e, Yussuf took his station where the ten beeldars on duty were
collected together. He observed, however, that they were different from
himself, very slight young men, and dressed in a very superior style.
He felt some contempt for their effeminate appearance contrasted with
his own muscular frame, but could not keep his eyes off their handsome
and stylish dress. Meanwhile the chief of the beeldars perceived him,
and knowing that he did not belong to the palace, imagined from his
appearance and his presenting himself among them that he must be one in
the service of one of the great omrahs who were at Bagdad, who, having
nothing to do at home, had come as a visitor to the palace. He remarked
this to his brother beeldars, saying, "This fine-built stranger ought to
be considered as our guest. Let us show him all courtesy, for he is of
our profession, and therefore we shall not do ourselves credit if we do
not prove that we have the power to serve him." The other beeldars
agreeing with him, the chief went to the secretary of the treasury and
procured an order of notice upon a rich confectioner, to pay into the
treasury the sum of five thousand dirhems, due by him upon several
accounts therein specified. The vizier's seal having been attached to
it, he went with it to where Yussuf was standing. "What ho! brother
beeldar," said the chief.

"I am Yussuf, and my trust is in God; I am ready to obey your commands,"
said the water-carrier, advancing with great humility.

"May I request, brother beeldar, that you will do us of the palace the
very great favour to carry this paper, bearing the vizier's seal, to
Mallem Osman, the great confectioner, and request the immediate payment
of five thousand dirhems. You know your profession; of course the money
is not expected, but whatever he may offer you for affording him a
respite put down to the friendship and good will of the beeldars of the
palace, and remember us when you feast in your own dwelling."

Yussuf, highly delighted, put the order into his cap, made a low salaam,
and departed on his message. Deeming it beneath his new-fledged dignity
to walk, he mounted one of the asses ready for hire at the corner of the
streets, ordering the driver to hasten before to clear the way, and
ascertain which was the dwelling of the confectioner. The house of
Mallem Osman was soon discovered, for he was the most celebrated of his
trade, and had an immense business. Yussuf rode up on th