DIGNITY UNDER A GLOVE. 233

And now the grand vizier kissed the caliph’s hand,
and, presenting the ambassadors, explained their
errand. A long conversation, which was carried on
chiefly by the Templar and the grand vizier, followed;
and the caliph having expressed his willingness to
treat, the grand vizier desired him, in token of his
good faith, to give the ambassadors his hand. Mus-
teazem, however, shook his head, to indicate that he
was not prepared to derogate so far from his dignity.
At length, after some persuasion, he consented to
give them his hand, gloved.

‘That will do,’ said the grand vizier.

‘I fear not,’ replied the Templar, hesitating,

‘Sir,’ said Bisset, addressing the caliph—for by
this time the English knight had recovered all his
reckless audacity, and felt quite as much at home as
if he had been in the palace of Westminster, and
speaking to the good King Henry—‘ truth makes no
holes to hide herself in; and princes, if they will
covenant, must deal fairly and openly. Give us,
therefore, your hand, if you mean to treat; we will
make no bargains with your glove.’

But the caliph, still unsatisfied, stood upon his
dignity, and refused to be persuaded. However, at
the instance of the grand vizier, he consented to
consider the subject, and promise the ambassadors
another audience on the morrow. But who can tell
what a day may bring forth? Ere the morrow, an
event occurred which raised more important ques-
tions than whether he could, without degradation,
give his ungloved hand to a Templar and an English
knight.