And yet I always wear it with the firm and unshaken conviction that it will protect me in a critical hour from some misfortune." "Perhaps it belonged to your deceased parents," said Mr.Van de Werve, struck by the singular explanation of the young man.
"No, sir," replied Geronimo; "this amulet is to me a cherished souvenir of a day upon which God gave me the grace to perform a good action.

I would willingly tell you how the amulet fell into my hands, and why I believe in its power to protect me, but it is a long story." "I would, nevertheless, be much pleased if you would satisfy my curiosity," said the old noble.
"If you desire it," replied Geronimo, "I will comply with your wishes.
"You know that five years ago, when I undertook for the first time the voyage from Lucca to Antwerp, I was made prisoner by Algerian pirates, and carried as a slave to Barbary.

I was sold to a Moorish lord, who made me work in the fields until my uncle should send the ransom which would restore me to liberty.

In the same field in which some light work was appointed me, I saw an old blind woman attached like a mule to a plough, and driven on by blows from a heavy stick.

She was a Christian slave, whose eyes had been put out in wanton cruelty.