I sent to you one of the first dignitaries of my
court, the cadi; I did this to honor you. To be thus conducted by
the cadi through the street is not disgraceful, as in the case of
the women you speak of. In your own carriage you were escorted by
the cadi and his servants, and your good name and honor, which I
respect in common with all the world, cannot have suffered thereby.
Yet your conduct has been culpable, you are responsible for your
kachef's deeds; and through him I accuse you of treason, and you,
Nefysseh, must suffer for your servant's crime."
"Then, take my life, if that will benefit you," said she, quietly.
"I have nothing to give you but that. If you take my life, you will
be accused of murder, and, believe, this accusation will be heard by
all Cairo. I have nothing more to say. Deal with me as you think
proper."
"You challenge my enmity, you shall have it! It were wise on your
part to beg me to pardon Youssouf, to withdraw the accusation, and
to declare yourself ready to pay the required sum to my soldiers."
"Where is Mourad Bey's widow to obtain the money? Your men have
remained in my house, let them search for treasure there. Let them
take what they find. Mourad's widow is poor, and your endeavor is
vain. You will find nothing of value in my house; long wars have
made Mourad's widow poor. And, if I had money, I would rather cast
it into the Nile, than to give it to the enemies of my husband!--Now
I have spoken and relieved my heart.
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