CIIAP. V.]

ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM.

85

master himself wrote to him that the vessel was com-manded by a nephew of the King of Spain ; and thatthe knights so far bound themselves in the enclosedsafe-conduct (usual style), that it insured him asafe and honourable reception in Rhodes, as wellas freedom to leave it when he pleased. In further-ance of this, there were tasters at his first meal onboard; but such not being the Mahometan etiquette,Zain inquired what it meant; so hearing it was aroyal ceremony, and might also prevent poison, hereplied that he had no similar apprehensions withsuch generous warriors, and would much rather betreated as a friend than as a prince; and lookingdown furtively on his finger, thought he had abetter warrant that there was no poison present,for the emerald of his ring never turned pale, orgave the least twinge. So taking heart, he beganeating of every dish the major-domo had not yettasted ; and seemed somewhat joyous at this kindbehaviour, and to regain his natural spirits awhile,and nearly forget all his troubles. But when helost sight of land, he felt nothing deserves morecompassion than a fugitive king ; and sat silent forhours, and even seemed to exert all his-couragebefore he could resume his previous gaiety . 1

1 Bouliours: Vie D’Aubusson, iv. 197 and 198.—Bosio : par.ii., lib. xiii.