“Do you,” I said, “consider that a plurality of wives is to be desired?”
“Among people of my race,” he replied, “a plurality of wives is lawful; but that which is lawful is not always expedient.”
“In what way is it inexpedient?” I asked.
“Firstly, there is the question of expense. Secondly, a plurality of wives is a source of constant annoyance and anxiety. One wife will live in peace with her husband; but with two or more, there is no peace: for ever they are quarrelling.”
CHAPTER XVI.
The First Sitting.
Morning prayers. Early tea. The weather. Breakfast. The first sitting for the Amîr’s portrait: difficulties to contend with. The Courtier’s criticism. The Amîr’s rebuke. The Deputation. Conversation with the Amîr: the climate of England and Australia: differences in the time of day: the cause of clouds. Awe of the Courtiers. The favourite Page-boy’s privileges. The newspaper paragraph: the Amîr’s comment. Serious incident at a sitting. The Captain’s toothache. Present of a rifle from the Amîr. The shooting expedition and its dangers. Courage of the “Burma policeman.” The eccentric rider. The singing Afghan. The scenery of Mazar. Salutations in the market place. The meeting with Prince Amin Ullah.
A day or two after the vaccination of the Prince, His Highness sent word that he would be prepared to give me a sitting for his portrait on the following day.
Paint-box, canvas, and easel were therefore taken to the Palace at once.