Page:Life in Java Volume 2.djvu/155

 THE murderer's VICTIMS. 139

propriating ever article of value which came within his reach. The moment he heard the slightest noise, he closed the lid, and, in the darkness which followed, took to flight.

By this means, as he afterwards confessed, he had for seven years successfully plundered the honest gains of others, his boldness increasing with success, inspired him with a rash confidence in his lucky star, which finally led to his discovery and apprehension.

One day, as he was idly lounging before his door, two women from the country, who had come to Djokdja in order to dispose of some articles they had brought with them, stopped, and showed him their wares. On entering into conversation, the man learnt that they were perfect strangers to the town, and, as they seemed anxious to secure a lodging, he, with great apparent hospitality, requested them to enter into his house, where he showed them a njoni, which, he said, they might