Dervish knew for certain, that she had left about half an hour ago on
her way thither. The almost contemptuous words with which he
concluded his narration plainly showed that he desired nothing more
earnestly than to seduce some Christians to undertake a journey which
must terminate inevitably in their destruction. At the same time he
added a solemn oath that everything was truly as he had stated it,
and he did this in a firm and grave manner, as a man who knows that
he is speaking the most indubitable truth. Surprised and thoughtful,
the circle of officers held their council round him.

Then Heimbert stepped forward with an air as if of request; he had
just received a summons to leave the burning palace, where he had
been seeking his friend, and had been appointed to the place of
council because it was necessary to arrange the troops here in
readiness for any possible rising in the conquered city. "What do
you wish, my young hero?" said Alba, recognizing him as he appeared.
"I know your smiling, blooming countenance well. You were but lately
sheltering me like a protecting angel. I am so sure that you make no
request but what is honorable and knightly that anything you may
possibly desire is granted beforehand." "My great Duke," replied
Heimbert, with cheeks glowing with pleasure, "if I may then venture
to ask a favor, will you grant me permission to follow the beautiful
Zelinda at once in the direction which this wonderful Dervish has
pointed out?" The great general bowed in assent, and added, "So
noble an adventure could not be consigned to a more noble knight!"

"I do not know that!" said an angry voice from the throng. "But well
do I know that to me above all others this adventure belongs, even
were it assigned as a reward for the capture of Tunis. For who was
the first on the height and within the city?" "That was Don Fadrique