stables who had ridden
with the robbers, and knew where the captive had been disposed; and
about a dancing girl who had carried the ring into the zenana, and
brought forth Zuleika's answer in return, telling that she was well,
that she was destined as the bride of the zemindar's eldest son, but
that she would resist all advances until rescued by her lover, the pearl
of her heart, now thrice dear because he had followed her so faithfully
and so far.

"Abdul, fearful of danger to Zuleika because of the discovery of the
ring, was for instant action--the hiring of bravoes, and a bold attack
on the zemindar's person, taking him unawares, carrying him off and
holding him to ransom, deliverance of the captive maid of the Turkmans
being the price of his freedom.

"But I had more subtle counsel to offer. For by foreordaining of
Providence there rested in my breast certain knowledge, the real use of
which was only now being revealed.

"'Harken to me, Abdul,' I said, 'and I shall show you a way out of your
difficulties--a way, too, that will lead to the attainment of your
heart's desire. Send out to-night relays of horses along the northern
road, and reserve for your own use the fleetest and strongest steed in
the zemindar's stables. To-morrow morning early the dancing girl will
carry a message to Zuleika, bidding her to watch and wait for you near
the door in the women's quarters that leads to the treasure room of the
zemindar.'

"'Of a surety you jest at me,' interposed Abdul. 'How can I gain access
either to zenana or to treasure chamber?'

"'All will presently be made clear. At the appointed place Zuleika must
await your coming, to-morrow during the hour of the zemindar's public
audience. Him shall I engage in business matters while you carry off
your beloved. In this you cannot fail, for God, the Lord of the
Universe, pitying and helping you, has long years ago prepared the
precise means for the accomplishment of your purpose.'

"'Still do you speak in riddles, friend.'

"Nay; listen, Abdul, and though you, a follower of Mohammed, may think
of me as an idol-worshipping Hindu, you will yet see that the same
supreme spirit rules both our destinies, making me the instrument of
your happiness, because of certain knowledge which I possess. There is a
secret which my father entrusted to me before he died, bidding me to
guard it jealously until occasion for its application might arise. And
behold now the appointed hour has