And Gebhr began to dream of innumerable camels, horned cattle, horses, and sacks filled with piasters. Idris awakened him from his dreams by pointing to Stasch, who was carrying the sleeping Nell, and asked:
“And what are we to do with that wasp and this fly?”
“Ha! Smain must give us an extra reward for them.”
“I am sorry they did not fall into the hands of the Calif, who would have taught this young dog what it means to bark at the truth and the chosen one of God.”
“The Mahdi is merciful,” answered Idris, and then after a while he continued:
“Still, it is certain that if Smain has them both in his hands, neither the Turks nor the English will kill his children and Fatima.”
“Then perhaps he will reward us?”
“Yes. So Abdullah’s post is to take them to Fashoda, and a heavy load will be off our shoulders. And when Smain returns here we will demand a reward from him.”
“So you think we should remain in Omdurman?”
“Allah! Have you not had enough traveling in that journey from Fayoum to Khartum? It is quite time to take a rest!”