“Well?” cried Kāra, impatiently.
“It is not in the compact,” returned the imperturbable Arab.
“You are wrong,” said the Egyptian, sharply. “It was fully understood you should obey my commands, especially as to killing those of my enemies whom I desired to silence.”
“My brother will remember,” returned the sheik, “that there was also another understanding—a little matter relating to certain jewels and piastres.”
“And you shall be obeyed—when I have them.”
Winston smiled, and Kāra saw it and uttered a curse.
“Will you thwart me now, when it is too late for either of us to retreat with safety?” he asked Antar, angrily.
“By no means. I do not object to the killing, believe me, my brother; but my people are poor, and the money you have promised them will do much to ease their sufferings. Let me but see the gems and the piastres and all your desires shall be gratified.”
Winston looked at the gigantic Arab closely. He seemed to remember the man, but could not place him, for Antar had not only trimmed his gray beard, but had dyed it a deep black. Still, all natives are crafty and covetous, and the words he had overheard gave him an idea.