Let Abidan's troops be all prepared, and at
the moment when the flames first ascend, march to the Seraglio gate as
if with aid. The affrighted guard will offer no opposition. While
the troops secure the portals, you yourselves, Zalmunna, Abidan, and
Jabaster, rush to the royal chamber and do the deed. In the meantime,
let brave Scherirah, with his whole division, surround the palace, as if
unconscious of the mighty work. Then come you forward, show, if it need,
with tears, the fated body to the soldiery, and announce the Theocracy.'
'It is the Lord who speaks,' said Abidan, who was doubtless prepared for
the proposition. 'He has delivered them into our hands.'
'A bold plan,' said Jabaster, musing, 'and yet I like it. 'Tis quick,
and that is something. I think 'tis sure.'
'It cannot fail,' exclaimed Zalmunna, 'for if the flame ascend not,
still we are but where we were.'
'I am for it,' said Scherirah.
'Well, then,' said Jabaster, 'so let it be. Tomorrow's eve will see us
here again prepared. Good night.'
'Good night, holy Priest. How seem the stars, Jabaster?'
'Very troubled; so have they been some days. What they portend I know
not.'
'Health to Israel.'
'Let us hope so.
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