[266] There are seven different Persian games of backgammon. The second of the seven, the one mentioned by the poet, is called “Plus” (Ziyād). At each throw of the dice, one is added, arbitrarily, to each number shown on the two, ace becoming deuce, &c. The poet likens the body to this supposititious number, the soul alone being real.
[267] In performing her devotions, a Muslimess has to veil herself, even at home, as though she were abroad in public.
[268] These four lines are quoted from Sanā’ī, for comment.
[269] This section and the next two form a comment on Sanā’ī.
[270] Qur’ān l. 14. The “new creation” is the resurrection.
[271] The tradition, in prose, is as follows, quoted by the poet: “Take ye advantage of the coolness of spring; it invigorates your bodies, as it acts on plants. Avoid ye also the cold of autumn; it acts on your frames as it acts on vegetation.”
[272] Prisoners and fugitive slaves have iron rings or a kind of wooden pillory fastened round their necks to prevent flight or insubordination.
[273] Venus, the musician, who inhabits the planet. See Tale iii., dist. 223.
[274] Muhammed.
[275] The original name of Medīna,—Jatrippa.