Over one arm he had the black mantle and veil, "Better put these on," he suggested, without taking his eyes from the rigid bey, "and then run for it."
"But you—you—?"
"I'll take care of myself. After you are out of the way. Dare you try that? Or what do you suggest?"
"Oh, not alone. Together—"
"So—so—" said Hamdi Bey inarticulately, his head nodded, he staggered, his knees gave way and he crumpled very completely upon the floor, and lay like a felled log.
After a quick look down at him Ryder turned to Aimée. "Quick, then. We'll make a run for it—"
He did not finish. Hamdi Bey, upon the floor, fallen half under the folds of the white cloth, made a swift and very expert roll and darted to his feet beside Aimée, whirling her about, with pinioned elbows, for his shield.
And so screened, he gave a shrill whistle.