The curse of war.

I the prophet have spoken.

Depart." Watching, I could see that this ultimatum delivered by Harut in a most impressive voice, and seconded as it was by the sudden and simultaneous lifting of the spears of all our escort that were within hearing, produced a considerable effect upon the messengers.

Their faces grew afraid and they shrank a little.

Evidently the "threefold curse of the Child" suggested calamities which they dreaded.