Naoum watched their actions keenly, and his face took on a slightly anxious expression as he realized the truth of George's statement.
"They are launching boats, but what for?" he said, as if asking himself the question. Then a thought seemed to suddenly strike him. "I have it—yes, that's it."
"What is it?" asked George, as Naoum walked towards the cabin.
Without answering he disappeared, and a moment later returned with several rifles. These he served out to his men with a supply of cartridges. He then harangued them in Arabic, which George was only partly able to understand, but when he had finished, he observed the fellows line up under the bulwarks and load their rifles.
"What's your idea?" asked George, as soon as Naoum had finished.
"These rebels are going to follow us, and I have no doubt they will overtake us. Then will come a tough time," replied Naoum.
"Ah! I understand. They mean to capture us if possible."
"Yes. That is what they intend, and we shall stand a poor chance if they come up with us."
"We'll not give in at any rate, but make a bold stand and give them a taste of what we are made of first," said George.
Naoum and George now went together to the stern of the boat and watched anxiously the pursuing rebels, who after their first volley from the shore had wasted no more powder, apparently content to wait until they came up with their prey. They filled two boats, and George thought that, given a fair and even chance, they could easily be overpowered. They were still some distance in the rear, and had so far gained nothing on the fugitives. But it was very apparent they were making a great effort, and presently it became evident they were slowly but surely gaining upon the dahabîeh.