"What disposition was made of it?"
"It was brought to me, and is now with other stores in my tent; a law of ancient institution vesting it in the Emir El Hajj."
The countenance of the Jew became serious.
"The ownership was not in my thought," he said, waving his hand. "I knew the law; but this scourge of Allah has its laws also, and by one of them we are enjoined to burn or bury whatever is found with the body."
The Emir, seeing the kindly concern of his host, smiled as he answered:
"But there is a higher law, O Hadji."
"I spoke without thinking danger of any kind could disturb thee."
The host drew forward the date basket, and the Emir, fancying he discerned something on his mind besides the fruit, waited his further speech.
"I am reminded of another matter, O brave Emir; but as it also is personal I hesitate. Indeed I will not speak of it except with permission."
"As you will," the other replied, "I will answer—May the Prophet help me!"