“It is very strange,” said the professor.
“It is worse,” was the reply; “but, look here, for goodness’ sake don’t go making me uncomfortable by hinting that Yussuf has designs against us.”
“I am not going to,” said the professor shortly. “I agree that it is strange that he should know it, but I am going to place absolute faith in Yussuf. If I am deceived in the man so much the worse for me.”
“But he is an unspeakable Turk, Preston, and you are always reading what the Turks are.”
“I am always reading what their wretched government is. As a race I believe the Turks are a particularly grave, gentlemanly race of men.”
“I am sure,” said Lawrence, “that Yussuf is doing all he can in our interest.”
“Tchah! stuff, boy! what do you know about human nature?” cried Mr Burne angrily. “We are out here in the desert at this man’s mercy.”
“But he fought for us and saved me from drowning.”
“Of course he did, boy; he is paid to do it.”
“Then why don’t you trust him, sir?” said Lawrence, speaking out boldly.