Believing that the name he must give to the Arabs should something resemble in sound the words Harry had spoken, Jim told them that the name of the Mogador merchant was “For God’s sake buy us.”
After repeating these words two or three times, the Arabs were able to pronounce them, after a fashion.
“Ask the young man,” commanded one of them, “if he is sure the merchant ‘For-God’s-sake-bias’ will ransom you all?”
“When I am done speaking to you,” said Jim, whispering to Harry, “say Yes! nod your head, and then utter some words!”
“Yes!” exclaimed Harry, giving his head an abrupt inclination. “I think I know what you are trying to do, Jim. All right!”
“Yes!” said Jim, turning to the Arabs; “the young fellow says that he is quite certain his uncle will buy us all. Our friends at home will repay him.”
“But how about the black man?” asked one of the merchants. “He is not a Englishman?”
“No; but he speaks English. He has sailed in English ships, and will certainly be redeemed with the rest.”
The Arabs now retired from the penn, after promising to call and see our adventurers early in the morning.
After their departure, Jim related the whole of the conversation to his companions, which had the effect of inspiring them with renewed hope.