Page:Islam, Turkey, and Armenia, and How They Happened.djvu/103

Rh Arm.—"Your honor, I sacrifice my life for him; but, alas! what worthy present can be expected from a beggar like me!"

Eff.—"Hum! I heard all about it. You bought that field under the name of that rascal, eh?"

Arm.—"My lord, where shall the slave of your door find money enough to buy a field!"

Eff.—"Look here, Chorbaji, I am thinking only for your own good. Do you suppose that those wolves (other Turkish chiefs) will let you enjoy the benefit of your own property? Of course not. I'll tell you what to do. You better leave it to our new-born child as your present. Why will you buy calamity with your own money? If you need anything come to me."

It is not necessary to say that the garden referred to was then and there recorded to the name of the future tyrant now in the cradle.

(b) Armenians were obliged to hold the policy of concealment of their wealth, exceeding caution for their honor, and to be submissive. If they accumulated money, which, owing to their commercial ability and the Turks' and Kurds' stupidity, was an easy task, they were very careful not to let it be known, but put it in an earthen or copper vessel and buried it under the ground. In their clothing and houses they were very simple, so as not to attract attention. Women would wear the most common clothing when out of doors, and cover their ornaments under their robes. Not only for their property, but also for their honor and life they were very cautious. They would never