"We are agreed.—The interview is finished.—Ali is waiting for you."
He replaced the cover on the box containing the collar and the half-boots.
"I will send these to the Countess your mother; for hereafter you are to be to me Ugo, Count Corti.... My falcon hath cast its jess and hood. Mirza is no more. Farewell Mirza."
Corti was deeply moved. Prostrating himself, he arose, and replied:
"I go hence more my Lord's lover than ever. Death to the stranger who in my presence takes his name in vain."
As he was retiring, Mahommed spoke again:
"A word, Count.... In what we are going to, the comfort and safety of the Princess Irene may require you to communicate with me. You have ready wit for such emergencies. Leave me a suggestion."
Corti reflected an instant.
"The signal must proceed from me," he said. "My Lord will pitch his tent in sight"—
"By Solomon, and this his sword, yes! Every Gabour who dares look over the wall shall see it while there is a hill abiding."