Page:Kéraban the Inflexible Part 1 (Jules Verne).djvu/32

34 "Ah, now I understand what those fellows meant by their cannon-shots!" exclaimed Bruno.

"We recompense ourselves fully during the night, though, for the abstinence practised by day," continued Kéraban.

"So," said Bruno to Nizib, "you have had nothing since morning because it is Ramadan?"

"Because it is Ramadan," replied Nizib.

"Well, that system would very soon make me thin," exclaimed Bruno. "Why, it costs me a pound a day to live, at least!"

"At least," assented Nizib.

"But," continued Kéraban, addressing Van Mitten, "wait until after sunset: you will be astonished. You will perceive a complete transformation—a dead city will prove a living one. Ah, you new-fashioned Turks, you have not yet entirely concealed the old customs under your modern veneer. The Koran holds good against all your absurdities. May Mahomet strangle you!"

"Good friend Kéraban," replied Van Mitten, "I perceive you are still faithful to your ancient usage."

"It is more than fidelity, Van Mitten; it is obstinacy. But tell me, my worthy friend: you will remain some time in Constantinople, will you not?"

"Yes; and even—"

"Well, then, you belong to me. I will take care of you and be responsible. You shall not leave me."

"So be it; I am yours," said Van Mitten.

"And you, Nizib, you must look after yonder valet," added Kéraban, indicating Bruno. "I charge you particularly to modify his ideas concerning our wonderful capital."

Nizib made a sign of assent, and at once carried Bruno away into the midst of the crowd, which was becoming more and more compact.

"Now I think of it," said Kéraban suddenly, "you have come very opportunely, Van Mitten. Six weeks later I should have been far away from Constantinople."

"You, Kéraban?"

"Yes; I should have embarked for Odessa by that time."

"For Odessa! Indeed!"