I have to make use of it." Leonard handed over the ruby, reflecting that he would probably never see it again, since it seemed almost certain that one of the Great People would steal it.

However, at the moment he was thinking of that which was far above rubies, namely, of what chance they had of escaping with their lives.
So soon as she had possession of the stone, Juanna ran to a little ring of boulders that were scattered on the plain about fifty paces from them, followed by Soa, who carried a bundle in her hand.
Ten minutes passed, and Soa appeared from behind the shelter of the stones and beckoned to them.

Advancing in obedience to her summons, they saw a curious sight.

Standing in the ring of rocks was Juanna, but Juanna transformed.

She wore a white robe cut low upon the neck and shoulders; indeed, it was the Arab dress in which she had escaped from the slave camp, that Soa had brought with them in preparation for this moment of trial.