They were sitting together among the ruins, and their thoughts naturally reverted to Yussuf and his reticent ways, for two days had passed since he had made any communication, and he had seemed to be more retiring than ever.
The sun was shining brightly, and warmed the stones where they sat, but the air seemed to be piercingly cold, and Mr Burne shivered more than once, and got up to walk about.
“I shall not be sorry to get down out of the mountains,” he said. “What do you say, Lawrence?”
“Oh! I’ve liked the stay up here very well, it has all been so new and different; and besides, I have been so well, and I feel so strong.”
“Yes, you are better, my boy,” said Mr Burne, nodding his head approvingly.
“I used to feel tired directly I moved,” continued Lawrence, “but now I scarcely ever feel tired till quite night. Yussuf says it is the mountain air.”
“Yes,” said the professor dryly, “it is the mountain air. Where is Yussuf?”
“Here, excellency,” said their guide; and they all started with surprise, he had approached so quietly. “I was coming to tell you that I have been up to the top of the old temple, and have at length traced the ancient path. I have only seen parts of it here and there, but I can make out the direction it takes, and it is right opposite to that by which we came.”
“But where does it lead?” said the professor.
“Away west, effendi—where, I cannot say; but let us get out of this place and I will lead you in safety somewhere.”