Inside, men called across one another while animals turned in a space too small for them. A handler from another line spoke quickly to the driver. The driver understood only enough to become impatient.
The young man understood less. One of their carriers had lifted his head at the first words. The young man touched the driver’s arm and pointed to him.
“He understands.”
The carrier came forward. The two men spoke. A blocked unloading place opened, and the driver moved their line before another merchant claimed it.
The young man felt a small private pleasure. He had not known the words. He had known who did.