The Colonel tossed him the key.
“Now you will know the money is surely yours,” he said. “Keep the key yourself, David, for you are going to stay here with us until after midnight. If you guide us safely to the harem you may go free. If we find you guilty of treachery I will put a bullet through your head. But in either event the key unlocks the cabinet and the money is now in your possession.”
David nodded and secreted the key in his bosom.
“I am true man,” he muttered. “Id iss impossible for me to deceive so great an excellency!”
“We three,” said the doctor, “will accompany David to the harem.”
Allison grew red and uncomfortable.
“One of us, sir, should remain here to guard the women. Let me stay. Surely my father and you will be able to look after David and bring Janet home in safety.”
“That is not a bad idea,” returned the doctor. “There will be wild times when Kasam’s army enters the city. It will be well for you to be on hand to protect Bessie and my sister from possible intruders.”
This being arranged to the young man’s satisfaction the elder gentlemen left the room to make preparations for their adventure, leaving Allison to smoke his pipe and keep an eye upon the slippery David.
When they were alone the Jew approached his companion and whispered: