"
"And I will, Sitta Nefysseh. I do guard and honor her, but I also
love her as ardently as ever man loved woman!" exclaimed Bardissi,
in passionate tones. "Does not man honor woman most when he loves
her best? How can I better prove my adoration and reverence than by
laying my life at your feet, and saying, in tones of humble
entreaty, `Sitta Nefysseh, be my wife, follow me to my house, and be
mistress of myself and of all that I am?"
"Do not say this, Osman Bey, I entreat you, do not speak thus to
me!" cried Sitta Nefysseh in a loud voice. "It would give pain to me
to have to answer you, and it will be better not to have heard your
words. I call you friend, and I wish you to remain my friend all
your life long. Yet, hear me; my heart is open to no other love, and
my hands must remain unfettered. Mourad's widow remains true to
herself, and to him who dwells in her heart, and is ever at her
side. Let us forget, Osman, what you, carried away by your
friendship, have said. You thought Mourad's wife felt herself alone
in the world, and, out of friendship for your deceased friend, you
desired to offer her the support of your heroic hand. If ever I
should need assistance, and a friend, rest assured, Osman, I shall
call on you. But now, step back, one of my slaves is approaching
with a message. Turn your countenance away, Osman, it looks so
gloomy and passionate; I would not have her notice your love.
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