"We have followed them from Mosul, learning here a little and there a little.

What is it that they have with them?
Who are they?
Why were they let pass ?" "They were let pass because Wassmuss gave the order," the Kurd answered.

"They are Germans--six German officers, six German servants--and Kurds--twenty-four Kurds of the plains acting porters and camp-servants--many mules--two mules bearing a box slung on poles between them." "What was in the box ?" asked Ranjoor Singh.
"Nay, I know not," said the Kurd.
"Nevertheless," said Ranjoor Singh, "my brother is a man with eyes and ears.

What did my brother hear ?" "They said their machine can send and receive a message from places as far apart as Khabul and Stamboul.

Doubtless they lied," the Kurd answered.
"Doubtless!" said Ranjoor Singh.