"I can ride as well as the best of the horsemen of the grand-vizier.
On a bare horse I can fly over the plains with the speed of a bird.
I know how to handle the sword and the spear, and in the fastest
gallop I can sever the head of a horse from his body. These are arts
that are useful over there, and in them I am a master. You may look
at me in astonishment if you will! I am not as tall and stout as you
are, but I can tell you I have the strength of a giant, and, in
spite of my fourteen years, I am a man. I expect to make my fortune
in Egypt."

"And where have you been until now? From what place do you come?"

"I have been a slave from my youth; I was well brought up and had an
education; I know how to wait on fine gentlemen. I served a nobleman
as first valet for three years, but couldn't stand the dull,
effeminate life. I longed to be out in the world, and committed all
sorts of freaks in order that my master might drive me off. To be
sure, I received the bastinado daily, but I stood it like a man. I
determined to continue to annoy my gracious master until he should
sell me. Look at my feet!"

He took off his shoes and showed Mohammed the scarred soles of his
feet.

"These are the scars with which I have purchased my future. Yes; but
why do you look at me in such astonishment? By Allah! I should not
like to live on this rock here, like you! I must out into the world;
must go to Egypt, and make something great of myself."