But Mohammed promptly rejected it. That would not be nice enough for
a present. He wanted better, finer material, and in lighter colors.
The merchant expressed no astonishment, but silently brought out
finer goods. Mohammed selected the very handsomest cloak for the old
friend of his deceased mother. Finally, he timidly asked for finger-
rings and bracelets.
"Also for the old friend of your good mother Khadra?" inquired the
merchant, with an air of mock gravity.
Mohammed did not reply; he had probably not heard him. He quietly
selected, from the box handed him, a beautiful ring set with a
precious stone, then four beautiful cups and saucers of the finest
Chinese porcelain, and a variety of other articles necessary for
housekeeping. He concluded by demanding a pair of pillows and
coverlids.
Mr. Lion asks no more questions; he now knows that Mohammed intends
to marry, and is furnishing his house. He is satisfied, and lets his
young friend have all he has selected at half the price he would
have charged other purchasers.
Mohammed joyfully paid the price, and gazed at the beautiful
articles he had purchased, with sparkling eyes.
"If you wish it, Mohammed," said the merchant, "I will send a
servant with you."
"Thank you; I am going to my house, and he can accompany me with the
things."
Mohammed took leave of the merchant, and left the store, the servant
following heavily laden.
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