Pharaoh said to the nobles around him: "Surely this man is a skilled magician 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his sorcery. What, then, do you advise?" 35 They said: "Put him and his brother off awhile, and send summoners to the cities to gather 36 who shall bring to you every skilful sorcerer." 37 So the sorcerers were assembled for the appointed time of a fixed day. 38 And it was said to the people: Will you gather together? 39 The people said, “Perhaps we may follow the magicians if they are victorious.” 40 And when the wizards came they said unto Pharaoh: Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the winners? 41 He said, "Yes, and indeed, you will then be of those near [to me]." 42 [And] Moses said unto them: "Throw whatever you are going to throw!" 43 Thereupon they threw their [magic ropes and their staffs, and said: "By Pharaoh's might, behold, it is we indeed who have prevailed!" 44 Then Moses cast his staff and lo, it forthwith swallowed up their lying invention; 45 so the sorcerers were cast down, bowing themselves. 46 saying: 'We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 The Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 Said Pharaoh, 'You have believed him before I gave you leave. Why, he is the chief of you, the same that taught you sorcery; now you shall know! I shall assuredly cut off alternately your hands and feet, then I shall crucify you all together.' 49 They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 We hope that our Lord will forgive us for our sins; we were not believers at first." 51