There could be no other like it.

Thinking then of the fair Egyptian, insensibly his gait became slower, and at length fell into the merest loiter, until finally he could discern a curtained houdah, and two persons seated within it.

If they were Balthasar and Iras! Should he make himself known to them?
But it could not be: this was the Desert--and they were alone.

But while he debated the question the long swinging stride of the camel brought its riders up to him.

He heard the ringing of the tiny bells, and beheld the rich housings which had been so attractive to the crowd at the Castalian fount.