Lead us against the enemy!"
"Then retire to rest early," cried Bardissi, his countenance radiant
with joy. "Unsaddle your horses and let them rest, too. To-morrow at
the break of day we mount, and fly with the wings of the wind to
meet the enemy. Allah and his holy hosts are with us."
"Allah and his holy hosts are with us!" is the joyous cry repeated
by the kachefs. Soon all is still in the camp of Damanhour. Men and
horses are at rest.
Bey Bardissi alone has not yet retired. He calls the Bedouin sheik,
Arnhyn, to his side. "You are brave and daring. I have work for you,
for which you shall be richly rewarded. If we are victorious, you
shall collect all the spoils you may desire from the field of
battle, and no one shall hinder you. The steeds and saddles, and the
arms and equipments of all the captured Turks, shall be yours. As
you know, three other sheiks have already applied to me, and offered
to assist with their camels and horses. You shall, however, have the
spoils of the battle-field if you will perform the service I require
of you."
"Give me your commands, master," said the Bedouin sheik, his eyes
sparkling with delight. "If you do not require me to pluck the sun
from heaven, or to lay the moon and stars at your feet, Sheik Arnhyn
will execute your commands for so rich a reward. Ah! how delighted
my daughter Butheita will be when I bring her the beautiful horses,
and glittering swords and daggers! The child loves such things.
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