The queen did not
appear to regret the loss of her country.
"I am queen no longer," she said, clapping her hands at the thought of
her freedom. "Ackbau cannot frighten me any more, nor shall I see again
those dreadful sights I was compelled to witness."
"You will be happy," I whispered, "among your own people. You will be
rich also, for half my jewels will make you wealthy in the land to
which you are going."
"Nay, Peter," she answered. "I need not take your jewels. I have jewels
of my own. When I saw that you valued the bright stones, I knew they
would be of value to me also. I have a bagful of jewels, larger than
yours, and brighter." And, laughing to see the surprise she had given
me, Melannie drew out a handful of gems from a bag which she carried at
her girdle, which glowed with a wonderful lustre under the light of the
moon.
It was then that I saw Van Luck watching us from the bow of the boat.
His countenance wore a cunning, greedy look, and his eyes were fastened
upon the jewels in Melannie's hand.
"Put them away," I whispered. "Such toys are often the cause of much
trouble."
Melannie replaced the jewels, but seemed disappointed at my words.
Pages:
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138