“It is Ras al Had!” he exclaimed, in surprise.
CHAPTER XI—A MAN OF COMMAND
It was in truth the sheik who had been struck by the train the previous day.
The Arab turned and faced the howling mob, flourishing his shining sword.
“Destroy the infidel who has defiled the holy temple of the Prophet!” snarled one of the infuriated Mohammedans.
“By the grave of my father,” cried the sheik, “I swear to slay the first who tries to touch her!”
They were astounded, and as he swept his sword with a hissing sound beneath their noses they involuntarily fell back.
One of the priests called to the sheik, demanding to know why he defended the infidels.
The aged Arab retorted that he had a most excellent reason, and that he would lay down his life rather than see either the girl or boy harmed.
He did more than that, for he called several of the mob by name, commanding them to move on and give the strangers permission to depart in peace.