“Praise be to Allah that his reign is ended,” said another. “If the English were but true believers, one would bless them.”

“Nay, the tidings are not certain,” cried a third with anguish.

“As certain as the sun is hot upon my reins this minute. I have it from a man who saw Arâbi. The rascal’s face was yellow as a corpse.”

Barakah’s mind received no more than the initial statement. The way that she had meant to take was closed against her.

“Whither, my lady?” asked the donkey-boy, with willing smile.

“Far, far away⁠—towards the seacoast. Anywhere!”

“Ready!” he laughed. “It is for thee to order. By Allah, we will go to Gebel Qaf if thou desire it.”