"It is the ancient custom of
princes here. Custom is law, while it is yet the custom."
Kaid looked at him enigmatically for a moment, then smiled grimly--he saw
the course of the lance which David had thrown. He bent his look fiercely
on Achmet and Higli. "Ye have heard. Truth is on his lips. I have
stretched out my arm. Ye are my arm, to reach for and gather in Nahoum
and all that is his." He turned quickly to David again. "I have given
this hawk, Achmet, till to-morrow night to bring Nahoum to me," he
explained.
"And if he fails--a penalty? He will lose his place?" asked David, with
cold humour.
"More than his place," Kaid rejoined, with a cruel smile.
"Then is his place mine, Effendina," rejoined David, with a look which
could give Achmet no comfort. "Thou will bring Nahoum--thou?" asked Kaid,
in amazement.
"I have brought him," answered David. "Is it not my duty to know the will
of the Effendina and to do it, when it is just and right?"
"Where is he--where does he wait?" questioned Kaid eagerly.
"Within the Palace--here," replied David.
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