One by one his plots had failed, until the day came when David advised Kaid to send him and his friends into the Soudan, with the punitive expedition under loyal generals.

It was David's dream that, in the field of war, a better spirit might enter into Achmet and his friends; that patriotism might stir in them.
The day was approaching when the army must leave.

Achmet threw dice once more.
Evening was drawing down.

Over the plaintive pink and golden glow of sunset was slowly being drawn a pervasive silver veil of moonlight.

A caravan of camels hunched alone in the middle distance, making for the western desert.