The horse began to play with the pendant reins and to shift his loosened bit.
"Go in," said the commandant, and the spahi opened the door. "You next," and Ali followed. The commandant brought up the rear.
They entered at once not a hall but a room. So all Eastern houses are ordered. A lamp was burning, the walls were hung with maps of France and of North Africa, a few shelves held a few books and many tin cases labelled "Forage," "Hospital," "Police." Behind a desk sat a little man, dressed in black, who was dealing cards to himself in a game of solitaire. He rose and bowed when the commandant entered, and then he went on with his game.
"Stand there," said the commandant, pointing to a corner, "and put your hands over your head."
Ali obeyed.
"Search him," said the commandant.
The spahi began at Ali's hair and ended with his sandals.
"He has nothing," he reported.
"Now give me the letter," said the commandant.
Ali twisted himself, fumbled at his waist, and drew out a knife. He placed it on the desk, smiling.