at every step, and often he fell only to be prodded to his feet again by that terrifying and remorseless spear.

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Português

Só pela manhã Tarzan tomou uma decisão, e ela veio como uma inspiração vinda de cima. Um sorriso lento tocou seus lábios, e ele imediatamente procurou um lugar para se deitar e descansar — ele queria que seu prisioneiro estivesse em forma para o que o aguardava. Adiante havia um riacho que Tarzan havia atravessado no dia anterior. Ele sabia que o vau era um local de beber e um ponto provável para uma morte fácil. Silenciosamente, alertando o alemão, eles se aproximaram do riacho. Pela trilha de caça, Tarzan viu veados prestes a sair da água. Ele empurrou Schneider para dentro do mato e, agachando-se ao lado dele, esperou. O alemão observou o gigante silencioso com olhos perplexos e assustados. No novo amanhecer, ele conseguiu ver bem seu captor pela primeira vez, e se antes estava perplexo e assustado, isso não era nada comparado ao que sentia agora.

Original English

It was not until morning that Tarzan reached a decision and it came to him then like an inspiration from above. A slow smile touched his lips and he immediately sought a place to lie up and rest -- he wished his prisoner to be fit now for what lay in store for him. Ahead was a stream which Tarzan had crossed the day before. He knew the ford for a drinking place and a likely spot to make an easy kill. Cautioning the German to utter silence with a gesture the two approached the stream quietly. Down the game trail Tarzan saw some deer about to leave the water. He shoved Schneider into the brush at one side and, squatting next him, waited. The German watched the silent giant with puzzled, frightened eyes. In the new dawn he, for the first time, was able to obtain a good look at his captor, and, if he had been puzzled and frightened before, those sensations were nothing to what he experienced now.

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Português

Schneider se perguntava quem poderia ser aquele selvagem branco quase nu. Ele o ouvira falar apenas uma vez — quando o advertiu para ficar em silêncio — em um alemão excelente e com tons cultos. Ele o observava agora como um sapo fascinado observa a cobra que está prestes a devorá-lo. Ele viu os membros graciosos e o corpo simétrico imóveis como uma estátua de mármore enquanto a criatura se agachava escondida na folhagem. Nem um músculo ou nervo se movia. Ele viu os veados se aproximando lentamente pela trilha, a favor do vento e desconfiados. Um cervo velho passou, depois um jovem e rechonchudo veio em frente ao gigante na emboscada. Os olhos de Schneider se arregalaram, e um grito de terror quase escapou ao ver a besta ágil saltar para a garganta do jovem cervo e ouvir dos lábios humanos o rugido de caça de um animal selvagem. O cervo caiu, e Tarzan e seu cativo tinham carne. O homem-macaco comeu a sua crua, mas permitiu que o alemão acendesse uma fogueira e cozinhasse sua porção.

Original English

Who and what could this almost naked, white savage be? He had heard him speak but once -- when he had cautioned him to silence -- and then in excellent German and the well-modulated tones of culture. He watched him now as the fascinated toad watches the snake that is about to devour it. He saw the graceful limbs and symmetrical body motionless as a marble statue as the creature crouched in the concealment of the leafy foliage. Not a muscle, not a nerve moved. He saw the deer coming slowly along the trail, down wind and unsuspecting. He saw a buck pass -- an old buck -- and then a young and plump one came opposite the giant in ambush, and Schneider's eyes went wide and a scream of terror almost broke from his lips as he saw the agile beast at his side spring straight for the throat of the young buck and heard from those human lips the hunting roar of a wild beast. Down went the buck and Tarzan and his captive had meat. The ape-man ate his raw, but he permitted the German to build a fire and cook his portion.

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Português

Os dois descansaram até o final da tarde, depois retomaram a jornada — uma jornada tão aterrorizante para Schneider por ele não saber seu destino que às vezes ele se arrastava aos pés de Tarzan, implorando por uma explicação e por misericórdia. Mas o homem-macaco continuava em silêncio, cutucando o huno em declínio sempre que ele vacilava.

Original English

The two lay up until late in the afternoon and then took up the journey once again -- a journey that was so frightful to Schneider because of his ignorance of its destination that he at times groveled at Tarzan's feet begging for an explanation and for mercy; but on and on in silence the ape-man went, prodding the failing Hun whenever the latter faltered.

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Português

Eles chegaram ao destino ao meio-dia do terceiro dia. Após uma subida íngreme e uma curta caminhada, pararam na beira de um penhasco alto. Schneider olhou para um vale estreito onde uma única árvore crescia ao lado de um pequeno riacho, e grama fina crescia entre o solo rochoso. Tarzan fez um gesto para ele ir além da borda, mas o alemão recuou com medo. O homem-macaco o agarrou e o empurrou rudemente em direção ao abismo, ordenando que descesse. Era apenas a segunda vez em três dias que Tarzan falava; seu silêncio ameaçador pode ter assustado o alemão mais do que a ponta da lança pronta.

Original English

It was noon of the third day before they reached their destination. After a steep climb and a short walk they halted at the edge of a precipitous cliff and Schneider looked down into a narrow gulch where a single tree grew beside a tiny rivulet and sparse grass broke from a rock-strewn soil. Tarzan motioned him over the edge; but the German drew back in terror. The Ape-man seized him and pushed him roughly toward the brink."Descend,"he said. It was the second time he had spoken in three days and perhaps his very silence, ominous in itself, had done more to arouse terror in the breast of the Boche than even the spear point, ever ready as it always was.

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Português

Schneider olhou por cima da borda com medo e estava prestes a tentar descer quando Tarzan o parou. Ele declarou que era Lorde Greystoke e que Schneider havia assassinado sua esposa no país Waziri. Ele disse que agora Schneider entenderia por que ele tinha vindo buscá-lo, e novamente ordenou que descesse.

Original English

Schneider looked fearfully over the edge; but was about to essay the attempt when Tarzan halted him."I am Lord Greystoke,"he said."It was my wife you murdered in the Waziri country. You will understand now why I came for you. Descend."

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Português

O alemão caiu de joelhos, gritando que não havia assassinado a esposa de Tarzan e implorando por misericórdia. Ele insistiu que não sabia de nada sobre isso.

Original English

The German fell upon his knees."I did not murder your wife,"he cried."Have mercy! I did not murder your wife. I do not know anything about--"

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Português

Tarzan repetiu a ordem de forma brusca, levantando sua lança. Ele sabia que o homem estava mentindo e não ficou surpreso; um homem capaz de assassinar sem motivo mentiria facilmente. Schneider continuou hesitando e implorando. Tarzan cutucou-o com a lança, e Schneider, com medo, deslizou pela borda e começou a perigosa descida. Tarzan o ajudou nas partes mais difíceis até que estivessem a poucos metros do fundo.

Original English

"Descend!"snapped Tarzan, raising the point of his spear. He knew that the man lied and was not surprised that he did. A man who would murder for no cause would lie for less. Schneider still hesitated and pled. The ape-man jabbed him with the spear and Schneider slid fearfully over the top and began the perilous descent. Tarzan accompanied and assisted him over the worst places until at last they were within a few feet of the bottom.

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Português

O homem-macaco disse para ele ficar quieto e apontou para a entrada de uma caverna no extremo do vale. Ele explicou que havia um leão faminto lá dentro. Se Schneider conseguisse alcançar a árvore antes que o leão o notasse, teria mais alguns dias de vida, mas quando ficasse fraco demais para se segurar nos galhos, o leão o devoraria. Então Tarzan o empurrou de seu apoio no chão abaixo e ordenou que corresse.

Original English

"Be quiet now,"cautioned the ape-man. He pointed at the entrance to what appeared to be a cave at the far end of the gulch."There is a hungry lion in there. If you can reach that tree before he discovers you, you will have several days longer in which to enjoy life and then -- when you are too weak to cling longer to the branches of the tree Numa, the man-eater, will feed again for the last time."He pushed Schneider from his foothold to the ground below."Now run,"he said.

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Português

Tremendo de terror, o alemão correu em direção à árvore. Ele estava quase lá quando um rugido horrível irrompeu da caverna e, no mesmo instante, um leão magro e faminto saltou para a luz do dia do desfiladeiro. Schneider tinha apenas alguns metros para percorrer, mas o leão disparou pelo chão para interceptá-lo, enquanto Tarzan observava a perseguição com um leve sorriso.

Original English

The German trembling in terror started for the tree. He had almost reached it when a horrid roar broke from the mouth of the cave and almost simultaneously a gaunt, hunger mad lion leaped into the daylight of the gulch. Schneider had but a few yards to cover; but the lion flew over the ground to circumvent him while Tarzan watched the race with a slight smile upon his lips.

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Português

Schneider venceu a corrida por pouco, e enquanto Tarzan escalava o penhasco até o topo, ele ouviu atrás de si, misturado ao rugido frustrado do leão, o balbucio de uma voz humana que parecia ainda mais bestial que a da fera.

Original English

Schneider won by a slender margin, and as Tarzan scaled the cliff to the summit, he heard behind him mingled with the roaring of the baffled cat, the gibbering of a human voice that was at the same time more bestial than the beast's.

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Português

Na borda do penhasco, o homem-macaco se virou e olhou de volta para o desfiladeiro. Lá no alto da árvore, o alemão se agarrava desesperadamente a um galho, com o corpo esticado sobre ele. Abaixo dele estava Numa, o leão, à espera.

Original English

Upon the brink of the cliff the ape-man turned and looked back into the gulch. High in the tree the German clung frantically to a branch across which his body lay. Beneath him was Numa -- waiting.

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Português

O homem-macaco ergueu o rosto em direção a Kudu, o sol, e de seu peito possante veio o feroz grito de vitória de um macaco macho.

Original English

The ape-man raised his face to Kudu, the sun, and from his mighty chest rose the savage victory cry of the bull ape.

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In the German Lines

Português

Tarzan ainda não havia alcançado a vingança completa. Muitos milhões de alemães ainda viviam — o suficiente para mantê-lo ocupado pelo resto da vida, mas não o suficiente, mesmo que ele os matasse a todos, para compensar a grande perda que sofrera. Nem a morte de todos esses milhões poderia trazer de volta sua amada.

Original English

Tarzan was not yet fully revenged. There were many millions of Germans yet alive -- enough to keep Tarzan pleasantly occupied the balance of his life, and yet not enough, should he kill them all, to recompense him for the great loss he had suffered -- nor could the death of all those million Germans bring back his loved one.

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Português

Tarzan tinha ouvido o suficiente no acampamento alemão para saber que os britânicos estavam perdendo. Inicialmente, ele não se importou, tendo renunciado à humanidade após a morte de sua esposa, considerando-se um macaco.

Original English

While in the German camp in the Pare Mountains, which lie just east of the boundary line between German and British East Africa, Tarzan had overheard enough to suggest that the British were getting the worst of the fighting in Africa. At first he had given the matter but little thought, since, after the death of his wife, the one strong tie that had held him to civilization, he had renounced all mankind, considering himself no longer man, but ape.

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Português

Depois de lidar com Schneider, Tarzan caçou ao redor do Kilimanjaro. Ele imaginou o medo e a sede de Schneider na ravina com o leão, perguntando-se se o homem arriscaria descer para buscar água.

Original English

After accounting for Schneider as satisfactorily as lay within his power he circled Kilimanjaro and hunted in the foothills to the north of that mightiest of mountains as he had discovered that in the neighborhood of the armies there was no hunting at all. Some pleasure he derived through conjuring mental pictures from time to time of the German he had left in the branches of the lone tree at the bottom of the high-walled gulch in which was penned the starving lion. He could imagine the man's mental anguish as he became weakened from hunger and maddened by thirst, knowing that sooner or later he must slip exhausted to the ground where waited the gaunt man-eater. Tarzan wondered if Schneider would have the courage to descend to the little rivulet for water should Numa leave the gulch and enter the cave, and then he pictured the mad race for the tree again when the lion charged out to seize his prey as he was certain to do, since the clumsy German could not descend to the rivulet without making at least some slight noise that would attract Numa's attention.

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Português

O prazer de Tarzan em imaginar Schneider diminuiu à medida que ele pensava mais nos soldados ingleses perdendo para os alemães. Ele estava perturbado porque queria esquecer sua identidade inglesa, mas não suportava a ideia de alemães matando ingleses enquanto ele caçava em segurança.

Original English

But even this pleasure palled, and more and more the ape-man found himself thinking of the English soldiers fighting against heavy odds and especially of the fact that it was Germans who were beating them. The thought made him lower his head and growl and it worried him not a little -- a bit, perhaps, because he was finding it difficult to forget that he was an Englishman when he wanted only to be an ape. And at last the time came when he could not longer endure the thought of Germans killing Englishmen while he hunted in safety a bare march away.

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Português

Tarzan decidiu se mover em direção ao acampamento alemão com um plano vago de perturbá-los. No caminho, ele verificou a ravina. A árvore estava vazia, então ele jogou uma pedra. O leão apareceu, magro e fraco.

Original English

His decision made, he set out in the direction of the German camp, no well-defined plan formulated; but with the general idea that once near the field of operations he might find an opportunity to harass the German command as he so well knew how to do. His way took him along the gorge close to the gulch in which he had left Schneider, and, yielding to a natural curiosity, he scaled the cliffs and made his way to the edge of the gulch. The tree was empty, nor was there sign of Numa, the lion. Picking up a rock he hurled it into the gulch, where it rolled to the very entrance to the cave. Instantly the lion appeared in the aperture; but such a different-looking lion from the great sleek brute that Tarzan had trapped there two weeks before. Now he was gaunt and emaciated, and when he walked he staggered.

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Português

Tarzan gritou, perguntando onde estava o alemão e se o leão o havia comido ou se o homem havia caído da árvore como apenas ossos.

Original English

"Where is the German?"shouted Tarzan."Was he good eating, or only a bag of bones when he slipped and fell from the tree?"

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Português

Tarzan falou com Numa, o leão, e disse que Numa parecia muito faminto. Ele notou que Numa tinha comido toda a grama de sua toca e a casca da árvore o mais alto que conseguia alcançar. Tarzan então perguntou a Numa se ele gostaria de outro alemão, e com um sorriso se virou.

Original English

Numa growled."You look hungry, Numa,"continued the ape-man."You must have been very hungry to eat all the grass from your lair and even the bark from the tree as far up as you can reach. Would you like another German?"and smiling he turned away.

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Português

Um pouco depois, Tarzan de repente encontrou Bara, o cervo, dormindo debaixo de uma árvore. Estando faminto, ele o matou rapidamente e sentou-se ao lado de sua presa para comer até se satisfazer. Enquanto roía o último pedaço de um osso, seus ouvidos agudos captaram o som de passos furtivos atrás dele. Virando-se, enfrentou Dango, a hiena, que se aproximava sorrateiramente. Com um rosnado, Tarzan pegou um galho caído e o atirou na criatura esquiva, dizendo-lhe para ir embora, mas Dango, faminta e poderosa, apenas rosnou e circulou lentamente, como se esperasse uma chance de atacar. Tarzan conhecia bem a hiena e entendia que a fome a estava tornando ousada. Ele desprendeu sua lança pesada e a colocou pronta ao seu lado enquanto continuava sua refeição, mantendo um olhar atento sobre a hiena.

Original English

A few minutes later he came suddenly upon Bara, the deer, asleep beneath a tree, and as Tarzan was hungry he made a quick kill, and squatting beside his prey proceeded to eat his fill. As he was gnawing the last morsel from a bone his quick ears caught the padding of stealthy feet behind him, and turning he confronted Dango, the hyena, sneaking upon him. With a growl the ape-man picked up a fallen branch and hurled it at the skulking brute."Go away, eater of carrion!"he cried; but Dango was hungry and being large and powerful he only snarled and circled slowly about as though watching for an opportunity to charge. Tarzan of the Apes knew Dango even better than Dango knew himself. He knew that the brute, made savage by hunger, was mustering its courage for an attack, that it was probably accustomed to man and therefore more or less fearless of him and so he un-slung his heavy spear and laid it ready at his side while he continued his meal, all the time keeping a watchful eye upon the hyena.

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Português

Tarzan não sentiu medo, pois a longa familiaridade com os perigos de seu mundo selvagem o havia acostumado a eles. Ele aceitava o que viesse como parte da existência de cada dia, assim como as pessoas aceitam os perigos comuns de uma fazenda, de um campo ou de uma cidade lotada. Criado na selva, ele estava pronto para defender sua caça de qualquer atacante com cautela razoável. Quando as condições eram favoráveis, Tarzan enfrentaria até o próprio Numa e, se forçado a fugir para se salvar, poderia fazê-lo sem vergonha. Nenhuma criatura mais corajosa percorria aquelas terras selvagens, e nenhuma era mais sábia — essas duas qualidades permitiram que ele sobrevivesse.

Original English

He felt no fear, for long familiarity with the dangers of his wild world had so accustomed him to them that he took whatever came as a part of each day's existence as you accept the homely though no less real dangers of the farm, the range, or the crowded metropolis. Being jungle bred he was ready to protect his kill from all comers within ordinary limitations of caution. Under favorable conditions Tarzan would face even Numa himself and, if forced to seek safety by flight, he could do so without any feeling of shame. There was no braver creature roamed those savage wilds and at the same time there was none more wise -- the two factors that had permitted him to survive.

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Português

A hiena poderia ter atacado mais cedo, mas foi contida pelos rosnados ferozes vindos do homem-macaco. Aqueles rosnados, saindo de lábios humanos, levantaram dúvida e medo no coração da hiena. Dango havia atacado mulheres e crianças nos campos nativos e assustado seus homens ao redor de suas fogueiras à noite, mas nunca tinha encontrado uma criatura humana que fizesse um som que lhe lembrasse mais um leão furioso do que um homem assustado.

Original English

Dango might have charged sooner but for the savage growls of the ape-man -- growls which, coming from human lips, raised a question and a fear in the hyena's heart. He had attacked women and children in the native fields and he had frightened their men about their fires at night; but he never had seen a man-thing who made this sound that reminded him more of Numa angry than of a man afraid.

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Português

Quando Tarzan terminou sua refeição, ele estava prestes a se levantar e atirar um osso limpo na fera antes de seguir seu caminho, deixando os restos de sua caça para Dango. Mas um pensamento súbito o deteve. Em vez disso, ele pegou a carcaça do cervo, jogou-a sobre o ombro e partiu em direção à ravina. Dango o seguiu por alguns metros, rosnando, e então, percebendo que estava sendo roubado até mesmo de um gostinho da carne deliciosa, jogou a cautela ao vento e atacou. Instantaneamente, como se a natureza lhe tivesse dado olhos na nuca, Tarzan sentiu o perigo. Ele largou o cervo, virou-se com a lança erguida e, com um arremesso poderoso, cravou-a diretamente no pescoço de Dango, onde se juntava aos ombros, atravessando o corpo.

Original English

When Tarzan had completed his repast he was about to rise and hurl a clean-picked bone at the beast before he went his way, leaving the remains of his kill to Dango; but a sudden thought stayed him and instead he picked up the carcass of the deer, threw it over his shoulder, and set off in the direction of the gulch. For a few yards Dango followed, growling, and then realizing that he was being robbed of even a taste of the luscious flesh he cast discretion to the winds and charged. Instantly, as though Nature had given him eyes in the back of his head, Tarzan sensed the impending danger and, dropping Bara to the ground, turned with raised spear. Far back went the brown, right hand and then forward, lightning-like, backed by the power of giant muscles and the weight of his brawn and bone. The spear, released at the right instant, drove straight for Dango, caught him in the neck where it joined the shoulders and passed through the body.

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Português

Tarzan retirou a flecha da hiena, então carregou os dois animais mortos em direção à ravina. Abaixo, o leão Numa estava deitado sob uma árvore. Quando Tarzan chamou, Numa se levantou fracamente, mas ainda rosnou ferozmente. Tarzan jogou os dois corpos sobre a borda do penhasco e disse a Numa para comer, dizendo que poderia precisar do leão novamente. O leão, revigorado pela visão da comida, saltou sobre o cervo e devorou grandes pedaços.

Original English

When he had withdrawn the shaft from the hyena Tarzan shouldered both carcasses and continued on toward the gulch. Below lay Numa beneath the shade of the lone tree and at the ape-man's call he staggered slowly to his feet, yet weak as he was, he still growled savagely, even essaying a roar at the sight of his enemy. Tarzan let the two bodies slide over the rim of the cliff."Eat, Numa!"he cried."It may be that I shall need you again."He saw the lion, quickened to new life at the sight of food, spring upon the body of the deer and then he left him rending and tearing the flesh as he bolted great pieces into his empty maw.

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Português

No dia seguinte, Tarzan avistou as linhas alemãs. De uma colina arborizada, ele olhou para o flanco esquerdo do inimigo e, além, para as linhas britânicas. Sua posição lhe dava uma visão completa do campo de batalha, e seus olhos afiados notaram muitos detalhes que homens comuns perderiam. Ele viu posições de metralhadoras habilmente escondidas da vista britânica e postos de escuta colocados bem longe na Terra de Ninguém.

Original English

The following day Tarzan came within sight of the German lines. From a wooded spur of the hills he looked down upon the enemy's left flank and beyond to the British lines. His position gave him a bird's-eye view of the field of battle, and his keen eyesight picked out many details that would not have been apparent to a man whose every sense was not trained to the highest point of perfection as were the ape-man's. He noted machine-gun emplacements cunningly hidden from the view of the British and listening posts placed well out in No Man's Land.

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Português

Enquanto Tarzan olhava ao redor, ouviu um único tiro de rifle vindo de um ponto abaixo dele na encosta, acima do barulho dos canhões e tiros de fuzil. Ele se concentrou no local onde um atirador de elite devia estar escondido. Esperou pacientemente pelo próximo tiro para localizar exatamente o atirador. Quando ele veio, Tarzan desceu a colina íngreme tão silenciosamente quanto uma pantera, pisando sem perturbar uma única pedra ou galho, como se seus pés pudessem ver.

Original English

As his interested gaze moved hither and thither from one point of interest to another he heard from a point upon the hillside below him, above the roar of cannon and the crack of rifle fire, a single rifle spit. Immediately his attention was centered upon the spot where he knew a sniper must be hid. Patiently he awaited the next shot that would tell him more surely the exact location of the rifleman, and when it came he moved down the steep hillside with the stealth and quietness of a panther. Apparently he took no cognizance of where he stepped, yet never a loose stone was disturbed nor a twig broken -- it was as though his feet saw.

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Português

Logo, passando por um matagal, Tarzan chegou à borda de um penhasco baixo. Cerca de quatro metros e meio abaixo, ele viu um soldado alemão deitado de bruços atrás de uma barreira de pedras soltas e galhos que o escondia das linhas britânicas. O homem era um excelente atirador, posicionado bem atrás das linhas alemãs e atirando por cima de seus companheiros. Seu rifle tinha uma luneta, e ele estava usando binóculos para estudar a linha britânica, seja verificando seu último tiro ou procurando um novo alvo. Tarzan olhou rapidamente para a área que o alemão examinava e viu muitos bons alvos para um rifle colocado tão alto acima das trincheiras.

Original English

Presently, as he passed through a clump of bushes, he came to the edge of a low cliff and saw upon a ledge some fifteen feet below him a German soldier prone behind an embankment of loose rock and leafy boughs that hid him from the view of the British lines. The man must have been an excellent shot, for he was well back of the German lines, firing over the heads of his fellows. His high-powered rifle was equipped with telescope sights and he also carried binoculars which he was in the act of using as Tarzan discovered him, either to note the effect of his last shot or to discover a new target. Tarzan let his eye move quickly toward that part of the British line the German seemed to be scanning, his keen sight revealing many excellent targets for a rifle placed so high above the trenches.

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Português

O alemão, aparentemente satisfeito, largou os binóculos, pegou o rifle e mirou cuidadosamente. No mesmo instante, um corpo moreno saltou do penhasco acima. Não houve som, e o alemão provavelmente nunca soube o que o atingiu. Tarzan caiu pesadamente sobre suas costas e seus dedos fortes se fecharam em torno da garganta do alemão. Após uma breve luta, o atirador de elite morreu.

Original English

The Hun, evidently satisfied with his observations, laid aside his binoculars and again took up his rifle, placed its butt in the hollow of his shoulder and took careful aim. At the same instant a brown body sprang outward from the cliff above him. There was no sound and it is doubtful that the German ever knew what manner of creature it was that alighted heavily upon his back, for at the instant of impact the sinewy fingers of the ape-man circled the hairy throat of the Boche. There was a moment of futile struggling followed by the sudden realization of dissolution -- the sniper was dead.

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Português

Tarzan estava deitado atrás da barreira de rochas e galhos, observando a cena abaixo. As trincheiras alemãs estavam próximas, com oficiais e soldados se movendo. Uma metralhadora bem escondida varria a Terra de Ninguém de um ângulo que dificultava sua localização pelos britânicos.

Original English

Lying behind the rampart of rocks and boughs, Tarzan looked down upon the scene below. Near at hand were the trenches of the Germans. He could see officers and men moving about in them and almost in front of him a well-hidden machine gun was traversing No Man's Land in an oblique direction, striking the British at such an angle as to make it difficult for them to locate it.

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Português

Tarzan brincou com o rifle do alemão morto, examinando seu mecanismo. Ajustou a mira, apontou e disparou. Embora só tivesse usado armas para caça ou prática de tiro ao alvo, era um excelente atirador. Agora caçava presas humanas. Matou a tripulação da metralhadora, depois um oficial e três homens. Certificou-se de que ninguém por perto pudesse questionar como alemães foram baleados em suas próprias trincheiras.

Original English

Tarzan watched, toying idly with the rifle of the dead German. Presently he fell to examining the mechanism of the piece. He glanced again toward the German trenches and changed the adjustment of the sights, then he placed the rifle to his shoulder and took aim. Tarzan was an excellent shot. With his civilized friends he had hunted big game with the weapons of civilization and though he never had killed except for food or in self-defense he had amused himself firing at inanimate targets thrown into the air and had perfected himself in the use of firearms without realizing that he had done so. Now indeed would he hunt big game. A slow smile touched his lips as his finger closed gradually upon the trigger. The rifle spoke and a German machine gunner collapsed behind his weapon. In three minutes Tarzan picked off the crew of that gun. Then he spotted a German officer emerging from a dugout and the three men in the bay with him. Tarzan was careful to leave no one in the immediate vicinity to question how Germans could be shot in German trenches when they were entirely concealed from enemy view.

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Português

Tarzan ajustou a mira para um tiro de longa distância e eliminou uma tripulação de metralhadora distante. Duas armas silenciaram. Enquanto os homens corriam pelas trincheiras, ele os abatia. Os alemães perceberam que um atirador oculto havia encontrado um ponto vantajoso. Quando um oficial foi baleado na cabeça enquanto usava um periscópio, entenderam que o atirador estava atrás da muralha traseira, não na frente.

Original English

Again adjusting his sights he took a long-range shot at a distant machine-gun crew to his right. With calm deliberation he wiped them out to a man. Two guns were silenced. He saw men running through the trenches and he picked off several of them. By this time the Germans were aware that something was amiss -- that an uncanny sniper had discovered a point of vantage from which this sector of the trenches was plainly visible to him. At first they sought to discover his location in No Man's Land; but when an officer looking over the parapet through a periscope was struck full in the back of the head with a rifle bullet which passed through his skull and fell to the bottom of the trench they realized that it was beyond the parados rather than the parapet that they should search.

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Português

Um soldado pegou a bala que matou o oficial, e a excitação cresceu porque era de fabricação alemã. A notícia se espalhou, e periscópios vasculharam a retaguarda. Localizaram Tarzan, e uma metralhadora foi apontada para ele. Antes que pudesse disparar, sua tripulação jazia morta, mas outros homens foram forçados a substituí-los, e mais duas armas foram viradas em sua direção.

Original English

One of the soldiers picked up the bullet that had killed his officer, and then it was that real excitement prevailed in that particular bay, for the bullet was obviously of German make. Hugging the parados, messengers carried the word in both directions and presently periscopes were leveled above the parados and keen eyes were searching out the traitor. It did not take them long to locate the position of the hidden sniper and then Tarzan saw a machine gun being trained upon him. Before it had gotten into action its crew lay dead about it; but there were other men to take their places, reluctantly perhaps; but driven on by their officers they were forced to it and at the same time two other machine guns were swung around toward the ape-man and put into operation.

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Português

Percebendo que a situação estava se tornando perigosa, Tarzan disparou um último tiro, largou o rifle e escapou para as colinas. Por muitos minutos, ouviu metralhadoras crepitando em sua antiga posição e sorriu com o desperdício de munição alemã.

Original English

Realizing that the game was about up Tarzan with a farewell shot laid aside the rifle and melted into the hills behind him. For many minutes he could hear the sputter of machinegun fire concentrated upon the spot he had just quit and smiled as he contemplated the waste of German ammunition.

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Português

Ele refletiu que o inimigo havia pago um preço alto por Wasimbu, o líder waziri que eles crucificaram, e por seus camaradas mortos. No entanto, ele sentiu que nenhuma quantidade de mortes poderia jamais compensar o que fizeram a Jane.

Original English

"They have paid heavily for Wasimbu, the Waziri, whom they crucified, and for his slain fellows,"he mused;"but for Jane they can never pay -- no, not if I killed them all."

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Português

Após o anoitecer, ele se moveu pelos flancos de ambos os exércitos, passou despercebido pelas sentinelas britânicas e entrou em suas linhas. Ninguém o viu chegar e ninguém sabia de sua presença.

Original English

After dark that night he circled the flanks of both armies and passed through the British out-guards and into the British lines. No man saw him come. No man knew that he was there.

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Português

O quartel-general dos Segundos Rodesianos estava localizado em um local abrigado, bem atrás das linhas, seguro da visão inimiga. Luzes eram permitidas ali. O coronel Capell sentou-se a uma mesa de campanha com um mapa militar estendido, conversando com vários oficiais. Acima, uma grande árvore fornecia cobertura; uma lanterna fraca tremeluzia sobre a mesa, e uma pequena fogueira queimava por perto. Como o inimigo não tinha aeronaves, as luzes não podiam ser vistas das trincheiras alemãs.

Original English

Headquarters of the Second Rhodesians occupied a sheltered position far enough back of the lines to be comparatively safe from enemy observation. Even lights were permitted, and Colonel Capell sat before a field table, on which was spread a military map, talking with several of his officers. A large tree spread above them, a lantern sputtered dimly upon the table, while a small fire burned upon the ground close at hand. The enemy had no planes and no other observers could have seen the lights from the German lines.

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Português

Os oficiais discutiram como o inimigo tinha números superiores e como os britânicos só podiam defender sua posição atual, incapazes de avançar. Cada ataque resultara em pesadas perdas e fora repelido pela força inimiga maior. Metralhadoras escondidas eram uma preocupação particular para o coronel, pois ele as mencionava com frequência durante a conversa.

Original English

The officers were discussing the advantage in numbers possessed by the enemy and the inability of the British to more than hold their present position. They could not advance. Already they had sustained severe losses in every attack and had always been driven back by overwhelming numbers. There were hidden machine guns, too, that bothered the colonel considerably. It was evidenced by the fact that he often reverted to them during the conversation.

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Português

Um dos jovens oficiais comentou que algo havia silenciado os canhões inimigos naquela tarde. Ele estava observando e não conseguia entender a comoção, mas os alemães pareciam estar em grande apuros em uma seção da trincheira à sua esquerda. Em certo momento, pensou que estivessem sendo atacados pela retaguarda, pois disparavam intensamente contra o lado de um penhasco atrás deles. Ele viu terra voando, mas não fazia ideia do que a causou.

Original English

"Something silenced them for a while this afternoon,"said one of the younger officers."I was observing at the time and I couldn't make out what the fuss was about; but they seemed to be having a devil of a time in a section of trench on their left. At one time I could have sworn they were attacked in the rear -- I reported it to you at the time, sir, you'll recall -- for the blighters were pepperin' away at the side of that bluff behind them. I could see the dirt fly. I don't know what it could have been."

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Português

Um leve farfalhar veio dos galhos acima, e um corpo ágil e moreno caiu no meio dos oficiais. Mãos se moveram para os cabos das pistolas, mas ninguém se mexeu. Eles olharam maravilhados para o homem branco quase nu, notando suas roupas e armas primitivas, e então todos os olhos se voltaram para o coronel.

Original English

There was a slight rustling among the branches of the tree above them and simultaneously a lithe, brown body dropped in their midst. Hands moved quickly to the butts of pistols; but otherwise there was no movement among the officers. First they looked wonderingly at the almost naked white man standing there with the firelight playing upon rounded muscles, took in the primitive attire and the equally primitive armament and then all eyes turned toward the colonel.

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Português

O coronel exigiu, irritado, saber quem era o homem.

Original English

"Who the devil are you, sir?"snapped that officer.

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Português

O recém-chegado respondeu que era Tarzan dos Macacos.

Original English

"Tarzan of the Apes,"replied the newcomer.

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Português

Um major exclamou o nome Greystoke e se adiantou com a mão estendida.

Original English

"Oh, Greystoke!"cried a major, and stepped forward with outstretched hand.

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Português

Tarzan pegou a mão oferecida e se identificou como Preswick.

Original English

"Preswick,"acknowledged Tarzan as he took the proffered hand.

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Português

O major se desculpou por não ter reconhecido Tarzan a princípio, observando que a última vez que se encontraram em Londres, Tarzan estava de smoking, e a diferença era considerável, como o próprio Tarzan teria que admitir.

Original English

"I didn't recognize you at first,"apologized the major."The last time I saw you you were in London in evening dress. Quite a difference-- 'pon my word, man, you'll have to admit it."

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Português

Tarzan sorriu e se dirigiu ao coronel. Disse que havia ouvido a conversa deles e que acabara de vir de trás das linhas alemãs, oferecendo sua ajuda.

Original English

Tarzan smiled and turned toward the colonel."I overheard your conversation,"he said."I have just come from behind the German lines. Possibly I can help you."

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Português

O coronel olhou interrogativamente para o major Preswick, que rapidamente apresentou Tarzan ao oficial comandante e aos outros oficiais. Tarzan explicou brevemente o que o havia trazido sozinho em perseguição aos alemães.

Original English

The colonel looked questioningly toward Major Preswick who quickly rose to the occasion and presented the ape-man to his commanding officer and fellows. Briefly Tarzan told them what it was that brought him out alone in pursuit of the Germans.

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Português

O coronel perguntou se Tarzan tinha vindo para se juntar a eles.

Original English

"And now you have come to join us?"asked the colonel.

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Português

Tarzan balançou a cabeça e respondeu que não se juntaria regularmente; ele tinha que lutar do seu próprio jeito, mas poderia ajudá-los, já que podia entrar nas linhas alemãs sempre que quisesse.

Original English

Tarzan shook his head."Not regularly,"he replied."I must fight in my own way; but I can help you. Whenever I wish I can enter the German lines."

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Português

Capell sorriu e balançou a cabeça, explicando que não era tão simples quanto parecia. Ele revelou que havia perdido dois oficiais muito capazes do Departamento de Inteligência na semana anterior ao tentar a mesma tarefa, e eles estavam entre os mais experientes do departamento.

Original English

Capell smiled and shook his head."It's not so easy as you think,"he said;"I've lost two good officers in the last week trying it -- and they were experienced men; none better in the Intelligence Department."

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Português

Tarzan perguntou se a tarefa era mais desafiadora do que cruzar as linhas britânicas.

Original English

"Is it more difficult than entering the British lines?"asked Tarzan.

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Português

O coronel estava prestes a responder quando um novo pensamento lhe ocorreu. Ele olhou para Tarzan com uma expressão curiosa e perguntou quem o havia trazido até ali e quem o havia deixado passar pelos postos avançados deles.

Original English

The colonel was about to reply when a new thought appeared to occur to him and he looked quizzically at the ape-man."Who brought you here?"he asked."Who passed you through our out-guards?"

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Português

Tarzan respondeu que acabara de viajar pelas linhas alemã e britânica e atravessar o acampamento deles. Ele sugeriu que enviassem uma mensagem para verificar se alguém o tinha visto.

Original English

"I have just come through the German lines and yours and passed through your camp,"he replied."Send word to ascertain if anyone saw me."

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Português

Capell insistiu ainda mais, exigindo saber quem havia acompanhado Tarzan.

Original English

"But who accompanied you?"insisted Capell.

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Português

Tarzan respondeu que havia vindo sozinho. Então se ergueu em toda sua altura e disse aos homens que quando pessoas da civilização entravam na selva, estavam como mortos entre os vivos. Ele os comparou desfavoravelmente a Manu, o macaco, dizendo que o macaco era uma pessoa sábia em comparação. Expressou surpresa por eles sobreviverem, sugerindo que apenas seus grandes números, armas e capacidade de raciocínio os salvavam. Disse que se tivesse algumas centenas de grandes primatas com seu poder de raciocínio, poderia expulsar os alemães para o oceano tão rapidamente quanto eles pudessem alcançar a costa. Acrescentou que era uma sorte para eles que os animais burros não pudessem se unir, pois se pudessem, a África permaneceria para sempre livre de homens. Então se ofereceu para ajudar, perguntando se gostariam de saber onde várias posições de metralhadoras estavam escondidas.

Original English

"I came alone,"replied Tarzan and then, drawing himself to his full height,"You men of civilization, when you come into the jungle, are as dead among the quick. Manu, the monkey, is a sage by comparison. I marvel that you exist at all -- only your numbers, your weapons, and your power of reasoning save you. Had I a few hundred great apes with your reasoning power I could drive the Germans into the ocean as quickly as the remnant of them could reach the coast. Fortunate it is for you that the dumb brutes cannot combine. Could they, Africa would remain forever free of men. But come, can I help you? Would you like to know where several machinegun emplacements are hidden?"

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Português

O coronel garantiu que eles gostariam disso, e momentos depois Tarzan havia traçado no mapa as localizações de três posições de metralhadoras que estavam incomodando os ingleses. Então ele colocou o dedo no mapa e apontou um ponto fraco, explicando que era mantido por soldados negros, mas as metralhadoras na frente eram operadas por soldados brancos. Ele disse que tinha um plano: eles poderiam preencher aquela trincheira com seus próprios homens e usar as próprias metralhadoras do inimigo para atirar ao longo das trincheiras à direita.

Original English

The colonel assured him that they would, and a moment later Tarzan had traced upon the map the location of three that had been bothering the English."There is a weak spot here,"he said, placing a finger upon the map."It is held by blacks; but the machine guns out in front are manned by whites. If -- wait! I have a plan. You can fill that trench with your own men and enfilade the trenches to its right with their own machine guns."

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Português

O coronel Capell sorriu e balançou a cabeça, dizendo que o plano parecia muito fácil.

Original English

Colonel Capell smiled and shook his head."It sounds very easy,"he said.

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Português

Tarzan respondeu que era fácil para ele. Explicou que poderia esvaziar aquela seção da trincheira sem disparar um tiro. Ele havia sido criado na selva e conhecia o povo da selva, incluindo os Gomangani. Disse a eles que o procurassem novamente na segunda noite e então se virou para sair.

Original English

"It IS easy -- for me,"replied the ape-man."I can empty that section of trench without a shot. I was raised in the jungle -- I know the jungle folk -- the Gomangani as well as the others. Look for me again on the second night,"and he turned to leave.

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Português

O coronel pediu que ele esperasse, dizendo que enviaria um oficial para acompanhá-lo através das linhas.

Original English

"Wait,"said the colonel."I will send an officer to pass you through the lines."

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Português

Tarzan sorriu e se afastou. Ao deixar o pequeno grupo perto do quartel-general, ele passou por uma figura envolta em um casaco pesado de oficial com a gola levantada e o boné puxado para baixo. A luz da fogueira iluminou brevemente o rosto, e Tarzan achou que parecia familiar. Ele presumiu que fosse algum conhecido de Londres, então seguiu pelo acampamento e pelas linhas britânicas sem ser notado pelas sentinelas.

Original English

Tarzan smiled and moved away. As he was leaving the little group about headquarters he passed a small figure wrapped in an officer's heavy overcoat. The collar was turned up and the visor of the military cap pulled well down over the eyes; but, as the ape-man passed, the light from the fire illuminated the features of the newcomer for an instant, revealing to Tarzan a vaguely familiar face. Some officer he had known in London, doubtless, he surmised, and went his way through the British camp and the British lines all unknown to the watchful sentinels of the out-guard.

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Português

Tarzan percorreu as encostas do Kilimanjaro durante toda a noite, seguindo uma trilha desconhecida por instinto. Ele acreditava que o que procurava estava em uma encosta arborizada mais alta do que suas jornadas anteriores nesta terra desconhecida. Três horas antes do amanhecer, seu aguçado olfato lhe disse que estava perto, então ele subiu em uma árvore alta e se acomodou para algumas horas de sono.

Original English

Nearly all night he moved across Kilimanjaro's foothills, tracking by instinct an unknown way, for he guessed that what he sought would be found on some wooded slope higher up than he had come upon his other recent journeys in this, to him, little known country. Three hours before dawn his keen nostrils apprised him that somewhere in the vicinity he would find what he wanted, and so he climbed into a tall tree and settled himself for a few hours' sleep.

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When the Lion Fed

Português

Quando Tarzan acordou, o sol estava alto. Ele esticou seus membros poderosos, passou os dedos pelo cabelo espesso e desceu levemente ao chão. Imediatamente seguiu o cheiro até um desfiladeiro profundo, movendo-se com cautela porque sentia que a presa estava perto. De um galho pendente, ele viu Horta, o javali, e muitos outros porcos. Ele desencabou o arco, selecionou uma flecha e mirou cuidadosamente no maior. Ele atirou rapidamente e, antes que a primeira flecha atingisse o alvo, já havia encaixado e disparado outra. Os porcos entraram em pânico, agitando-se até que seis jaziam mortos ou moribundos, e então fugiram para a mata fechada.

Original English

Kudu, the sun, was well up in the heavens when Tarzan awoke. The ape-man stretched his giant limbs, ran his fingers through his thick hair, and swung lightly down to earth. Immediately he took up the trail he had come in search of, following it by scent down into a deep ravine. Cautiously he went now, for his nose told him that the quarry was close at hand, and presently from an overhanging bough he looked down upon Horta, the boar, and many of his kinsmen. Un-slinging his bow and selecting an arrow, Tarzan fitted the shaft and, drawing it far back, took careful aim at the largest of the great pigs. In the ape-man's teeth were other arrows, and no sooner had the first one sped, than he had fitted and shot another bolt. Instantly the pigs were in turmoil, not knowing from whence the danger threatened. They stood stupidly at first and then commenced milling around until six of their number lay dead or dying about them; then with a chorus of grunts and squeals they started off at a wild run, disappearing quickly in the dense underbrush.

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Português

Tarzan desceu, terminou com os porcos que ainda estavam vivos e esfolou as carcaças com grande habilidade. Ao contrário dos homens civilizados, ele não cantarolava nem assobiava enquanto trabalhava, um hábito de sua criação na selva. As feras da selva, especialmente os macacos, tornam-se ferozes após a maturidade; a vida lá é séria, e a caça é um trabalho para a vida toda. Tarzan encarava todo trabalho com seriedade, mas ainda mantinha um senso de humor — sombrio e às vezes macabro, mas suficiente para ele.

Original English

Tarzan then descended from the tree, dispatched those that were not already dead and proceeded to skin the carcasses. As he worked, rapidly and with great skill, he neither hummed nor whistled as does the average man of civilization. It was in numerous little ways such as these that he differed from other men, due, probably, to his early jungle training. The beasts of the jungle that he had been reared among were playful to maturity but seldom thereafter. His fellow-apes, especially the bulls, became fierce and surly as they grew older. Life was a serious matter during lean seasons -- one had to fight to secure one's share of food then, and the habit once formed became lifelong. Hunting for food was the life labor of the jungle bred, and a life labor is a thing not to be approached with levity nor prosecuted lightly. So all work found Tarzan serious, though he still retained what the other beasts lost as they grew older -- a sense of humor, which he gave play to when the mood suited him. It was a grim humor and sometimes ghastly; but it satisfied Tarzan.

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Português

Cantar ou assobiar enquanto trabalhava no chão teria tornado a concentração impossível. Tarzan podia direcionar cada um de seus cinco sentidos para sua tarefa específica. Enquanto esfolava os seis porcos, seus olhos e dedos trabalhavam intensamente, mas seus ouvidos e nariz permaneciam alertas — os ouvidos varrendo a floresta, o nariz analisando as brisas passageiras. Foi seu nariz que primeiro detectou Sabor, a leoa, quando o vento mudou.

Original English

Then, too, were one to sing and whistle while working on the ground, concentration would be impossible. Tarzan possessed the ability to concentrate each of his five senses upon its particular business. Now he worked at skinning the six pigs and his eyes and his fingers worked as though there was naught else in all the world than these six carcasses; but his ears and his nose were as busily engaged elsewhere -- the former ranging the forest all about and the latter assaying each passing zephyr. It was his nose that first discovered the approach of Sabor, the lioness, when the wind shifted for a moment.

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Português

Tarzan percebeu que a leoa havia detectado o cheiro dos porcos recém-abatidos e estava se movendo contra o vento em direção a eles. Pela intensidade do cheiro e pela velocidade do vento, ele estimou a distância dela e soube que ela vinha por trás. Ele terminou calmamente o último porco, mantendo as cinco peles reunidas por perto. Uma árvore com galhos baixos estava acima dele.

Original English

As clearly as though he had seen her with his eyes, Tarzan knew that the lioness had caught the scent of the freshly killed pigs and immediately had moved down wind in their direction. He knew from the strength of the scent spoor and the rate of the wind about how far away she was and that she was approaching from behind him. He was finishing the last pig and he did not hurry. The five pelts lay close at hand -- he had been careful to keep them thus together and near him -- an ample tree waved its low branches above him.

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Português

Ele não virou a cabeça, sabendo que ela ainda não estava visível, mas aguçou a audição para o primeiro som de sua aproximação. Quando terminou de remover a última pele, levantou-se. Ele ouviu a leoa nos arbustos atrás dele, ainda não muito perto. Recolhendo calmamente as seis peles e uma carcaça, balançou-se para cima nos galhos baixos exatamente quando a leoa apareceu entre duas árvores. Pendurou as peles sobre um galho, acomodou-se confortavelmente contra o tronco da árvore, cortou uma perna traseira da carcaça e começou a comer. A leoa rastejou para fora do mato, lançou um olhar cauteloso para cima em sua direção e então atacou a carcaça mais próxima.

Original English

He did not even turn his head for he knew she was not yet in sight; but he bent his ears just a bit more sharply for the first sound of her nearer approach. When the final skin had been removed he rose. Now he heard Sabor in the bushes to his rear, but not yet too close. Leisurely he gathered up the six pelts and one of the carcasses, and as the lioness appeared between the boles of two trees he swung upward into the branches above him. Here he hung the hides over a limb, seated himself comfortably upon another with his back against the bole of the tree, cut a hind quarter from the carcass he had carried with him and proceeded to satisfy his hunger. Sabor slunk, growling, from the brush, cast a wary eye upward toward the ape-man and then fell upon the nearest carcass.

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Português

Tarzan olhou para a leoa e sorriu, lembrando-se de uma discussão com um famoso caçador que afirmava que o rei dos animais só comia presas que ele mesmo havia matado. Tarzan sabia melhor, pois já tinha visto leões se alimentarem de carniça também.

Original English

Tarzan looked down upon her and grinned, recalling an argument he had once had with a famous big-game hunter who had declared that the king of beasts ate only what he himself had killed. Tarzan knew better for he had seen Numa and Sabor stoop even to carrion.

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Português

Depois de se saciar, o homem-macaco voltou a trabalhar nas peles, que eram todas grandes e fortes. Ele cortou tiras com cerca de meia polegada de largura. Quando teve o suficiente, costurou duas peles juntas e depois fez furos a cada três ou quatro polegadas ao redor das bordas. Ele passou outra tira pelos furos, criando uma bolsa grande com um cordão. Fez quatro bolsas menores das peles restantes e ainda sobraram várias tiras.

Original English

Having filled his belly, the ape-man fell to work upon the hides -- all large and strong. First he cut strips from them about half an inch wide. When he had sufficient number of these strips he sewed two of the hides together, afterwards piercing holes every three or four inches around the edges. Running another strip through these holes gave him a large bag with a drawstring. In similar fashion he produced four other like bags, but smaller, from the four remaining hides and had several strips left over.

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Português

Quando isso foi feito, ele jogou uma fruta grande e suculenta em Sabor, guardou o restante do javali em uma forquilha da árvore e balançou-se para o sudoeste através dos terraços médios da floresta, carregando suas cinco bolsas. Ele foi direto para a borda da ravina onde havia aprisionado Numa, o leão. Muito furtivamente, aproximou-se da borda e espiou. Numa não estava à vista. Tarzan farejou e ouviu; não conseguia ouvir nada, mas sabia que Numa devia estar dentro da caverna. Ele esperava que o leão estivesse dormindo, pois muito dependia de Numa não o descobrir.

Original English

All this done he threw a large, juicy fruit at Sabor, cached the remainder of the pig in a crotch of the tree and swung off toward the southwest through the middle terraces of the forest, carrying his five bags with him. Straight he went to the rim of the gulch where he had imprisoned Numa, the lion. Very stealthily he approached the edge and peered over. Numa was not in sight. Tarzan sniffed and listened. He could hear nothing, yet he knew that Numa must be within the cave. He hoped that he slept -- much depended upon Numa not discovering him.

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Português

Tarzan cautelosamente se abaixou sobre a borda do penhasco e começou a descer silenciosamente em direção ao fundo da ravina. Ele parava frequentemente, voltando seus olhos e ouvidos aguçados para a entrada da caverna a cerca de cem pés de distância. Ao se aproximar da base do penhasco, o perigo aumentava. Ele sabia que se conseguisse chegar ao fundo e percorrer metade da distância até a árvore no meio da ravina, estaria relativamente seguro. Mesmo que Numa aparecesse então, ele acreditava que poderia vencer o leão até o penhasco ou até a árvore. No entanto, escalar os primeiros trinta pés do penhasco rápido o suficiente para escapar do animal saltador exigiria uma arrancada de pelo menos vinte pés, porque havia poucos pontos de apoio perto da base. Ele já havia corrido pelos primeiros vinte pés como um esquilo para escapar de um Numa enfurecido, e só por pouco evitara as garras do leão.

Original English

Cautiously he lowered himself over the edge of the cliff, and with utter noiselessness commenced the descent toward the bottom of the gulch. He stopped often and turned his keen eyes and ears in the direction of the cave's mouth at the far end of the gulch, some hundred feet away. As he neared the foot of the cliff his danger increased greatly. If he could reach the bottom and cover half the distance to the tree that stood in the center of the gulch he would feel comparatively safe for then, even if Numa appeared, he felt that he could beat him either to the cliff or to the tree, but to scale the first thirty feet of the cliff rapidly enough to elude the leaping beast would require a running start of at least twenty feet as there were no very good hand- or footholds close to the bottom -- he had had to run up the first twenty feet like a squirrel running up a tree that other time he had beaten an infuriated Numa to it. He had no desire to attempt it again unless the conditions were equally favorable at least, for he had escaped Numa's raking talons by only a matter of inches on the former occasion.

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Português

Por fim, ele estava no chão da ravina. Silencioso como um espírito, avançou em direção à árvore. Já estava na metade do caminho, e não havia sinal de Numa. Alcançou o tronco marcado de onde o leão faminto havia devorado a casca e até arrancado pedaços de madeira, mas Numa não apareceu. Enquanto subia para os galhos mais baixos, começou a se perguntar se o leão estava mesmo na caverna. Seria possível que Numa tivesse forçado a barreira de rochas que Tarzan usara para bloquear a entrada da passagem? Ou o leão estava morto? Tarzan duvidava desta última possibilidade, pois havia alimentado Numa com as carcaças inteiras de um cervo e uma hiena apenas alguns dias antes. O leão não poderia ter morrido de fome em tão pouco tempo, e o pequeno riacho que atravessava a ravina fornecia água em abundância.

Original English

At last he stood upon the floor of the gulch. Silent as a disembodied spirit he advanced toward the tree. He was half way there and no sign of Numa. He reached the scarred bole from which the famished lion had devoured the bark and even torn pieces of the wood itself and yet Numa had not appeared. As he drew himself up to the lower branches he commenced to wonder if Numa were in the cave after all. Could it be possible that he had forced the barrier of rocks with which Tarzan had plugged the other end of the passage where it opened into the outer world of freedom? Or was Numa dead? The ape-man doubted the verity of the latter suggestion as he had fed the lion the entire carcasses of a deer and a hyena only a few days since -- he could not have starved in so short a time, while the little rivulet running across the gulch furnished him with water a-plenty.

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Português

Tarzan estava prestes a descer para investigar a caverna, mas pensou que seria mais fácil atrair Numa para fora. Agindo assim, emitiu um rosnado baixo. Imediatamente ouviu movimento dentro da caverna, e um momento depois um leão de olhar selvagem e abatido avançou, pronto para enfrentar qualquer coisa que fosse comestível. Quando Numa viu Tarzan, gordo e saudável na árvore, tornou-se a personificação de uma fúria terrível. Seus olhos e nariz lhe disseram que aquela criatura era responsável por sua situação e que era boa para comer. Freneticamente, o leão tentou escalar o tronco da árvore. Duas vezes saltou alto o suficiente para agarrar os galhos mais baixos com as patas, mas ambas as vezes caiu de volta ao chão. Cada queda o deixava mais furioso. Seus rosnados e rugidos eram constantes e horríveis, enquanto Tarzan sentava-se sorrindo para ele, provocando-o com insultos da selva por sua incapacidade de alcançá-lo, e secretamente regozijando-se por Numa estar desperdiçando suas forças já enfraquecidas.

Original English

Tarzan started to descend and investigate the cavern when it occurred to him that it would save effort were he to lure Numa out instead. Acting upon the thought he uttered a low growl. Immediately he was rewarded by the sound of a movement within the cave and an instant later a wild-eyed, haggard lion rushed forth ready to face the devil himself were he edible. When Numa saw Tarzan, fat and sleek, perched in the tree he became suddenly the embodiment of frightful rage. His eyes and his nose told him that this was the creature responsible for his predicament and also that this creature was good to eat. Frantically the lion sought to scramble up the bole of the tree. Twice he leaped high enough to catch the lowest branches with his paws, but both times he fell backward to the earth. Each time he became more furious. His growls and roars were incessant and horrible and all the time Tarzan sat grinning down upon him, taunting him in jungle billingsgate for his inability to reach him and mentally exulting that always Numa was wasting his already waning strength.

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Português

Finalmente, o homem-macaco se levantou e desprendeu sua corda. Ele arrumou cuidadosamente as voltas na mão esquerda e o laço na direita, então tomou posição com cada pé em um dos dois galhos aproximadamente à mesma altura, pressionando as costas firmemente contra o tronco da árvore. Ali ficou, atirando insultos a Numa até que a besta foi novamente provocada a saltar para cima. Enquanto Numa subia, Tarzan deixou cair o laço sobre sua cabeça e em volta de seu pescoço. Com um movimento rápido, apertou a volta, e quando Numa escorregou de volta ao chão, apenas suas patas traseiras tocaram o solo, pois Tarzan o segurava balançando pelo pescoço.

Original English

Finally the ape-man rose and un-slung his rope. He arranged the coils carefully in his left hand and the noose in his right, and then he took a position with each foot on one of two branches that lay in about the same horizontal plane and with his back pressed firmly against the stem of the tree. There he stood hurling insults at Numa until the beast was again goaded into leaping upward at him, and as Numa rose the noose dropped quickly over his head and about his neck. A quick movement of Tarzan's rope hand tightened the coil and when Numa slipped backward to the ground only his hind feet touched, for the ape-man held him swinging by the neck.

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Português

Movendo-se lentamente para fora sobre os dois galhos, Tarzan balançou Numa para longe, de modo que as garras do leão não pudessem alcançar o tronco da árvore. Então ele prendeu a corda após puxar Numa para fora do chão, deixou cair seus cinco sacos de couro de porco no chão e pulou ele mesmo. Numa estava golpeando freneticamente a corda de grama com as garras dianteiras. Ele poderia rompê-la a qualquer momento, então Tarzan tinha que trabalhar rapidamente.

Original English

Moving slowly outward upon the two branches Tarzan swung Numa out so that he could not reach the bole of the tree with his raking talons, then he made the rope fast after drawing the lion clear of the ground, dropped his five pigskin sacks to earth and leaped down himself. Numa was striking frantically at the grass rope with his fore claws. At any moment he might sever it and Tarzan must, therefore, work rapidly.

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Português

Tarzan primeiro colocou um grande saco sobre a cabeça de Numa e o prendeu em volta do pescoço com o cordão. Então, após considerável esforço e escapando por pouco de ser rasgado pelas garras do leão, ele conseguiu amarrar Numa, juntando suas quatro patas e amarrando-as firmemente com tiras cortadas de peles de porco.

Original English

First he drew the larger bag over Numa's head and secured it about his neck with the draw string, then he managed, after considerable effort, during which he barely escaped being torn to ribbons by the mighty talons, to hog-tie Numa -- drawing his four legs together and securing them in that position with the strips trimmed from the pigskins.

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Português

Nesse ponto, os esforços de Numa quase haviam cessado, pois ele estava sendo estrangulado, o que não era a intenção de Tarzan. Ele voltou para a árvore, desamarrou a corda de cima e baixou o leão ao chão. Então removeu o laço do pescoço de Numa, puxou sua faca e cortou dois buracos redondos na frente do saco sobre os olhos do leão para que Numa pudesse ver e respirar.

Original English

By this time the lion's efforts had almost ceased -- it was evident that he was being rapidly strangled and as that did not at all suit the purpose of the Tarmangani the latter swung again into the tree, unfastened the rope from above and lowered the lion to the ground where he immediately followed it and loosed the noose about Numa's neck. Then he drew his hunting knife and cut two round holes in the front of the head bag opposite the lion's eyes for the double purpose of permitting him to see and giving him sufficient air to breathe.

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Português

Depois disso, Tarzan colocou os outros sacos sobre cada uma das patas perigosas de Numa. Ele prendeu os sacos nas patas traseiras não apenas apertando os cordões, mas também adicionando ligas que se fixavam firmemente acima dos jarretes. Ele prendeu os sacos das patas dianteiras de maneira semelhante acima dos joelhos. Agora Numa, o leão, estava tão inofensivo quanto Bara, o cervo.

Original English

This done Tarzan busied himself fitting the other bags, one over each of Numa's formidably armed paws. Those on the hind feet he secured not only by tightening the draw strings but also rigged garters that fastened tightly around the legs above the hocks. He secured the front-feet bags in place similarly above the great knees. Now, indeed, was Numa, the lion, reduced to the harmlessness of Bara, the deer.

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Português

Logo Numa começou a mostrar sinais de retorno à vida. Ele ofegava e lutava, mas as inúmeras tiras de pele de porco que seguravam suas patas juntas eram resistentes. Tarzan observava, confiante de que elas segurariam, mas Numa era muito musculoso e sempre havia a chance de ele se libertar, após o que tudo dependeria da eficácia dos sacos e cordões de Tarzan.

Original English

By now Numa was showing signs of returning life. He gasped for breath and struggled; but the strips of pigskin that held his four legs together were numerous and tough. Tarzan watched and was sure that they would hold, yet Numa is mightily muscled and there was the chance, always, that he might struggle free of his bonds after which all would depend upon the efficacy of Tarzan's bags and draw strings.

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Português

Depois que Numa retomou a respiração normal e conseguiu rugir seus protestos e fúria, seus esforços aumentaram a proporções titânicas por um curto período, mas como a resistência de um leão não é proporcional ao seu tamanho e força, ele logo se cansou e ficou imóvel. Em meio a novos rosnados e outra tentativa frustrada de se libertar, Numa finalmente se submeteu a ter uma corda colocada em volta do pescoço. Desta vez, porém, não era um laço que pudesse apertar e estrangulá-lo, mas um nó de volta, que não aperta nem desliza sob tensão.

Original English

After Numa had again breathed normally and was able to roar out his protests and his rage, his struggles increased to Titanic proportions for a short time; but as a lion's powers of endurance are in no way proportionate to his size and strength he soon tired and lay quietly. Amid renewed growling and another futile attempt to free himself, Numa was finally forced to submit to the further indignity of having a rope secured about his neck; but this time it was no noose that might tighten and strangle him; but a bowline knot, which does not tighten or slip under strain.

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Português

Tarzan prendeu uma ponta da corda ao tronco da árvore, em seguida, cortou rapidamente as amarras das pernas de Numa e se afastou enquanto o leão saltava sobre suas patas. A fera ficou com as pernas afastadas por um momento, então sacudiu cada pata para remover as estranhas coberturas que Tarzan havia colocado. Ele então tentou tirar o saco da cabeça com as patas. O homem-macaco observou atentamente, lança pronta, pensando se os sacos segurariam ou se seu plano daria em nada.

Original English

The other end of the rope Tarzan fastened to the stem of the tree, then he quickly cut the bonds securing Numa's legs and leaped aside as the beast sprang to his feet. For a moment the lion stood with legs far outspread, then he raised first one paw and then another, shaking them energetically in an effort to dislodge the strange footgear that Tarzan had fastened upon them. Finally he began to paw at the bag upon his head. The ape-man, standing with ready spear, watched Numa's efforts intently. Would the bags hold? He sincerely hoped so. Or would all his labor prove fruitless?

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Português

Sem conseguir remover as coberturas que grudavam, Numa ficou frenético. Ele rolou no chão, lutando, mordendo, arranhando e rugindo; levantou-se e saltou no ar; investiu contra Tarzan, mas foi parado de repente pela corda. Tarzan se aproximou e bateu-lhe com força na cabeça com o cabo da lança. Numa empinou nas patas traseiras e revidou, mas recebeu um tapa na orelha que o fez cambalear. Após a quarta tentativa, o leão pareceu perceber que havia encontrado seu mestre; abaixou a cabeça e o rabo, e recuou, ainda rosnando.

Original English

As the clinging things upon his feet and face resisted his every effort to dislodge them, Numa became frantic. He rolled upon the ground, fighting, biting, scratching, and roaring; he leaped to his feet and sprang into the air; he charged Tarzan, only to be brought to a sudden stop as the rope securing him to the tree tautened. Then Tarzan stepped in and rapped him smartly on the head with the shaft of his spear. Numa reared upon his hind feet and struck at the ape-man and in return received a cuff on one ear that sent him reeling sideways. When he returned to the attack he was again sent sprawling. After the fourth effort it appeared to dawn upon the king of beasts that he had met his master, his head and tail dropped and when Tarzan advanced upon him he backed away, though still growling.

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Português

Tarzan deixou Numa amarrado à árvore, entrou no túnel para remover a barricada no outro extremo e depois voltou à ravina. Numa estava deitado em seu caminho e rosnou. Tarzan deu-lhe um tapa e desamarrou a corda da árvore. Seguiu-se uma luta de meia hora enquanto Tarzan tentava levar Numa pelo túnel, mas o leão se recusava obstinadamente a ser conduzido. Eventualmente, usando livremente a ponta de sua lança, Tarzan forçou Numa a avançar e o guiou para dentro da passagem. Uma vez lá dentro, seguindo de perto com a lança afiada, ele manteve Numa em movimento para a frente. Quando Numa hesitava, era cutucado; se recuava, era extremamente doloroso. O leão aprendeu rápido e continuou andando. No final do túnel, sentindo liberdade, ergueu a cabeça e o rabo e saiu correndo.

Original English

Leaving Numa tied to the tree Tarzan entered the tunnel and removed the barricade from the opposite end, after which he returned to the gulch and strode straight for the tree. Numa lay in his path and as Tarzan approached growled menacingly. The ape-man cuffed him aside and unfastened the rope from the tree. Then ensued a half-hour of stubbornly fought battle while Tarzan endeavored to drive Numa through the tunnel ahead of him and Numa persistently refused to be driven. At last, however, by dint of the unrestricted use of his spear point, the ape-man succeeded in forcing the lion to move ahead of him and eventually guided him into the passageway. Once inside, the problem became simpler since Tarzan followed closely in the rear with his sharp spear point, an unremitting incentive to forward movement on the part of the lion. If Numa hesitated he was prodded. If he backed up the result was extremely painful and so, being a wise lion who was learning rapidly, he decided to keep on going and at the end of the tunnel, emerging into the outer world, he sensed freedom, raised his head and tail and started off at a run.

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Português

Tarzan, ainda de mãos e joelhos dentro da entrada, foi pego de surpresa. Ele foi jogado de cara no chão e arrastado por cem jardas em terreno rochoso antes de Numa parar. Arranhado e irritado, Tarzan se levantou. Ele pensou em punir Numa, mas como raramente deixava seu temperamento sobrepor a razão, rapidamente abandonou a ideia.

Original English

Tarzan, still on his hands and knees just inside the entrance, was taken unaware with the result that he was sprawled forward upon his face and dragged a hundred yards across the rocky ground before Numa was brought to a stand. It was a scratched and angry Tarzan who scrambled to his feet. At first he was tempted to chastise Numa; but, as the ape-man seldom permitted his temper to guide him in any direction not countenanced by reason, he quickly abandoned the idea.

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Português

Tendo ensinado a Numa os fundamentos de ser conduzido, Tarzan o instigou a avançar, iniciando uma jornada tão estranha quanto a selva já havia visto. Aquele dia foi cheio de acontecimentos: desde rebelião aberta, o leão passou por estágios de resistência teimosa e obediência relutante até a rendição final. Ao anoitecer, ele estava muito cansado, com fome e sede. Tarzan não se arriscou a remover o saco da cabeça, mas cortou outro buraco para que Numa pudesse beber após o escurecer. Em seguida, amarrou o leão a uma árvore, encontrou comida para si mesmo e dormiu nos galhos acima de seu prisioneiro.

Original English

Having taught Numa the rudiments of being driven, he now urged him forward and there commenced as strange a journey as the unrecorded history of the jungle contains. The balance of that day was eventful both for Tarzan and for Numa. From open rebellion at first the lion passed through stages of stubborn resistance and grudging obedience to final surrender. He was a very tired, hungry, and thirsty lion when night overtook them; but there was to be no food for him that day or the next -- Tarzan did not dare risk removing the head bag, though he did cut another hole which permitted Numa to quench his thirst shortly after dark. Then he tied him to a tree, sought food for himself, and stretched out among the branches above his captive for a few hours' sleep.

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Português

Na manhã seguinte, eles continuaram sua jornada para o leste, serpenteando pelas colinas baixas ao sul do Kilimanjaro. As criaturas da selva que os viram fugiram imediatamente. Até os animais selvagens mais fortes ficaram assustados com a estranha visão de uma criatura com cheiro de leão, diferente de tudo que já tinham visto, sendo liderada por um gigante homem-macaco.

Original English

Early the following morning they resumed their journey, winding over the low foothills south of Kilimanjaro, toward the east. The beasts of the jungle who saw them took one look and fled. The scent spoor of Numa, alone, might have been enough to have provoked flight in many of the lesser animals, but the sight of this strange apparition that smelled like a lion, but looked like nothing they ever had seen before, being led through the jungles by a giant Tarmangani was too much for even the more formidable denizens of the wild.

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Português

A leoa Sabor sentiu o cheiro de seu companheiro misturado com o de um homem-macaco e um javali. Curiosa e um pouco assustada, ela trotou pela floresta para investigar. Tarzan e Numa ouviram seu gemido plangente. Embora os leões possam ser intimidadores, eles são frequentemente tímidos, e Sabor, sendo fêmea, era naturalmente inquisitiva.

Original English

Sabor, the lioness, recognizing from a distance the scent of her lord and master intermingled with that of a Tarmangani and the hide of Horta, the boar, trotted through the aisles of the forest to investigate. Tarzan and Numa heard her coming, for she voiced a plaintive and questioning whine as the baffling mixture of odors aroused her curiosity and her fears, for lions, however terrible they may appear, are often timid animals and Sabor, being of the gentler sex, was, naturally, habitually inquisitive as well.

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Português

Tarzan preparou sua lança, sabendo que talvez tivesse que lutar para manter seu prêmio. Numa parou e se virou zangado em direção à leoa que se aproximava, rosnando baixo. No momento em que Tarzan ia cutucá-lo para seguir, Sabor apareceu, e atrás dela ele viu quatro leões adultos seguindo.

Original English

Tarzan un-slung his spear for he knew that he might now easily have to fight to retain his prize. Numa halted and turned his outraged head in the direction of the coming she. He voiced a throaty growl that was almost a purr. Tarzan was upon the point of prodding him on again when Sabor broke into view, and behind her the ape-man saw that which gave him instant pause -- four full-grown lions trailing the lioness.

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Português

Tarzan decidiu não provocar Numa a lutar, pois isso poderia trazer todo o bando sobre ele. Ele esperou para ver o que fariam. Não tinha intenção de desistir de seu leão sem lutar, mas sabia que os leões eram imprevisíveis.

Original English

To have goaded Numa then into active resistance might have brought the whole herd down upon him and so Tarzan waited to learn first what their attitude would be. He had no idea of relinquishing his lion without a battle; but knowing lions as he did, he knew that there was no assurance as to just what the newcomers would do.

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Português

A leoa era jovem e graciosa, e os quatro machos estavam no auge — os leões mais bonitos que Tarzan já vira. Três tinham jubas esparsas, mas o líder tinha uma magnífica juba preta que ondulava enquanto ele andava. A leoa parou a cerca de trinta metros, enquanto os machos se aproximavam. Suas orelhas estavam eretas e pareciam curiosos. Tarzan não conseguia adivinhar suas intenções. Numa ficou em silêncio, atento.

Original English

The lioness was young and sleek, and the four males were in their prime -- as handsome lions as he ever had seen. Three of the males were scantily maned but one, the foremost, carried a splendid, black mane that rippled in the breeze as he trotted majestically forward. The lioness halted a hundred feet from Tarzan, while the lions came on past her and stopped a few feet nearer. Their ears were upstanding and their eyes filled with curiosity. Tarzan could not even guess what they might do. The lion at his side faced them fully, standing silent now and watchful.

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Português

A leoa fez outro som suave, e o leão de Tarzan respondeu com um rugido poderoso antes de avançar em direção ao leão de juba preta. Confrontado por essa criatura de rosto estranho, o leão de juba preta se assustou, virou-se e fugiu com os outros, arrastando Tarzan atrás de si.

Original English

Suddenly the lioness gave vent to another little whine, at which Tarzan's lion voiced a terrific roar and leaped forward straight toward the beast of the black mane. The sight of this awesome creature with the strange face was too much for the lion toward which he leaped, dragging Tarzan after him, and with a growl the lion turned and fled, followed by his companions and the she.

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Português

Numa tentou seguir os outros leões, mas Tarzan o segurou. Quando Numa se virou para ele com raiva, Tarzan bateu-lhe com força na cabeça com sua lança. O leão balançou a cabeça e rosnou, mas finalmente continuou na direção original. Levou uma hora para que seu mau humor passasse, pois estava com muita fome e irritadiço. No entanto, os métodos enérgicos de Tarzan o haviam subjugado tão completamente que logo caminhou ao lado do homem-macaco como um grande cão dócil.

Original English

Numa attempted to follow them; Tarzan held him in leash and when he turned upon him in rage, beat him unmercifully across the head with his spear. Shaking his head and growling, the lion at last moved off again in the direction they had been traveling; but it was an hour before he ceased to sulk. He was very hungry -- half famished in fact -- and consequently of an ugly temper, yet so thoroughly subdued by Tarzan's heroic methods of lion taming that he was presently pacing along at the ape-man's side like some huge St. Bernard.

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Português

Na escuridão, o par se aproximou do flanco direito britânico, tendo sido atrasado antes por uma patrulha alemã que precisavam evitar. Perto do posto avançado britânico, Tarzan amarrou Numa a uma árvore e seguiu sozinho. Ele passou despercebido por um sentinela e pelos guardas externos, e por um caminho indireto chegou ao quartel-general do Coronel Capell, onde apareceu diante dos oficiais reunidos como se materializasse do nada.

Original English

It was dark when the two approached the British right, after a slight delay farther back because of a German patrol it had been necessary to elude. A short distance from the British line of out-guard sentinels Tarzan tied Numa to a tree and continued on alone. He evaded a sentinel, passed the out-guard and support, and by devious ways came again to Colonel Capell's headquarters, where he appeared before the officers gathered there as a disembodied spirit materializing out of thin air.

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Português

Quando os oficiais reconheceram o visitante não anunciado, eles sorriram, e o coronel coçou a cabeça em confusão.

Original English

When they saw who it was that came thus unannounced they smiled and the colonel scratched his head in perplexity.

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Português

O coronel comentou que alguém deveria ser fuzilado por isso. Ele acrescentou que seria inútil manter um posto avançado se qualquer um pudesse passar à vontade.

Original English

"Someone should be shot for this,"he said."I might just as well not establish an out-post if a man can filter through whenever he pleases."

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Português

Tarzan sorriu e disse a eles para não culparem os Mangani, explicando que ele próprio não era um homem, mas um Tarmangani. Ele disse que qualquer Mangani poderia entrar no acampamento deles quase sempre que quisesse, mas se eles usassem Mangani como sentinelas, ninguém poderia entrar sem ser detectado.

Original English

Tarzan smiled."Do not blame them,"he said,"for I am not a man. I am Tarmangani. Any Mangani who wished to, could enter your camp almost at will; but if you have them for sentinels no one could enter without their knowledge."

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Português

O coronel perguntou o que eram os Mangani e sugeriu que eles poderiam recrutar alguns deles.

Original English

"What are the Mangani?"asked the colonel."Perhaps we might enlist a bunch of the beggars."

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Português

Tarzan balançou a cabeça e explicou que os Mangani eram os grandes macacos, seu povo, mas não poderiam ser usados como guardas. Eles não tinham capacidade de se concentrar em uma única tarefa por muito tempo. Se ele lhes contasse sobre o plano, eles se interessariam brevemente, e ele poderia conseguir trazer alguns e explicar suas funções, mas logo perderiam o interesse. No momento mais crítico, poderiam vagar pela floresta procurando besouros em vez de ficar de vigia. Suas mentes eram como as de crianças pequenas, e por isso nunca avançavam.

Original English

Tarzan shook his head."They are the great apes,"he explained;"my people; but you could not use them. They cannot concentrate long enough upon a single idea. If I told them of this they would be much interested for a short time -- I might even hold the interest of a few long enough to get them here and explain their duties to them; but soon they would lose interest and when you needed them most they might be off in the forest searching for beetles instead of watching their posts. They have the minds of little children -- that is why they remain what they are."

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