Page:The tragedy of the Korosko (IA tragedyofkorosko00doylrich).pdf/197

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
THE TRAGEDY OF THE KOROSKO
181

thought best was that they should ride their camels not very far from you, so that if any chance should come they would be ready to take advantage.”

“Well, you can go to him and promise two hundred pounds each if they will help us. You do not think we could buy over some Arabs?”

Mansoor shook his head. “Too much danger to try,” said he. “Suppose you try and fail, then that will be the end to all of us. I will go tell what you have said.” He strolled off to where the old negro gunner was grooming his camel and waiting for his reply.

The Emirs had intended to halt for a half-hour at the most, but the baggage-camels which bore the prisoners were so worn out with the long, rapid march, that it was clearly impossible that they should move for some time. They had laid their long necks upon the ground, which is the last symptom of fatigue. The two chiefs shook their heads when they inspected them, and the terrible old man looked with his hard-lined, rock features at the captives. Then he