Moors withdrew to Morocco, whence, however, they soon returned in
increased numbers to recapture Valencia and take their revenge upon
Abeniaf, who had proved treacherous to them too. To check the advance
of this foe, the Cid flooded the country by opening the sluices in
the irrigation canals, and the invaders, fancying themselves in danger
of drowning, beat a hasty retreat. Because Abeniaf took advantage of
these circumstances to turn traitor again, the Cid besieged him in
Valencia for nine months, during which the famine became so intense
that the inhabitants resorted to all manner of expedients to satisfy
their hunger.

Throughout this campaign the Cid ate his meals in public, sitting by
himself at a high table and assigning the one next him to the warriors
who won the most distinction in battle. This table was headed by Alvar
Fanez, surrounded by the most famous knights. A notorious coward,
pretending to have done great deeds, advanced one day to claim a seat
among the heroes. Perceiving his intention, the Cid called him to come
and sit with him, whereupon the knight became so elated that when he
again found himself on the field of battle he actually did wonders!
Seeing his efforts, the Cid generously encouraged him and, after he
had shown himself brave indeed, publicly bade him sit with the
distinguished knights.

The city of Valencia having finally opened its gates, the Cid marched
in with a train of provision-wagons, for he longed to relieve the
starving. Then, sending for the principal magistrates, he expressed
commiseration for their sufferings, adding that he would treat the
people fairly, provided they proved loyal in their turn. But, instead
of occupying the city itself, he and the Christians returned to the
suburbs, enjoining upon the Moorish governor to maintain order among