BALADIN AND RICHARD There are indications that Richard was exercising a cynical humor in all his dealings with the Saracen chiefs, and particularly so with the Sultan, Relentless in pressing every opportunity to injure the enemy, he continued to make a show of friendliness, and did not hesitate to ask for all sorts of favors. Saladin, though not a whit deceived, responded with unruffled courtesy to these demands. Iced sherbets, snow from the mountains and fruit are freely supplied at Richard's request, and once, when he sent word to el-Adel that he would fain be beguiled by some Saracen music, of the beauty of which he had heard great praise, a skilled singer was sent to his tent, where she performed at length, accompanying herself on the guitar. Richard condescended to express great pleasure at this courtesy. Returning to the proposed interview with the Sultan, Richard again despatched his messenger, this time again to el-Melek, to deny a report that the other Christian princes had intervened, feeling that such an interview could only be harmful to their interests. " Do not believe the reports that have been spread as to the cause of my enforced delay," wrote the King. " I am answerable to my self alone for what I may do. I am master of my actions, and no one has any authority over me. But, during the last few days, I have been prevented from doing anything at all by sickness. That alone has caused the delay. It is the custom of kings, when they happen to be near one another, to send each other mutual presents and gifts. Now I have