But I looked again upon my leaf, and then I saw that thy name now was also upon my leaf, and that it was neither green nor withered; but was a leaf that drooped as when an evil wind has passed and drunk its life.

Listen, O Kaid! Upon the tomb of Mahomet I will set my lips, and it may be that the leaf of my life will come fresh and green again.

But thou--wilt thou not come also to the lord Mahomet's tomb?
Or"-- he paused and raised his voice--"or wilt thou stay and lay thy lips upon the cross of the infidel?
Wilt thou--" He could say no more, for Kaid's face now darkened with anger.

He made a gesture, and, in an instant, the man was gagged and bound, while a sullen silence fell upon the crowd.

Kaid suddenly became aware of this change of feeling, and looked round him.