“I do not doubt it,” returned Tadros, meekly. “It is so much easier to kill one than to pay him the wages he has earned.”
“Does he owe you money?” demanded Antar, sharply.
“Yes; and now I shall never get it.”
“Why not?”
“Have you not heard? Prince Kāra came to this village a few hours ago and was met by a captain of police, who wants him in Cairo for more than a dozen crimes.”
“What! Have you brought the police upon us?” exclaimed Antar, angrily.
“I? How absurd! I came here to get my money; but they have taken Kāra south to meet a detachment of soldiers who are coming from Assyut. Presently they will return here in force to rescue Winston Bey, who is in some trouble through Kāra’s actions.”
“You are lying to me,” declared the sheik. “It is you who have set the officers upon us. You are a traitor!”
Tadros appeared distressed.
“You have known me long, my sheik,” said he, “and have always found me an honest man. Never have I mixed with the police in any way. But do you imagine the Government will neglect to watch over Winston Bey and protect him from his enemies? Ask the captain when he returns with the soldiers and Kāra. He will be here very soon now, and he will tell you that Tadros the dragoman had nothing to do with his coming here.”