'
He ceased: a buzz of approbation sounded throughout the pavilion, which
was hushed instantly as the lips of the conqueror moved.
'Noble emir,' replied Alroy, 'return to Bagdad, and tell your
fellow-subjects that the King of Israel grants protection to their
persons, and security to their property.'
'And for their faith?' enquired the envoy, in a lower voice.
'Toleration,' replied Alroy, turning to Jabaster.
'Until further regulations,' added the high priest.
'Emir,' said Alroy, 'the person of the caliph will be respected.'
'May it please your highness,' replied Honain, 'the Sultan of Roum has
retired with our late ruler.'
'And his harem?'
'And his harem.'
'It was needless. We war not with women.'
'Men, as well as women, must acknowledge the gracious mercy of your
highness.'
'Benomi,' said Alroy, addressing himself to a young officer of the
guard, 'command the guard of honour that will attend this noble emir on
his return. We soldiers deal only in iron, sir, and cannot vie with the
magnificence of Bagdad, yet wear this dagger for the donor's sake:' and
Alroy held out to Honain a poniard flaming with gems.
The Envoy of Bagdad advanced, took the dagger, pressed it to his lips,
and placed it in his vest.
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