while Monty and Will and I helped the Zeitoonli servants get our
loads in shape, Fred sharpened his wonder-gift of tongues on the
fascinated men of many nations, giving them London ditties and tales
from the Thousand Nights and a Night in exchange for their news of
caravan routes. He left them well pleased with
their bargain.

Monty went off alone the second day to see about mules. The Turk
with a trade to make believes that of several partners one is always
"easier" than the rest; consequently, one man can bring him to see
swifter reason than a number can. He came back that evening with
twelve good mules and four attendants.

"One apiece to ride, and two apiece to carry everything. Not another
mule to be had. Unpack the loads again and make them smaller!"

Fred came and sat with us that night before the charcoal brazier
in his and Monty's room.

"They all talk of robbers on the road," he said. "Northward, through
the Circassian Gates, or eastward it's all the same. There's a man
in a room across the way who was stripped stark naked and beaten
because they thought he might have money in his clothes. When he
reached this place without a stitch on him he still had all his money
in his clenched fists! Quite a sportsman--what? Imagine his juggling
with it while they whipped him with knotted cords!"

"What have you heard about Kagig?"

"Nothing. But a lot about vukuart.* It's vague, but there's something