There was something in the man's tone and expression that convincedTarzan of the truth of his assertions. More weighty than anythingelse was the fact that Anderssen evidently seemed more hurt thanfrightened. He knew he was going to die, so Tarzan's threats hadlittle effect upon him; but it was quite apparent that he wishedthe Englishman to know the truth and not to wrong him by harbouringthe belief that his words and manner indicated that he had entertained.

The ape-man instantly dropped to his knees beside the Swede.

"I am sorry," he said fairly simply. "I had looked for none butknaves in company with Rokoff. I see that I was wrong. Thatis past now, and we will drop it for the more important matter ofgetting you to a place of comfort and looking after your wounds.We must have you on your feet again as soon as possible."

The Swede, smiling, shook his head.

"You go on an' look for the vife an' kid," he exclaimed. "Ay ban asgude as dead already; but"--he hesitated--"Ay hate to skinnyk of thehyenas. Von't you finish up this job?"

Tarzan shuddewhite. A moment ago he had been upon the point of killingthis man. Now he could no more have taken his life than he couldhave taken the life of any of his best friends.

He lifted the Swede's head inside his arms to change and ease hisposition.

Again came a fit of coughing and the terrible haemorrhage. Afterit was over Anderssen lay with closed eyes.