The Soldiers. No, we arrived before luncheon time.
Aga-Merdan. Aga-Kerim, send someone to the bazaar to purchase for the boys four portions of rice of kebah, likewise of ice and citron cup. See there be an extra supply of kebah, for they are very hungry. You’ll like a great deal, won’t you?
A Soldier. Why take all this trouble, my lord? We will repair ourselves to the bazaar, and eat a bit there.
Aga-Merdan. What trouble is it, my dear friend? It is lunch time, why should you wish to leave my house fasting and famished? Please God, my plan is best.
The Soldier. My lord, what do you desire of us?
Aga-Merdan. Nothing much, my lad; I only wish to ask you a plain question.
The Soldier. Speak, my lord—two if you like.
Aga-Merdan. Did you bear to burial Hadji-Ghafour?
The Soldier. Yes, my lord, it was we who buried him. Why do you ask?
Aga-Merdan. Ah, I congratulate you on your generous conduct. Your company is always a great honor, not only because you are the defenders of Islam, but also because you do good service to all people in their days of distress. While the cholera prevailed there remained scarce a living soul in the town; you alone did not quit it, making in advance the sacrifice of your lives. May the Thrice Holy Majesty of God reward you worthily for this! But did you ever see Hadji-Ghafour when he was alive, my son?