All the more experienced warriors were now sent to the front, to face the first shock of the coming attack.
Kara-al-Zariel led a beautiful steed to Thyra.
"Mount, sweet maiden," he said; "This steed is one of fleetest. Go, ride on towards the sea, for our enemies are coming fast upon us, and this is no place for thee."
Thyra mounted, but steadfastly refused to flight.
"Thinkest thou, O chief, that I will fly from this danger?" she said scornfully. "Never! I will escape with my best friends, or perish with them."
In vain the emir persuaded her to seek safety at once.
"To perish or to fall again into the hands of the licentious Turks," he said; "remember, rash girl, these two terrible fates menace thee."
"If I am killed," responded Thyra, "it is the will of Heaven; but ere I become a captive to the Turks, the dagger shall end my life."
Her resolution being evidently fixed, the Arab chief ceased to persuade, but resolved, throughout the coming fight, to do all he could to shield her from danger.
On came the enemy's forces.