and Melton waited in terrible suspense.

A short conversation ensued. Canaris turned and pointed toward the
prison. The guard replied with many gestures, and finally in his
eagerness placed his rifle against the wall. What followed was so swift
and dexterous that it seemed like a dream.

The Greek's right hand shot out from his bosom clasping some glittering
object. It struck the astonished guard on the forehead with a sharp
click that echoed across the courtyard, and without a sound he dropped
on his knees and then rolled over on the stone pavement.

Canaris waved his hand, and then the two captives dashed breathlessly
across the courtyard.

"Is he dead?" asked Guy in a horrified whisper.

"Only stunned," replied Canaris. "I struck him with the butt of my
revolver. Quick now; bind and gag him while I find the key and open the
gate."

Guy hastily fastened the fellow's feet and arms and stuffed a roll of
linen in his mouth.

Melton stood looking on. His wound was beginning to give him some pain
again.

With a low exclamation of triumph Canaris pulled from the Nubian's waist
a narrow belt on which hung a ponderous iron key. All rose to their
feet. Guy dropped the unconscious guard under the shadow of the wall.
The supreme moment had come. The great courtyard, white in the light of
the moon, was empty. The heavy doors leading to the palace were shut.
Behind the high prison walls all seemed quiet. The city was asleep.

The first stage of the journey was accomplished in safety. The terrible
passage through the town was before them now. With a hand that trembled
slightly Canaris inserted the key in the lock. It turned with a harsh
rattle, and at a touch of the hand the brazen gate swung outward.

The Greek made a hasty survey and then stepped noiselessly outside. They
were in a narrow side street which ran past the Emir's palace. The side
toward the prison was in deep shadow. On the other side was a long stone
building, with two or three narrow grated windows.

"That is an Arab storehouse opposite," said Canaris. "We are safe for
the present. Now follow me closely. Walk boldly and fearlessly and keep
a few feet apart."

He started off at a rapid gait, his white burnous tossing on his
shoulders, and with fast-beating hearts Guy and Melton came close
behind. In five minutes they turned into another narrow passage running
at right angles, and, continuing along this for forty or fifty yards,
made still another turn