For some time I did not notice anything in particular, for my eyes were fixed upon the athaleb immediately before us, upon which was seated the loved form of Almah, which I could easily recognize.
But our athaleb flew slowly, and I noticed that we were falling behind.

I said this to Layelah, but she only remarked that it was fatigued with its long journey.

To this I objected that the others had made as long a journey, and insisted that she should draw nearer.

This she at first refused to do; but at length, as I grew persistent, she complied, or pretended to do so.

In spite of this, however, we again fell behind, and I noticed that this always happened when the reins were drawn tight.