` How dare you attack those whom the Bassa has taken under his protection ? ' ` Ah , my son , ' replied the soldier , ` The Bassa would withdraw his protection if he knew that these wretches have robbed me of all I have dearest in the world . He knows them as little as he knows you . ' ` But he knows me very well , ' replied Neangir , ` for he has recognised me as his son . Come with me now , into his presence . ' The stranger bowed and passed through the curtain held back by Neangir , whose surprise was great at seeing his father spring forward and clasp the soldier in his arms . ` What ! is it you , my dear Siroco ? ' cried he . ' I believed you had been slain in that awful battle when the followers of the Prophet were put to flight . But why do your eyes kindle with the flames they shot forth on that fearful day ? Calm yourself and tell me what I can do to help you . See , I have found my son , let that be a good omen for your happiness also . ' ' I did not guess , ' answered Siroco , ` that the son you have so long mourned had come back to you . Some days since the Prophet appeared to me in a dream , floating in a circle of light , and he said to me , `` Go to-morrow at sunset to the Galata Gate , and there you will find a young man whom you must bring home with you . He is the second son of your old friend the Bassa of the Sea , and that you may make no mistake , put your fingers in his turban and you will feel the plate on which my name is engraved in seven different languages . '' ' I did as I was bid , ' went on Siroco , ` and so charmed was I with his face and manner that I caused him to fall in love with Argentine , whose portrait I gave him . But at the moment when I was rejoicing in the happiness before me , and looking forward to the pleasure of restoring you your son , some drops of the elixir of love were spilt on the table , and caused a thick vapour to arise , which hid everything . When it had cleared away he was gone . This morning my old slave informed me that she had discovered the traitors who had stolen my daughters from me , and I hastened hither to avenge them .
But I place myself XXXXX your hands , and will follow your counsel . '
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