t from his efforts that he could not stand, but had to lie for
a while on the grass. His brother Redmond at once fluttered to his
side and cried out how glad he was to see him, and that he had never
expected to behold him again alive.

"Is it you, dear Redmond?" asked Tasmir. "I never expected to be able
to speak to you again. I knew you, although you did not know me, and
often watched you flying past. I tried to call you, but you never
heard me. I would have been dead in a few hours' time had it not been
for this good young man," he said, and he turned gratefully towards
Daimur, who was pushing together the bark on the tree so that the slit
would not be noticed.

They waited until Prince Tasmir had taken some of the biscuits and
water, and a few of the nuts that they had brought with them, and felt
strong enough to walk, and then they made their way slowly back to the
cave, where much excitement prevailed at the appearance of Tasmir and
the story of his rescue.

He was made to lie down and rest, and more food was pressed upon him,
and the food and the fresh sea breeze which blew into the cave soon
revived him.

They told him all about themselves and their plans, and it was agreed
that he would be of great assistance to Daimur in helping to make their
escape.

After a while when Tasmir had become quite rested, he turned to Redmond
and said:

"My dear brother, I know that you are anxious to hear how I came into
the Evil Magician's hands, and I now feel well enough to tell you my
story."

All chatter immediately ceased, and everyone sat listening attentively
for Tasmir to begin.

CHAPTER XI

"You will remember," he said, "that I took passage on a ship called the
'Seafoam,' which was bound for Aeda Land, where the great desert lay
which I would have to cross to get the Wonderful Plant.

"This ship was recommended as being safe and fast, and Sadna said the
Captain was a fine honest man who would do his best to make me
comfortable.

"It was a long, low boat, built apparently for speed, as it did not
seem to have much room for cargo, and what cargo was being loaded
aboard I noticed consisted mostly of oil and gunpowder. However, I was
well pleased enough with the accommodation offered me, and in due time
the ship set sail.

"After we had been out a few days I began to notice the crew. They
were the most murderous looking crowd of ruffians I had ever seen, and
seemed to be continually quarreling