Page:Domestic Life in Palestine.pdf/254

Rh room. The women were wondering how I could dare to go to the men's quarter of the house. I explained to them that it was the custom in England for men and women to meet together constantly, and that we walked, or rode, or drove abroad unvailed. They were exceedingly surprised. I added, "We are governed by a Sultana, named 'Nassirah,' (Victoria,) a lady so much loved and respected by her subjects, that when she appears in the streets, or public places, the people cry aloud for joy, and shout, 'God save the Sultana!' Then her face is bright with pleasure, and she looks graciously around, bowing her head to rich and to poor alike. And on certain days the nobles, and the learned men and her officers, are allowed to kiss her hand." They cried, "O most wonderful!" and Sâra said, "Is your Sultana a girl?" I answered, "No, she is married, but the Prince, her husband, takes no part in the government." A sudden light seemed to break in upon them, and I found that I had unwittingly given them the idea that the women of England rule and take the lead in every thing, and are superior to the men. I could not entirely remove this impression, for they said, "Your Sultana could not keep the scepter in her hand, if she were not stronger and wiser than the men." One of the women said, "Can your brother, the Consul, write?" I tried to give them a more favorable opinion of my countrymen, but I do not think I succeeded very well, for they still seemed to fancy that women were their superiors.

Supper was brought for me in the same order as dinner, except that we had, in addition, a large dish filled with little green sausages. They were made of minced meat and rice, rolled up in leaves, dressed in butter. They were very nice. Asmé, a beautiful girl about eight years of age—the eldest daughter of Saleh Bek—and Selim, ate with me. The ladies stood in attendance. I described how English people sit on chairs, round a high table, and eat from separate plates, using knives, and forks, and spoons; and how men and women eat together. They