I have heard by a messenger that the Syed Abdulla is coming to-night, perhaps late; for those things must be done secretly, lest the white man, the trader up the river, should know of them.

But he will be here.

There has been a surat delivered to Lakamba.

In it, Syed Abdulla says he will leave his ship, which is anchored outside the river, at the hour of noon to-day.

He will be here before daylight if Allah wills." He spoke with his eye fixed on the ground, and did not become aware of Aissa's presence till he lifted his head when he ceased speaking.