As this reflection kept HAMET a few moments silent, Abdallah withdrew;
and HAMET, as he observed some marks of haste and confusion in his
countenance, was unwilling longer to continue him in a situation, which
he had now reason to think gave him pain. But Abdallah, who had
conceived a sudden thought that HAMET'S question was an indirect
reproach of ALMEIDA, for not having herself solicited admission to his
presence; went in haste to her apartment, and ordered her immediately
to make ready to attend him to the king.
ALMEIDA, from whose mind the image of HAMET had not been absent a moment
since she first saw him, received this order with a mixture of pain and
pleasure; of wishes, hopes, and apprehensions, that filled her bosom
with emotion, and covered her face with blushes. She had not courage to
ask the reason of the command, which she instantly prepared to obey; but
the tenderness of Abdallah, who perceived and pitied her distress,
anticipated her wish. In a short time, therefore, he returned to the
chamber of presence, and having received permission, he entered with
ALMEIDA in his hand. HAMET rose in haste to receive her, with a glow of
pleasure and impatience in his countenance; and having raised her from
the ground, supported her in his arms, waiting to hear her voice; but
though she made many attempts, she could not speak.
Pages:
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46