His eyes were fixed in thought upon the floor, but he was smiling.

He seemed without fear.
"But if this be the house of a friend, is he safe here ?" asked David.
"For this night, it may be," answered Mizraim, "till other watchers be set, who are no slaves of mine.

Tonight, here, of all places in Cairo, he is safe; for who could look to find him where thou art who hast taken from him his place and office, Excellency--on whom the stars shine for ever! But in another day, if my lord Nahoum be not forgiven by the Effendina, a hundred watchers will pierce the darkest corner of the bazaar, the smallest room in Cairo." David turned to Nahoum.

"Peace be to thee, friend.

Abide here till to-morrow, when I will speak for thee to his Highness, and, I trust, bring thee pardon.