"Let him enter," said she, making an effort to compose herself."
Tell my women to go into the adjoining room, and to open the door."
Poor woman's heart! So strong in love, and yet so weak! These women
and the open door were to stand guard over her heart, and keep her
from forgetting all else in his presence.
Now the door opens and Youssouf enters. It seems to her that he has
grown taller. His deeds have elevated him, and his countenance is
radiant with energy and courage. Yet he kneels down before her, and
kisses the hem of her robe.
"Sitta Nefysseh, you bade me go, and I went. Upon my return, my
first thoughts were of you. I wished to hear from your sweet lips
the word welcome! Do you speak it, Sitta Nefysseh?"
"Welcome, Youssouf Bey! How beautiful that sounds--Youssouf Bey! But
rise, it does not become the hero to bend the knee before a woman,
before Nefyeseh."
"I was your slave when I went, now that I have returned I am your
slave still. And thus should he salute his mistress."
He bends down. lower and kisses the gold-embroidered slipper that
clasps her little foot.
"Youssouf!" she cried, in severe tones, "I command you to rise from
your knees!"
"You see, I obey you, as it beseems your slave to do," said he,
springing to his feet; "and he now begs to be permitted to enter
your service again."
"My service?" said she, with an air of astonishment.
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