“The King of Portugal,” said Enrique, “will be prepared for the payment of any money ransom the King of Fez may demand.”
“The town of Ceuta,” said the chief officer of the Moors, “is the price of your liberty. Otherwise your troops must be put to the sword, and you and your chief nobles retained as prisoners at the king’s pleasure.”
“The King of Fez,” said Fernando, “has a right to impose conditions. I offer myself as the hostage he demands.”
“Fernando—no!” cried Enrique, suddenly losing his self-contained manner, and laying his hand on Fernando.
“The noble Infante,” said the Moorish envoy, “need have no fears. He and his companions will be treated as the guests of the king, and will be released immediately that Ceuta is in the hands of my master.”
Fernando smiled. “I have no fears,” he said, quietly.
“And doubtless,” said the Moor, “the King of Portugal will see that it is consistent with his honour to release his noble brother without delay.”
“The King of Portugal,” said Fernando, “will act as becomes an honourable and a Christian king.”
“I do not consent—I do not consent!” said Enrique, in such agitation that Fernando said—
“We will crave leave to withdraw, and to discuss this matter first with each other and then with our nobles.”