membered.” And the next morning she continued where she had broken off.
The gate being open, I entered a square court, so large that there were round it ninety-nine gates of wood of sandal and aloes, and one of gold, without reckoning those of several superb staircases, that led to apartments above, besides many more which I could not see.
I saw a door standing open just before me, through which I entered into a large hall. Here I found forty young women, of such perfect beauty as imagination could not surpass, all most exquisitely clad. As soon as they saw me they arose, and without waiting my salutations, said to me, with tones of joy, “Welcome! welcome! We have long expected you. You are our lord, master, and judge, and we are your slaves, ready to obey your commands.”
After these words were spoken, the damsels vied with each other in their eager solicitude to do me all possible service. One brought hot water to wash my feet; a second poured sweet-scented essences on my hands; others brought me all kinds of necessaries and change of apparel; others again brought in a magnificent collation; and the rest came, with jugs in their hands, to fill me delicious wines in the most charming manner possible. Some of the damsels brought in musical instruments, and sang most delightful songs; while
110
