Dr. Avery had gone perhaps two thirds of the distance to the Cashmere Gate when he made a terrifying discovery.
The portion of the street into which he had drifted was almost deserted, and he was wondering whether it might not be one of the most dangerous parts of the city, when he observed three persons on the other side of the way. They were less than fifty feet distant, and the moon was shining full upon them, so they were in plain sight.
They were two natives supporting a female between them, all walking slowly, while the head of the woman was bowed, and she moaned as if in pain.
"That is singular," thought Dr. Avery; "she seems to be faint, and they are supporting her to her home."
Prompted by a natural impulse, he turned and moved toward the trio, timing his steps so that he was not noticed. He quickly saw that the woman was holding back, while the escort was drawing her forward.
"That has a bad look," he said, walking faster until he was close upon them. Then, oblivious of the fact that he was using an unknown tongue, he called out:
"What are you doing with that woman?"
The natives stopped in a surprised way and stared at him, while the prisoner raised her head and wailed in a faint voice:
"O Baird, save me from them!"
"My God, Marian! is that you?" he asked, springing forward and catching her arm.