“What!” ejaculated Lieutenant Edwards, in well-feigned surprise.
“Dellaya,” repeated the Arab, “my good friend. If all Italians were like him, the Arabs would never resent the presence of Italian troops in Tripoli. But they are not, so we must make haste.”
Swiftly the three finished their business and Jack and the lieutenant left the house, leaving the Sheik in possession of the silver.
“Are you sure the arms will be landed to-morrow?” asked the Sheik, as they left.
“Sure,” replied the lieutenant. “They will be ready for you.”
“Good,” said the Arab. “I shall be there to get them.”
Hardly had Jack and the lieutenant disappeared when the great Italian diplomat, followed by Lord Hastings, made his way excitedly from the house.
“Did you catch the significance of what we have just overheard?” demanded Dellaya, of Lord Hastings, as they hurried away.
“I did,” replied Lord Hastings briefly. “It is fortunate we were here.”
“It is, indeed,” was the reply. “Italy has been the cat’spaw of the German emperor too long. Strive as she will, Italy cannot stand by her partners in the Triple Alliance in the face of such treachery. But I must make sure. This ammunition they spoke of—I must see it landed with my own eyes. I must find this rendezvous. Will you help me, Lord Hastings?”