reason of the waters; and that it was his set purpose at all events to
succour them and deliver them from the oppression which they endured,
and he was preparing to do this with all diligence. And he bade them
take courage, and maintain the city. And when the Moors of Valencia
heard, these letters they took heart, and joined with the sons of
Aboegib, and their resolve was that they would be firm and maintain the
city. And they said that Abeniaf had made the Almoravides retreat,
because he had told them that there was discord in the town. And
Abeniaf kept great watch, having a great guard to secure him, least the
people should attempt aught against him. And the price of all things in
Valencia was doubled.

XVI. Then the Cid drew nearer to the walls, so that no man could either
enter in or issue out, but whosoever attempted it was either slain or
taken. And he gave orders to till all the lands which lay round about
Alcudia, for this was now become a great place, even like a city, and
the Moors who dwelt there were safe; and tents and shops were made
there for all kinds of merchandize, and merchants came there safely
from all parts to buy and to sell, so that they who dwelt there were
greatly enriched. And justice was administered to all full righteously,
so that there was none who could complain of the Cid nor of his
Almoxarife, nor of any of his people; and the Moors were judged by
their own law, and were not vexed, and he took from them only a tenth.
Now came true tidings from Denia that the Almoravides had returned into
their own country, and that there was no hope of succour at their
hands. And when they of Valencia heard this they were greatly troubled.
And they who held the Castles round about came humbly to the Cid, to
place their love upon him, and besought him that he would accept
tribute from them, and have them under his protection; and he gave
orders that they might travel the roads in peace: and in this manner