But it was clear now that we might have to start before he arrived, so I questioned Karasch as to his knowledge of the country which we should have to cross. Somewhat to my dismay he declared he knew nothing of it.
I returned to the hut then and found the “witch” studying the map.
“I was going to ask you for that,” I said.
“Can we start?”
“Not yet; I am still waiting for the guide and the horses he may have with him; but I want to make out our way.”
Instead of giving it to me she clasped her hands over it as it lay on her lap.
“I want to ask you a favour.” Things were changing indeed.
“Well?”
“Won’t you tell me what all this means? You have had more words with your men. I know it is about me. Won’t you tell me?”
“They are a set of fools; and they are all gone now, except the big fellow, Karasch, whose arm is hurt—broken, in fact.”