Now while these evil ones took counsel strange, The son of Lamech journeyed home; and, lo! A company came down, and struck the track As he did enter it.

There rode in front Two horsemen, young and noble, and behind Were following slaves with tent gear; others led Strong horses, others bare the instruments O' the chase, and in the rear dull camels lagged, Sighing, for they were burdened, and they loved The desert sands above that grassy vale.
And as they met, those horsemen drew the rein, And fixed on him their grave untroubled eyes; He in his regal grandeur walked alone, And had nor steed nor follower, and his mien Was grave and like to theirs.

He said to them, "Fair sirs, whose are ye ?" They made answer cold, "The beautiful woman, sir, our mother dear, Niloiya, bear us to great Lamech's son." And he, replying, "I am he." They said, "We know it, sir.

We have remembered you Through many seasons.

Pray you let us not; We fain would greet our mother." And they made Obeisance and passed on; then all their train, Which while they spoke had halted, moved apace, And, while the silent father stood, went by, He gazing after, as a man that dreams; For he was sick with their cold, quiet scorn, That seemed to say, "Father, we own you not.
We love you not, for you have left us long,-- So long, we care not that you come again." And while the sullen camels moved, he spake To him that led the last, "There are but two Of these my sons; but where doth Japhet ride?
For I would see him." And the leader said, "Sir, ye shall find him, if ye follow up Along the track.