“Do you mean you have done this without the Sultan’s knowledge?”
“As sure as I am Rustan. But, by Allah, the Sultan does not and must not know a word of it.”
The boys looked at each other in amazement.
“Do not be alarmed, dear young gentlemen,” said Rustan. “You shall know all. Look you! old Rustan loves the Christians though he is a Mussulman. When I was a young man I bravely fought them, for I was incited by the dervishes, the bloodthirsty enemies of your faith. I was wounded, taken prisoner, and nursed by a Christian in his home. I have never forgotten it. I have never fought against them since. Fate brought me to this castle and made me your keeper. The Sultan forced me to treat you harshly. It broke my heart to see you suffering, and I have improved the first opportunity to make you some amends.”
Both the brothers were greatly moved by his story, and believed they were doing right to accept his proffer.
“Now, drink,” said the Turk. “It is pure Cyprus, which, as I have heard, is much esteemed by the Franks.”
After considerable persuasion the prisoners drank, and the excellent, strong wine refreshed them. Rustan urged them to take some more, but they declined. They restrained their desires as usual, for they well knew that much wine was not wholesome for those so young. They were satisfied with what was reasonable, and this had always been the habit of their lives.
The Test
Rustan improved his opportunity, and while repeatedly lamenting their hard lot, he informed them they must attempt to free themselves, for they could expect no mercy from the Sultan, who had sworn by the beard of the Prophet to punish their insolence. “No Mussulman, least of all Kilidj Arslan, ever breaks this oath,” said he; “therefore, fly!”