Vathek, who was not altogether so active as his mother, devoted his time
to the sole gratification of his senses, in the palaces which were
severally dedicated to them; he disgusted himself no more with the Divan
or the Mosque. One half of Samarah followed his example, whilst the
other lamented the progress of corruption.
In the midst of these transactions the embassy returned which had been
sent in pious times to Mecca. It consisted of the most reverend
Moullahs, who had fulfilled their commission and brought back one of
those precious besoms which are used to sweep the sacred Caaba: a present
truly worthy of the greatest potentate on earth!
The Caliph happened at this instant to be engaged in an apartment by no
means adapted to the reception of embassies, though adorned with a
certain magnificence, not only to render it agreeable, but also because
he resorted to it frequently, and stayed a considerable time together.
Whilst occupied in this retreat he heard the voice of Bababalouk calling
out from between the door and the tapestry that hung before it: "Here are
the excellent Mahomet Ebn Edris al Shafei, and the seraphic Al
Mouhadethin, who have brought the besom from Mecca, and with tears of joy
intreat they may present it to your majesty in person.
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