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)

328 ANECDOTE OF SHEIKH SUDDOO

earthquake was shaking the building to its
foundation, but as he trusted in God for pre-
servation, he breathed a fervent prayer as he
remained prostrate before Him.

" The shaking of the mosque continued, and
he was inspired by a sudden thought that in-
duced him to believe some supernatural agency
was employed against the holy house; he
therefore, called out, ' Who and what are ye,
who thus sacrilegiously disturb the house of
God!' The Genii appeared, and made known
to what order of beings they belonged, whose
servants they were, and the purpose of their
mission.

" ' Begone this instant! ' replied the pious
man, with a tone of authority that deprived
them of strength : ' a moment's delay, and I
will pray that you be consumed by fire ! Know
ye not that this is a mosque, holy, and erected
wherein to do service to the great and only
God ? Would Sheikh Suddoo add to his
enormities by forcing the house of God from
its foundation ? Away, ye servants of the