I drew a long
breath of pleasure and relief; we were upon the road.
FOOTNOTES:
[6] The sok is the market-place.
[7] Kaid is a complimentary title--he was a common soldier. M'Barak means
"the blessed one," and is one of the names usually set apart for slaves.
[8] Base copper coins, of which a penny will purchase a score.
[9] It is fair to say that this is no more than one of many stories
relating to the great Wazeer's early days. Another says that he started
life as a soldier. There is no doubt that he is a man of extraordinary
talent.
[10] A pannier made of palmetto.
ON THE MOORISH ROAD
[Illustration: A SAINT'S TOMB]
CHAPTER III
ON THE MOORISH ROAD
With the brief gladness of the Palms,
that tower and sway o'er seething plain,
Fraught with the thoughts of rustling shade,
and welling spring, and rushing rain;
'Tis their's to pass with joy and hope,
whose souls shall ever thrill and fill
Dreams of the Birthplace and the Tomb,--
visions of Allah's Holy Hill.
_The Kasidah._
We travel slowly, for the Maalem "father" of the pack-mules--guide,
philosopher, and trusted companion--says that haste kills strong men, and
often repeats a Moorish proverb which tells us that walking is better than
running, and that of all things sitting still is best.
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