How many slaves and retainers waited behind those velvet curtains?
Harrik saw the glance and interpreted it correctly.

With a look of dark triumph he clapped his hands.

As if by magic fifty black slaves appeared, armed with daggers.

They folded their arms and waited like statues.
David made no sign of discomposure, but said slowly: "Dost thou think I did not know my danger, Eminence?
Do I seem to thee such a fool?
I came alone as one would come to the tent of a Bedouin chief whose son one had slain, and ask for food and safety.

A thousand men were mine to command, but I came alone.