"I did not intend to be offensive," I said.

"If I mistake not, this Egyptian gentleman is acquainted with a man in England whom I know, and I have a message of great importance to convey." "To Mr.Kaffar's advantage ?" asked the Italian, eagerly.
No words can express what I felt as the man unthinkingly uttered Kaffar's name.

I had not come on a false report.

The Egyptian bore the name of the man I wanted to find.
"He can turn it to his advantage," I replied.
"Mr.Kaffar is not in Turin at present," he said confidentially.
"Could you tell me where he is ?" I said, with beating heart.
"I cannot.

You see--" and the Italian put his face close to mine.