XXXIX

(ll. 2691-2716) And Abraham answered: "I did it not in guile or
hatred, nor yet to work thee any woe. But I was far from mine
own people, prince of men, and shielded me by craft from,
violence and death. Since Holy God first led me forth of old
from the home of my lord and father, desolate of friends, I have
visited many a people, many an alien race, and this woman with
me. And ever this fear was in my heart, seeing I was a stranger,
lest some foe should slay me, and take this woman to himself.
Wherefore I said that Sarah was my sister, and this I told the
war-smiths everywhere on earth where we two homeless needs must
dwell with strangers. And so I did in this land also, mighty
prince, when I came under thy protection. I knew not if the fear
of God Almighty was among this people, when first I came here.
Therefore, with care, I hid from thee and from thy thanes the
truth, that Sarah was my wife and shared my bed."

(ll. 2717-2722) Then Abimelech began to endow Abraham with
treasure, and gave him his wife again; and because he had taken
his wife he gave him, to boot, wandering herds and servants and
gleaming silver. And the lord of men said also unto Abraham:

(ll. 2723-2726) "Abide with us and choose thee a dwelling in this
land, and an abode whereso it pleaseth thee; thee must I keep.
Be thou a faithful friend, and we will give thee riches."

(ll. 2727-2735) And the dispenser of treasure spake also unto
Sarah, and said: "No need hath Abraham, thy lord, to reproach
thee, O maiden of elfin beauty, because thou hast trod my halls.