Bakhita waved her hand to indicate that to attempt to throw dust in her eyes was mere waste of time, and he continued, smiling:
“Now merchants often take women with them, calling them their wives or daughters, purposing to sell or to make gifts of them to great emirs or sultans, whereas soldiers never do. Therefore, perhaps if you were in my company I should look more like a merchant, so I think that if you wish it I will take you. No, no, do not bow to me, for my own sake, not yours, especially as we are not sure of the way to the Jebal Marru, and doubtless you can guide us. Also have no fear; all that I have seen and heard is secret, though one day I hope that you will show me that temple in the oasis. Now I ride to-morrow at moonrise as I wish to pass the Sweet Wells the next night when men are asleep. You and your two servants can meet me where the path joins the road beyond the hill.”
Bakhita seized his hand and kissed it. Evidently her mind was much relieved, and she was very grateful. Fearing lest her companion should follow her example, Rupert, who disliked such displays, said to her:
“Now that this is settled, are you not going to finish pouring your libations on the feet of the god yonder?”
Mea shook her head and answered:
“That I no can do; the libation is all poured on the feet of the man. I hope the god will not be, what you call it, jealous, and make you pay,” and lifting the alabaster vessel she turned it upside down to show that it was empty.
“Then I will say good-night,” said Rupert, “as perhaps it is best that we should not leave this place together. To-morrow, half an hour after moonrise, at the cross-paths, unless you should change your minds and go alone. Remember, I cannot wait,” and bowing to Mea he left the chamber and groped his way down the hall towards the faint light that flowed through the door-place of the temple.
When he had gone the two women looked at each other.
“My aunt,” said the younger, “have we done well? Shall we not bring that Bey into danger at the hands of the cursed Ibrahim?”
“Perhaps,” answered Bakhita coolly. “If so, he takes us for his own sake, not for ours; you heard his words.”