"Suddenly we heard shouts of joy. The name of the Arnorian resounded repeated by our Snagachoi; it was evident that he brought a favourable response from the emperor.
"Soon a shadow appeared in the bluing twilight formed by the rays of day penetrating the entrance of the souterrain.
"'Who are you?' cried Ibn-Babar.
"'Glory to the sultan!' said the shadow. 'Mercy is accorded to Ala-Pallando, and not only is his life saved, but his fortune and property is returned to him, yea, and even his orc-odalisques.'
"'I must have a token,' said Ibn-Babar.
"'Yes,' said the envoy. 'I bear the ring.' At the same time, he raised a hand above his head.
"Ibn-Babar took the ring with his trunk and inspected it until he read the verse that guaranteed its authenticity. Satisfied, he laid down his weapons.
