There were two score of them, all Turks, all strong-looking, resolute men, armed to the teeth.

My clothes, which had been taken from my room, were thrown down beside me, and I was told to dress.

As the Turks were going from the room--shaped like a vault--where we then were, the last of them, who seemed to be some sort of officer, said: "If you cry out or make any noise whatever whilst you are in this Tower, you shall die before your time!" Presently some food and water were brought me, and a couple of blankets.

I wrapped myself up and slept till early in the morning.

Breakfast was brought, and the same men filed in.
In the presence of them all the same officer said: "I have given instructions that if you make any noise or betray your presence to anyone outside this Tower, the nearest man is to restore you to immediate quiet with his yataghan.