ould not
use the sail, and it became necessary to sweep the boat with the oars
away from the burning island. Alone I could not have accomplished this,
and I doubt if Melannie could have helped me, ignorant as she was of
the use of the heavy oar. But Van Luck and I had no difficulty in
sweeping the boat out to sea. Thus does Providence recompense a
merciful action.

When we had gained a safe distance from the island we rested awhile in
order to look back on the strangest and most terrific sight I had ever
beheld. The island seemed to be blown to atoms. Flames and masses of
rock shot up from the quickly-widening crater until the island, which
had lately risen like a beauty-spot in the ocean, became a mass of
fire. The lava, now pouring in red-hot streams into the sea, caused
steam-clouds to rise, so that the island disappeared behind a luminous
veil. None of the savages escaped, for we saw no canoes making from the
shore. Thus vanished the Island of Gems, with its treasure of jewels
and gold, the dross of the world, in the pursuit of which so many risk
their lives.

A light breeze now coming from the south-east, we hoisted the sails,
and taking the helm, I placed Van Luck in charge of the foresail,
whilst Melannie and I sat together in the stern. The queen did not
appear to regret the loss of her country.

"I am queen no longer," she said, clapping her hands at the thought of
her freedom. "Ackbau cannot frighten me any more, nor shall I see again
those dreadful sights I was compelled to witness."

"You will be happy," I whispered, "among your own people. You will be
rich also, for half my jewels will make you wealthy in the land to
which you are going."

"Nay, Peter," she answered. "I need not take your jewels. I have jewels
of my own. When I saw that you valued the bright stones, I knew they
would be of value to me also. I have a bagful of jewels, larger than
yours, and brighter." And, laughing to see the surprise she had given
me, Melannie drew out a handful of gems from a bag which she carried at
her girdle, which glowed with a wonderful lustre under the light of the
moon.

It was then that I saw Van Luck watching us from the bow of the boat.
His countenance wore a cunning, greedy look, and his eyes were fastened
upon the jewels in Melannie's hand.

"Put them away," I whispered. "Such toys are often the cause of much
trouble."

Melannie replaced the jewels, but seemed disappointed at my words.

"I thoug