At the conquest of Susa, Harmozan, a Persian prince, the satrap of
Ahwaz, was taken prisoner by the Arabs. When about to be taken before
Omar, the Commander of the Faithful, he arranged himself in his most
gorgeous apparel, wearing a crown on his head, and his embroidered silk
robe being confined by a splendid jeweled girdle. When his conductors
brought him to the mosque he saw Omar stretched on the ground, taking a
mid-day sleep. When he awoke he asked their business, and they replied,
"We bring you here the king of Ahwaz."
"Take hence the infidel," said Omar, averting his gaze. "Strip him of
his robes, and array him in the garb of El Islam."
This was done, and when Harmozan was again brought into the presence of
Omar he wore the striped garments of the Arabs. After conversing a while
he complained of being thirsty; but when a cup of water was brought he
expressed a fear that he might be killed while drinking it.
"Be of good courage," said Omar! "your life shall be safe till you have
drunk this water."
Harmozan instantly dashed the cup on the ground, claiming fulfillment of
the Caliphs word. Omar declared that this conduct deserved punishment as
deceitful, but out of regard for his word he pardoned the Persian, who
became a convert to the faith of El Islam.
[Illustration: "TAKE HENCE THE INFIDEL," SAID OMAR]