“I do not understand.” “I mean that I intend to cut loose from you,” said Barry. Ajeeb’s brow darkened. His steely eyes glittered dangerously as he glanced at his English friend. He felt that he could but ill afford to lose Billy’s help. The latter was more or less acquainted among the thieving fraternity of New York, and might be able to help him recover the Eye of Jobu. It was particularly galling to Ajeeb to have Barry speak of deserting him. The heathen priest had been so long accustomed to command that he expected deference to his wishes from all. “My friend,” said the Abyssinian, “have I not always treated you right?” “Yes; but I’ll take my oath you won’t make me a murderer!” “I have not asked you to kill any one,” remarked Ajeeb. “It amounts to the same thing. I duped Stolburst so that his capture became easy.” “Well?” “That makes me an accomplice, in the eyes of the law, to anything that may befall the man while he is in your power.” “No outsider knows you helped to kidnap him,” said Ajeeb. “Neither does any outsider know you had one of the poor devil’s ears cut off; but it will come to light some day.” “Not unless I am betrayed.” “You know very well that I will not betray you.” “One sometimes does not know who to trust,” said the Abyssinian. “Do you mean to imply that I might, under any circumstances, become an informer?” Barry’s features had become pale from anger. “No,” smiled Ajeeb. “I would trust you just as I trust Ashah; and he, you know, is a model of fidelity.” “Be sensible, Ajeeb; you can gain nothing by sacrificing these men.” “The great Jobu has been desecrated. I would be his unworthy priest were I not to mete out dire punishment to the offenders.” “Do you speak from your heart?” “I do.” “Well, I never did think you were such a terrible fanatic!” “I would willingly sacrifice my life if by doing so the green diamond would be returned to the head of Jobu.” It appeared to Barry that the Abyssinian meant what he said. “I’ll help you, but only under certain conditions,” said Barry. “I’ll pay you anything you may demand,” returned Ajeeb. “It is not the financial end of the affair I wish to discuss.” “No?” “You must promise not to have either of your prisoners killed.” “You have suddenly become very tender-hearted, I see.” “I’m not going to run chances of swinging on a gallows.” “Suppose I refuse to make the promise you require?” “In that case,” replied Barry, “I cannot work further with you.” Ajeeb bit his lip nervously. “Well,” he said, after a long pause, “I cannot afford to lose you.” “Then you’ll agree that no further harm is to be done these men?” “I’ll agree to that.” Just the same, Ajeeb determined that death should be meted out to Cook and Stolburst. For the present, he would allow them to live. As soon as he had no further use for Barry, the blow would fall.