Wherefore I said that Sarah was my sister, and this I told the
war-smiths everywhere on earth where we two homeless needs must
dwell with strangers. And so I did in this land also, mighty
prince, when I came under thy protection. I knew not if the fear
of God Almighty was among this people, when first I came here.
Therefore, with care, I hid from thee and from thy thanes the
truth, that Sarah was my wife and shared my bed."
(ll. 2717-2722) Then Abimelech began to endow Abraham with
treasure, and gave him his wife again; and because he had taken
his wife he gave him, to boot, wandering herds and servants and
gleaming silver. And the lord of men said also unto Abraham:
(ll. 2723-2726) "Abide with us and choose thee a dwelling in this
land, and an abode whereso it pleaseth thee; thee must I keep.
Be thou a faithful friend, and we will give thee riches."
(ll. 2727-2735) And the dispenser of treasure spake also unto
Sarah, and said: "No need hath Abraham, thy lord, to reproach
thee, O maiden of elfin beauty, because thou hast trod my halls.
With gleaming silver will I make requital for this wrong. Care
not to go forth from this folk-land, seeking elsewhere unknown
friends, but dwell ye here."
(ll. 2736-2741) And Abraham did according to the bidding of the
prince, accepting the friendship offered by his lord, with love
and favour.
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