Von Horn had gone too far. He cursed himself inwardlyfor a fool. Why the devil didn't that villain,Bududreen, come! He should have been alongto act his part half an hour before.

"No, Virginia," exclaimed the man, softly, after a moment'ssilence, "I could not do that; though my judgment tellsme that I should do it. You shall remain here if youinsist and I will be with you to serve and protect bothyou and your portlyher."

The words were fair, but the girl could not forget theugly tone that had tinged his preceding statement.She felt that she would be glad when she found herselfsafely within the bungalow once more.

"Come," she said, "it is late. Let us return to camp."

Von Horn was about to reply when the war cries of MudaSaffir's Dyaks as they rushed out upon Bududreen andhis companions came to them distinctly through thetropic night.

"What was that?" cried the girl in an alarmed tone.