The Sons of Isaac(125)

Dust billowed from the trader’s coarsely woven cloak as he quickly picked up first one unique treasure and then another for the king’s approval. He had gained the name of Hopoe from just such bobbing up and down. It was true, he did resemble the bird in many ways and never more than when he was eagerly trying to find just that special buy that would interest his customers.

The king was his major challenge. He had such exquisite taste. He liked only the best. Any bit of shoddy workmanship or flaw was easily spotted and the piece discarded. Badget held his breath as the king’s eyes traveled over the rich assortment and rested on a small box of ebony. Quickly old Badget pulled it from the pile. He blew the dust from it. Then he polished it with the end of his cloak before handing it to the king.

The king shook his head but passed it to the sallow-faced, rather bored young man on his right. “Here, my son,” he said, “This is what our ships will bring us and we’ll no longer be at the mercy of such pirates as old Hopoe here.”

“My lord,” Badget protested, “it’s more than the ships you’ll need. Not everyone can recognize a treasure.”

Solomon laughed. He loved the wit of this man. In fact, he had learned much from just such men as Badget. They had drawn maps of the trade routes, pointed out the unique treasures of each country, and brought back the gossip of other kings and kingdoms.

“There, that polished horn,” Solomon said, suddenly pointing to where the monkey had obviously spotted the gold band on the object and was struggling to get it lose.

Badget had known the king would be interested in this piece, and so he had carefully placed it where just the tip and glitter of the gold band could be seen. He took it from the monkey and handed it to the king then stood back, his feet planted wide apart, arms folded, and a gleam of triumph on his face. He was not disappointed.

The king’s jeweled hands traveled over the smooth sides of the horn as he bent to look more closely at the decoration on its two gold bands. “I have seldom seen such delicate work. Is there a base?”

“No, my lord,” Badget said. “It was made for a rich man who would always have a servant standing by to hold it.”

“Where is this rich man who can commission such a cup?” the king demanded.

“Unfortunately the cup was never called for. The man who had ordered it died quite suddenly. I arrived at just the right time and was able to buy it.”

“But who was the man? A craftsman works, but usually to the design of his master.”

“He was a great king. He loved fine things as much as yourself.”

“But, my wily Hopoe, who was this man?”

“Why, my lord, he was the king of Sheba.”

“You are right. The king of Sheba is dead, and I hear that his youngest daughter now rules.”

“He had no sons to inherit his throne.”

“With such a rich country it won’t be long until it is quickly swallowed by some of those vultures that live on either side.”

“Maybe not. Bilqis, the old king’s daughter, is as strong as any man, or so the gossip goes.”

“How can a young girl hope to hold the throne of a rich country like Sheba? It’s foolishness. I can’t believe it’s true.” The king was definitely interested, and Badget loved to lead him on with a good story.

“My lord,” Badget said, rolling his eyes, “you have never seen a woman like this. Before the old king’s body was moved from his bed, one of his counselors seized the crown and had himself proclaimed king. But within the year the army with Bilqis at its head stormed the palace and slew the usurper. Then, without wasting time, she took the crown, placed it on her own head and had the priests formally recognize her as queen on the portico of the great temple of Ilumquh.”

“It’s easy to put the crown on one’s own head, but to keep it there is another thing.” Solomon put the horn cup down beside him on the cushions and the monkey immediately started examining it. “See? My new pet has the taste of a king,” he said laughing.

Badget chuckled and then returned to the discussion of Sheba’s queen. “She’s held the throne for three years now and everyone’s pressing her to marry. Her uncle’s son has first right. He’s an ambitious fellow who would aim to marry her just to get her throne. His father’s behind it all. She’s a brave one. They won’t outsmart her if she has a chance.”

“She may be more foolish than brave,” Solomon observed.

“My lord,” Badget leaned over and spoke in a confidential tone as though his words were meant for the king alone, “she’s proven her bravery. Before becoming queen she took the virgin’s place and rode in the Markab right into battle with the troops. It was a sight to see. The camel decorated with gold and jewels while she sat tall and proud with the side curtains pulled back and her hair black as a raven’s wing and full …”