The Mameluke beys dismount and step into the water. In advance is
Osman Bey, and beside him Mohammed Ali. The passage must be effected
noiselessly, so as not to attract the attention of the enemy.
The water rushes past them, almost carrying their feet from under
them. It already reaches their shoulders, and they can hardly retain
their foothold. Kachef Youssouf must have been deceived. A wave,
driven by the night-wind, rolls by and sweeps Mohammed with it.
Osman Bey sees his friend torn from his side, rushes after him,
grasps him with his strong arm, and holds him securely.
"I thank you, Osman Bey, you have saved my life."
"And I thank Allah that I was at your side and could save it."
Finally they succeed in getting over, and now they stand on the
other shore. Bardissi embraces Mohammed, and congratulates him on
their safe passage. He then grasps Youssouf's hand, and thanks him
once more.
"Now, good Cousrouf, the days of your rule are numbered."
"Yes," murmured Mohammed to himself, "I, too, rejoice in your coming
overthrow. O Allah, give us all victory, and give me vengeance!"
The passage of the troops is effected. The Albanians first rush to
the bridge where the cannon are in position, cut down the gunners
before they can give an alarm, and with the captured guns fire their
first shots into Damietta.
The thunder of these shots arouses the enemy, who lie encamped in
front of the fortress, and a bloody, fiercely-contested battle
begins.
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