with Begtash's sons, the valiant Janissaries? Get out of my way while
you are still able to go away whole, for if you remain here much longer,
I'll teach you to be a little more obedient."

"Let my guest go in peace, I say, and then go thine own way also!"

"Why, what ails you, worthy Mussulman? Has anyone offended thee?
Mashallah! what business is it of thine if I choose to strike off the
head of a dog? You can pick up ten more like him in the street any time
you like."

The Turk, perceiving that it would be difficult to convince a drunken
man by mere words, drew nearer to him, and grasped the hand that held
the yataghan.

"What do you want?" cried the Janissary, fairly infuriated at this act
of temerity.

"Come! Go thy way!"

"Do you know whose hand thou art grasping? My name is Halil."

"Mine also is Halil."

"Mine is Halil Pelivan--Halil the Wrestler!"

"Mine is Halil Patrona."

By this time the Janissary was beside himself with rage at so much
opposition.