could not satisfy this desire because of the dislike which his father
showed for his cousin, the son of his uncle. This curiosity of Khaled
continued unsatisfied until the death of his father Moharib, which put
him in possession of rank, wealth, and lands. He followed the example of
his father in entertaining strangers, protecting the weak and
unfortunate, and giving raiment to the naked. He continued also to scour
the plains on horseback with his warriors, and in this way waxed greater
in bodily strength and courage. After some time, gathering together a
number of rich gifts, he started, in company with his mother, to visit
his uncle. He did not draw rein until he reached the dwelling of Zahir,
who was delighted to see him, and made magnificent preparations for his
entertainment; for the uncle had heard tell on many occasions of his
nephew's worth and valor. Khaled also visited his cousin. He saluted
her, pressed her to his bosom, and kissed her forehead, thinking she was
a young man. He felt the greatest pleasure in her company, and remained
ten days with his uncle, regularly taking part in the jousts and
contests of the horsemen and warriors. As for his cousin, the moment she
had seen how handsome and valiant Khaled was, she had fallen violently
in love with him. Her sleep left her; she could not eat; and her love
grew to such a pitch that feeling her heart completely lost to him, she
spoke to her mother and said: "O mother, should my cousin leave without
taking me in his company, I shall die of grief at his absence." Then her
mother was touched with pity for her, and uttered no reproaches, feeling
that they would be in vain. "Djaida," she said, "conceal your feelings,
and restrain yourself from grief. You have done nothing improper, for
your cousin is the man of your choice, and is of your own blood. Like
him, you are fair and attractive; like him, brave and skilful in
horsemanship. Tomorrow morning, when his mother approaches us, I will
reveal to her the whole matter; we will soon afterwards give you to him
in marriage, and finally we will all return to our own country."