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I answered, "So be it," and made him sit down whilst I got ready

what was needful of meat and drink and else besides; and set the

tray before him, with the invitation "Bismillah"![FN#515] Then he

drew near the tray and put out his left hand[FN#516] and ate with

me; and I marvelled at his not using the right hand. When we had

done eating, I poured water on his hand and gave him wherewith to

wipe it. Upon this we sat down to converse after I had set before

him some sweetmeats; and I said to him, "O my master, prithee

relieve me by telling me why thou eatest with thy left hand?

Perchance something aileth thy other hand?" When he heard my

words, he repeated these verses:-

"Dear friend, ask not what burneth in my breast, * Lest thou see

fiery pangs eye never saw: Wills not my heart to harbour Salma in

stead * Of Layla's[FN#517] love, but need hath ne'er a law!"