This done, he went on.
"That you are skilled in the arts of surgery is well known. If the pearl stays in my stomach it will be ruined. For an act that saved your life, which I was glad to do, help me now."
The man thought for a moment, and then said:
"I will, but you will be sick for a week, and perhaps for a longer time. What must be done in this case?"
"Your word will be enough to excuse me from work. Will you not go to the vizier and make the excuse I need?"
"Yes; and now, was the gem hard to swallow?"
"It was."
"Sit quiet here, I shall soon be ready."
Swiftly the man prepared two mixtures and brought out some thin knives and other curious instruments. These and some bandages he placed on a small table that he drew near to a slab standing in the middle of the apartment.
"Lie down here," he said, and Irar obeyed.