It was only a few moments’ glance, and then the stone was lowered, the dust swept over it, and the rug drawn across again.
“You see I am getting ready,” said Yussuf.
“But what are we going to do?”
“I have been watching and waiting,” whispered the guide, “and I have found a place where we can descend from the old wall over the great defile.”
“But it is so awful a place, Yussuf.”
“Yes, it is awful; but there is a ledge we can reach, and then creep along and get beyond the sentries. Then all will be easy, for we can get a long way some dark night before the alarm is given, and in the day we can hide. Of course we must load ourselves with the food we have saved up.”
“Yes, yes, of course,” said Lawrence thoughtfully; “but Mrs Chumley, she would not go down a rope.”
“Why, not?” said Yussuf quietly; “she talks like a man.”
“When are you going to try, then?” said Lawrence excitedly.
“In about ten days. I shall be ready then, and the nights will be dark. But, patience—you must not be excited.”