Consider well that
Toussoun Aga has perhaps made his last nets, and that yours were
quite new, and the finest quality he ever made."
"Be satisfied with a fourth part of the fish, and the bargain made,"
said Omar, as he looked longingly toward the island, now, as the
waves had subsided somewhat, visible as a dark spot on the horizon.
The boy regarded him angrily.
"I am no tradesman, and will not be cheapened. Half of the fish, or
I remain here."
"Well, if it must be, take half, you usurer!" cried the enraged
fisherman.
"Where is your boat?" asked Mohammed, quietly.
"Down there in the inlet. And now be quick about it, boy!"
"Directly! But every thing in its order. You must first acknowledge
the bargain before witnesses."
"Before witnesses?" cried the enraged fisherman. "Is not Allah the
witness of an honest man's promise? "
"He is. But who knows but the roaring of the storm has prevented
your words from ascending to his ear?" replied Mohammed, with a
mocking smile. "I will bring Mr. Lion; you can repeat your words
before him."
Before Omar could prevent him, the boy bounded away to the merchant,
and begged him to come and witness Omar's promise. The merchant
willingly followed his favorite in spite of the storm and the spray
which the waves tossed up to the spot where the men were standing.
When he learned what was in contemplation, and when Omar had
repeated his promise, the merchant shook his head resolutely.
Pages:
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63