It was true that if he were found there, questions might be asked, and talk might arise that would ruin everything. I was at a loss how to end the situation.
“Jakoub,” I said, “I know now what is in those cases.”
“Of course the effendi knows. Are they not his?”
“No they are not mine. I did not know what was in them until I came here the other night.”
Jakoub’s face told me what I wanted to know. He understood it was a time for truth between us, and I saw that he was surprised. He had evidently believed that I was all along privy to the conspiracy. I suppose his manifest contempt for me was due to some idea that I was willing to accept less than my proper share of the profits.
“I did not know what was in those cases,” I repeated. “I did not understand that this was a scheme to poison your own people and make money out of their misery. I knew nothing about your accursed trade. Now, I tell you, I know; and as long as I live not one ounce of that stuff shall be sold. I will pay you for your services to me, but you shall not get one piastre of profit from your drug.”
The man’s avarice almost overcame his self-control. He started forward in his chair.
I raised the revolver an inch or two, and he sank back.
“It is my property, my share of it. Even the poor Arab cannot be robbed always. I have paid for what I have there. I will see the Captain. Who are you to take from me my goods?”
“I know the man who is hunting you, Jakoub. He is very close on your heels. If I speak to him to-day, you will be in prison to-night.”