"Nay, then," said Richard, "if he loves not wine, that lightener
of the human heart, his conversion is not to be hoped for, and
the prediction of the mad priest of Engaddi goes like chaff down
the wind."
The King then addressed himself to settle the articles of combat,
which cost a considerable time, as it was necessary on some
points to consult with the opposite parties, as well as with the
Soldan.
They were at length finally agreed upon, and adjusted by a
protocol in French and in Arabian, which was subscribed by
Saladin as umpire of the field, and by Richard and Leopold as
guarantees for the two combatants. As the Omrah took his final
leave of King Richard for the evening, De Vaux entered.
"The good knight," he said, "who is to do battle tomorrow
requests to know whether he may not to-night pay duty to his
royal godfather!"
"Hast thou seen him, De Vaux?" said the King, smiling; "and
didst thou know an ancient acquaintance?"
"By our Lady of Lanercost," answered De Vaux, "there are so many
surprises and changes in this land that my poor brain turns.
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