“But how can I prove his innocence?” asked Bakche in a puzzled manner. “I know nothing about the murder.” “I never supposed you did. However, the proving of Sorley’s innocence is your affair, if you want to get a share in the jewels.” Bakche took a turn up and down the room. “I may know more of this affair than you think,” he said abruptly. “Probably you do since you say so. Well?” “Well, if I get Mr. Sorley released can I take your word for——” “Certainly you can take my word,” replied Fuller stiffly; “and my offer is such a sporting one, that it is not worth while committing it to paper.” Bakche nodded. “I have always found that an English gentleman keeps his word, sir,” he said cordially, “so on those terms I shall hunt for the assassin of Grison.” “Don’t you then believe that Sorley is guilty?” asked Alan suddenly. “On those terms I shall hunt for the assassin of Grison,” said Bakche once more. “I decline to speak further, and——” he stopped short as Miss Grison re-entered the room and moved towards the door. “We can talk further, Mr. Fuller, when you are more at leisure,” was his final remark as he stole out and closed the door swiftly behind him. “What is that?” asked Miss Grison with a searching look at Alan. “Bakche wants the peacock and the jewels, as he says that they rightfully belong to him. He wishes me to help him.” “Will you do so?” “No. They belong to Miss Inderwick.” “And you intend to marry Miss Inderwick,” said the woman with a hard laugh; “well you are wise. But Mr. Bakche is the rightful owner.” “On what grounds?” “The Begum’s jewels, which she gave George Inderwick were temple treasures and should not have been parted with.” “Hum!” said Alan meditatively. “I remember Bakche saying something about priests. Is he one himself?” “No,” answered the woman quietly, “but he is the rightful heir to the jewels, as you can see from the snakes on his right arm.” “I don’t see how that proves his ownership!” “Many of the ornaments are in the form of snakes set with gems.” “Still I don’t see,” persisted Fuller doubtfully. Miss Grison sat down impatiently, as apparently the late excitement had affected her nerves. “I’m sure I can’t explain further. Mr. Bakche declared that the jewels are sacred and that he wants to get them back. The snake sign I mention is tattooed on his right forearm twisting in spirals up from the wrist to the elbow. Ask him to show it to you.” “I don’t think it interests me,” said Fuller dryly. “Mr. Bakche assuredly shall not get Marie’s property if I can prevent it.” “I think the peacock prevents it,” said Miss Grison spitefully. “Until you guess the riddle you can’t find the gems, and I hope you never will.’ “Why?” “Because I hate Sorley, and I hate the girl, and the whole horrible lot,” she cried furiously. “So you said before. This conversation is getting monotonous.”