“Works perfectly, Kyrion.”
“Capital!” said Justinian in English, turning to Maurice. “I think our electric powers will rather startle Alcibiades!”
“No doubt; but do you know, uncle, I think it is a pity you did not place a search light on one of those peaks, so as to sweep the ocean, and thus reveal their approach if they try to steal in to the beach under the cover of darkness.”
“True, true!” said the Demarch thoughtfully, nursing his chin, “we will think of that, but meanwhile try this light to-night. As to the watchmen on the peaks, Maurice, you know there are also two on the beach, one on each side of the island, so if they see Alcibiades’ approach first, they will light their fires to signal to the peaks, and those above will fire theirs to warn us. It is easier to see from the beach than from above, where everything looks flat. Besides, the nights are so still, that the sound of oars can easily be heard a long way off, especially by men trained to hear like my Greeks.”
“But suppose Alcibiades uses no oars?”
“Oh, well, in any case we will be warned in time. But in case of a night attack, the men can muster rapidly, I suppose?”
“In a few minutes.”
“And the guard?”
“There is a strong one in the tunnel, under the command of Gurt, and another in the pass, commanded by Temistocles.”
“Good! With such precautions we cannot very well be surprised. But here is Crispin.”