Let me warn you to think again, for once you take it from me the price must be paid to the uttermost pang of the doom that it may bring with it." "I care nothing about your knowledges, Phadrig," laughed the Prince, still holding out his hand.

"It is enough for me to know that it is the most glorious gem on earth, and that it shall help me to win the divinest woman on earth.

So, once more, give it to me!" "Take it, then, Highness," said the Egyptian, with a ring of solemnity in his voice.

"Take, and with it all that the High Gods may have in store for you!" He dropped the more than priceless gem into his hand with as little reluctance as he would have given him a brass trinket.

Then he turned away to take another cigar, leaving Oscarovitch gazing in silent ecstasy at, as he thought, his easily-come-by treasure.