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 THE RED RUGS OF TARSUS

surrounded by luggage. Suitcases are nearest me. Trunks and steamer bundle are by the door. A Russian steamer is due to leave this evening. Herbert has taken passage on her as far as Beirut. There we shall catch the Italian leaving Saturday, or perhaps the Mes- sageries Portugal, scheduled for Monday. Fancy going to Egypt to get cool in summer! Most people go there to get warm in winter. Our year is finished. We meant to go early in June, anyway. It is a good thing I am feel- ing so well, and got my strength back so quickly. The heat is coming on, and we fear quarantine at Beirut and Port Said, if an epi- demic breaks out here. This is an urgent reason for our going immediately. Herbert turned over night from a college professor to a newspaper man. He has managed to send dispatches by little boats to Cyprus and they have gone uncensored to Paris. But now he has done all that needs to be done here in the way of getting news out. Much good has been [187]

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