ALEXANDRIA OR CAIRO. 107

But none present ventured to give the count the
support he seemed to expect; and the wise and
prudent bent their brows, and intimated their disap-
probation.

‘The matter is too serious to be lightly spoken of,’
said they, significantly ; ‘and this dispute is a sad
presage of future events; and well will it be if the
anger of the Most High is not provoked by such
offences.’

‘And now,’ said Louis, anxious to drop the sub-
ject, ‘let us to the business on which we assembled
to deliberate. Let us consult on the line of march,
and on the measures to be taken for completing the
conquest of Egypt.’

‘Sire,’ said John de Valery, a baron, whose pro-
bity and courage were the admiration of the army,
‘it seems to me that the best and safest policy is to
undertake the siege of Alexandria. That city has a
commodious port, where the fleet could find shelter,
and where munitions and provisions could be pro-
cured with facility. My voice, therefore, is for
marching to Alexandria.’ .

Many of those whose experience in war was
greatest—--among whom were the Master of the Temple
and the Master of the Hospital—echoed John de
Valery’s opinion.

‘For my part,’ said the Count of Artois, with his
characteristic rashness, ‘I dislike timid counse!s.
Why not at once attack Cairo, which is the capital
of Egypt? When you wish to kill the serpent,’
added he, ‘you ought always to endeavour to crush
his head. Then, I say, let us on to Cairo.’