No weaker-backed camel could exist! The German Michael is wiser! Islam is the key to the native mind--Islam and the lash--they understand that! In a few years there will be nothing in Africa that is not German from core to epidermis! As to whether you shall live to see that day or not depends on yourself, my young friend!" Being quite sure that he had a plan in mind that nothing would prevent him from unfolding, I did not waste effort or words on prompting him, but sat still.

My silence and apparent lack of curiosity disturbed him; there is nothing your bully likes better than to force his victim into a war of words.
"I will be short and blunt with you!" he began again.

"I know your history! You were in Portuguese Africa with Lord Montdidier.

There he came in possession of the secret of Tippoo Tib's ivory; how, I do not yet know, but you shall tell me that presently! You and your friends came with him to Zanzibar, where you made certain inquiries--sufficient to set the Sultan of Zanzibar by the ears.

You left Zanzibar for Mombasa, and for some reason that you shall also tell me presently, Lord Montdidier did not leave the ship at Mombasa but continued the voyage toward London.