Kings have the power of Satan to
torment, sages that of Allah to heal--beware how thou hinderest
the good to humanity which thou canst not thyself render. Thou
canst cut off the head, but not cure the aching tooth."
"This is over-insolent," said the King, hardening himself, as the
Hakim assumed a more lofty and almost a commanding tone. "We
took thee for our leech, not for our counsellor or conscience-keeper."
"And is it thus the most renowned Prince of Frangistan repays
benefit done to his royal person?" said El Hakim, exchanging the
humble and stooping posture in which he had hitherto solicited
the King, for an attitude lofty and commanding. "Know, then," he
said, "that: through every court of Europe and Asia--to Moslem
and Nazarene--to knight and lady--wherever harp is heard and
sword worn --wherever honour is loved and infamy detested--to
every quarter of the world--will I denounce thee, Melech Ric, as
thankless and ungenerous; and even the lands--if there be any
such--that never heard of thy renown shall yet be acquainted with
thy shame!"
"Are these terms to me, vile infidel?" said Richard, striding
up to him in fury.
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