Laputa ceased to be the barbarian king, and talked like a civilized man.
'That is, as you call it, a business proposition.

But supposing I refuse it?
Supposing I take measures here--in this kraal--to make you speak, and then send for the jewels.' 'There are several objections,' I said, quite cheerfully, for I felt that I was gaining ground.

'One is that I could not explain to any mortal soul how to find the collar.

I know where it is, but I could not impart the knowledge.

Another is that the country between here and Machudi's is not very healthy for your people.