The Rajah's Fortress — page 283: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

270 THE RAJAH'S FORTRESS. shape, with scabbards and without, wicked-looking knives and pistols inlaid with mother of pearl. Their value lay in the fact that many of them had gold and silver handles, and some were ornamented with jewels. The next chest was perhaps the most remarkable of all, for when the lid was opened they were star- tled to behold a collection of heads—not human heads, however, but, as close inspection revealed, heads of Burmese idols that had been rudely chop- ped from their bodies. Their features were for the most part horrible and repulsive, but in place of eyes and in their fore- heads were stuck jewels that sparkled radiantly as they came under the lamplight. The rare and beau- tiful Burmese catseye was noticeable, and one grim- faced idol displayed on the forehead a pale white stone of enormous size. ‘<That must be a moonstone,’’ said Loyd. ‘‘They are rare and beautiful.’’ ‘‘But why were the heads preserved instead of picking the stones out?’’ asked Guy. ‘For want of time, probably,’’ replied Loyd. ‘“They are fastened securely and great care would be necessary to remove them without injury.’’ Two more chests contained the same, and then a chest of larger size and somewhat different con- struction was brought forward. Some trouble was experienced in breaking the unusually heavy lock, but at last the lid was raised, and a spectacle of dazzling splendor revealed to the eyes. On soft black velvet cushions lay a solid gold service of plate, massive platters, heavy goblets and wine cups, splendid decanters, and many strange vessels all delicately carved with strange Hindoo characters and artistic designs. The proofs were piling up. Here was the plate COLUM 1OOO co