Sir Andrew and Godwin went out to see to the matter, and there they found Georgios wringing his hands, as only an Eastern merchant can, and cursing in some foreign tongue.
"Noble knights," he said, "what am I to do?
Already it is nearly dark, and how I shall find my way up yonder steep hill I know not.

As for the priceless broideries, I suppose they must stay here for the night, since that wheel cannot be mended till to-morrow--" "As you had best do also," said Sir Andrew kindly.

"Come, man, do not grieve; we are used to broken axles here in Essex, and you and your servant may as well eat your Christmas dinners at Steeple as in Southminster." "I thank you, Sir knight; I thank you.

But why should I, who am but a merchant, thrust myself upon your noble company?
Let me stop outside with my man, Petros, and dine with your people in that barn, where I see they are making ready their food." "By no means," answered Sir Andrew.

"Leave your servant with my people, who will look after him, and come you into the hall, and tell me some more of Cyprus till our food is ready, which will be soon.