Interpreter. "The Minister wants that thief Mesaûd bin Aûdah, whom the Báshá of Mazagan has in gaol, to be let out, and he asks also for damages: yes, my Lord."
Sultan. "The man was no lawful protégé. I[page 217] can do nothing in the case. Bin Aûdah is a criminal, and cannot be protected."
Interpreter. "His Majesty fears that this is a matter in which he cannot oblige Your Excellency, much as he would like to, since the man in question is a thief. It is no use saying anything further about this."
Minister. "Then ask about that Jew Botbol, who was thrashed. Though not a protégé, His Majesty might be able to do something."
Interpreter. "His Excellency brings before our Lord a most serious matter indeed; yes, my Lord. It is absolutely necessary that redress should be granted to Maimon Botbol, the eminent merchant of Mogador whom the kaïd of that place most brutally treated last year: yes, my Lord. And this is most important, for Botbol is a great friend of His Excellency, who has taken the treatment that the poor man received very much to heart. He is sure that our Lord will not hesitate to order the payment of the damages demanded, only fifty thousand dollars."
Sultan. "In consideration of the stress the Minister lays upon this case, he shall have ten thousand dollars."
Interpreter. "His Majesty will pay Your Excellency ten thousand dollars damages."
Minister. "As that is more than I had even hoped to ask, you will duly thank His Majesty most heartily for this spontaneous generosity."
Interpreter. "The Minister says that is not sufficient from our Lord, but he will not oppose his will: yes, my Lord."
Sultan. "I cannot do more."