Another shout from the priests caused several of the fierce-looking men to place themselves before Dick and the girl. Although Merriwell threatened to shoot, they would not let him pass.
Merriwell looked round for some place where he could hold off the fanatical Moslems. He was forced to retreat against the nearest wall.
Supporting Nadia with one arm, he lifted his pistol and fearlessly faced the howling crowd, which now began to close about them in a half circle, urged on by the priests.
“Death to the infidels!” howled the crowd.
They shook their fists at the boy and girl. Those behind tried to urge on those in advance. One old Turk spat at Dick.
Young Merriwell realized the seriousness of his position. He was pale, but his nerves remained steady and unshaken.
“Come on!” he cried clearly. “I’ll fill some of you with lead!”
Suddenly the crowd parted. A man forced his way through, pushing other men to the right and left. As he advanced he drew a gleaming sword, the hilt of which was set with jewels.
The crowd seemed to think this man, who was an Arab of rank and distinction, judging by his dress, meant to attack the boy, and they uttered shouts of approval, urging him to run the “infidel dog” through.
Dick had turned his pistol on the man with the sword, but he hesitated.