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90 boat was launched, and in five minutes, under the impulse of four strong rowers, the gig came alongside the steps of the terrace. Captain Yarhud then signified to Ahmet that he was at the young man's disposal.

Yarhud, notwithstanding his habitual self-command, could scarcely conceal his satisfaction at the turn things had taken, and at the opportunity which had presented itself. Time pressed, for Kéraban might arrive now at any moment, and there was nothing to prevent his remaining for a day or two to celebrate the wedding of the young couple. Now Amasia, as the wife of Ahmet, would not be an acceptable visitor at the palace of the Seigneur Saffar.

Yes; Captain Yarhud felt as if suddenly impelled to act by force. It was quite in his line to act without any consideration or scruple. Besides, the circumstances were all favourable, and the wind was in the proper quarter for his enterprise. The vessel would be well in the offing before any pursuit could be attempted, even supposing the abduction were immediately discovered. Had Ahmet been absent, Yarhud would not have hesitated to carry Amasia and her maid on board then and there, and put to sea with them, while they were engaged in examining the various fabrics in the cabin. It would be easy enough to keep them prisoners, and stifle their cries until the Guidare had gained the open sea. With Ahmet present the difficulties had increased, but were not insurmountable. The captain would not hesitate to put Ahmet "out of the way," if necessary. The murder would be put in the bill, and Seigneur Saffar would have to pay the increased cost: that would be all!

Yarhud remained standing on the steps, and thinking what course would be best, when he had persuaded Ahmet and his companions to embark in the boat for the Guidare, which lay scarcely a cable's length away, lifting gently to the motion of the waves.

Ahmet, standing upon the lowest step, was about to hand Amasia to her seat in the stern of the gig, when the door leading into the gallery opened, and a man of about fifty years of age, dressed something in the European style, entered hurriedly.