The Prince pursued his explanation without apparently noticing the
interruption noticing the interruption.

"To verify the confidences of the stars, I sought the Magus in his
chapel by the sacred river. Together we consulted them, and made the
calculations. He embraced me; but it was agreed between us that absolute
verity of the finding could only be had by re-casting the horoscopes at
Constantinople. Thou must know, O Emir, there is an astral alphabet
which has its origin in the inter-relations of the heavenly bodies,
represented by lines impalpable to the common eye; know also that the
most favored adept cannot read the mystic letters with the assurance
best comporting with verity, except he be at the place of the destined
event or revolution. To possess myself of the advantage, I shall ere
long visit the ancient capital. More plainly, I am on the way thither
now."

Instead of allaying the eagerness of the Emir, the words excited it the
more.

"Release me from my pledge," he repeated, entreatingly, "and tell me who
thou art. Mahommed is my pupil; he rides, carries shield, lays lance,
draws arrow, and strikes with sword and axe as I have taught him. Thou
canst not name a quality characteristic of heroes he does not possess.
Doth Allah permit me safe return from the Hajj, he will be first to meet
me at his father's gate. Think what happiness I should have in saluting
him there with the title--Hail Mahommed, Conqueror of Constantinople!"

The Jew answered:

"I would gladly help thee, O Emir, to happiness and promotion; for I see