Being deeply
engaged with the details of the expedition to the Soudan, David had not
gone to the Palace; and he was unaware of the turn which things had
taken.
Three times, with slow and stately steps, the procession wound in a
circle in the great square, before it approached the pavilion where the
Effendina sat, the splendid camels carrying the embroidered tent wherein
the Carpet rested, and that which bore the Emir of the pilgrims, moving
gracefully like ships at sea. Naked swordsmen, with upright and shining
blades, were followed by men on camels bearing kettle-drums. After them
came Arab riders with fresh green branches fastened to the saddles like
plumes, while others carried flags and banners emblazoned with texts and
symbols. Troops of horsemen in white woollen cloaks, sheikhs and Bedouins
with flowing robes and huge turbans, religious chiefs of the great sects,
imperturbable and statuesque, were in strange contrast to the shouting
dervishes and camel-drivers and eager pilgrims.
At last the great camel with its sacred burden stopped in front of Kaid
for his prayer and blessing.
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