Strona 914 z 1116

[FN#49] Moslem Kings are expected, like the old Gabble Monarchs,

to hold "Darbar" (i.e., give public audience) at least twice a

day, morning and evening. Neglect of this practice caused the

ruin of the Caliphate and of the Persian and Moghul Empires: the

great lords were left uncontrolled and the lieges revolted to

obtain justice. The Guebre Kings had two levee places, the

Rozistan (day station) and the Shabistan (night-station-istan or

stan being a nominal form of istadan, to stand, as Hindo-stan).

Moreover one day in the week the sovereign acted as "Mufti" or

Supreme Judge.

[FN#50] Arab. "Al-Basharah," the gift everywhere claimed in the

East and in Boccaccio's Italy by one who brings good news. Those

who do the reverse expose themselves to a sound strappado.

[FN#51] A euphemistic formula, to avoid mentioning unpleasant

matters. I shall note these for the benefit of students who would

honestly prepare for the public service in Moslem lands.