"Who wishes to go to Mecca ?" Abderachman stepped forward (a huge specimen of a Tokroori, who went by the nickname of "El Jamoos" or the buffalo).

"Who wishes to remit money to his family, as I will send it and deduct it from his wages ?" No one came forward.
During the pause I called for pen and paper, which Mahomet brought.

I immediately commenced writing, and placed the note within an envelope, which I addressed and gave to one of the camel-drivers.

I then called for my medicine-chest, and having weighed several three-grain doses of tartar emetic, I called the invalids, and insisted upon their taking the medicine before they started, or they might become seriously ill upon the road, which for three days' march was uninhabited.

Mixed with a little water the doses were swallowed, and I knew that the invalids were safe for that day, and that the others would not start without them.
I now again addressed my would-be deserters: "Now, my good fellows, there shall be no misunderstanding between us, and I will explain to you how the case stands.