I swore eternal fidelity to him and to his
house, and I will keep my oath."
"I do not doubt it," replied Bardissi, in kindly tones; "I only
mean, Youssouf, that you are too young not to wish to wield the
sword and join us in the conflict that is soon to be renewed. Poor
Youssouf, you will then be shut out from our ranks, for Sitta
Nefysseh no longer sends her Mamelukes with us to battle; she now
uses them for her service only, and I am certain she would be well
pleased if her kachef Youssouf, as it becomes him, draws his sword
to win laurels in the field. You can make something great of
yourself. Look at me, Youssouf: I was what you are; like you a
Mameluke, also like you a kachef, and could let my beard grow, and
now I am a Mameluke bey, and three thousand servants follow me to
battle. You might accomplish as much, Youssouf."
"I am satisfied with what I am, and ask for nothing more," replied
the kachef. "I swore to Mourad Bey to serve him and his house my
life long, and I will keep my oath: I therefore entreat you to say
nothing to Sitta Nefysseh. She might be displeased."
"I will not," replied Bardissi; "remain true to your word. And now
go and inquire whether your mistress can see me."
Youssouf hastened to where the slaves were still singing their
melancholy song, and sent one of them down into the park to inform
her that the Mameluke bey, Osman Bardissi, had come, and desired to
see her.
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