Iskander proceeded down the descent with an audacious rapidity; but his
charger was thorough-bred, and his moments were golden. Ere midnight,
he had reached the outposts of the enemy, and was challenged by a
sentinel.

"Who goes there?"

"A friend to Christendom."

"The word?"

"I have it not -- nay calmly. I am alone, but I am not unarmed. I do
not know the word. I come from a far country, and bear important
tidings to the great Hunniades; conduct me to that chief."

"May I be crucified if I will," responded the sentinel, "before I know
who and what you are. Come, keep off, unless you wish to try the
effect of a Polish lance," continued the sentinel; "'tis something, I
assure you, not less awkward than your Greek fire, if Greek indeed you
be."

"My friend, you are a fool," said Iskander, "but time is too precious
to argue any longer." So saying, the Turkish commander dismounted, and
taking up the brawny sentinel in his arms with the greatest ease, threw
him over his shoulder, and threatening the astounded soldier with
instant death if he struggled, covered him with his pelisse, and
entered the camp.

They approached a watch-fire, around which several soldiers were