But Tishmak was the only one who greeted them when finally they rode wearily up to the tent.
The guide had fully expected to see the lost ones return with the others, and his face wore an anxious look when he saw that their search had been in vain.
Fekmah immediately related their past experiences, concluding by asking what Tishmak thought had happened to them.
The guide replied that, as Mr. Holton had said, perhaps they had wandered farther away than they had intended and were forced to spend the night away. Of course, he went on, tragedy might have come upon them, but he doubted this very much. The Tuaregs who inhabited this region were friendly to strangers, showing excellent hospitality. And both Dr. Kirshner and Joe he considered able to take care of themselves. He finished by saying that, through his guiding numerous expeditions into the Sahara, he believed himself capable of judging a true explorer.
When Fekmah translated this to the Americans, they were much relieved. Especially was Mr. Lewis hopeful. He had confidence in Joe and believed him equal to taking care of many tight situations.
Notwithstanding this, there was little sleep for any of them that night. When at last the sun began to peep through the distant mountains they were up ready for action.
“We’ve got to find them today,” said Bob, gritting his teeth.
“We will, if they are anywhere around here,” Mr. Lewis added. “Let’s hurry and have breakfast.”
As soon as the meal was over, they again started out on the search, this time taking Tishmak and leaving Fekmah. The latter thought this the best procedure, as the guide could render more assistance in searching the mountains.
Taking the opposite direction from the one they followed the day before, the explorers rode off, bidding warm farewells to Fekmah.