He knew, meanwhile, that he was following the trail of a master-hunter who covered up his tracks.

Lacey was as certain as though he had the book of Nahoum's mind open in his hand, that David's work had been torn down again--and this time with dire effect--by this Armenian, whom David trusted like a brother.

But the black doors that closed on the truth on every side only made him more determined to unlock them; and, when he faltered as to his own powers, he trusted Mahommed Hassan, whose devotion to David had given him eyes that pierced dark places.
"Surely the God of Israel has smitten Claridge Pasha sorely.

My heart will mourn to look upon his face.

The day is insulting in its brightness," continued Nahoum with a sigh, his eyes bent upon Lacey, dejection in his shoulders.
Lacey started.