`` And the men and women would be upon our backs and drag us here again , '' said the husband . `` H 'm ! '' said Mowgli , and he tickled the palm of his hand with the tip of his skinning-knife ; `` I have no wish to do harm to any one of this village -- YET . But I do not think they will stay thee . In a little while they will have much else to think upon . Ah ! '' he lifted his head and listened to shouting and trampling outside . `` So they have let Buldeo come home at last ? '' `` He was sent out this morning to kill thee , '' Messua cried . `` Didst thou meet him ? '' `` Yes -- we -- I met him . He has a tale to tell and while he is telling it there is time to do much . But first I will learn what they mean . Think where ye would go , and tell me when I come back . '' He bounded through the window and ran along again outside the wall of the village till he came within ear-shot of the crowd round the peepul-tree . Buldeo was lying on the ground , coughing and groaning , and every one was asking him questions . His hair had fallen about his shoulders ; his hands and legs were skinned from climbing up trees , and he could hardly speak , but he felt the importance of his position keenly . From time to time he said something about devils and singing devils , and magic enchantment , just to give the crowd a taste of what was coming . Then he called for water . `` Bah ! ''
said XXXXX .
Buldeo Didst Messua Mowgli ear-shot first ground home peepul-tree skinning-knife