These men, who seemed weary with long travel, marched up the terrace with a proud mien, not looking at the dais or any one until they saw the brethren standing side by side, at whom they stared a little.
Next they caught sight of Rosamund sitting in the shadow of the canopy, and bowed to her, but of the Al-je-bal they took no notice.
"Who are you, and what is your pleasure ?" asked Sinan, after he had eyed them awhile.

"I am the ruler of this country.

These are my ministers," and he pointed to the dais, "and here is my sceptre," and he touched the bloodred dagger broidered on his robe of black.
Now that Sinan had declared himself the embassy bowed to him, courteously enough.

Then their spokesman answered him.
"That sceptre we know; it has been seen afar.

Twice already we have cut down its bearers even in the tent of our master.