“Say, when will my brother come?” exclaimed Ina. “Oh, ’twill be joy to see him.”
“In three days hence, if the Russians move not from their encampments,” answered Javis.
“Bring you any message for me?” said Zara, timidly addressing a young warrior, who respectfully saluted her at her approach.
“Yes, lady, I bear a message from my friend, the gallant Alp Beg. Before two days have passed, and ere the shade of yonder lofty tree has reached the stream which flows a short distance from its base, he will be here.”
“You bring me grateful news, indeed. Oh, many thanks!” returned Zara. “Say, is your friend well?”
“Yes, lady, he is well; and bears himself bravely against the foe,” answered the messenger.
“Come, come, maidens,” exclaimed Kahija, bustling up. “It is very incorrect to stop chattering longer than is necessary at the gate of the anderoon. If you have received your messages, come into the house, and let the young men go their way.”
Having no further excuse for remaining, the fair girls were obliged to do as desired, though they would fain have heard more of those so dear to them.