Mark, O assembled people, the infinite mercy
of the Vicegerent of Allah! He allows the wretched man to confess his
infamy, and to save by his confession, his unfortunate victims. I have
said it. Glory to Allah!'
And the people shouted, 'He has said it, he has said it! Glory to Allah!
He is great, he is great! and Mahomed is his prophet!'
'Am I to speak?' enquired Alroy, when the tumult had subsided. The
melody of his voice commanded universal attention.
Alp Arslan nodded his head in approbation.
'King of Karasme! I stand here accused of many crimes. Now hear my
answers. 'Tis said I am a rebel. My answer is, I am a Prince as thou
art, of a sacred race, and far more ancient. I owe fealty to no one but
to my God, and if I have broken that I am yet to learn that Alp Arslan
is the avenger of His power. As for thy God and Prophet, I know not
them, though they acknowledge mine. 'Tis well understood in every
polity, my people stand apart from other nations, and ever will, in
spite of suffering. So much for blasphemy; I am true to a deep faith
of ancient days, which even the sacred writings of thy race still
reverence. For the arts magical I practised, and the communion with
infernal powers 'tis said I held, know, King, I raised the standard of
my faith by the direct commandment of my God, the great Creator of the
universe.
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