It was chance, or rather, according to the ideas of
these Orientals, God Himself who was about to decide the fate
of Michael Strogoff. The people of Central Asia give the name
of "fal" to this practice. After having interpreted the sense
of the verse touched by the judge's finger, they apply the sentence
whatever it may be.
The Emir had let his finger rest on the page of the Koran. The chief
of the Ulemas then approached, and read in a loud voice a verse
which ended with these words, "And he will no more see the things
of this earth."
"Russian spy!" exclaimed Feofar-Kahn in a voice trembling with fury,
"you have come to see what is going on in the Tartar camp.
Then look while you may."
CHAPTER V "LOOK WHILE YOU MAY!"
MICHAEL was held before the Emir's throne, at the foot
of the terrace, his hands bound behind his back.
His mother overcome at last by mental and physical torture,
had sunk to the ground, daring neither to look nor listen.
"Look while you may," exclaimed Feofar-Kahn, stretching his arm
towards Michael in a threatening manner. Doubtless Ivan Ogareff,
being well acquainted with Tartar customs, had taken in the full meaning
of these words, for his lips curled for an instant in a cruel smile;
he then took his place by Feofar-Khan.
A trumpet call was heard. This was the signal for the amusements
to begin. "Here comes the ballet," said Alcide to Blount;
"but, contrary to our customs, these barbarians give it
before the drama.
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