The parties were, in reality, those of Mohammed and the emissaries of
Medina, who at once opened negotiations. After the salutations were
over, they extended to Mohammed a formal invitation to Medina.

"We will receive you as a confederate, obey you as a leader, and defend
you to the last extremity, even as we defend our wives and children,"
said the spokesman.

"For your gracious invitation accept my most hearty thanks," said
Mohammed. "My work is not yet ended in Mecca, yet ere long I hope to pay
at least a visit to you, O believers of Medina."

"But," said the leader, "if you are recalled to your own district you
will not forsake us?"

"All things," replied Mohammed, "are now common between us. Your blood
is my blood. Your ruin is my ruin. We are bound to each other by the
ties of honor and interest. I am your friend and the enemy of your
foes."

He then chose twelve of the men to be the especial heralds of his faith,
and all, placing their hands in his, swore fealty to him in life and in
death.

"If we are killed in your service, what shall be our reward?" asked one
of the number.

"Paradise!" cried the prophet. "Vales of eternal rest and felicity,
odors of sweet spices on the air, blessed spirits to--"