ben Zeyad. Here they again avowed their
readiness to flock to his standard whenever it should be openly raised,
and made known their various preparations for a rebellion. Taric was
convinced, by all that he had seen and heard, that Count Julian had not
deceived them; either as to his disposition or his means to betray his
country. Indulging his Arab inclinations, he made an inroad into the land,
collected great spoil and many captives, and bore off his plunder in
triumph to Muza, as a specimen of the riches to be gained by the conquest
of the Christian land.

On hearing the tidings brought by Taric el Tuerto, and beholding the spoil
he had collected, Muza wrote a letter to the Caliph Waled Almanzor,
setting forth the traitorous proffer of Count Julian, and the probability,
through his means, of making a successful invasion of Spain. 'A new land,'
said he, 'spreads itself out before our delighted eyes, and invites our
conquest: a land, too, that equals Syria in the fertility of its soil, and
the serenity of its sky; Yemen, or Arabia the happy, in its delightful
temperature; India, in its flowers and spices; Hegias, in its fruits and
flowers; Cathay, in its precious minerals; and Aden, in the excellence of
its ports and harbors! It is populous also, and wealthy; having many
splendid cities, and majestic monuments of ancient art. What is to prevent
this glorious land from becoming the inheritance of the faithful? Already
we have overcome the tribes of Berbery, of Zab, of Derar, of Zaara,
Mazamuda, and Sus; and the victorious standard of Islem floats on the
towers of Tangier. But four leagues of sea separate us from the opposite
coast. One word from my sovereign, and the conquerors of Africa will pour
their legions into Andalusia, rescue it from the domination of the
unbeliever, and subdue it to the law of the Koran.'

The Caliph was overjoyed with the contents of the letter. 'God is great!'
exclaimed he, 'and Mahomet is his prophet! It has been foretold by the
ambassador of God, that his law should extend to the ultimate parts of the
west, and be carried by the sword into new and unknown regions. Behold,
another land is opened for the triumphs of the faithful! It is the will of
Allah, and be his sovereign will obeyed!' So the Caliph sent missives to
Muza, authorizing him to undertake the conquest.

Upon this there was a great stir of preparation; and numerous vessels were
assembled and equipped at Tangier, to convey the