I know your repute of old, that you love money and will do much to gain it, and that you are craftier than any hill-side jackal.

Now, if you can do my will, you will have more wealth than ever you won in your life before." "The offer sounds good in a poor man's ears, King, but it depends upon what is your will." Ithobal went to the door of the tent, and commanded the sentries who stood without to suffer none to disturb him or draw near.

Then he returned and said:-- "I will tell you, but beware that you do not betray my counsels in this or in any other matter, for I have sharp ears and a long arm.

You know how things are between me and the lady Elissa and her father Sakon and the city which he governs.

They stand thus: Unless within eight days she is given to me in marriage, I have sworn that I will make war upon Zimboe.