"
After plying Antonio with a few more questions, he said, "I think you
possess the necessary qualifications."
Then the Turk counted out one hundred gold pieces to Jesseph and laid
them upon the table. Jesseph counted them and placed them in his leather
bag. "Your honor," said he, turning to the Turk, "will be pleased with
this bargain, I am sure; and you, Antonio, must show by your good works
that you are worthy the price. Live well! Adieu!"
The Turk, Ashmed by name, was a rich merchant who traded extensively
with other countries. He wished Antonio to carry on his correspondence
with French and Italian merchants, and to serve in his house.
As it was now time to dine, he directed Antonio to prepare himself and
then proceed to the dining-room.
[Illustration: "Now you may sing and play for us."]
Here Antonio became acquainted with the other members of the household.
At the table there were four persons, Ashmed, his wife, Fatime, and
their two children, a boy and a girl.
As Ashmed's wife removed the veil which had concealed her face, Antonio
was struck by her exquisite beauty. The children, who were very well
behaved, greeted him in a friendly way and watched him attentively.
Antonio tried to do his best, and felt amply repaid when Ashmed said:
"Your services this day have pleased us. Now you may sing and play for
us."
As Antonio had noticed the affection which existed in this household, he
sang a sweet Italian song of motherly love.
"The song is beautiful," said the girl.
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