You may not believe it true, but I would give much to know what Ilfra the Understanding One knew.

I was reared under Egypt's sunny skies; I have lain under her stately palms and watched the twinkling stars; I am a child of the East, and believe in the truths that are taught there.

I have only dabbled in the mysteries of the unseen, but I know enough to tell you that what my friend says is true." Was this a ruse on the part of the Egyptian?
Looking at the whole matter in the light of what followed I believe it was.

And yet at the time I did not know.
"I am sorry," I replied, "if I have caused annoyance.

But we English people possess the right of our opinions.