Summon the Lord Honain.'
'Alp Arslan! Hah! a very famous warrior. The moment the beacon was
fired. No sudden impulse then, but long matured. I like it not.'
'Sire,' said Pharez, re-entering, 'a Tatar has arrived from the
frontiers of the province, who will see none but thyself. I have told
him your Highness was deeply busied, and as methinks he brings but the
same news, I----'
''Tis very likely; yet never _think_, good Pharez. I'll see the man.'
The Tatar entered.
'Well, Sir, how now! from whom?'
'From Mozul. The Governor bade me see the Caliph and none else, and tell
your Highness that the moment the beacon that announced the Feast of the
New Moon was fired on the mountains, the fell rebel Abidan raised the
standard of Judah in the province, and proclaimed war against your
Majesty.'
'In any force?'
'The royal power keeps within their walls.'
'Sufficient answer. Part of the same movement. We shall have some
trouble. Hast summoned Honain?'
'I have, Sire.'
'Go, see this messenger be duly served, and, Pharez, come hither: let
none converse with them. You understand?'
'Your Highness may assure yourself.'
'Abidan come to life. He shall not escape so well this time.
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