This one has been in service here for a hundred seasons and more." At this I began to regain my confidence, and as Layelah moved nearer to the athaleb I accompanied her.

A nearer view, however, was by no means reassuring.

The dragon look of the athaleb was stronger than ever, for I could see that all its body was covered with scales.

On its neck and back was a long ridge of coarse hair, and the sweep of its vast arms was enormous.

It was with a quaking heart that I stood near; but the coolness of Layelah reassured me, for she went close up, as a boy would go up to a tame elephant, and she stroked his enormous back, and the monster bent down his terrible head and seemed pleased.
"This," said Layelah, "is the way we have of escaping." "This!" I exclaimed, doubtfully.
"Yes," said she.