Early next morning the kafila was en route for the seashore, which was discovered not far distant. On coming near, a douar of seven tents was seen standing upon the beach, and several men stepped forward to receive them.
The usual salutations were exchanged, and the new comers began to look about them. Several pieces of timber lying along the shore gave evidence that their conjecture, as to a wreck having taken place, had been a correct one.
“There is but one God, and He is kind to us all,” said the old sheik; “He casts the ships of unbelievers on our shores, and we have come to claim a share of his favours.”
“You are welcome to all you can justly claim,” answered a tall man, who appeared to be the leader of the party of wreckers. “Mahomet is the Prophet of Him who sends favours to all, both good and bad. If He has sent anything for you, look along the sea-beach and find it.”
On this invitation the camels of the kafila were unloaded, and the tents pitched. The new comers then set about searching for the débris of the wrecked vessel.
They discovered only some spars, and other pieces of ship timbers, which were of no value to either party.
A consultation now took place between the old sheik and his followers. They were unanimous in the belief that a sunken ship was near them, and that they had only to watch the rival wreckers and learn where she was submerged.
Desisting from their search, they resolved to keep a look-out.
When this determination became known to the other party, its chief, after conferring with his companions, came forward, and, announcing himself as the representative of his people, proposed a conference.
“I am Sidi Hamet,” said he, “and the others you see here are my friends and relatives. We are all members of the same family, and faithful followers of the Prophet. God is great, and has been kind to us. He has sent us a prize. We are about to gather the gifts of his mercy. Go your way, and leave us in peace.”