Meer Hassan Ali, B.: Observations on the Mussulmauns of India: descriptive of their manners, customs, habits, and religious opinions ; made during a twelve years residence in their immediate Society (Band 2) (London, 1832)

254 ANECDOTE OE SAADIE.

friends ; follow Saadie's example. Go home to
your beds, and forsake the sinful habits of the
world!'

" 'Why Saadie, what aileth thee! art thou
mad ?—or has the study of philosophy drawn
thee from thy former self, whilst yet thine
hairs are jet with youth ? These reflections of
thine will suit us all far better when time hath
frosted our beards. Come, come, Saadie, away
with us ! let not the precious moments escape
in this unprofitable converse. You must come,
Saadie ; our hearts will break without you!'

" ' Nay, nay,' responded Saadie, ' my con-
science smites me that I have erred too long.
It suits not my present temper to join in your
mirth.'—' Open the door to us at any rate/
sounded from the many voices without; ' speak
to us face to face, our dear and well-beloved
friend! let us have admission, and we will
argue the subject coolly.'—Saadie's good-nature
could not resist the appeal, the door was un-
barred, and the young men entered in a body.

" ' We have all wickedly broken the law of
the faithful,'said Saadie to his guests; and he