"Well, I know pretty well where to find the man you are in search of. I must say that, without suspecting the odious part he has been playing, I have on the several occasions we have met him felt the greatest repulsion."
"This is extraordinary."
"Well, you see, on the desert everybody knows everybody. But as I wish to make no mistake, to commit no error in so grave and important a matter, I should like you to be present at his arrest. Besides, it would be more regular."
"Hum!" cried the other, with a look of considerable annoyance; "The idea of further voyage in the desert—"
"Is not pleasant, I know," interrupted Tom; "but that is not necessary. You shall remain quietly here."
"Then I consent. When do you expect to catch him?"
"In less than a week, unless I am very unfortunate."
"Then I can wholly depend on you?" cried Hebrard.
"I swear to you on my honour that it will not be my fault if at the end of the time you are not face to face."
"I thank you in advance," said the envoy.