"I will," said Aunt Amanda, now somewhat pale; and the others nodded assent.
"Then I will give you the White Robes," said Shiraz. "Without them you can not withstand the Fire."
He went to a wall and drew from behind the hangings a box, which he opened on the table. From this box he took six white linen gowns, and at his direction each put on one of the gowns. Freddie's was much too long, and he was obliged to hold it up.
"Well," said Toby, "I always did look ridiculous in a night-gown, but this beats—"
"Peace," said Shiraz. "The Fire will not harm you now. Two things only are necessary: to fear nothing, and to hold tight to the hour-glasses."
With these words he clapped his hands, and from behind the hangings on the rear wall stepped a black man, clad in a robe similar to the others. To this man the Persian spoke in some strange tongue, and the man bowed.
"Now," said Shiraz, "you will follow my servant. Farewell, and peace be with you."