“Was the last sound she will ever utter in this world. But,” continued the Javanese, still carried away by his passion, “do not for a moment flatter yourself that we will deal thus mercifully with you. Upon a woman we could have compassion. But you! Oh yes, you shall suffer! You shall feel something of the tortures you are so ready to inflict upon others!”
Even then van Gulpendam retained something of his fortitude and haughty bearing, and he said:
“I bid you beware of the punishing hand of the Dutch Government, it will know how to avenge me.”
“I am prepared to brave any peril, if only I have my revenge,” said the Javanese. “Upon you I am determined to execute justice!”
“Justice, justice!” cried van Gulpendam, “and who are you that you dare to prate about justice, even while you are planning sedition and preparing for murder? Tell me who are you?”
“Who I am? Well, you shall know!”
In a corner of that wretched cabin stood a tub filled with water. The Javanese took up the cocoa-nut scoop which hung by it and washed his face.
“Now do you recognise me?” he cried, as he drew himself up to his full height before his prisoners.
“Ardjan!” sighed Lim Ho.
“Ardjan!” cried van Gulpendam as thoroughly dismayed as was his companion in misfortune.