“Oh—” said Peter. “You didn’t perhaps happen to come across a company of men today, twelve white men and seven coloured, with three cart loads of provisions? We were taking them to the big camp, and I got parted from my troop this morning. I’ve not been able to find them, though I’ve been seeking for them ever since.”

The stranger warmed his hands slowly at the fire; then he raised his head:—“They are camped at the foot of those hills tonight,” he said, pointing with his hand into the darkness at the left. “Tomorrow early they will be here, before the sun has risen.”

“Oh, you’ve met them, have you!” said Peter joyfully; “that’s why you weren’t surprised at finding me here. Take a drop!” He took the small flask from his pocket and held it out. “I’m sorry there’s so little, but a drop will keep the cold out.”

The stranger bowed his head; but thanked and declined.

Peter raised the flask to his lips and took a small draught; then returned it to his pocket. The stranger folded his arms about his knees, and looked into the fire.

“Are you a Jew?” asked Peter, suddenly; as the firelight fell full on the stranger’s face.

“Yes; I am a Jew.”

“Ah,” said Peter, “that’s why I wasn’t able to make out at first what nation you could be of; your dress, you know—” Then he stopped, and said, “Trading here, I suppose? Which country do you come from; are you a Spanish Jew?”

“I am a Jew of Palestine.”

“Ah!” said Peter; “I haven’t seen many from that part yet. I came out with a lot on board ship; and I’ve seen Barnato and Beit; but they’re not very much like you. I suppose it’s coming from Palestine makes the difference.”

All fear of the stranger had now left Peter Halket. “Come a little nearer the fire,” he said, “you must be cold, you haven’t too much wraps. I’m chill in this big coat.” Peter Halket pushed his gun a little further away from him; and threw another large log on the fire. “I’m sorry I haven’t anything to eat to offer you; but I haven’t had anything myself since last night. It’s beastly sickening, being out like this with nothing to eat. Wouldn’t have thought a fellow’d feel so bad after only a day of it. Have you ever been out without grub?” said Peter cheerfully, warming his hands at the blaze.

“Forty days and nights,” said the stranger.

“Forty days! Ph—e—ew!” said Peter. “You must have have had a lot to drink, or you wouldn’t have stood it. I was feeling blue enough when you turned up, but I’m better now, warmer.”

Peter Halket re-arranged the logs on the fire.