The expression on Ajeeb’s features increased in ferocity. He half raised his simitar. Every moment the helpless prisoner expected to be his last. He gave up all hope when Ajeeb moved a few steps nearer.
“Who stole it?”
“I suspect it was taken by one of my servants, both of whom deserted me.”
“I don’t believe you.”
“Nor did I expect you would, but I have not uttered an untruth.”
Stolburst spoke with the calmness born of desperation.
“Which of your servants do you suspect of the theft? I know them both.”
“Kidd.”
“Why did you not tell me all this when I visited you at the hotel? Then I might have believed you. Ashah!”
The giant could not have been far away, for he almost instantly appeared. Ajeeb made a sign.