The questions, remarks, and details of Sebastian, were faithfully translated to him by Shirley, and these convinced the young Persian that in this stranger he was acquiring an able knight, one to whom war was familiar. The plans of their meditated operations were then displayed and discussed in the royal tent; it was here that the pre-eminence of European skill was peculiarly visible; it was here that Sebastian’s fire blazed out again. He examined every map, and weighed every calculation with the profoundest attention; he balanced their advantages and disadvantages; he detected their defects; he explained the justness of some, and the error of others; he then frankly proposed such alterations as his sounder experience dictated, and in elucidating these, gave loose to all the impetuous energy of his character. Sebastian was now on the theme which long habit had too much endeared; and as the track of glory opened and brightened before his mental eye, the prospect it held forth kindled new ardour and awoke new powers. His rusted cuirass and ill-fashioned greaves were forgotten by the young courtiers, as they circled round the foreign knight and listened to his interpreted discourse: Sebastian himself forgot that he was not dictating to his own war-council; on his brow sat the authority of a King, on his lips the convincing eloquence of a great commander. “What manner of man is this?” exclaimed the Sophi’s son, with astonishment--“Has he not headed armies in his own country?” Shirley replied in a low voice, unwilling to be heard by others, “I have signified to your highness’s sublime father, that he wishes his name and rank to be forgotten; he would be known only as Knight of the Cross. His illustrious master Don Sebastian King of Portugal perished in an unsuccessful expedition against the Moors, and since then I understand this faithful subject has devoted himself to serve religion and humanity, by combating only in their separate or united causes. I pledge myself for this stranger; and I predict that Persia will find no reason to repent of the confidence with which she reposes on my pledge.” Prince Abbas bowing graciously to Sir Anthony turned towards Sebastian; “Christian! he said, I accept your services; this day enrolls you in my royal father’s list of warriors: see that you do not dishonour our trust. Ask what you wish; the armory, the treasury, the magazine of horses, all are open to you; I feel assured that you will not make an indiscreet use of this generosity.”