Caspian thanked him， though neither he nor the others much liked the look of their new acquaintance， and all of them sat down. But hardly had they raised their cups to their lips when the black.haired man nodded to his companions and， as quick as lightning， all the five visitors found themselves wrapped in strong arms. There was a moment‘s struggle but all the advantages were on one side， and soon everyone was disarmed and had their hands tied behind their backs.except Reepicheep， writhing in his captor’s grip and biting furiously.
“Careful with that beast， Tacks，” said the Leader. “Don‘t damage him. He’ll fetch the best price of the lot， I shouldn‘t wonder.”
“Coward！ Poltroon！” squeaked Reepicheep. “Give me my sword and free my paws if you dare.”
“Whew！” whistled the slave merchant （for that is what he was）. “It can talk！ Well， I never did. Blowed if I take less than two hundred crescents for him.” The Calormenrescent， which is the chief coin in those parts， is worth bout a third of a pound.
“So that’s what you are，” said Caspian. “A kidnapper and aver. I hope you‘re proud of it.”
