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"Thy presence bringeth us a grace * We own before thy winsome

face: And wert thou absent ne'er an one * Could stand in stead or

take thy place."

So pity get hold on me and compassion and I said, "Hearing is

consenting and, please Allah, I will do somewhat more for her;

nor shall she be shown to her bridegroom save in my raiment and

ornaments and jewelry." At this the old woman rejoiced and bowed

her head to my feet and kissed them, saying, "Allah requite thee

weal, and comfort thy heart even as thou hast comforted mine!

But, O my lady, do not trouble thyself to do me this service at

this hour; be thou ready by supper time,[FN#332] when I will come

and fetch thee." So saying she kissed my hand and went her ways.

I set about stringing my pearls and donning my brocades and

making my toilette.