alcoran. They had crossed a small wooden bridge, and, as they approached, he raised his head, and viewed them steadily, but without any marks of surprise; then threw his eyes down towards his book.
Heli saluted him, by laying his right hand on his breast. "Abdalla," said he, "holy man, thou art a true servant to the Most High. Praise be to him, and his prophet Mahomet."
The old man arose, and saluted them courteously. He invited them into his cell, where he set before them some dried fruits, and water clear as crystal.
Ferdinand was charmed with the sweet and placid countenance of this hermit—so different from the frigid austere looks of the Turks in general. His voice was mild, his eye soft, though penetrating; and he invited them to the simple repast, with a cordiality that denoted a beneficent mind.
"'Tis long since I have seen thee brother," said he to Heli.
