Suddenly the street stopped at a narrow, winding stairway that led almost straight up. All about were crowded houses of clay, dirty and weather-beaten and suggesting that only the very poorest of Arabs lived there.
Having made sure that the others were following him, the stranger led the way up the stairs. At the head was a small door, and this was opened for them to go inside.
But they hesitated.
“Ask him what he wants,” directed Bob. “There could be anything in there.”
Dr. Kirshner turned to the Arab and in a stern voice put the question before him.
The latter surveyed the American closely, then said in the native tongue:
“I wish nothing of you. It is Fekmah who is wanted. But if you and your friend must intrude, you may come in.”
The man’s attitude did not win the friendship of the explorers, but chiefly because they were at a loss to know what to do next they followed him inside.
A moment later the door was closed and they found themselves in a sort of twilight.