"Am I a fool to show this thing in a house with three women in it ?" he growled.

"But I shall tell them about Dain the trader, and there will be talk enough." He turned and went away, increasing his pace as soon as he was outside Almayer's compound.
Babalatchi looked after him till he disappeared behind the bushes.

"Have I done well, Mem Putih ?" he asked, humbly addressing Nina.
"You have," answered Nina.

"The ring you may keep yourself." Babalatchi touched his lips and forehead, and scrambled to his feet.

He looked at Nina, as if expecting her to say something more, but Nina turned towards the house and went up the steps, motioning him away with her hand.
Babalatchi picked up his staff and prepared to go.