averted the blow by personating the Prophet in his house, and thus affording him time for escape[1]. Being pursued by the Koreish, and accompanied only by Abu-beker, he sought refuge in a cave, where a circumstance that transpired strongly displays his enthusiasm: "We are only two," said his companion in a desponding tone, "there is a third, replied the Prophet, and that is God, he will defend us[2]." The lance of an Arab, it has been observed, might now have changed the History of the World[3]. The fugitives, on their road to Medina, were overtaken by a party of the Koreish, but redeemed themselves by prayers and promises from their hands. After several narrow escapes, they arrived at the place of their destination, where Ali, having adjusted his affairs at Mecca, joined them
