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20 me [with thy presence] thereat.” And Zein ul Asnam said, “With all my heart.” So Mubarek arose and foregoing Zein ul Asnam, brought him into the saloon, which was full of the chief men of Cairo, assembled therein. There he sat down and seating the prince in the place of honour, called for the evening-meal. So they laid the tables and Mubarek stood to serve Zein ul Asnam, with his hands clasped behind him and whiles seated upon his knees [and heels]. The notables of Cairo marvelled at this, how Mubarek, the chiefest of them, should serve the youth, and were sore amazed thereat, knowing not [who or] whence he was. But, after they had eaten and drunken and supped and were of good cheer, Mubarek turned to the company and said to them, “O folk, marvel not that I serve this youth with all worship and assiduity, for that he is the son