"That is true, Abdul, but the trouble would not be there if I was feeling quite my usual self—I could banish it."
"The Effendi's heart must not be distracted."
"I have received no letters from the Valley, Abdul. What do you think has happened?"
"The Effendi must not ask for things impossible."
"I suppose not, Abdul. When I left the Valley I agreed that I should not expect to receive letters—they were not to write unless there were things taking place which I ought to know, yet my heart is troubled—I have written so often."
"May the Effendi's servant know the cause of his master's unrest? Will he permit two hearts to bear the burden?"
"I should feel at rest if I was certain that the Effendi Lampton had received my letter, if I knew that scandal had not been carried to the hut." Michael paused. "I wished to be the first to tell him that Madam was a member of our camp, that I met her unexpectedly, that fear sent her away. My happiness depended upon his answer, upon his absolute belief in my explanation."
"Aiwah, Effendi, Abdul understands. The situation has complications—ill news travels apace."
"I should not like the Sitt to hear from other sources that Madam was with us."
"But your letter should have reached the hut by this time, Effendi."