Giafar Al Barmeki (Volume 9); A Tale of the Court of Haroun Al Raschid (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1836. Excerpt: ... - Our misfortunes alone appear to be realities. The happiest hours are as though they were not, but the passage of misfortune over the soul leaves imprinted there its traces, and we cannot doubt the reality of those ills, over which we still grieve. How I shall wish for thee, Giafar, after our return It is true, I shall see thee in the divan of council, and at the chase; I shall find thee at my side in the thick fight, or before me, it may chance--nay, thou hast been often there; we may roam together the streets of the city, watching over the morals and manners of my people, but in my hours of retirement, I shall look for thee in vain. In the sacred retreat of the harem thou canst not enter. I would it were otherwise." Signs of joy were visible in the countenance of the vizier, as he listened to these expressions of his master's affection, and more than once he would have pressed his lips to the hem of his robe, But as often the hand of the calif restrained him. "Away with these vain ceremonies " he exclaimed, "these forms with which my rank surrounds me--I am weary of them. Be a brother to me--yet not so," he added as his mind reverted to the past. "They are false and treacherous. A son, perhaps--but now leave me. I would be alone. See if the princesses are well attended. The sun yet shines burningly, and the covering of a travelling pavilion is not like the spreading roof, and latticed windows of their own home. This must be cared for. They may need repose ere entering the city." Joyfully did Prince Giafar turn to execute the commands of his master. He hastened to the litter which contained the beautiful Zobeide. A sign from her mute attendant warned him that she slept, and he passed on to that which bore the Princess Abassa. Reining up his steed, ...