" Safie ran out with joy, and in a little
time after returned with the three calenders.
At their entrance they made a profound obeisance to the ladies, who
rose up to receive them and told them courteously that they were
welcome, that they were glad of the opportunity to oblige them and to
contribute toward relieving the fatigues of their journey, and at last
invited them to sit down with them.
The magnificence of the place, and the civility they received,
inspired the calenders with high respect for the ladies; but before
they sat down, having by chance cast their eyes upon the porter, whom
they saw clad almost like those devotees with whom they have continual
disputes respecting several points of discipline, because they never
shave their beards nor eyebrows,[11] one of them said, "I believe we
have got here one of our revolted Arabian brethren."
The porter, having his head warm with wine, took offense at these
words, and with a fierce look, without stirring from his place,
answered, "Sit you down, and do not meddle with what does not concern
you. Have you not read the inscription over the gate? Do not pretend
to make people live after your fashion, but follow ours."
"Honest man," said the calender, "do not put yourself in a passion. We
should be sorry to give you the least occasion. On the contrary, we
are ready to receive your commands." Upon which, to put an end to the
dispute, the ladies interposed, and pacified them.
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