CHAPTER FIVEThe Earl, speaking French, asked for the Head man who was in charge of the girls.
He was taken up into a larger room where on long, low tables were bowls of fruit and sweetmeats.
There was no one there.
He was aware that tonight was the night before the big sale and only the representatives of the most affluent buyers were given a private viewing of those who were to be sold on the following day.
When the Head man came hurrying towards him he saw him look at him in surprise as if he expected someone he had seen before.
The Earl therefore declared,
“I have come from Sultan Abd-Al-Hasan and I am a new member of his household.”
“We are very delighted to receive you,” the Head man replied, bowing. “I will show you the most attractive girls, who I am sure the Sultan would wis
