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Updated: May 9, 2025
He had a duty to perform, and, if for nothing else, his gratitude to Naoum would not allow him to succumb to the trials of his undertaking. Belbeis and the guide rode on in stolid silence, evidently with no intention of allowing the effort of speech to increase their thirst.
"I must go now, for I have much work and many things to do before morning. If there is anything you want, touch this gong, and my servants will wait on you and now, good-night." Naoum went away and Helmar was again left to speculate and wonder. The next morning Naoum brought word that George was to start immediately for Cairo.
They were rounding a sharp bend, and Naoum's attention was fixed on the outer bank. "What is it?" asked George, in tones of suppressed excitement. Naoum turned sharply to him and waved his arm in the direction of the cabin. "Quick, below for your life! If your face is seen you are doomed." It was too late.
"Do you think I'm going to take shelter while you are exposed to their fire? No, no, pull away, and I'll look after the tiller." The distance that separated them from the shore was rapidly widening, and the danger lessened. "I don't think, so long as they aim at us, that they can do much damage," said Naoum, smiling calmly. "Egyptians are not noted for their accurate marksmanship."
"This is my greatest German friend, Naoum," he said, "and I brought him with me that he might meet the man who has done so much for a stranger in a strange land; his name is Charlie Osterberg." Naoum acknowledged the introduction cordially, and begged them to rest. "I was surprised when Belbeis told me that you had returned to Cairo again so quickly.
"Now, boys," cried out George, forgetful of the Arabs' language, "when they are within rifle shot, take a steady aim. Remember we have no ammunition to waste." Naoum was also busy with his men, giving them instructions and placing them in positions.
"Yes, but all business men are more or less like that. If he finds me something to do, it will be a relief, and anyway I can never thank you sufficiently for what you have done. It is strange, I always seem to be under obligations. First Mariam, then Naoum, and now you."
"Yes, there is, I see it in your face. Tell me, I don't mind; it can't be worse than death, and I have already faced that often." "Arabi is a strange man," replied Naoum, as though thinking aloud. "He appears to have no will of his own. This man Arden has him under his thumb.
Turning to his old friend he was about to speak, but the latter interrupted him. "No, no, wait. There is danger; I must go and speak to the rebels," and he turned swiftly and left the room. In a few moments the hammering and noise ceased, and presently Naoum returned.
"It is bad, though, for there must be something in his mind. This man Arden is very powerful." For some moments the two remained silent. Each was wrapped in his own thoughts. Naoum was endeavouring to solve the mystery of Arabi's intended visit to his prisoner. It seemed to him so unnecessary. Helmar was not a man of great importance, in fact, very much the contrary.
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