against the unfaithful were numerous and resulted in the gaining of much booty, and, in a short time, Mahomet was master of all Arabia and the warring and scattered tribes were solidly united in a kind of confederacy. In one year Mahomet's army grew from ten to thirty thousand.
With growing power, the moderation of the young Mahomet passed away. Ali, the favorite of Mahomet, was appointed a kind of deputy, and, on occasion, was despatched to a carry news of new revelations to assemblages gathered in distant places. It was, henceforth, to be the sword and not the word. Unbelievers were allowed four months to ponder matters, after which all indulgence would cease. Holy months and holy places were for the faithful alone. As for the rest, for them it was acceptance of the faith or confiscation of property. The ties of blood and friendship were to be as naught. In short, the new faith was dominant and dominant its head intended it to remain. Comparing the early benignity of Mahomet with his ferocity when in power, one is reminded of the humorous philosopher, Mr. Dunne, who put into the mouth of his character, Mr. Dooley, a remark to the effect that it was exceedingly fortunate that religious enthusiasts were rarely sent to Congress where they could exercise their power. "Whin they're calm," he said, "they'd wipe out all the laws, an' whin they're excited, they'd wipe out all the population. They're never two jumps from the thumb screw." So Mahomet in power
