You must
therefore do me the kindness to al low yourself to be carried down
with me in the palanquin. It will excite no surprise; the soldiers
saw me when the accident occurred, and no one will suppose it is on
your account."
"It seems to me, father," replied Osman, gravely, "that the bim
bashi should walk down, and await his soldiers standing."
"And he shall," said his father, quickly. "Below he shall await his
soldiers, standing, while the poor tschorbadji must remain seated in
his palanquin.-Oh, the pain! Let me support myself on your arm,
Mohammed! You have no idea how my foot hurts!"
Osman averted his face, that they might not see the tears that stood
in his eyes. He discerned, only too well, that they both knew his
weakness and were tenderly caring for him!
But, in spirit at least, he must be a man, and he turns and looks at
them firmly and composedly.
"Then come, father. I will go down with you in the palanquin."
The slaves and servants saw the tschorbadji, supported by Mohammed,
limp to the palanquin; Osman followed them with firm footstep, his
head proudly erect. The people rejoiced in his stately appearance,
and in the glittering uniform that became him so well.
Osman was carried down to Praousta at his father's side. The
fishermen, who stood there awaiting him, greeted the young bim bashi
with loud huzzas. They wished him happiness and success in his
military career.
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