He took the black pearl from its hiding place, and handled it fondly. What cursed luck it was to have to part with it in this way. No doubt Silas had been set on by Barry Tuxford to get the pearl back, it was a smart move on his part. He walked slowly back, and when he reached the boat, called the man on one side.
"You are to hand over a hundred pounds to me."
"In exchange for a black pearl, which has been described to me, and which I must see."
The man examined it carefully, and was apparently satisfied with his scrutiny.
"Here is the money," he said, giving Amos a small, heavy bag. "You can count it if you like, but it is quite correct."
"It's a barefaced robbery, I have been forced into it," said Amos, in a rage.
"The robbery is on the wrong side this time, you are the victim."
Amos Hooker showered curses upon him as the boat put off for the schooner, with the precious pearl in the man's keeping.
"I have sold the pearl, here is the money," and he jangled the bag.
"You are a fool," said the black, savagely. "It is worth many hundreds."
Contrary to his expectation the black walked away, and the evil look in his eyes caused Amos some uneasiness.
He shook off the feeling, and went to his tent, which was at the furthest end of the camp, away from that of the blacks.
He counted the gold, it was correct, one hundred pounds, neither more nor less. Hiding it under his bed he lay down to rest, intending to be up early in the morning and secure a safe place for it.
Kylis returned to his tent in a sullen mood, and Miah knew he was best left alone.
In the middle of the night the black stole out of the tent, leaving Miah asleep. He knew his way almost as well in the dark as by daylight. Keeping well to the rear of the camp he approached the tent of Amos Hooker noiselessly, carrying in his hand a big pearling knife. Lying on the ground he listened intently, but heard no sound. Crawling snake-like round the canvas he came to the opening, where he again stopped, listening. He peered into the darkness, but saw nothing. Crawling inside he felt his way cautiously, the slightest noise might rouse his intended victim.
His hand felt the rough mattress on which Amos Hooker lay. Kylis stood up, motionless, then bending down he found out how he lay by his breathing. His eyes were becoming accustomed to the darkness, and he saw a faint outline of Hooker's form.