The old men, overpowered with amazement, were
unable to lift their heards from the ground; for, as Vathek had
carelessly left the tapestry between them half drawn, they were witnesses
to the whole transaction; their tears gushed forth on the marble; Al
Mouhadethin swooned through mortification and fatigue; whilst the Caliph,
throwing himself backward on his seat, shouted and clapped his hands
without mercy. At last, addressing himself to Bababalouk: "My dear
black," said he, "go, regale these pious poor souls with my good wine
from Shiraz; and, as they can boast of having seen more of my palace than
any one besides, let them also visit my office courts, and lead them out
by the back steps that go to my stables." Having said this, he threw the
besom in their face, and went to enjoy the laugh with Carathis.
Bababalouk did all in his power to console the ambassadors, but the two
most infirm expired on the spot; the rest were carried to their beds,
from whence, being heart-broken with sorrow and shame, they never arose.
The succeeding night Vathek, attended by his mother, ascended the tower
to see if everything were ready for his journey; for he had great faith
in the influence of the stars.
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