Omar waited outside, while Babalatchi went in and came out directly, dragging after him the old Arab's praying carpet.

Out of a brass vessel he poured the water of ablution on Omar's outstretched hands, and eased him carefully down into a kneeling posture, for the venerable robber was far too infirm to be able to stand.

Then as Omar droned out the first words and made his first bow towards the Holy City, Babalatchi stepped noiselessly towards Aissa, who did not move all the time.
Aissa looked steadily at the one-eyed sage, who was approaching her slowly and with a great show of deference.

For a moment they stood facing each other in silence.

Babalatchi appeared embarrassed.