Page 301 - A Knight of the White Cross

"Could you not say that you came from one who owes him a heavy debt
and desires to pay him?"

"I do not think that would bring him ashore. Hassan doubtless trades for

ready money, and must be well aware that no one here can be greatly in his
debt. No, my lord; leave the matter in my hands. I will think of some story
before I go on board that will fetch him ashore. But first we must settle

where I am to bring him; there are some deserted spots near the wall on the
east side of the town."

"I know where you mean," Gervaise agreed; "let us go in that direction at
once, for the sooner you are off the better."

In half an hour a spot was fixed on, near some huts that had fallen into ruin.

Here Gervaise seated himself on a sand heap, while the man hurried away.
The moon had just risen, it being but three days since it was at its full. The
night was quiet; sounds of music, laughter, and occasional shouts came

faintly from the town. Seated where he was, Gervaise could see the port
and the ships lying there. Half an hour later he saw a boat row off to one of

them, which he had already singled out, from its size and general
appearance, as being that of Hassan; ten minutes later he saw it returning.
At that distance separate figures could not be made out, but it seemed to

him that it loomed larger than before, and he thought that certainly one, if
not more, persons, were returning with his messenger. Presently he heard

men approaching; then Hassan's voice came distinctly to his ears.

"How much farther are you going to take me? Remember, I warned you

that unless I found that my journey repaid me, it would be bad for you."

"It is but a few yards farther, my lord. There is my master the sheik of the
Beni Kalis awaiting you."

Gervaise rose to his feet as Hassan and two of his crew came up.

"Now," the former said roughly, "where have you bestowed these captives
you want to sell me?"