_ 324 _ silk napkin edged with gold. Then they laid down a carpet for him and some round striped tablecloths of silk. The table was laden with delicacies and his food was served on silver platters. No one approached the Sheikh except the carver, who cut the food before him on his knees, and he did not eat anything until those who were next to him were served, and this was done on tablecloths just like his own with all manner of foodstuffs. Every time the Sheikh ate a morsel he gave some to the Ambassador and those with him. When the tables were cleared away, numerous gold-painted wooden trays arrived laden with sweetmeats, almonds and candied sugar and were all placed before the King. These, together with a great deal more fruit and sufficient jars of vintage wine for everyone, he shared out among crowds of other people who were near him. For his own use, he ordered a jar of pear wine, which was the best there was in those parts, and he gave orders for the Governor to be served drinks. He and his men were forced to drink because a Captain went about yelling and threatening to beat those who were not drinking. So, they had to drink brimming undiluted cups. Each time the cups were filled they had to show them to the Sheikh and if they were not completely full he ordered more wine to be poured.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTg0NzAy