that followed was of course unintelligible to our
adventurers, the Boy Slaves.

But although they did not understand the words that were exchanged
between the two sheiks, they were not without having a conjecture as to
their import. The gestures made by the two men, and their looks cast
frequently towards themselves, led them to believe that the conversation
related to their transference from one to the other.

There was not much to choose between the two masters. Both appeared to
be unfeeling savages, and so far had treated their captives with much
cruelty. They could only hope, in case of a transfer taking place, that
it would not be partial, but would extend to the trio, and that they
would be kept together. They had been already aware that Old Bill was
to be parted from them, and this had caused them a painful feeling; but
to be themselves separated, perhaps never to meet again, was a thought
still more distressing.

The three youths had been long shipmates, even since entering the naval
service of their country. They had become fast friends; and believed
that whatever might be the fate before them they could better bear it in
each other's company. Companionship would at least enable them to cheer
one another; mutual sympathy would, to some extent, alleviate the
hardest lot; while alone, and under such cruel taskmasters, the prospect
was gloomy in the extreme.

With feelings of keen anxiety, therefore, did they listen to the palaver
and watch the countenances of their captors.

After a full half-hour spent in loud talking and gesticulating, some
arrangement appeared to have been arrived at between the two sheiks.
Those most interested in it could only guess what it was by what
followed.

Silence having been partially restored, the old Arab was seen to step up
to the spot where the slaves of the black sheik were assembled; and,
after carefully scrutinising them, pick out three of the stoutest,
plumpest, and healthiest young negroes in the gang. These were
separated from the others, and placed on the plain some distance apart.

"We're to be exchanged," muttered Terence, "we're to belong to the ugly
black nayger. Well, perhaps it's better. We'll be with Old Bill."

"Stay a wee," said Colin; "there's something more to come yet, I think."

The black sheik at this moment coming up, interrupted the conversation
of the captives.

What was he going to do? Take them with him, they supposed. The old
Ara