old woman, for they had agreed that the rendezvous should take place there. When she arrived at the house she waited for some time, but the lover did not come. No doubt he had been prevented from making his appearance by some matter of importance.
The old woman reflecting upon this mischance, thought to herself, "There is no might nor power but in God, the Great." But she could not imagine what might have kept him away. Looking at the woman, she saw that she was agitated, and it was apparent that she wanted coition hotly. She got more and more restless, and presently asked, "Why does he not come?" The old woman made answer, "O my daughter, some serious affair must have interfered, probably necessitating a journey. But I shall help you under these circumstances." She then put on her melahfa,[1] and went to look for the young man. But it was to no purpose, as she could not get to hear anything about him.
Still continuing her search, the old woman was thinking, "This woman is at this moment eagerly coveting a man. Why not try to-day another young man, who might calm her ardour? To-morrow I shall find the right one." As she was thus walking and thinking she met a young man of very pleasing exterior. She saw at once, that he was a fit lover, and likely to help her out of her perplexity, and she spoke to him, "O my son, if I were to set you in connection with a lady, beautiful, graceful and perfect, would you make love to her?" "If your words are truth, I would give to you this golden dinar!" said he. The old woman, quite enchanted, took the money, and conducted him to the house.
- ↑ The melahfa is a large veil, generally of white cotton web, used by women to wrap themselves in, both body and head, when they walk out.
