Napoleon, having crossed the Red Sea, at the ford, was met on the
opposite shore, by a deputation of Cenobites from Mount Sinai. These
monks threw themselves at his feet, imploring his protection; and after
having invoked the blessings of heaven on his head, they presented for
his signature the ancient register of their privileges. Napoleon smiled
at their request; he took the pen, and no doubt flattered by an homage
so extraordinary, signed his name already immortal beside those of Ali,
of Saladin, and of Ibrahim.
[Illustration: NAPOLEON INSCRIBING HIS NAME ON MOUNT SINAI.]