The further we got from that desolate spot, the more the ache that filled my arse eased, until, by the time we had been on the road for a week, it was just a vague, nagging reminder of a vague, nagging dream.
I pushed the horses and Rashid, and we arrived in Cairo in twelve days. The guide knew where to find men who would be willing to return to the desert with us, and he brought them to the hotel where I’d taken a room. They seemed like good men, hard workers, and I hired them.
I recalled what Charlie had said, and I told Rashid, “We’ll need wagons.”
“I know where we can get some that won’t fall apart at the first harsh wind.”
“And horses?”
“Mules, lord.”
I shivered at being referred to in that manner, but nodded. “As you say.”
“I’ll obtain those as well.”
“Very good. While you’re
