"How do your people endure such heat?"
"They are used to it; besides, they can come to these little tubes, as
you have done, whenever they please."
"Where does this air come from?"
"It is pure oxygen; we manufacture it, and here is a lump of pure
carbon which we also manufacture," and he laid in Leo's hand what looked
like a drop of dew. It was a diamond of exquisite lustre.
As Leo looked with surprise and admiration at it, an elf came staggering
up to the niche. After breathing the oxygen he turned to Knops with a
heart-rending cry.
"I have lost it--lost it, Master Knops."
"Lost what, Paz?"
"The finest stone I ever made, and I have been years at it."
"How did that happen?"
"Burned it too long--look!" and he produced in his spidery hand a small
mass of charcoal.
"Never mind, Paz; better luck next time," said Knops, kindly.
"No, I am no longer fit for the profession; such a mistake is
inexcusable. I cannot hold up my head among the others. I meant that
diamond for our King's tiara or the Queen's necklace--bah! Please,
Master Professor, put me among the miners, or take me for your valet. I
care not what I do."
"You are depressed just now; wait awhile."
"No, I must go. I have broken my crucible and put out my furnace. I
will not stay to be scorned."
"Come with me, then, and I will see what I can do for you.
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