s lips.

Among the pagazis Ned had observed a young man of pleasing countenance,
who had always been amongst the merriest of the merry, though his load
was heavier than that of many. He had never complained, but was now
staggering along endeavouring to keep up with the rest. Ned, seeing how
much he was suffering, offered him a draught from his own water-bottle.

"Stop!" cried Sayd. "You will want it for yourself."

"I cannot disappoint him," answered Ned, as he poured the water down the
lad's throat.

The young pagazi's countenance brightened, and he uttered an expression
of gratitude as he again attempted to follow his companions.

"I should like to carry some of his load," said Ned. "He is younger
than the rest, and it is too much for him. Here! let me help you
along," he added, making signs of his intention.

"You will bring contempt on yourself if you do that," observed Sayd.
"No Arab would demean himself by carrying a load."

"An Englishman thinks nothing derogatory when necessary," answered Ned,
taking the package off the shoulders of the youth, who, while he
expressed his gratitude, seemed much astonished at the offer being made.

Ned trudged on with it manfully for some minutes, but soon began to feel
the weight oppressive. Sambroko observed him, and, taking hold of the
load, swung it on his own back and carried it a considerable distance.
Then calling to the young pagazi bade him carry it forward.

Ned begged Sayd to thank Sambroko, who answered, that though he could no
longer bear to see his master's friend thus fatigue himself, the young
pagazi must expect no further help from him.

"But I must try and help him, for I could not bear to see the poor
fellow sink down and die as so many are doing."

"There is nothing strange in that," remarked Sambroko. "I once crossed
a desert larger than this, and one half our number were left behind; but
we got through and returned during the wet season with large cargoes of
ivory, and our masters, for I was then a slave, were well content."

Sayd translated to Ned what was said.

"I wonder the Arabs venture into a country where so many lose their
lives," said Ned.

"The profits are great," answered Sayd. "Men will dare and do anything
for gain; each hopes to be more fortunate than his predecessor."

The young slave, greatly rested and refreshed by the water, and even
more by the sympathy shown him, marched forward with an almost elastic
step.

"O y