Next he sprang to his feet, and, leaping to one side to escape the rush of his captors, ran like a deer towards the party of Sakon, who had wheeled round at the sound of his cry.
Ithobal and his men had turned also and sped towards them, but at a little distance they halted, the king shouting aloud:-- "I desired to hold this foreigner, who is the cause of war between us, hostage for your daughter's sake, Sakon, but this time he has escaped me.

Well, it matters nothing, for soon my turn will come.

Therefore, if you and he are wise, you will send him back to the sea, for thither alone I promise him safe conduct." Then without more words he walked to his camp, the gates of which were closed behind him.
***** "Prince Aziel," said Sakon, as they went towards the city, "it is ill to speak such words to an honoured guest, but it cannot be denied that you bring much trouble on my head.

Twice now you have nearly perished at the hands of Ithobal, and should that chance, doubtless I must earn the wrath of Israel.

On your behalf, also, the city of Zimboe is this day plunged into a war that well may be her last, since it is because you have grown suddenly dear to her that my daughter has continued to refuse the suit of Ithobal, and because of his outraged pride at this refusal that he has raised up the nations against us.