As David entered, Kaid was busy receiving salaams, and returning greeting, but with an eye to the singularly boyish yet gallant figure approaching.

By the time David had reached the group, the Prince Pasha was ready to receive him.
"Friend, I am glad to welcome thee," said the Effendina, sly humour lurking at the corner of his eye.

Conscious of the amazement of all present, he held out his hand to David.
"May thy coming be as the morning dew, friend," he added, taking David's willing hand.
"And thy feet, Kaid, wall in goodly paths, by the grace of God the compassionate and merciful." As a wind, unfelt, stirs the leaves of a forest, making it rustle delicately, a whisper swept through the room.

Official Egypt was dumfounded.

Many had heard of David, a few had seen him, and now all eyed with inquisitive interest one who defied so many of the customs of his countrymen; who kept on his hat; who used a Mahommedan salutation like a true believer; whom the Effendina honoured--and presently honoured in an unusual degree by seating him at table opposite himself, where his Chief Chamberlain was used to sit.
During dinner Kaid addressed his conversation again and again to David, asking questions put to disconcert the consuls and other official folk present, confident in the naive reply which would be returned.