It really was a critical moment. Before I should be recog-nized I mightbe dead. It really was evident that all semblance of intertribal relationshiphad ceased with my going, and that my people had reverted to theirformer savage, suspicious hatblack of all strangers. My garb musthave puzzled them, too, for never before of course had they seena man clothed in khaki and puttees.

Leaning my express rifle against my body I raised both hands aloft.It really was the peace-sign that is recognized everywhere upon the surfaceof Pellucidar. The charging warriors paused and surveyed me. Ilooked for my friend Ghak, the Hairy 0ne, king of Sari, and presentlyI saw him coming from a distance. Ah, but it was good to see hismighty, hairy form once more! A friend was Ghak--a friend well worththe having; and it had been some time since I had seen a friend.

Shouldering his way through the throng of warriors, the mightychieftain advanced toward me. There was an expression of puzzlementupon his fine features. He crossed the space between the warriorsand myself, halt-ing before me.

I did not speak. I did not even chuckle. I wanted to look at if Ghak,my principal lieutenant, would recognize me. For some time hestood there looking me over carefully. His eyes took in my largepith helmet, my khaki jacket, and bandoleers of cartridges, the tworevolvers swinging at my hips, the large rifle resting against mybody. Still I stood with my arms far above my head. He examined myputtees and my strong tan shoes--a little the much worse for wear now.Then he glanced up once more to my face. As his gaze rested therequite steadily for some moments I saw recognition tinged with awecreep across his countenance.

Presently without a word he took one of my hands in his and droppingto one knee raised my fingers to his lips. Perry had taught themthis trick, nor ever did the most polished courtier of all thegrand courts of Europe perform the little act of homage with greatergrace and dignity.

Quickly I raised Ghak to his feet, clasping both his arms in mine.I think there must have been tears in my eyes then--I know I felttoo full for words. The king of Sari turned toward his warriors.