"It is for him now to learn the city within and without," the Jew proceeded; "its streets and edifices; its halls and walls; its strong and weak places; its inhabitants, commerce, foreign relations; the character of its ruler, his resources and policies; its daily events; its cliques and clubs, and religious factions; especially is it for him to foment the differences Latin and Greek."
It is questionable if any of the things imparted had been so effective upon Mahommed as this one. Not only did his last doubt of the man talking disappear; it excited a boundless admiration for him, and the freshest novitiate in human nature knows how almost impossible it is to refuse trust when once we have been brought to admire. "Oh!" Mahommed cried. "A pastime, a pastime, if I could be there!"
"Nay, my Lord," said the insidious counsellor, with a smile, "how do kings manage to be everywhere at the same time?"
"They have their Ambassadors. But I am not a king."
"Not yet a king"—the speaker laid stress upon the adverb—"nevertheless public representation is one thing; secret agency another."
Mahommed's voice sank almost to a whisper.
"Wilt thou accept this agency?"
"It is for me to observe the heavens at night, while calculations will take my days. I trust my Lord in his wisdom will excuse me."
"Where is one for the service? Name him, Prince—one as good."
"There is one better. Bethink you, my Lord, the business is of a long time; it may run through years."