The Sahoukar took the shawls from an attendant, and putting five ashruffees upon them, advanced to the feet of Cheetoo; and having made the tusleemât or three obeisances, he presented the gold, and unfolding the shawls, which were very splendid, dexterously enveloped the chief's person in them, and then retreating, stood with his hands folded on his breast in an attitude of respectful humility.
[CHAPTER XXXIV.]
Cheetoo was evidently flattered by the distinction with which he had been received, and as he examined the beautiful shawls which now enveloped his person, a grim smile of delight lighted up his coarse features. "These men have sense," said he to Ghuffoor Khan, "and are evidently accustomed to the visits of persons of quality. We little expected this civility, and in truth it is most acceptable after our long ride; but they have forgotten you."
"Not so, noble Cheetoo," cried the Sahoukar, advancing with several pairs of shawls over his arm; "we are not forgetful of our distinguished guests;" and he threw a pair over each of the chiefs, which they received with complacency.
"Let the room be cleared," cried Cheetoo; "we have business with these worthy gentlemen, which I have sworn to do before we touch any refreshment."
It was quickly done, and there only remained our leaders and the sahoukars, who huddled together like wild fowl on the approach of a hawk. "Come forward," said Cheetoo to them; "come and sit near us; we would speak to you."
They all arose, and, as they were directed, seated themselves in respectful attitudes on the edge of the musnud. "Now," continued Cheetoo, "you are doubtless aware of our object. We want money, and money we will have, by fair means or foul; if ye are wise, ye will pay me handsomely to be rid of me and my people, who are savage fellows. I desire not to harm you, and on your own heads be it, if any disaster befalls you. Say, therefore, how much are ye prepared to give?"
"Truly," said the Sahoukar, my friend, who was the spokesman, "we have been duly advised of your Highness's coming; and as a proof that we did not dread you, you see us here, and we have done our poor ability to welcome so distinguished a person. We have also received good counsel from your servant the Meer Sahib; and, agreeably to his instructions, we have drawn up a list of a few trifles and some ready money which we are desirous of laying at the feet of your Highness." And the Sahoukar handed to him a paper written in Persian.
"This is unintelligible to me, for I am no moonshee; but can any of you read, brothers?" asked Cheetoo of the other leaders.