She still gazed upon the upturned countenance of her prisoner, now
lighted up by the rosy light of the morning sun; she is struck with
the tone of his voice, and is surprised to learn that the sarechsme
is not dejected at his captivity.
"You rejoice," said she, smiling, and again displaying her beautiful
teeth. "You rejoice over your captivity."
"I should like to be such a captive forever, Butheita; it is
heavenly to be encircled in these fair arms."
"You are singing your sweet songs again, and oh, they sound so
sweet!" said she. And yet, as he attempts to lay his head closer to
her shoulder, she timidly recoils with an anxious look in her eyes.
"Not so, stranger. Honor the hospitality of my house, for my
dromedary is my house, and I wish you to be my guest. And, that you
may see that Butheita is sensible of the duties of a hostess, accept
this banana and refresh yourself; you will need it."
She takes two bananas from the bag that hangs at the side of the
saddle, and with delight Mohammed sees her peel the rich fruit,
which she hands him with a delicious smile.
"Eat, stranger; eat, and refresh yourself."
She has forgotten that he is bound, and that he cannot take the
fruit from her hand.
"This heavenly fruit must be administered by your fair hand alone,"
said he. "As my hands are bound, you must hold it to my lips
yourself.
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