`` I do not know . They be white , and it is said that they govern all the land , and do not suffer people to burn or beat each other without witnesses . If we can get thither to-night , we live . Otherwise we die . '' `` Live , then . No man passes the gates to-night . But what does HE do ? '' Messua 's husband was on his hands and knees digging up the earth in one corner of the hut . `` It is his little money , '' said Messua . `` We can take nothing else . '' `` Ah , yes . The stuff that passes from hand to hand and never grows warmer . Do they need it outside this place also ? '' said Mowgli . The man stared angrily . `` He is a fool , and no devil , '' he muttered . `` With the money I can buy a horse . We are too bruised to walk far , and the village will follow us in an hour . '' `` I say they will NOT follow till I choose ; but a horse is well thought of , for Messua is tired . '' Her husband stood up and knotted the last of the rupees into his waist-cloth .
Mowgli helped XXXXX through the window , and the cool night air revived her , but the Jungle in the starlight looked very dark and terrible .
Messua Mowgli burn fool hour land to-night village waist-cloth witnesses