Page 186 - A Knight of the White Cross

infidel."

A shout of approbation greeted the close of his address. Gervaise then
walked forward to the end of the poop, and looked down upon the slaves,

who, with their oars out, were awaiting the order to row.

"Men," he said in Turkish, "it is my desire that, while it is necessary that

you should do your work, your lot shall be no heavier than can be avoided.
You will not be taxed beyond your powers, save when the enemy is in

sight, or there is supreme need for haste, but then you must be called upon
for your utmost exertions. I wish your work to be willing. I abhor the use of
the lash, and so long as each man does his fair quota of work, I have given

the strictest orders that it shall never be used. I have, at my own cost, made
provision that your daily rations shall be improved while under my

command. Meat will be served out to you daily, when it can be obtained,
and for those of you who hold that the strict tenets of your religion may be
relaxed while engaged in such severe labour, a ration of wine will also be

served out; and such other indulgences as are compatible with the discipline
and safety of the ship, will also be granted to you."

There was a murmur of gratitude among the slaves. Gervaise then gave the
order to row, and the galley started on her voyage. The knights had now

fallen out from their ranks, and were soon laughing and talking gaily. Being
all of noble families and knightly rank, there was, except when on actual

duty, a tone of perfect equality and good fellowship prevailing among
them. French was the common language, for as the Order was of French
foundation, and three of the seven langues belonged to that country, most

of the high dignitaries being chosen from their ranks, it was natural that the
French language should be the general medium of communication between

them.

Until noon the slaves rowed steadily and well. Work was then stopped, for

there was scarce a breath of wind stirring the water. Even under the awning
that had, as the sun gained power, been erected over the poop, the heat was

oppressive. The knights had all divested themselves of their armour, and
most of them retired below for a siesta. As soon as the slaves stopped