“Not unless I am betrayed.”

“You know very well that I will not betray you.”

“One sometimes does not know who to trust,” said the Abyssinian.

“Do you mean to imply that I might, under any circumstances, become an informer?”

Barry’s features had become pale from anger.

“No,” smiled Ajeeb. “I would trust you just as I trust Ashah; and he, you know, is a model of fidelity.”

“Be sensible, Ajeeb; you can gain nothing by sacrificing these men.”

“The great Jobu has been desecrated. I would be his unworthy priest were I not to mete out dire punishment to the offenders.”

“Do you speak from your heart?”

“I do.”