Chinese and Arabian Literature - E. Wilson - The Search For Mecca

KHALED AND DJAIDA 17
become an intrepid warrior, and a redoubtable hero. It was
soon perceived by the rest of the army that his spirit and valor
were unconquerable.
Eventually he heard tell of his cousin Djonder, and his desire
to see and know him and to witness his skill in arms became
extreme. But he could not satisfy this desire because of the
dislike which his father showed for his cousin, the son of his
uncle. This curiosity of Khaled continued unsatisfied until
the death of his father Moharib, which put him in possession of
rank, wealth, and lands. He followed the example of his father
in entertaining strangers, protecting the weak and unfortu-
nate, and giving raiment to the naked. He continued also to
scour the plains on horseback with his warriors, and in this
way waxed greater in bodily strength and courage. After
some time, gathering together a number of rich gifts, he
started, in company with his mother, to visit his uncle. He
did not draw rein until he reached the dwelling of Zahir, who
was delighted to see him, and made magnificent preparations
for his entertainment; for the uncle had heard tell on many
occasions of his nephew's worth and valor. Khaled also visited
his cousin. He saluted her, pressed her to his bosom, and
kissed her forehead, thinking she was a young man. He felt
the greatest pleasure in her company, and remained ten days
with his uncle, regularly taking part in the jousts and contests
of the horsemen and warriors. As for his cousin, the moment
she had seen how handsome and valiant Khaled was, she had
fallen violently in love with him. Her sleep left her; she could
not eat ; and her love grew to such a pitch that feeling her
heart completely lost to him, she spoke to her mother and said
" O mother, should my cousin leave without taking me in his
company, I shall die of grief at his absence." Then her mother
was touched with pity for her, and uttered no reproaches, feeling
that they would be in vain. " Djaida," she said, " conceal
your feelings, and restrain yourself from grief. You have
done nothing improper, for your cousin is the man of your
choice, and is of your own blood. Like him, you are fair and
attractive; like him, brave and skilful in horsemanship. Tomorrow
morning, when his mother approaches us, I will reveal
to her the whole matter ; we will soon afterwards give you to
him in marriage, and finally we will all return to our own
country."
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