Page "Heart of Darkness" Paragraph 18

Later, after midnight, Marlow discovers that Kurtz has left his cabin-he has left the steamer, and has returned to shore.

Marlow goes ashore and finds Kurtz in a very weak state making his way back to his station-but not so weak, as he can still call out to the natives.

Marlow appreciates the serious situation he is in, and when Kurtz begins a threatening tone, Marlow interjects that his " success in Europe is assured in any case "-Kurtz agrees to allow Marlow to help him back to the steamer.

The next day they prepare for their departure.

They carried Kurtz to the pilot-house: " there was more air there "-The natives once again assembled on shore, and the native woman returned-they all began to shout.

Marlow saw the pilgrims getting their rifles ready-so he screeched the steam whistle time after time to scatter the crowd on shore.

Only the woman remained unmoved, with outstretched arms.

The pilgrims opened fire.