Into her heart stole the unthinkable perception that he did not want to help her—he was afraid of the authorities—or else—or else—Desperately she returned to the appeal.
"But do let me try to get over that wall. I will watch for the soldier—I will take the responsibility. Please, now—let us plan that attempt."
His answer held a quiet finality. "It is impossible.... And the wall is too high for such little feet."
The startled color flashed into her cheeks. Only Oriental language of course.... Perhaps she was unduly sensitive to any hint of familiarity in her predicament.
"I could manage it perfectly," she said with coldness.
He bent over her, as they walked. "Are you so unhappy here?"
"Of course I am unhappy," she gave back with a clear matter-of-factness that strove to ignore the sudden softening of his voice. "I am very unhappy. I realize that I should not be here, that I am intruding upon your hospitality——"
"You are making me most happy."
"And I am making my friends most anxious and losing my trip on the Nile."
"The Nile," he said, "flows on forever. Who knows how soon you will see it and under what happier circumstances?"