Aylmer did not unbar the road of the steps. He leaned down and spoke directly to the child, who was regarding him with half timid curiosity.
"Is this man your kavass?" he said gently. "Is he in your parents' service?"
The red flush of guilt rose under the brown dye. A bright yellow curl fell from out of the djelab hood as the small head was shaken.
"He promised me a horse," said lips which had begun to have a distinct semblance of trembling. "They have only given me a donkey so far—only a gray donkey."
"Then they do not know that you are with this man; they would not allow it?" pursued Aylmer.
The Moor broke in angrily.
"Do not be questioned, little lord!" he cried. "This is a son of infinite shame and wickedness, who has no rights over thee!"
"As many, at least, I suspect, as thou," returned Aylmer. "This is a matter for investigation. We will come to the post of the Spanish police at the pier head."
"We!" The man's eyes flashed wickedly. "I come not, nor this, my charge."
Aylmer shrugged his shoulders.