Ajeeb, he knew, was highly educated both in English and French. Moreover, the fellow had passed some years in Europe, and had even paid a long visit to New York, previous to the opening of this story.
This last fact was unknown to Stolburst. More than anything else, almost, the explorer regretted the stand taken by the princess.
Zulima left the hotel with a very heavy heart. She had hoped if Stolburst had the diamond he would give it up. The girl felt sure he had stolen the Eye of Jobu. Why did he not return the gem?
That puzzled Zulima.
Stolburst had lived long enough among her people to know that no effort would be spared to secure a return of the diamond. Surely he could not value the stone more than life.
Despite her present attitude, the princess had great affection for the man. He had aided her escape from the semibondage in which she was born, and had acted as a father to her. She would willingly sacrifice all to her affection, except her idolatrous belief.
Zulima had not proceeded far when a heavy hand was laid upon her shoulder. She was about to scream, when she heard a familiar voice say in her own language:
“Make no outcry.”
“Ashah!”
Zulima found herself confronted by a gigantic member of her race.