"It is only to hadjis," observed Yussuf, "that I give this great proof
of my skill."
The man put his hand into his pocket, pulled out three dirhems, and
presented them to Yussuf, who was astounded at such liberality, and
again expressing his satisfaction, the hadji left the hummaum. Delighted
with his success, Yussuf continued his occupation, and attended with
alacrity every fresh candidate for his joint-twisting skill. By the time
that evening prayers commenced, he had kneaded to mummies half a dozen
more true believers, and had received his six dirhems, upon which he
determined to leave off for that day.
Having left the bath, he dressed himself, went home, took his leathern
pitcher, dish, and basket, and went to the bazaar, where he purchased a
piece of mutton, and left it at the most noted kabob-makers in the
district to be cooked; he then purchased his wine and rakee, wax tapers,
and flowers, pistachio-nuts, dried fruit, bread, and oil for his lamps.
When he had completed his purchases he called at the cook's shop, where
he found his mutton nicely kabobed, and smoking in the dish. Paying the
cook, and putting it into his basket, he hastened home over the bridge
of boats, exulting in his good fortune. When he arrived, he swept out
his room, dressed himself in better clothes, lighted his lamps, spread
out his table, and then squatted himself down, with his legs twisted
under him, and tossing off a bumper of wine, he exclaimed, "Well, I am
lucky; nevertheless, here's confusion to all Moussul merchants, with
their vile omens.
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