"A goodly sum, truly, Mustapha, but a goodly return," continued the Sultan.
"There was one fault, excellency," continued the agent, "that I feared might disappoint you."
"And what is that, good Mustapha?"
"She is both deaf and dumb, excellency."
"A mute?"
"Yes, excellency."
"Both deaf and dumb," repeated the Sultan, rising from his divan and approaching the lovely Circassian, actuated by the interest that he felt at so singular an announcement.
While the old Turk stroked his beard with an air of satisfaction at the result of his purchase as it regarded the approval of his master, the slave bent humbly before the monarch, for though she knew not by any word or sign addressed to her who her master was, yet she felt that no one could assume that air of dignity and command but the Sultan. A blush stole over the pale face of the Circassian as the monarch laid his hand on her arm and gazed intently upon her face, and whatever his inward thoughts were, his handsome countenance expressed a spirit of tenderness and gentle concern for her situation that became him well, for clemency is the brightest jewel in a crown.
"Deaf and dumb," repeated the Sultan against to himself, "and yet so very beautiful."
"She is beautiful, indeed, excellency," said the old Turk, echoing his master's thoughts.