An hour and a half later a second blue envelope was put into Nevill's hand.
"He and an officer leave for Touggourt in private carriage three horses relays ordered. Have interviewed livery stable. They start at five will travel all night. I follow."
"Probably some officer was going on military business, and Maïeddine's asked for a lift," Nevill said to Lady MacGregor. "Well, it's too late for us to get away now; but we'll be off as early as you like to-morrow morning."
"If I weren't going, would you start to-day?" his aunt inquired.
"Yes, I suppose so. But——"
"Then please give orders for the car. I'm ready to leave at five minutes' notice, and I can go on as long as you can. I'm looking forward to the trip."
"But I've often offered to take you to Biskra."
"That's different. Now I've got an incentive."