Arrayed in the robes which were only worn it the most distinguished
ceremonials, and supported by his Vizir and Bababalouk, the Caliph
descended the grand staircase of the tower in the sight of all his
people; he could not forbear pausing at intervals to admire the superb
appearance which everywhere courted his view, whilst the whole multitude,
even to the camels with their sumptuous burdens, knelt down before him.
For some time a general stillness prevailed, which nothing happened to
disturb but the shrill screams of some eunuchs in the rear; these
vigilant guards, having remarked certain cages of the ladies swagging
somewhat awry, and discovered that a few adventurous gallants had
contrived to get in, soon dislodged the enraptured culprits. The majesty
of so magnificent a spectacle was not, however, violated by incidents
like these. Vathek meanwhile saluted the moon with an idolatrous air,
that neither pleased Morakanabad nor the Doctors of the Law, any more
than the vizirs and the grandees of his court, who were all assembled to
enjoy the last view of their sovereign.
At length the clarions and trumpets from the top of the tower announced
the prelude of departure; though the instruments were in unison with each
other, yet a singular dissonance was blended with their sounds; this
proceeded from Carathis, who was singing her direful orisons to the
Giaour, whilst the negresses and mutes supplied thorough-base without
articulating a word.
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