Messenger.

News from the army, Sire.

K. Thou lookest black: What is it? speak.

Mess. O mighty king, ’tis ill. Sala ben Sala’s forces were attacked At nightfall by the Christians. In the dark Was battle waged. By morn what men remained And all the camp were captive.

K. God forbid! Five thousand men were there: be none escaped?

Mess. Such as in darkness fled.

K. And fledst thou thence?

Mess. The general sent me on.

K. And what of him?

Mess. The dawn discovered him, when all was lost, Fighting on foot upon a little hill, Surrounded by the foe; when seeing no hope, He made surrender to the Christian leader, Who gave him liberty. Thus far to tell He bade, and that he followed speedily.

K. When will he come?

Mess. Sire, tho’I used all duty, He hath overtaken me and dismounts without.

K. Go, wait upon him. [Exit Messenger. Accursed be the seed Of these idolaters. Five thousand men, The best in Fez: the right arm of my power Lost in one night. Five thousand men were there. Ah! by God’s holiest names!

Al. Thank heaven, dear father, The best is saved, if Sala be escaped.

K. True, girl: and from the ill there’s good to come: Their victory will lead these devils on. Ay, they will come. They know not of Morocco; They run into a trap.

Al. Will you make peace?

K. God bids us smite these hogs: I would that hell Were deeper to receive them.

Enter Sala.

Sala ben Sala, peace be with thee!