“I do not understand,” said the King.

“Do you wish to understand?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Then come here,” said the old man, pointing to a large font full of water.

The King rose and approached the font.

“Strip, and enter the font.”

Esarhaddon did as the old man bade him.

“As soon as I begin to pour this water over you,” said the old man, filling a pitcher with the water, “dip down your head.”

The old man tilted the pitcher over the King’s head, and the King bent his head till it was under water.