Page:Muhammad Diyab al-Itlidi - Historical Tales and Anecdotes of the Time of the Early Khalîfahs - Alice Frere - 1873.djvu/49

20 have elapsed, if the young man does not appear, I will redeem my pledge and resign myself, so help me God!"

Then said ʾOmar: "By Allâh! if the young man delays, I will surely execute upon Abu-Zarr what the law of el-Islám ordains."

At these words tears fell from the eyes of the spectators, and sighs for Abu-Zarr broke from all who were present; and great was the sorrow, and deep the regret.

Then some of the chief of the Associates suggested to the two young men to take the price of blood, and so obtain the praise bestowed upon those who are merciful. But they would none of it, and refused everything excepting vengeance for him who had been slain.

And while thę people were swaying to and fro with grief at what was passing, and commiserating Abu-Zarr, lo! the young man approached, and stood before the Imâm, whom he saluted with a perfect salutation. And his countenance was radiant as the rising sun, and shone with sweat. And he cried, "Behold! I made over the boy to the care of his mother's brethren, and acquainted them with the