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)

41G MEMOIR OF

witnessed. When they were seated, he said,
' Well, Fatima, I propose to devote this day to
the arrangement of all things necessary for your
comfort on your journey home, and to-morrow
morning the kaarawaun sets out for Yumen,
where I heartily pray you may be conducted
in safety, and meet your uncle in joy. Have
no fears for your journey, put your entire trust
in God, and never forget that your safety and
liberation were wrought out by His goodness
alone.'

" ' Huzerut (revered Sir),' she replied, ' I
have weighed well the advantages I should
derive by being always near to you, against the
pi-ospects of my home and wealth in Arabia,
which I am resolved to relinquish if you accede
to my proposal. Let me then continue to be
your slave, or your servant, if that term is more
agreeable to my kind master. Slavery with a
holy master is preferable to freedom with
wealth and impiety. You must have servants,
I will be the humblest and not the least faithful
in my devoted services.'

" The pious man was surprised beyond mea-