"It is merely that I did not die," he said coolly.
"You are——?"
"I am the man in the armor, Zubeydeh," he said solemnly.
She started back from him in affright, her hands before her eyes.
"Allah!" she whispered, and then leaned forward again touching his arm lightly, imploringly, while she looked past him into the dark recesses of the garden.
"Then they are there—the police are coming——?"
He quickly reassured her.
"No. I mean you no harm. Do you understand? I have said nothing—nor shall I speak unless——" he paused significantly.
"Unless——?"
"Unless you refuse to permit me to speak with Yeva. That is all. Listen, Zubeydeh; since that night I have been in the hospital. They would keep me here a prisoner. I have escaped—in this disguise. I make a bargain with you. You help me—I will be silent. If you refuse, I shall tell the police."