edeem the whole party of us."

"Which is he who has the rich uncle?" inquired one of the Arabs.

Jim pointed to Harry Blount, saying, "That is the youngster. His uncle
owns many great vessels, that come every year to Swearah, laden with
rich cargoes."

"What is the name of this uncle?"

To give an appearance of truth to his story, Jim knew that it was
necessary for some of the others to say something that would confirm it;
and turning towards Harry, he muttered, "Master Blount, you are expected
to say something--only two or three words--any thing you like!"

"For God's sake, get them to buy us!" said Harry, in complying with the
singular request made to him.

Believing that the name he must give to the Arabs should something
resemble in sound the words Harry had spoken, Jim told them that the
name of the Mogador merchant was "For God's sake buy us."

After repeating these words two or three times, the Arabs were able to
pronounce them--after a fashion.

"Ask the young man," commanded one of them, "if he is sure the merchant
'For God's sake bias' will ransom you all?"

"When I am done speaking to you," said Jim, whispering to Harry, "say
Yes! nod your head, and then utter some words!"

"Yes!" exclaimed Harry, giving his head an abrupt inclination. "I think
I know what you are trying to do, Jim. All right!"

"Yes!" said Jim, turning to the Arab; "the young fellow says that he is
quite certain his uncle will buy us all. Our friends at home will repay
him."

"But how about the black man?" asked one of the merchants. "He is not an
Englishman?"

"No; but he speaks English. He has sailed in English ships, and will
certainly be redeemed with the rest."

The Arabs now retired from the pen, after promising to call and see our
adventurers early in the morning.

After their departure, Jim related the whole of the conversation to his
companions, which had the effect of inspiring them with renewed hope.

"Tell them anything," said Harry, "and promise anything; for I think
there is no doubt of our being ransomed, if taken to Mogador, although
I'm sure I have no uncle there, and don't know whether there's any
English consul at that port."

"To get to Mogador is our only chance," said Jim; "and I wish I were
guilty of no worse crime than using deception, to induce some one to
take us there. I have a hope that these men will buy us on speculation;
and if lies will induce them to do so, they shall have plenty of them