178 THE HISTORY OF THE ORDER OF [book ii.

to Mahometanism might be his spur; yet somethingof what had the air of stern fanaticism mingled withhis ferocity—as a new convert. Nevertheless theHospitallers engaged him to a truce for three years;and he let it stand, only as a tiger goes back to springthe better. The storm was gathering all round them,blacker and blacker; Bibars had taken much, andKelaoun will more—all to prepare for the crowningglory of Acre. It shall be a growing calamity.As Sephet, shall be Margat. Yet both are but out-works of Acre. Not the dismal doings themselves,but only the sure preparations for them, was theGrand Master Revel to see, kind Heaven so farsparing him; and better it was for him to die ofgrief (universal voice) at the coming tempest overthose Providence had confided to his care. To himthe order is indebted for many chapters holden op-portunely, and wise statutes and custumals in theprimitive spirit, but all in vain; at least as regard-ing its present establishment. Nothing can save it.So he expired of distress at what he foretold. Nordid that require any miraculous gift, but only notto be perfectly blind . 1 Bibars had finished hiswork with regard to all but the towns on thecoast. So Kelaoun flew to level them to the dust.The truce he minded just as far as it answered him;

1 Yertot: iii. 535.