"
He turns aside, and seems to be listening to the distant singing and
playing of the slaves; he, however, hears the slave, who now enters
the kiosk, announce that L'Elfi Bey desires to see her mistress. He
hears it, and shudders. L'Elfi Bey, his friend and companion-in-
arms; what brings him here to Mourad's widow?
Sitta Nefysseh sends word that the bey is welcome, and the slave
departs on her errand.
"L'Elfi Bey is permitted to come to you!"
"And why not?" asked she proudly. "Was not Osman Bey permitted to
visit me, and was not L'Elfi also my husband's friend?"
"It is true; forgive my thoughtlessness," replied Osman in low and
almost angry tones. "Permit me to take my leave, Sitta Nefysseh. I
do not wish to disturb your interview with the great L'Elfi Bey."
"On the contrary, you will please remain," replied she, quietly,
gracefully drawing her fragrant veil over her head, and covering her
face.
Bardissi's heroic countenance became radiant with delight. She had
received him unveiled, and now that L'Elfi comes she veils herself.
Allah be praised, that is a favorable omen; a ray of light
penetrating the gloom that enveloped his soul; he has seen her
unveiled, and --
"L'Elfi Bey comes," said Sitta Nefysseh, rising to welcome her new
visitor.
CHAPTER X
L'ELFI BEY.
Haughtily erect, the bey advanced, followed by four Mamelukes in
rich, gold-embroidered garments, who bore a casket covered with a
purple cloth, whose golden fringe hung down to the ground.
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