The Argosy, Vol. XXIV, No. 3 — page 106: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

490 THE RIVER OF DARKNESS. “ We'll know pretty soon what it means,’’ returned Melton; ‘‘it con- cerns us, you may be sure.”’ In his excitement he rose and began to pace the floor. His wound was giving him no pain, he said, adding that he really felt pretty well again. At last the shouts seemed to come a little nearer, and before long the fierce, angry cries were heard close at hand. ‘They are surrounding the prison,’’ said Guy huskily. He was right. A howling mob was on all sides of them now, and it was quite clear that they were beginning to attack the walls of the courtyard, for suddenly half a dozen shots were fired as though the guards were resisting the invaders. It wasa period of terrible suspense. ‘The shouts increased, the firing grew heavier, powder smoke drifted into the prison, and just when they expected to see their dungeon door torn open by a mad swarm of fanatics, the uproar suddenly ceased. A full minute of silence followed, and then on the night air rose a howl of triumph, so savage, so vindictive, that Guy and Melton shivered from head to foot. For some reason the attack had been suddenly abandoned. What that reason was they could only surmise. The silence continued. The invaders had dispersed. Sleep was impos- sible, and they passed the time in conversation until a streak of light, flicker- ing through the opening, showed that morning had come. Food and drink were brought in. The prisoners ate sparingly. The shadow of a great calamity was overhanging. Iam just as sure,’’ said Melton, ‘‘that something will shortly happen, as 1am that you and I are in Rao Khan’s slave prison at Harar.’’ ““ Listen,’’ answered Guy. Footsteps approached. ‘The door creaked and opened, and a man entered. With acry of wonder Guy and Melton sprang to their feet. ‘The newcomer was bronzed and burnt, he had light hair, a mustache and a soft blond beard, but he wore trousers and a tunic of white linen. ‘The surprise was mutual. The stranger scanned them closely from head to foot. ‘‘ Who are you ?”’ cried Guy hoarsely. ‘‘ Can it be possible that you are an Englishman—an Englishman in Harar?”’ The man paused a moment and then said quietly, ‘‘I am a Greek. My name is Canaris Mataplan. At present I am interpreter to Rao Khan, the EHmir.’’ “But your English ?’ cried Melton. ‘‘ It is perfect.’’ ““T was a café keeper at Cairo for seven years,’’ replied the Greek. ‘‘I learned English there.’’ An embarrassing pause now occurred. It was certain that the Greek was the bearer of tidings from the Emir. No one dared speak. At last the Greek said quietly, ‘‘ You are truly unfortunate. Tell me how you came here. I know that Zaila has fallen into the possession of Rao Khan’s emissaries. I know nothing else.’’ Guy briefly told the tale and Canaris listened silently. books al ©) =) |