feet, but screening his body as he could, he carefully
peered around the cavern of diamonds. He cautioned Ariel to keep out
of sight, for, if it should become know that her life was saved, her
father and his warriors would doubtless make another attempt to reach
them.

Looking in the direction of the opening on the other side, he saw
Haffgo pass out, followed the next minute or two by the rest of the
Murhapas. To Ashman this was proof that the party had decided to
withdraw from the cavern, but would keep watch of the egress to make
sure that the white man did not get away by some freak of fortune.

Since they were sure he was caught in a trap from which there was no
escape, he had his choice of remaining and starving to death, of coming
forth and giving himself up, or of ending it all by precipitating
himself down the rocks.

A terrible punishment indeed for the white man that had dared to defy
the king of the Murhapas, and had been the cause of the death of the
beloved princess!

Ashman was still studying the insoluble problem, when a strange impulse
led him to look aloft. It will be remembered that he was near the roof
of the cavern, among a mass of bowlders and rocks which touched the
dome.

Several times it had seemed to him that a felt a slight, upward
draught, as though a portion of the air found vent in that direction.
When he mentioned it to Ariel she admitted that she had noticed the
same thing, and urged him to investigate.

Leaving his Winchester with her, he began a cautious ascent of the
rugged stairs. He had about twenty feet to climb, and the greatest
care was necessary. Not until at the very top, did he pass from the
sight of the maiden who was attentively watching his movements.

Five minutes later, he let go his hold and dropped, down beside her.
His face was flushed and his eyes glowing with excitement.

"Thank heaven!" he exclaimed, greatly agitated; "there is an opening by
which we can reach the outer world."

"I was sure of it," she replied with a happy smile.

During his brief absence, she had bandaged her arm as best she could by
tearing a slip from her dress. The wound bled less than would be
supposed, and caused her little pain.

Taking her other hand, Ashman began helping her up among the rocks and
bowlders. She needed little aid, however, for she was lighter and more
graceful on her feet than he.

Sure enough, when they arrived at the top, they came upon a broader
open