THE HEJAZ: In Mecca

The attack on Mecca, which was instrumental in forcing King Husein of Hejaz to resign (TIME, October 13), came to an end without a shot being fired. The warlike Wahabis, subject of the Emir of Nejd and Hasa, rode into the city, made straight for the great Mosque containing relics of Mohammed, rode seven times around it, dismounted, fell upon their knees and bowed their heads to the ground in religious homage at the shrine of Islam.

Then they sent a message to their enemies, so the despatch ran, stated that the latter might return to the Holy City without fear. They did return and gave the invaders a hearty welcome. The only looting reported was at the royal palace and in the homes of the rich.

Meantime, King Ali of the Hejaz retired to Jeddah, near the sea, in order to prevent bloodshed. Future developments were uncertain.