_Hatem Tai_.

[4] Hatem Tai was an Arabian chief, who lived a short time prior to
the promulgation of Mohammedanism. He has been so much celebrated
through the East for his generosity that even to this day the
greatest encomium which can be given to a generous man is to say
that he is as liberal as Hatem. Hatem was also a poet; but his
talents were principally exerted in recommending his favorite
virtue.


THE BATTLE OF SABLA[5]

Sabla, them saw'st th' exulting foe
In fancied triumphs crown'd;
Thou heard'st their frantic females throw
These galling taunts around:--

"Make now your choice--the terms we give,
Desponding victims, hear;
These fetters on your hands receive,
Or in your hearts the spear."

"And is the conflict o'er," we cried,
"And lie we at your feet?
And dare you vauntingly decide
The fortune we must meet?

"A brighter day we soon shall see,