To the terrified Marsillus it seemed as if human hair was growing and covering the ground on which he trod.
“Is there anything more delicious than the scent of these flowers?” But Marsillus could only smell the foul odours of a grave.
“See what flocks of birds perch in the branches! Hark! how sweetly they sing!”
But Marsillus seemed but to hear a laugh that came from under the ground. He saw that the leaves of this strange tree were shaped like human tongues, and when the breeze shook them, low’ voices murmured—“Revered sovereign, avenge my death!”
The King of Saragossa fell on his knees and to his prayers. The big tears ran down his white beard. “Sow sin, and you will reap remorse!” he exclaimed, with his eyes fixed on the earth.
The next day he called together his nobles, and announced to them his intention of avenging the death of Murad!
