Ching Chong told him all, only omitting the merchant's story and his secret of the wand.
"Never mind, boy," said the giant, "you shall win the prize, and go back to China a rich man. See, the morning sun is rising. Now we will enter the cavern, and you shall have as much gold and precious stones as you can carry away."
Ching Chong felt a momentary thrill of joy in his heart, which was saddened by the memory of the merchant's last words, "beware of the giant."
"I have wandered in this cold, stranger land for three long years, and found nothing until now.
"Wealth is within my grasp; if I do not seize it, I may never have another chance! To be poor forever! No! no! I will take the risk." Then he spoke aloud, in a resolute voice, "Lead on, I will follow."
The giant gave the great stone a push with his foot, and rolled it away as though it had been a pebble.
As they entered he struck a torch, then, before proceeding, rolled back the stone and closed up the opening.
When Ching Chong saw himself shut into the cave with the giant, he trembled with fear, for he saw there was no way of escape. He felt now, he had only to follow where the monster at will might lead him.