Said he to the Council about him, 'Surely this man is a cunning sorcerer 34 Who wants to drive you out of your land by his sorcery. Now what do you advise?" 35 They said: "Keep him and his brother in suspense (for a while), and dispatch to the Cities heralds to collect- 36 "To bring up to you every well-versed sorcerer." 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 (They said): Aye, so that we may follow the wizards if they are the winners. 40 When the magicians came forth (for the encounter) they said to Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we triumph?" 41 He replied, "Certainly, in that case you will join my inner circle." 42 Moses said to them: 'Cast down what you cast' 43 So they threw their ropes and their rods, and said: "By the might of Pharaoh, it is we who will certainly win!" 44 [But] then Moses threw his staff - and lo! it swallowed up all their deceptions. 45 Then the magicians flung themselves prostrate. 46 [and] exclaimed: "We have come to believe in the Sustainer of all 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: "We do not care, for we are bound to return to our Lord, 50 Lo! we ardently hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we are the first of the believers. 51