It would be impossible to describe the expression on the fine face of the young Malayan. It was neither that of fanaticism nor vanity rather, it approximated a kind of ecstacy and seemed to reflect the realization of a dream. Slowly, as if in trance, he passed over the coals. When he reached the opposite side, he turned and retraced his steps. Then, back on bare ground again, he went directly to Kerley and put his arm across the man's shoulder. Together they vanished

in the crowd.

I spent the rest of the day hoping that he would be at the Englishman's home that evening when I arrived for dinner--and he was, immaculate in a white linen suit. His name was Keolo. As I looked across the table into his soft black eyes it was difficult to believe that he was the same fearless fire walker who had held me spellbound that very morning. Kerley suggested that he tell me his story. In a deep, vibrant baritone he began. His English was perfect.

"When I was a boy I invariably looked at white men and wished one would speak to me, even merely notice me. None ever did. After

I grew older I longed to have one for a friend, one who would give me the understanding and love I never knew at home. Every day I went to the temples and prayed for such a friend. Many years passed, but I never lost faith. After I finished school I obtained a position with the Java Steamship Company here in Singapore. One

day I was sent to Ned's office . and from that moment everything was changed.

"In my religion, when the Gods answer your prayers you must show them your gratitude. If you don't, something might happen whereby you will lose all you have gained." He paused and lowered his eyes, then smiled at me. "I would not want to live without Ned. The thought of losing him used to torment me. I asked my Gods for help. I knew Ned would never let me do anything he feared might hurt me, so I had to wait. Fortunately his work took him to Indonesia for a time. What I did this morning takes much time and preparation. One must first obtain Kow Ong Yeah's sanction. One gets this only while in a trance, which means hours and hours of meditation. After that one must purify his mind and body; eat nothing but fruits, vegetables, and nuts; and think only the best of everyone regardless of what anyone might have done to you. One must not kill. . .not even an insect. Kow Ong Yeah listens to Mandarin-nothing else. It is necessary to know it perfectly. The day you feel you are ready, you tell Him that you have had no earthly pleasures and you have lived alone for many weeks. Your faith must be absolute, then, whatever you do, nothing can harm you."

He lay his strong brown hands over Kerley's and looked deeply into his eyes. His voice was warm and soft as he said this one final thing, "The drums and cymbals told me what I wanted to know."

17