“Do the people of Kordofan believe it also?” asked the American.

“Yes; but I hope the Mahdi may not come here.”

“Why?”

“The people would be disappointed.”

“In what way?”

“You will laugh.”

“Indeed I will not. Tell me, for I am interested in this Mohammedan Mahdi.”

“They expect too much.”

“How?”

“They say the Mahdi is ten feet high. I told you that you would laugh.”