r leaving Khartoum they arrived there. The
place was absolutely deserted, but they established themselves near the
well, and the camels found abundant grazing, as the crops had shot up
again with great vigour during the time that had elapsed since they had
been cut.

The sheik at once pointed out to Rupert that although El Bakhat and some
of his followers were down at Metemmeh, the probability was that his
people had occupied the place for some time, as cultivation had been
carried on to a considerable extent. "Here are where the tents stood,"
he said; "and see, he evidently brought back a good deal of plunder, for
here are some empty tins and jars scattered about."

They remained for three weeks in camp. One of the party had been always
on the watch, but no human being had been seen to approach. During that
time the sheik and Rupert had many discussions as to the direction in
which the fugitives had probably travelled, and finally decided that the
probabilities were in favour of his having taken the southern route and
made for the country ruled over by Emin. In the first place he was
familiar with this line, and in the second he would be safe from the
Mahdi when he reached Emin's country.

"It is rich and fertile" he said; "and probably Emin when he finds he is
altogether cut off from the north will try to open a way down to
Zanzibar, and El Bakhat may find good employment for his camels." As,
at any rate, there were reasons why the fugitives should have chosen
this route more than any other, it was decided to follow it.

CHAPTER XX.

FOUND!

Before starting upon their journey the sheik said to Edgar, "On our
journey here we travelled by unfrequented tracks, and it was sufficient
to cover you up so that none who passed us should notice you; but it
will be different now, therefore we must dress you in our own fashion.
Your hair can never be made to look like ours and must be bound in a
turban. With that and a burnoose your face and hands only will be
visible. These are now so darkened by the sun that their fairness will
scarce be noticed, but the women will prepare a dye which will darken
you to our shade. I wish you to dress like us for another reason. You
have done us great service, and though you will not change your religion
I regard you almost as one of the tribe, and do not wish you henceforth
to consider yourself as a slave. You are improving fast in our language,
and if you speak but little you wi