"No, Abdul, absolutely nothing. Yet I thought my eyes had improved, my seeing-powers developed. I was vain enough to think they were pretty good."
"For Western eyes they do see far, Effendi. You must allow some few privileges for those who are deprived of the benefits of civilization."
They rode on in silence.
"You can see something now, Effendi?" Abdul's voice trembled as it broke the stillness. "It is very clear now, O my master."
"Is it a mirage, or what, Abdul? What am I to see?"
"No mirage, Effendi—I wish it were one."
"Then out with it!" Michael said impatiently. He had not the vaguest idea what Abdul was hinting at; his mind had no room for side issues. "What desert monster lies in waiting for us? Don't make such a mystery out of nothing!"
"It is the Khedivial flag, O Effendi. I see it fluttering in the breeze."
"The Khedivial flag?" The words conveyed no meaning to Michael; the reason for its being there did not penetrate his brain. "What is there to trouble us about the Khedivial flag, Abdul?'"
"Aiwah, Effendi, do not feel anger in your heart for your servant when he tells you what it means."