How plain it is, how desolate and bare! On the mat in the corner,
however, lie cushions, and spread over them a shawl adorned with
tassels, the cover for the person who is to sleep there; there
stands also a stool, and on it lies a tray, which contains various
articles of table-ware, such as dishes, plates, and pitchers. `
It all looks extremely plain, but, when viewed more closely, it is
observed that, beneath this simplicity, splendor is concealed. When
the shawl is raised, it is discovered that the other side is of
heavy crimson velvet, inworked with gold, and bordered with pearls.
When the tray that lies on the stool is examined, it is found to be
of solid silver, and of great value, though unpolished and rough;
and the cups, dishes, and other articles, prove to be of richly-
worked gold, set with precious stones, and placed as if in jest in
plain, wooden forms. Mohammed examines all these things with a smile
of satisfaction, and murmurs to himself: "Yes, yes, it was just so.
The first apartment presented just this appearance."
He now draws back the curtain that opens into the second apartment,
and it seems to him he hears now as then a sweet voice say: "The
second apartment is for the women, and no man is ever allowed to
enter it. I will conduct you into that apartment, and there I beg
you to remain."
The second apartment, where Butheita lived, was just like this.
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