He probably did that because there were no jewels in the scabbard.
Arolind:
There were emeralds in it that outstared the sea.
* * * * * * * *
Tharmia:
Now I must leave you here and go down among the shops for I have not changed my hair since we came to Thek.
Ichtharion:
Have you not brought that from Barbul-el-Sharnak?
Tharmia:
It was not necessary. The King would not take his court where they could not obtain necessities.