We mounted our horses, and set off at full gallop, our escort following in our wake.
Madame de Guéran remained in camp, under the protection of the Arab interpreters and a few soldiers.
Miss Poles, whose self-respect, whatever de Morin may say, has received a serious blow, and who is still disheartened, has taken refuge in her tent. The idea has not occurred to her to rush to the succour of the eighty wives who, three days ago, were anxious to tear her in pieces.
Five minutes sufficed to bring us to the palace. Not a single soldier attempted to stop us; we were recognized as friends of the King, and, moreover, we brooked no delay.
We alighted in front of Munza's residence, and requested to see the King. He at once gave orders for us to be admitted to his own room, and he eagerly came forward to meet us.
"The white men consent at last," said he, with a smile, "to visit me."
"Yes," replied de Morin, "we have a communication to make to you with regard to our sister. Will you hear us?"
"I will."
"We have just been informed that you intend to give her a proof of your love by sacrificing your harem. Is that so?"
"Yes," said the King. "Three hundred women have already left the palace, and will not return any more. As for the rest," he added, very calmly, "I have condemned them to death."