“He must know something of the laws of this country.” “My uncle knows of the usages of most nations. He has traveled extensively in Europe.” “Do you know a man named Barry?” asked Burt. “I’ve heard the name.” “Have you ever seen its owner?” “No; I only know that uncle has a friend of that name.” “Do you know whether this man was concerned in the kidnaping of Henry Stolburst?” “My uncle never told me anything relating to that affair.” “Henry Stolburst believed you aided in the scheme,” said Burt. “Then he does me an injustice.” “Didn’t you know that Ajeeb intended to make him a prisoner?” “No; I did hear my uncle say Henry Stolburst would regret having removed the eye of our god, or words to that effect.” “Would you have warned Henry Stolburst if you knew he was in danger?” “Frankly, I would not.” “Then you did not care whether he suffered?” “At that time--no.” “Your feelings have since undergone a change, eh?” “Yes. Now I do not think the gentleman’s offense is so great as Ajeeb makes it out.” “Have you any idea where your uncle has taken refuge?” “Not the slightest. He is a man of infinite resources.” “So he seems to be.” “In Gondar, no one knows where he resides,” said Zulima. “Why is that?” “I know not.” “He fears assassination, perhaps?” The girl smiled. “None there would dare attempt injury to the high priest, even by order of the king.” “You don’t mean to say that Ajeeb is a bigger man than King John?” “Of course not; but the king would not dare injure him.” “Would you tell me where Ajeeb is if you knew?” “I should have to consider the matter for a long time before I could properly answer that question.” “Do you still reside in the St. Joseph flats?” “Yes. Why do you ask?” “I may want to see you again, that’s all,” said Burt. “To put me in prison, perhaps?” “If it comes out that you had anything to do with the kidnaping you will have to suffer with the other guilty parties.” “You talk as if you were confident of bringing Ajeeb to justice.” “Yes; I speak from conviction.” “I hardly think you will succeed in your mission; and now, with your permission, I will return home.” “As you choose.” Zulima immediately left the house. Burt and the two policemen returned to the station-house. Burt reported the finding of Deth’s corpse, and a coroner was notified. Burt did not allow it to appear that he knew under what circumstances the Abyssinian met his death. Leaving the police station, the detective sauntered down Sixth Avenue to Tenth Street. On the corner he saw Billy Barry smoking a cigar and having his boots polished. When the latter operation was completed, Barry started down Sixth Avenue. Burt followed, and saw his man enter a liquor saloon. Billy had but finished a cocktail when the detective touched him on the shoulder. The drinker turned quickly around. He gave a perceptible start upon finding himself confronted by Burt. “Well, sir.”