H o l a k uʼ s R e t u r n 40 Al Mustasim: What is that weapon? Ibn Al Algami: That is a catapult by which they throw igneous shells and arrows. They use Chinese experts to operate these flame-throwers. Al Mustasim: What shall we do? Ibn Al Algami: from a paper that he draws from his pocket, My Lord! All the money and jewels that you have were for this day to fend of this evil from this family and also to protect dignity, honor and self safety. Therefore we should prepare the following: One thousand loads of priceless gems, one thousand loads of well-bred camels, one thousand of the highly regarded Arabian horses loaded with all necessities. Offer Holaku our apology, Khutba[1] should be delivered in mosques in his names and coins should be minted with this title. Al Mustasim: Splendid, splendid! I approve of this proper suggestion. Let these things be prepared quickly and then send them to the Mongol’s leader Holaku. Enters Al Duwaidar sneering. 1- Khutba is a sermon, delivered especially at a Friday service, at the two major Islamic festivals (Eids), and on extraordinary occasions.
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