{"id":1756,"date":"2013-07-13T01:37:06","date_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:37:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/?p=1756"},"modified":"2013-07-13T01:37:06","modified_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:37:06","slug":"01-the-viziers-of-bassora-act-i-vol-03-04-collected-plays-and-stories","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/01-works-of-sri-aurobindo\/03-cwsa\/03-04-collected-plays-and-stories\/01-the-viziers-of-bassora-act-i-vol-03-04-collected-plays-and-stories","title":{"rendered":"-01_The Viziers of Bassora – Act – I.htm"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n\n\n
\n

 <\/td>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

\nSri Aurobindo, c. 1903<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
\nThe Viziers of Bassora<\/b><\/span><\/font><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
\nA Romantic Comedy<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\n
\nPersons of the Drama<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nHAROUN<\/font> ALRASHEED<\/font>, Caliph.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nJAAFAR<\/font>, his Vizier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSHAIKH<\/font> IBRAHIM<\/font>, Superintendent of the Caliph’s Gardens.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMESROUR<\/font>, Haroun’s friend and companion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMOHAMAD BIN<\/font> SULYMAN
\n<\/font>ALZAYNI<\/font>, Haroun’s cousin, King of
\nBassora.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nALFAZZAL<\/font> IBN<\/font> SAWY<\/font>, his Chief Vizier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNUREDDENE<\/font>, son of Alfazzal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nALMUENE BIN<\/font> KHAKAN<\/font>, second Vizier of Bassora.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font>, his son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSALAR<\/font>, confidant of Alzayni.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font>, a Turk, Captain of Police in Bassora.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAJEBE<\/font>, nephew of Almuene.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font>, a Chamberlain of the Palace in Bassora.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font>, a broker.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAZEEM<\/font>, steward of Alfazzal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHARKOOS<\/font>, an Ethiopian eunuch in Ibn Sawy’s household.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKAREEM<\/font>, a fisherman of Bagdad.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSLAVES<\/font>, SOLDIERS<\/font>, EXECUTIONERS, ETC<\/font>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font>, wife of Alfazzal Ibn Sawy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font>, his niece.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nANICE-ALJALICE<\/font>, a Persian
\nslave-girl.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKHATOON<\/font>, wife of Almuene, sister of Ameena.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n<\/p>\n

\nSLAVE-GIRLS<\/font>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\nAct I<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\n
\nBassora.<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n
\nScene 1<\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n
\nAn antechamber in the Palace.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nMurad, Sunjar.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

MURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Chamberlain, I tell thee I will not bear it an hour longer than it takes my feet to carry me to the King’s audience-room and my voice to number my wrongs. Let him choose between me, a man and one made in God’s image, and this brutish amalgam of gorilla and Barbary ape whom he calls his Vizier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou are not alone in your wrongs; all Bassora and half the Court complain of his tyrannies.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nAnd as if all were too little for his heavy-handed malice, he must <\/font>
\nsaddle us with his son’s misdoings too, who is as like him as the young baboon is to the adult ape.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt is a cub, a monkey of mischief, a rod on the soles would go far to tame. But who shall dare apply that? Murad, be wary. The King, \u2014 who is the King and therefore blameless, \u2014  will not have his black angel dispraised. Complain rather to Alfazzal Ibn Sawy, the good Vizier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 5<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe kind Alfazzal! Bassora is bright only because of his pres<\/font>ence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

I believe you. He has the serenity and brightness of a nature that never willingly did hurt to man or living thing. I think sometimes every good kindly man is like the moon and carries a halo, while a chill cloud moves with dark and malignant natures. When we are near them, we feel it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nEnter Ibn Sawy.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIBA<\/font>N 
\n<\/font>SAWY <\/font>
\n(to himself <\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe fairest of all slave-girls! here’s a task!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhy, my wild handsome roisterer, Nureddene,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy hunter of girls, my snare for hearts of virgins,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCould do this better. And he would strangely like<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe mission; but I think his pretty purchase<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWould hardly come undamaged through to the owner.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA perilous transit that would be! the rogue!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTen thousand golden pieces hardly buy<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSuch wonders, \u2014  so much wealth to go so idly!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut princes must have sweet and pleasant things<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo ease their labours more than common men.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTheir labour is not common who are here<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Almighty’s burdened high vicegerents charged<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith difficult justice and calm-visaged rule.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe peace of the Prophet with thee, thou best of Viziers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe peace, Alfazzal Ibn Sawy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd to you also peace. You here, my Captain?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe city’s business?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 6<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nVizier, and my own!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI would impeach the Vizier Almuene<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBefore our royal master.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou’ll do unwisely.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA dark and dangerous mind is Almuene’s,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYet are there parts in him that well deserve<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe favour he enjoys, although too proudly<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe uses it and with much personal malice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nComplain not to the King against him, Murad.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe’ll weigh his merits with your grievances,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFind these small jealous trifles, those superlative,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd in the end conceive a mute displeasure<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAgainst you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI will be guided by you, sir.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy honest Turk, you will do well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe’s here.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nEnter Almuene.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe peace upon you, son of Khakan.<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCaptain,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou govern harshly. Change your methods, captain,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYour manners too. You are a Turk; I know you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nI govern Bassora more honestly<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 7<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

Than you the kingdom.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nSoldier! rude Turcoman!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nNay, brother Almuene! Why are you angry?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat he misgoverns.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font> 
\nSAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn what peculiar instance?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll tell you. A city gang the other day<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBattered my little mild Fareed most beastly<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith staves and cudgels. This fellow’s bribed police,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy him instructed, held a ruffian candle<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo the outrage. When the rogues were caught, they lied<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd got them off before a fool, a Kazi.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe Vizier’s son, as all our city knows,<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nA misformed urchin full of budding evil,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRanges the city like a ruffian, shielded<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUnder his father’s formidable name;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd those who lay their hands on him, commit<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNot outrage, but a rescue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nTurk, I know you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn all fraternal kindness hear me speak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat Murad says, is truth. For your Fareed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHowever before you he blinks angelically,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 8<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAbroad he roars half-devil. Never, Vizier,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWas such a scandal until now allowed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn any Moslem town. Why, it is just<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSuch barbarous outrage as in Christian cities<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMay walk unquestioned, not in Bassora<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOr any seat of culture. It should be mended.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nBrother, your Nureddene is not all blameless.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe has a name!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font> 
\nSAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis are the first wild startings<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf a bold generous nature. Mettled steeds,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhen they’ve been managed, are the best to mount.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSo will my son. If your Fareed’s brute courses<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAs easily turn to gold, I shall be glad.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nLet him be anything, he is a Vizier’s son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Turk forgot that.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThese are maxims, brother,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUnsuited to our Moslem polity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThey savour of barbarous Europe. But in Islam<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAll men are equal underneath the King.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, brother. Turk, you are excused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMURAD<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nExcused!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nViziers, the peace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll follow you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 9<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nTurk, the peace!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBAN<\/font>  <\/p>\n

SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nPeace, brother. See to it, brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit with Murad.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nBrother, peace.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWould I not gladly tweak your ears and nose<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd catch your brotherly beard to pluck it out<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith sweet fraternal pulls? Faugh, you babbler<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf virtuous nothings! some day I’ll have you preach<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUnder the bastinado; you’ll howl, you’ll howl<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRare sermons there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n(seeing Sunjar<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou! you! you spy? you eavesdrop?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd I must be rebuked with this to hear it!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, I’ll remember you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nSir, I beseech you,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI had no smallest purpose to offend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI know you, dog! When my back’s turned, you bark,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut whine before me. You shall be remembered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nSUNJAR<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThere goest thou, Almuene, the son of Khakan,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDog’s son, dog’s father, and thyself a dog.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThy birth was where thy end shall be, a dunghill.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 10<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nScene 2<\/a><\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nA room in Almuene’s house.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nAlmuene, Khatoon.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nKHATOON<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou have indulged the boy till he has lost<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe likeness even of manhood. God’s great stamp<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd heavenly image on his mint’s defaced,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRubbed out, and only the brute metal left<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhich never shall find currency again<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAmong his angels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nOh always clamour, clamour!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI had been happier bedded with a slave<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhom I could beat to sense when she was forward.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nKHATOON<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nOh, you’ld have done no less by me, I know,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAlthough my rank’s as far above your birth<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAs some white star in heaven o’erpeers the muck<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf foulest stables, had I not great kin<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd swords in the background to avenge me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nTermagant,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSome day I’ll have you stripped and soundly caned<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy your own women, if you grow not gentler.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nKHATOON<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI shall be glad some day to find your courage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nEnter Fareed, jumping and gyrating.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 11<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nOh father, father, father, father, father!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nKHATOON<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat means this idiot clamour? Senseless child,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCan you not walk like some more human thing<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOr talk like one at least?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nDame, check once more<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy gallant boy, try once again to break<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis fine and natural spirit with your chidings,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll drive your teeth in, lady or no lady.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nDo, father, break her teeth! She’s always scolding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSometimes she beats me when you’re out. Do break them,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI shall so laugh!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy gamesome goblin!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nKHATOON<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou prompt him<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo hate his mother; but do not lightly think<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe devil you strive to raise up from that hell<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhich lurks within us all, sealed commonly<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy human shame and Allah’s supreme grace, \u2014
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut you! you scrape away the seal, would take<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe full flame of the inferno, not the gusts<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf smoke jet out in ordinary men; \u2014 <\/span><\/p>\n

\nThink not this imp will limit with his mother<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUnnatural revolt! You will repent this.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nGirl, father! such a girl! a girl of girls!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 12<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBuy me my girl!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat girl, you leaping madcap?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn the slave-market for ten thousand pieces.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSuch hands! such eyes! such hips! such legs! I am<\/span><\/p>\n

\nImpatient till my elbows meet around her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy amorous wagtail! What, my pretty hunchback,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou have your trophies too among the girls<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo less than the straight dainty Nureddene,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOur Vizier’s pride? Ay, you have broken seals?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou have picked locks, my burglar?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou have given me,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou and my mother, such a wicked hump<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo walk about with, the girls jeer at me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI have only a chance with blind ones. ‘Tis a shame.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHow will you make your slave-girl love you, hunch?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nShe’ll be my slave-girl and she’ll have to love me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhom would you marry, hunchback, for a wager?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWill the King’s daughter tempt you?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nPooh! I’ve got<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy eye upon my uncle’s pretty niece.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI like her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 13<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Vizier, my peculiar hatred!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWagtail, you must not marry there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI hate him too<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd partly for that cause will marry her,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo beat her twice a day and let him know it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe will be grieved to the heart.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou’re my own lad.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd then she’s such a nice tame pretty thing,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWill sob and tremble, kiss me when she’s told,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNot like my mother, frown, scold, nag all day.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut, dad, my girl! buy me my girl!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCome, wagtail.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTen thousand pieces! ’tis exorbitant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTwo thousand, not a dirham more. The seller<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDoes wisely if he takes it, glad to get<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA piastre for her. Call the slaves, Fareed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHooray! hoop! what a time I’ll have! Cafoor!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit, calling.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n‘Tis thus a boy should be trained up, not checked,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRebuked and punished till the natural man<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs killed in him and a tame virtuous block<\/span><\/p>\n

\nReplace the lusty pattern Nature made.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI do not value at a brazen coin<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe man who has no vices in his blood,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 14<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nNever took toll of women’s lips in youth<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNor warmed his nights with wine. Your moralists<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTeach one thing, Nature quite another; which of these<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs likely to be right? Yes, cultivate,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut on the plan that she has mapped. Give way,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGive way to the inspired blood of youth<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd you shall have a man, no scrupulous fool,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo ethical malingerer in the fray;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA man to lord it over other men,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSoldier or Vizier or adventurous merchant,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe breed of Samson. Man with such youth your armies.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf such is an imperial people made<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho send their colonists and conquerors<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAcross the world, till the wide earth contains<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOne language only and a single rule.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYes, Nature is your grand imperialist,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo moral sermonizer. Rude, hardy stocks<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTransplant themselves, expand, outlast the storms<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd heat and cold, not slips too gently nurtured<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOr lapped in hothouse warmth. Who conquered earth<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor Islam? Arabs trained in robbery,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHeroes, robust in body and desire.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll get this slave-girl for Fareed to help<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis education on. Be lusty, son,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd breed me grandsons like you for my stock.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 15<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nScene 3<\/a><\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n
\nThe slave-market.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nMuazzim and his man; Balkis and Mymoona; Ajebe; Aziz,<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nAbdullah and other merchants.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, gentlemen, the biddings, the biddings! Will you begin, sir,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nfor an example now?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nBALKIS<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho is the handsome youth in that rich dress?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt is Ajebe, the Vizier’s nephew, a good fellow with a bad uncle.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nBALKIS<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nPraise me to them poetically, broker.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI promise you for the poetry. Biddings, gentlemen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nA MERCHANT<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThree thousand for the pretty one.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Why, sir, I protest! Three thousand pieces! Look at her! Allah be good to me! You shall not find her equal from China to Frangistan. Seven thousand, say I.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAZIZ<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe goods are good goods, broker, but the price heavy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 16<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nDidst thou say heavy? Allah avert the punishment from thee, merchant Aziz. Heavy!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nBALKIS <\/font>
\n(to Ajebe<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWill you not bid for me? My mirror tells me<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat I am pretty, and I can tell, who know it,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI have a touch upon the lute will charm<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe winds to hear me, and my voice is sweeter<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThan any you have heard in Bassora.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWill you not bid?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAJEBE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd wherefore do you choose me<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFrom all these merchants, child?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nBALKIS<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI cannot say<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat I have fallen in love with you. Your mother<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs kind and beautiful, I read her in your face,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd it is she I’ld serve.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAJEBE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI bid, Muazzim,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFive thousand for this little lady.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nFive!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd she who chose you, too! Bid seven or nothing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAJEBE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, well, six thousand, not a dirham more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nDoes any bid beyond?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 17<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMERCHANT<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nLet me see, let me see.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nABDULLAH<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nFie, leave them, man! You’ll have no luck with her,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCrossing her wishes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMERCHANT<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nLet her go, let her go.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo you, sir, she belongs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nBALKIS<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut if you’ll have me,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThen take my sister too; we make one heart<\/span><\/p>\n

\nInseparably.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAJEBE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nShe’s fair, but not like you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nBALKIS<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIf we are parted, I shall sicken and die<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor want of her, then your six thousand’s wasted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThey make a single lot.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAJEBE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nTwo thousand more then.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGive her in that, or else the sale is off.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat’s giving her away! Well, take her, take her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAJEBE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll send the money.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit with Balkis and Mymoona.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 18<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nABDULLAH<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat, a bargain, broker?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nNot much, not much; the owner’ll have some profit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nAZIZ<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Vizier!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nEnter Ibn Sawy.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nABDULLAH<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nNoble Alfazzal! There will be<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGood sales today in the market, since his feet<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHave trod here.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMERCHANT<\/font>S<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWelcome, welcome, noble Vizier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN<\/font> SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe peace be on you all. I thank you, sirs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat, good Abdullah, all goes well at home?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nABDULLAH<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy brother’s failed, sir.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMake me your treasurer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI am ashamed to think good men should want<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhile I indulge in superfluities.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, broker, how’s the market? Have you slaves<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat I can profit by?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAdmired Vizier,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThere’s nothing worth the kindness of your gaze.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYet do but tell me what you need, I’ll fit you<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith stuff quite sound and at an honest price.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe other brokers are mere pillagers,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 19<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut me you know.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN<\/font> SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIf there’s an honest broker,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou are that marvel, I can swear so much.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNow pick me out your sweetest thing in girls,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPerfect in beauty, wise as Sheban Balkis,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYet more in charm than Helen of the Greeks,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThen name your price.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI have the very marvel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou shall not see her equal in a century.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShe has the Koran and the law by heart;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSong, motion, music and calligraphy<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAre natural to her, and she contains<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAll science in one corner of her mind;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYet learning less than wit; and either lost<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn the mere sweetness of her speech and beauty.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou’ll hardly have her within fifteen thousand;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShe is a nonpareil.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN<\/font> SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt is a sum.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nNay, see her only. Khalid, bring the girl.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit Khalid.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI should not ask you, sir, but has your son<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAuthority from you to buy? He has<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe promise of a necklet from me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN<\/font> SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nA necklet!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nA costly trifle. “Send it to such an house,”
\n<\/span>\n<\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 20<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe tells me like a prince, “and dun my father<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor the amount. I know you’ll clap it on<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAs high as Elburz, you old swindler. Fleece him!”<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe is a merry lad.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nFleece me! The rogue!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe handsome naughty rogue! I’ll pull his curls for this.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe house? To whom is it given?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, sir, it is<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA girl, a dainty Christian. I fear she has given<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSomething more precious far than what he pays her with.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo doubt, no doubt. The rogue! quite conscienceless.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’m glad you told me of this. Dun me! Well,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe rascal’s frank enough, that is one comfort;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe adds no meaner vices, fear or lying,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo his impetuous faults. The blood is good<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd in the end will bear him through. There’s hope.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll come, Muazzim.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe son repeats the father,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut with a dash of quicker, wilder blood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHere’s Khalid with the Persian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nEnter Khalid with Anice-aljalice.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nKhalid, run<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd call the Vizier; he was here just now.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit Khalid. Enter Almuene, Fareed and Slaves.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThere she is, father; there, there, there!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 21<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou deal, sir? I know you well. Today be more honest than is your wont. Is she bid for?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM <\/font>(aside<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

Iblis straight out of Hell with his hobgoblin! (aloud<\/i>) Sir, we are waiting for the good Vizier, who is to bid for her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHere is the Vizier and he bids for her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTwo thousand for the lass. Who bids against me?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Vizier Almuene, you are too great to find any opposers, and you know it; but as you are great, I pray you bid greatly. Her least price is ten thousand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nTen thousand, swindler! Do you dare to cheat<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn open market? two thousand’s her outside.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis spindly common wench! Accept it, broker,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOr call for bids; refuse at your worst risk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt is not the rule of these sales. I appeal to you, gentlemen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat, do you all steal off from my neighbourhood? Vizier, she<\/span><\/p>\n

\nis already bespoken by your elder, Ibn Sawy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI know your broking tricks, you shallow rascal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCall for more bids, you cheater, call for bids.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAbuse me not, Almuene bin Khakan! There is justice in Bassora<\/span><\/p>\n

\nand the good Ibn Sawy will decide between us.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 22<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nUs! between us! Thou dirty broking cheat,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAm I thy equal? Throw him the money, Nubian.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut if he boggle, seize him, have him flat<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd powerfully persuade him with your sticks.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou, beauty, come. What, hussy, you draw back?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nFather, let me get behind her with my horse-tickler. I will trot<\/span><\/p>\n

\nher home in a twinkling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis is flat tyranny. I will appeal<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo the good Vizier and our gracious King.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nImpudent thief! have first thy punishment<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd howl appeal between the blows. Seize him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nEnter Khalid with Ibn Sawy.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nProtect me, Vizier, from this unjust man,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis tyrant.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat is this?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe takes by force<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe perfect slave-girl I had kept for you,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd at a beggarly, low, niggard’s price<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ld not accept for a black kitchen-girl;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThen, when I named you, fell to tyrant rage,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOrdering his slaves to beat me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs this true,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 23<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Vizier?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nSomeone beat out my foggy brains!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI took it for a trick, a broker’s trick.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat, you bespoke the girl? You know I’ld lose<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy hand and tongue rather than they should hurt you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, well, begin the bidding.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nFirst, a word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nVizier, this purchase is not for myself;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n‘Tis for the King. I deem you far too loyal<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo bid against your master, needlessly<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTaxing his treasuries. But if you will,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou have the right. By justice and the law<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe meanest may compete here. Do you bid?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE <\/font>(to himself <\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHe baulks me everywhere. (aloud<\/i>) The perfect
\nslave-girl?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNo, I’ll not bid. Yet it is most unlucky,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy son has set his heart upon this very girl.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWill you not let him have her, Ibn Sawy?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI grieve that he must be so disappointed,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut there’s no help. Were it my own dear son<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd he should pine to death for her, I would not<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIndulge him here. The King comes first.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nQuite first.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWell, shall I see you at your house today?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nState business, brother?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 24<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nOur states and how to join<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTheir linked loves yet closer. I have a thought<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTouching Fareed here and your orphaned niece.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI understand you. We will talk of it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBrother, you know my mind about your boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe is too wild and rude; I would not trust<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy dear soft girl into such dangerous hands,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUnless he showed a quick and strange amendment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt is the wildness of his youth. Provide him<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA wife and he will soon domesticate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPen these wild torrents into quiet dams<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd they will fertilize the kingdom, brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI hope so. Well, we’ll talk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nFareed, come with me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll have my girl! I’ll beat them all and have her!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWagtail, your uncle takes her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nBreak his head then,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhip the proud broker up and down the square<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd take her without payment. Why are you<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Vizier, if you cannot do your will?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 25<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMadcap, she’s for the King, be quiet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nOh!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALMUENE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCome, I will buy you prettier girls than this<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy hundredweights and tons.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nFAREED<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nShe has such hair! such legs!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGod damn the Vizier and the King and you!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll take her yet.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit in a rage, followed by Almuene and Slaves.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis is a budding Vizier!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSir, look at her; were mine mere broker’s praises?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou, mistress? Does the earth contain such beauty?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nDid I not tell you so?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n‘Tis marvellous,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd if her mind be equal to her body,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShe is an emperor’s portion. What’s your name,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSweet wonder?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnice-aljalice they call me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat is your history?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 26<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy parents sold me<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn the great famine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat, is your mould indeed a thing of earth?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPeri, have you not come disguised from heaven<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo snare us with your lovely smiles, you marvel?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nI am a slave and mortal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nProve me that.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nA Peri, sir, has wings, but I have none.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN<\/font>
\nSAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI see that difference only. Well now, her price?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nShe is a gift to thee, O Vizier.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCeremony?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI rate her value at ten thousand clear.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt is the price expected at your hands,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThough from a private purse we’ld have full value.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKeep her ten days with you; her beauty’s worn<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith journeying and its harsh fatigues. Give rest,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGive baths, give food, then shade your eyes to gaze at her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN<\/font>
\nSAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou counsel wisely. There's my poaching rascal, \u2014 <\/span> <\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 27<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n

But I will seal her fast even from his questings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The peace, Muazzim.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMUAZZIM<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nPeace, thou good Vizier, loaded with our blessings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExeunt.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 28<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\nScene 4<\/a><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/font><\/p>\n

\n
\n
\nA room in the women’s apartments of Ibn Sawy’s house.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nAmeena, Doonya.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCall, Doonya, to the eunuch once again,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd ask if Nureddene has come.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMother,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat is the use? you know he has not come.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhy do you fret your heart, sweet mother, for him?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBad coins are never lost.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nFie, Doonya! bad?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe is not bad, but wild, a trifle wild;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd the one little fault’s like a stray curl<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAmong his clustering golden qualities,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat graces more than it disfigures him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBad coin! Oh, Doonya, even the purest gold<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHas some alloy, so do not call him bad.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSweet, silly mother! why, I called him that<\/span><\/p>\n

\nJust to hear you defend him.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou laugh at me, \u2014 <\/span> <\/p>\n

\nOh, you all laugh. And yet I will maintain<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy Nureddene's the dearest lad in Bassora, \u2014 <\/span> <\/p>\n

\nLet him disprove’t who can, \u2014  in all this realm<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 29<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nThe beautifullest and kindest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nSo the girls think<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThrough all our city. Oh, I laugh at you<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd at myself. I’m sure I am as bad<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA sister to him as you are a mother.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI a bad mother, Doonya?<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe worst possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou spoil him; so do I; so does his father;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSo does all Bassora, \u2014  especially the girls!<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhy, who could be unkind to him or see<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis merry eyes grow clouded with remorse?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs it he who comes?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nShe goes out and returns.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt is my uncle, mother,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd there’s a girl with him, \u2014  I think she is<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA copy of Nureddene in white and red.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhy, as I looked downstairs, she smiled up at me<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd took the heart out of my body with the smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAre you going to have a rival at your years,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPoor mother? ‘Tis late for uncle to go wooing.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nA rival, you mad girl!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nEnter Ibn Sawy and Anice-aljalice.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCome forward, child.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 30<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nHere is a slave-girl, Ameena, I’ve bought<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor our great Sultan. Keep her from your son,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYour scapegrace son. My life upon it, dame!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIf he touches her, I’m gone.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll see to it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nLet a strong eunuch with a naked sword<\/span><\/p>\n

\nStand at her door. Bathe her and feed her daintily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYour son! see that he does not wheedle you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou’ve spoilt him so, there is no trusting you,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou tender, foolish heart.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI spoil him, husband!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMost damnably. Whenever I would turn<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWholesomely harsh to him, you come between<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd coax my anger. Therefore he is spoilt.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nOh, uncle mine, when you are harsh, the world<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGrows darker with your frown. See, how I tremble!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nOh, are you there, my little satirist?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhen were you whipped last?<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhen you last were harsh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou shall be married off. I will not have you<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMocking an old and reverend man like me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 31<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWhom will you marry, chit?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAn old, old man,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nJust such a smiling harsh old man as you,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNone else.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd not a boy like young Fareed?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHis father wishes it; he too, I think.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nThrow me from this high window to the court,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOr tell me ere the day and I will leap.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs he so bad? I thought it. No, my niece,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou marry not with Khakan’s evil stock,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAlthough there were no other bridegroom living.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI’ll leave you, Ameena. Anice, I have a son,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHandsome and wanton. Let him not behold you!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou are wise and spirited beyond your years,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAbove your sex; I trust in your discretion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nI will be careful, sir. Yet trust in bars<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd portals, not in me. If he should find me,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI am his slave and born to do his will.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nIBN <\/font>SAWY<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nBe careful, dame.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAMEENA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHow fair you are, small lady!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n‘Tis better truly he should see you not.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDoonya, be careful of her. I’ll go before<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 32<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd make your casket ready for you, gem.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBring her behind me, Doonya.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExit.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nDOONYA <\/font>(leaping on Anice<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat’s your name,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou smiling wonder, what’s your name? your name?<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIf you will let me a little breathe, I’ll tell you.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nTell it me without breathing.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nIt’s too long.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nLet’s hear it.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnice-aljalice.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnice,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThere is a sea of laughter in your body;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI find it billowing there beneath the calm<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd rippling sweetly out in smiles. You beauty!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd I love laughers. Wherefore for the King?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhy not for me? Does the King ever laugh,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI wonder?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nShe runs out.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nANICE<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy King is here. But they would give me<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo some thick-bearded swart and grizzled Sultan<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho’ld see me once a week and keep me penned<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 33<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nFor service, not for mirth and love. My prince<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs like our Persian boys, fair-faced and merry,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFronting the world with glad and open looks<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat make the heart rejoice. Ten days! ’tis much.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nKingdoms have toppled in ten days.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nDoonya returns.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nDOONYA<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCome, Anice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI wish my cousin Nureddene had come<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd caught you here. What fun it would have been!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nExeunt.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nPage \u2013 34<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

 <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

  Sri Aurobindo, c. 1903     The Viziers of Bassora   A Romantic Comedy     Persons of the Drama   HAROUN ALRASHEED, Caliph….<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[39],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1756","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-03-04-collected-plays-and-stories","wpcat-39-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1756","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1756"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1756\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1756"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1756"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1756"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}