He searched carefully through the Chinaman's torn and waterlogged apparel, but without discovering anything of value—much less the missing gem.
"Where did you have it?" he asked.
Sam Wing showed him the inside pocket where the ruby had been placed.
"Where have you been since you took the ruby?"
A wave of emotion convulsed the Chinaman's features.
"Evel place," he murmured. "My stay in Galdenville one piecee time, makee tly keepee 'way flom Tsan Ti. Bymby me makee lun fol countlee. Tsan Ti makee see, makee lun, too. My makee hide in hills, foolee Tsan Ti so he no ketchee. My heap hungly, heap thirsty. Findee spling to takee dlink. You come."
Sam Wing shook his head sadly.
"You had the ruby when you were at the spring?" inquired Matt.
The Chinaman nodded.
"And you lost it while I was chasing you?"