CHAPTER XVII.
AN ALPINE STORM.
The tremendous exertions which King Richard had made told upon him, and attacks of fever succeeded each other at short intervals.

This, however, mattered the less, since negotiations were now proceeding between him and Saladin.

It was impossible, with the slight means at his disposal, for Richard further to carry on the Crusade alone.

Moreover, pressing news had arrived from his mother in England, urging him to return, as his brother John was intriguing against him, and had already assumed all but the kingly title.

Saladin was equally desirous of peace.