THE waving of banners, the flourish of trumpets1, the neighing of steeds, and the glitter of spears! On the distant horizon they gleam like the morning, when the gloom of the night shivers bright into day. Hark! the tramp of the foemen, like the tide of the ocean, flows onward2 and onward, and conquers the shore. From the brow of the mountain, like the rush of a river, the column defiling3 melts into the plain.
Warriors5 of Judah! holy men that battle for the Lord! The land wherein your fathers wept, and touched their plaintive6 psalteries; the haughty7 city where your sires bewailed their cold and distant hearths8; your steeds are prancing9 on its plain, and you shall fill its palaces. Warriors of Judah! holy men that battle for the Lord!
March, onward march, ye valiant10 tribes, the hour has come, the hour has come! All the promises of ages, all the signs of sacred sages11, meet in this ravishing hour. Where is now the oppressor’s chariot, where your tyrant’s purple robe? The horse and the rider are both overthrown12, the horse and the rider are both overthrown!
Rise, Rachel, from thy wilderness14, arise, and weep no more. No more thy lonely palm-tree’s shade need shroud15 thy secret sorrowing. The Lord hath heard the widow’s sigh, the Lord hath stilled the widow’s tear. Be comforted, be comforted, thy children live again!
Yes! yes! upon the bounding plain fleet Asriel glances like a star, and stout16 Scherirah shakes his spear by stern Jabaster’s scimitar. And He is there, the chosen one, hymned by prophetic harps17, whose life is like the morning dew on Zion’s holy hill: the chosen one, the chosen one, that leads his race to victory; warriors of Judah! holy men that battle for the Lord!
They come, they come, they come!
The ramparts of the city were crowded with the inhabitants, the river sparkled with ten thousand boats, the bazaars18 were shut, the streets lined with the populace, and the terrace of every house covered with spectators. In the morning, Ithamar had entered with his division and garrisoned19 the city. And now the vanguard of the Hebrew army, after having been long distinguished21 in the distance, approached the walls. A large body of cavalry22 dashed forward at full speed from the main force. Upon a milk-white charger, and followed by a glittering train of warriors, amid the shouts of the vast multitude, Alroy galloped24 up to the gates.
He was received by Ithamar and the members of the deputation, but Honain was not there. Accompanied by his staff and a strong detachment of the Sacred Guard, Alroy was conducted through the principal thoroughfares of the city, until he arrived at the chief entrance of the serail, or palace, of the caliph. The vast portal conducted him into a large quadrangular court, where he dismounted, and where he was welcomed by the captain of the eunuch guard. Accompanied by his principal generals and his immediate25 attendants, Alroy was then ushered26 through a suite27 of apartments which reminded him of his visit with Honain, until he arrived at the grand council-chamber28 of the caliphs.
‘An easy seat after a long march,’ said Alroy, as he touched with his lips the coffee, which the chief of the eunuchs presented to him in a cup of transparent31 pink porcelain32, studded with pearls.65 ‘Itha-mar, now for your report. What is the temper of the city? Where is his Sultanship of Roum?’
‘The city, sire, is calm, and I believe content. The sultan and the caliph are still hovering33 on the borders of the province.’
‘So I supposed. Scherirah will settle that. Let the troops be encamped without the walls, the garrison20, ten thousand strong, must be changed monthly. Ithamar, you are governor of the city: Asriel commands the forces. Worthy34 Jabaster, draw up a report of the civil affairs of the capital. Your quarters are the College of the Dervishes. Brave Scherirah, I cannot afford you a long rest. In three days you must have crossed the river with your division. It will be quick work. I foresee that they will not fight. Meet me all here in council by to-morrow’s noon. Farewell.’
‘My own Jabaster, you have but to speak.’
‘Sire, I would speak of Abidan, as valiant a warrior4 as any in the host. It grieves me much, that by some fatality37, his services seem ever overlooked.’
‘Abidan! I know him well, a valiant man, but a dreamer, a dreamer.’
‘A dreamer, sire! Believe me, a true son of Israel, and one whose faith is deep.’
‘Good Jabaster, we are all true sons of Israel. Yet let me have men about me who see no visions in a mid23-day sun. We must beware of dreamers.’
‘When God sends them. Very true, Jabaster. But this Abidan and the company with whom he consorts39 are filled with high-flown notions, caught from old traditions, which, if acted on, would render government impracticable; in a word, they are dangerous men.’
‘The very flower of Israel! Some one has poisoned your sacred ear against them.’
‘No one, worthy Jabaster. I have no counsellor except yourself. They may be the flower of Israel, but they are not the fruit. Good warriors, bad subjects: excellent means, by which we may accomplish greater ends. I’ll have no dreamers in authority. I must have practical men about me, practical men. See how Abner, Asriel, Ithamar, Medad, see how these conform to what surrounds them, yet invincible40 captains, invincible captains. But then they are practical men, Jabaster; they have eyes and use them. They know the difference of times and seasons. But this Abidan, he has no other thought but the rebuilding of the temple: a narrow-souled bigot, who would sacrifice the essence to the form. The rising temple soon would fall again with such constructors. Why, sir, what think you, this same Abidan preached in the camp against my entry into what the quaint41 fanatic42 chooses to call “Babylon,” because he had seen what he calls a vision.’
‘Am I Abidan, sir? Are other men to mould their conduct or their thoughts by me? In this world I stand alone, a being of a different order from yourselves, incomprehensible even to you. Let this matter cease. I’ll hear no more and have heard too much. To-morrow at council.’
The high priest withdrew in silence.
‘He is gone; at length I am alone. I cannot bear the presence of these men, except in action. Their words, even their looks, disturb the still creation of my brooding thought. I am once more alone, and loneliness hath been the cradle of my empire. Now I do feel inspired. There needs no mummery now to work a marvel44.
‘The sceptre of Solomon! It may be so. What then? Here’s now the sceptre of Alroy. What’s that without his mind? The legend said that none should free our people but he who bore the sceptre of great Solomon. The legend knew that none could gain that sceptre, but with a mind to whose supreme45 volition46 the fortunes of the world would bow like fate. I gained it; I confronted the spectre monarchs47 in their sepulchre; and the same hand that grasped their shadowy rule hath seized the diadem48 of the mighty49 caliphs by the broad rushing of their imperial river.
‘The world is mine: and shall I yield the prize, the universal and heroic prize, to realise the dull tradition of some dreaming priest, and consecrate50 a legend? He conquered Asia, and he built the temple. Are these my annals? Shall this quick blaze of empire sink to a glimmering51 and a twilight52 sway over some petty province, the decent patriarch of a pastoral horde53? Is the Lord of Hosts so slight a God, that we must place a barrier to His sovereignty, and fix the boundaries of Omnipotence54 between the Jordan and the Lebanon? It is not thus written; and were it so, I’ll pit my inspiration against the prescience of my ancestors. I also am a prophet, and Bagdad shall be my Zion. The daughter of the Voice! Well, I am clearly summoned. I am the Lord’s servant, not Jabaster’s. Let me make His worship universal as His power; and where’s the priest shall dare impugn55 my faith, because His altars smoke on other hills than those of Judah?
‘I must see Honain. That man has a great mind. He alone can comprehend my purpose. Universal empire must not be founded on sectarian prejudices and exclusive rights. Jabaster would massacre57 the Moslemin like Amalek; the Moslemin, the vast majority, and most valuable portion, of my subjects. He would depopulate my empire, that it might not be said that Ishmael shared the heritage of Israel. Fanatic! I’ll send him to conquer Judah. We must conciliate. Something must be done to bind59 the conquered to our conquering fortunes. That bold Sultan of Roum: I wish Abner had opposed him. To run off with the harem! I have half a mind to place myself at the head of the pursuing force, and—— Passion and policy alike combine: and yet Honain is the man; I might send him on a mission. Could we make terms? I detest60 treaties. My fancy flies from all other topics. I must see him. Could I but tell him all I think! This door, whither leads it? Hah! methinks I do remember yon glittering gallery! No one in attendance. The discipline of our palace is somewhat lax. My warriors are no courtiers. What an admirable marshal of the palace Honain would make! Silence everywhere. So! ‘tis well. These saloons I have clearly passed through before. Could I but reach the private portal by the river side, unseen or undetected! ‘Tis not impossible. Here are many dresses. I will disguise myself. Trusty scimitar, thou hast done thy duty, rest awhile. ‘Tis lucky I am beardless. I shall make a capital eunuch. So! a handsome robe. One dagger61 for a pinch, slippers62 powdered with pearls,66a caftan of cloth of gold, a Cachemire girdle, and a pelisse of sables64. One glance at the mirror. Good! I begin to look like the conqueror of the world!’
It was twilight: a small and solitary65 boat, with a single rower, glided66 along the Tigris, and stopped at the archway of a house that descended67 into the river. It stopped, the boatman withdrew the curtains, and his single passenger disembarked, and ascended68 the stairs of the archway.
The stranger reached the landing-place, and unfastening a golden grate, proceeded along a gallery, and entered a beautiful saloon of white and green marble, opening into gardens. No one was in the apartment; the stranger threw himself upon a silver couch, placed at the side of a fountain that rose from the centre of the chamber and fell into a porphyry basin. A soft whisper roused the stranger from his reverie, a soft whisper that faintly uttered the word ‘Honain.’ The stranger looked up, a figure, enveloped69 in a veil, that touched the ground, advanced from the gardens.
‘Honain!’ said the advancing figure, throwing off the veil. ‘Honain! Ah! the beautiful mute returned!’
A woman more lovely than the rosy70 morn, beheld71 an unexpected guest. They stood, the lady and the stranger, gazing on each other in silence. A man, with a light, entered the extremity72 of the hall. Carefully he closed the portal, slowly he advanced, with a subdued73 step; he approached the lady and the stranger.
‘Alroy!’ said the astonished Honain, the light fell from his hand.
‘Alroy!’ exclaimed the lady, with a bewildered air: she turned pale, and leant against a column.
‘Daughter of the caliph!’ said the leader of Israel; and he advanced, and fell upon his knee, and stole her passive hand. ‘I am indeed that Alroy to whom destiny has delivered the empire of thy sire; but the Princess Schirene can have nothing to fear from one who values above all his victories this memorial of her goodwill;’ and he took from his breast a rosary of pearls and emeralds, and, rising slowly, left it in her trembling hand.
The princess turned and hid her face in her arm, which reclined against the column.
‘My kind Honain,’ said Alroy, ‘you thought me forgetful of the past; you thought me ungrateful. My presence here proves that I am not so. I come to enquire74 all your wishes. I come to gratify and to fulfil them, if that be in my power.’
‘Sire,’ replied Honain, who had recovered from the emotion in which he rarely indulged, and from the surprise which seldom entrapped75 him, ‘Sire, my wishes are slight. You see before you the daughter of my master. An interview, for which I fear I shall not easily gain that lady’s pardon, has made you somewhat acquainted with her situation and her sentiments. The Princess Schirene seized the opportunity of the late convulsions to escape from a mode of life long repugnant to all her feelings, and from a destiny at which she trembled. I was her only counsellor, and she may feel assured, a faithful, although perhaps an indiscreet one. The irresistible77 solicitation78 of the inhabitants that I should become their deputy to their conqueror prevented us from escaping as we had intended. Since then, from the movement of the troops, I have deemed it more prudent80 that we should remain at present here, although I have circulated the intelligence of my departure. In the kiosk of my garden, the princess is now a willing prisoner. At twilight she steals forth81 for the poor relaxation82 of my society, to listen to the intelligence which I acquire during the day in disguise. The history, sire, is short and simple. We are in your power: but instead of deprecating your interference, I now solicit79 your protection.’
‘Dear Honain, ‘tis needless. The Princess Schirene has only to express a wish that it may be fulfilled. I came to speak with you on weighty matters, Honain, but I retire, for I am an intruder now. Tomorrow, if it please you, at this hour, and in this disguise, I will again repair hither. In the meantime, this lady may perchance express to you her wishes, and you will bear them to me. If an escort to any country, if any palace or province for her rule and residence—— But I will not offer to one who should command. Lady! farewell. Pardon the past! Tomorrow, good Honain! prythee let us meet. Good even!’
‘The royal brow was clouded,’ said Ithamar to Asriel, as, departing from the council, they entered their magnificent barque.
‘I have seen him gay on the eve of battle, and lively though calm, with weightier matters than now oppress him. His brow was clouded, but not, me-thinks, with thought; one might rather say with temper. Mark you, how he rated Jabaster?’
‘Roundly! The stern priest writhed84 under it; and as he signed the ordinance85, shivered his reed in rage. I never saw a man more pale.’
‘Or more silent. He looked like an embodied86 storm. I tell you what, Asriel, that stern priest loves not us.’
‘Have you just discovered that secret, Ithamar? We are not of his school. Nor, in good faith, is our ruler. I am glad to see the king is so staunch about Abidan. Were he in council he would support Jabaster.’
‘I would not trust him. As long as there is fighting, he will meddle88 with nothing else; but, mark my words, Ithamar: in quiet times he will support the priest.’
‘Medad will have a place in council. He is with us.’
‘Heart and soul. I would your brother were here, Asriel: he alone could balance Jabaster. Alroy loves your brother like himself. Is it true that he marries the Lady Miriam?’
‘So the king wishes. ‘Twill be a fine match for Abner.’
‘The world is all before us. I wonder who will be viceroy of Syria.’
‘When we conquer it. Not Scherirah. Mark my words, Ithamar: he never will have a government. You or I perchance. For my own part, I would rather remain as I am.’
‘Yours is a good post; the best.’
‘With the command of the city. It should go with the guard.’
‘Well, then, help me in getting Syria, and you can ask for my command.’
‘Agreed. Jabaster will have it that, in a Hebrew monarchy89, the chief priest is in fact the grand vizir.’
‘Alroy will be his own minister.’
‘I am not so sure of that. He may choose to command the Syrian expedition in person; he must leave some head at Bagdad. Jabaster is no general.’
‘Oh! none at all. Alroy will be glad to leave him at home. The Sultan of Roum may not be always so merciful.’
‘Hah! hah! that was an escape!’
‘By heavens! I thought it was all over. You made a fine charge.’
‘I shall never forget it. I nearly ran over Jabaster.’
‘Would that you had!’
It is the tender twilight hour when maidens90 in their lonely bower91 sigh softer than the eve! The languid rose her head upraises, and listens to the nightingale, while his wild and thrilling praises from his trembling bosom92 gush93: the languid rose her head upraises, and listens with a blush.
In the clear and rosy air, sparkling with a single star, the sharp and spiry94 cypress-tree rises like a gloomy thought, amid the flow of revelry. A singing bird, a single star, a solemn tree, an odorous flower, are dangerous in the tender hour, when maidens in their twilight bower sigh softer than the eve!
The daughter of the caliph comes forth to breathe the air: her lute95 her only company. She sits her down by a fountain’s side, and gazes on the waterfall. Her cheek reclines upon her arm, like fruit upon a graceful96 bough97. Very pensive98 is the face of that bright and beauteous lady. She starts; a warm voluptuous99 lip presses her soft and idle hand. It is her own gazelle. With his large and lustrous100 eyes, more eloquent101 than many a tongue, the fond attendant mutely asks the cause of all her thoughtfulness.
‘Ah! bright gazelle! Ah! bright gazelle!’ the princess cried, the princess cried; ‘thy lips are softer than the swan, thy lips are softer than the swan; but his breathed passion when they pressed, my bright gazelle! my bright gazelle!
‘Ah! bright gazelle! Ah! bright gazelle!’ the princess cried, the princess cried; ‘thine eyes are like the stars of night, thine eyes are like the stars of night; but his glanced passion when they gazed, my bright gazelle! my bright gazelle!’
She seized her lute, she wildly threw her fingers o’er its thrilling strings102, and, gazing on the rosy sky, to borrow all its poetry, thus, thus she sang—thus, thus she sang:
He rose in beauty like the morn
That brightens in bur Syrian skies;
Dark passion glittered in his eyes,
And Empire sparkled in his form!
My soul! thou art the dusky earth,
On which his sunlight fell;
The dusky earth, that dim no longer,
Now breathes with light, now beams with love!
He rose in beauty, like the morn
That brightens in our Syrian skies;
Dark passion glittered in his eyes,
And Empire sparkled in his form!
Page174
‘Once more, once more! Ah! sing that strain once more!’
The princess started and looked round. Before her stood Alroy. She rose, she would have retired; but, advancing, the conqueror stole her hand.
‘Fair princess,’ said Alroy, ‘let it not be said that my presence banished103 at once beauty and music.’
‘Sire, I doubt not that Honain awaits you. Let me summon him.’
‘Lady, it is not with Honain that I would speak.’
He seated himself by her side. His countenance104 was pale, his heart trembled.
‘This garden,’ at length he observed in a low voice, ‘this garden, a brief, brief space has glided away since first I wandered within its beauteous limits, and yet those days seem like the distant memory of another life.’
‘It is another life,’ said the princess. ‘Ourselves, the world, all forms and usages, all feelings and all habits, verily they have changed, as if we had breathed within another sphere.’
‘‘Tis a great change.’
‘It is sacred, like yourself.’
‘I am no conqueror, fair Schirene, but a slave more lowly than when I first bowed humbly107 in your presence.’
‘And bore away a token not forgotten. Your rosary is here.’
‘Let me claim it. It has been my consolation108 in much peril109, beauteous lady. On the eve of battle I wound it round my heart.’
She held forth the rosary, and turned away her head. Her hand remained in his; he pressed it to his lips. His right arm retained her hand; he wound the other round her waist, as he fell upon his knee.
‘O beautiful! O more than beautiful! for thou to me art like a dream unbroken,’ exclaimed the young leader of Israel, ‘let me, let me breathe my adoration110. I offer thee not empire: I offer thee not wealth; I offer thee not all the boundless111 gratification of magnificent fancy,—these may be thine, but all these thou hast proved; but, if the passionate113 affections of a spirit which never has yielded to the power of woman or the might of man, if the deep devotion of the soul of Alroy, be deemed an offering meet for the shrine114 of thy surpassing loveliness, I worship thee, Schirene. I worship thee, I worship thee!
‘Since I first gazed upon thee, since thy beauty first rose upon my presence like a star bright with my destiny, in the still sanctuary115 of my secret love, thy idol116 has ever rested. Then, then, I was a thing whose very touch thy creed117 might count a contumely. I have avenged118 the insults of long centuries in the best blood of Asia; I have returned, in glory and in pride, to claim my ancient sceptre; but sweeter far than vengeance119, sweeter far than the quick gathering120 of my sacred tribes, the rush of triumph and the blaze of empire, is this brief moment of adoring love, wherein I pour the passion of my life!
‘O my soul, my life, my very being! thou art silent, but thy silence is sweeter than others’ speech. Yield, yield thee, dear Schirene, yield to thy suppliant121! Thy faith, thy father’s faith, thy native customs, these, these shall be respected, beauteous lady! Pharaoh’s daughter yielded her dusky beauty to my great ancestor. Thy face is like the bright inspiring day! Let it not be said that the daughter of the Nile shared Israel’s crown, the daughter of the Tigris spurned122 our sceptre. I am not Solomon, but I am one that, were Schirene the partner of my throne, would make his glowing annals read like a wearisome and misty123 tale to our surpassing lustre124!’
He ceased, the princess turned her hitherto hidden countenance, and bowed it on his heart. ‘O Alroy!’ she exclaimed, ‘I have no creed, no country, no life, but thee!’
‘The king is late to-day.’
‘Is it true, Asriel, there is an express from Hamadan?’
‘Of no moment, Ithamar. I have private letters from Abner. All is quiet.’
‘‘Tis much past the hour. When do you depart, Scherirah?’
‘The troops are ready. I wait orders. This morning’s council will perchance decide.’
‘This morning’s council is devoted125 to the settlement of the civil affairs of the capital,’ remarked Jabaster.
‘Indeed!’ said Asriel. ‘Is your report prepared, Jabaster?’
‘‘Tis here,’ replied the high priest. ‘The Hebrew legislator requires but little musing126 to shape his order. He has a model which time cannot destroy, nor thought improve.’
Ithamar and Asriel exchanged significant glances. Scherirah looked solemn. There was a pause, which was broken by Asriel.
‘‘Tis a noble city, this Bagdad. I have not yet visited your quarters, Jabaster. You are well placed.’
‘As it may be. I hope we shall not tarry here long. The great point is still not achieved.’
‘A month’s march,’ replied Jabaster.
‘And when you get there?’ enquired Ithamar.
‘You may fight with the Franks,’ replied Asriel.
‘Jabaster, how large is Jerusalem?’ enquired Ithamar. ‘Is it true, as I have sometimes heard, that it is not bigger than the serail here, gardens and all?’
‘Its glory hath departed,’ replied the high priest; ‘the bricks have fallen, but we will rebuild with marble; and Zion, that is now without the Christian128 walls, shall yet sparkle, as in the olden time, with palaces and pavilions.’
A flourish of trumpets, the portals flew open, and Alroy entered, leaning on the arm of the Envoy129 of Bagdad.
‘Valiant leaders,’ said Alroy to the astonished chieftains, ‘in this noble stranger, you see one like yourselves entrusted130 with my unbounded confidence. Jabaster, behold131 thy brother!’
‘Honain! art thou Honain?’ exclaimed the pontiff starting from his seat. ‘I have a thousand messengers after thee.’ With a countenance alternately pallid132 with surprise and burning with affection, Jabaster embraced his brother, and, overpowered with emotion, hid his face on his shoulder.
‘Sire,’ at length exclaimed the high priest, in a low and tremulous voice, ‘I must pray your pardon that for an instant in this character I have indulged in any other thoughts than those that may concern your welfare. Tis past: and you, who know all, will forgive me.’
‘All that respects Jabaster must concern my welfare. He is the pillar of my empire;’ and holding forth his hand, Alroy placed the high priest on his right. ‘Scherirah, you depart this eve.’
The rough captain bowed in silence.
‘What is this?’ continued Alroy, as Jabaster offered him a scroll133. ‘Ah! your report. “Order of the Tribes,” “Service of the Lévites,” “Princes of the People,” “Elders of Israel!” The day may come when this may be effected. At present, Jabaster, we must be moderate, and content ourselves with arrangements which may ensure that order shall be maintained, property respected, and justice administered. Is it true that a gang has rifled a mosque134?’
‘Sire! of that I would speak. They are no plunderers, but men, perhaps too zealous136, who have read and who have remembered that “Ye shall utterly137 destroy all the places wherein the nations which ye shall possess, served their gods upon the high mountains, and upon the hill, and under every green tree. And ye shall overthrow13 their altars, and——“’
‘Jabaster, is this a synagogue? Come I to a council of valiant statesmen or dreaming Rabbis? For a thousand years we have been quoting the laws we dared not practise. Is it with such aid that we captured Nishapur and crossed the Tigris? Valiant, wise Jabaster, thou art worthy of better things, and capable of all. I entreat thee, urge such matters for the last time. Are these fellows in custody138?’
‘They were in custody. I have freed them.’
‘Freed them! Hang them! Hang them in the most public grove139. Is this the way to make the Moslem58 a duteous subject? Jabaster! Israel honours thee; and I, its chief, know that one more true, more valiant, or more learned, crowds not around our standard; but I see, the caverns140 of the Caucasus are not a school for empire.’
‘Sire, I had humbly deemed the school for empire was the law of Moses.’
‘Ay! adapted to these times.’
‘Can aught divine be changed?’
‘Am I as tall as Adam? If man, the crown, the rose of all this fair creation, the most divine of all divine inventions, if Time have altered even this choicest of all godlike works, why shall it spare a law made but to rule his conduct? Good Jabaster, we must establish the throne of Israel, that is my mission, and for the means, no matter how, or where. Asriel, what news of Medad?’
‘All is quiet between the Tigris and Euphrates. It would be better to recall his division, which has been much harassed142. I thought of relieving him by Abidan.’
‘I think so, too. We may as well keep Abidan out of the city. If the truth were known, I’ll wager143 some of his company plundered144 the mosque. We must issue a proclamation on that subject. My good Jabaster, we’ll talk over these matters alone. At present I will leave you with your brother. Scherirah, sup with me to-night; before you quit Asriel, come with me to my cabinet.’
‘I must see the king!’
‘Holy priest, his highness has retired. It is impossible.’
‘I must see the king. Worthy Pharez, I take all peril on myself.’
‘Indeed his highness’ orders are imperative145. You cannot see him.’
‘Knowest thou who I am?’
‘I say I must see the king.’
‘Indeed, indeed, holy Jabaster, it cannot be.’
‘Shall Israel perish for a menial’s place? Go to; I will see him.’
‘Touch not the Lord’s anointed. Dog, you shall suffer for this!’
So saying, Jabaster threw aside Pharez, and, with the attendant clinging to his robes, rushed into the royal chamber.
‘What is all this?’ exclaimed Alroy, starting from the divan. ‘Jabaster! Pharez, withdraw! How now, is Bagdad in insurrection?’
‘Worse, much worse, Israel soon will be.’
‘Ay!’
‘My fatal brother has told me all, nor would I sleep, until I lifted up my voice to save thee.’
‘Am I in danger?’
‘In the wilderness, when the broad desert quivered beneath thy trembling feet, and the dark heavens poured down their burning torrents149, thou wert less so. In that hour of death, One guarded thee, who never forgets His fond and faithful offspring, and now, when He has brought thee out of the house of bondage150; now, when thy fortunes, like a noble cedar151, swell152 in the air and shadow all the land; thou, the very leader of His people, His chosen one, for whom He hath worked such marvels153, thy heart is turned from thy fathers’ God, and hankers after strange abominations.’
Through the broad arch that led into the gardens of the serail, the moonlight fell upon the tall figure and the upraised arm of the priest; Alroy stood with folded arms at some distance, watching Jabaster as he spoke154, with a calm but searching glance. Suddenly he advanced with a quick step, and, placing his hand upon Jabaster’s arm, said, in a low, enquiring155 tone, ‘You are speaking of this marriage?’
‘Of that which ruined Solomon.’
‘Listen to me, Jabaster,’ said Alroy, interrupting him, in a calm but peremptory156 tone, ‘I cannot forget that I am speaking to my master, as well as to my friend. The Lord, who knoweth all things, hath deemed me worthy of His mission. My fitness for this high and holy office was not admitted without proof. A lineage, which none else could offer, mystic studies shared by few, a mind that dared encounter all things, and a frame that could endure most, these were my claims. But no more of this. I have passed the great ordeal157; the Lord of Hosts hath found me not unworthy of His charge; I have established His ancient people; His altars blaze with sacrifices; His priests are honoured, bear witness thou, Jabaster, His omnipotent158 unity76 is declared. What wouldst thou more?’
‘All!’
‘Then Moses knew you well. It is a stiff-necked people.’
‘Sire, bear with me. If I speak in heat, I speak in zeal135. You ask me what I wish: my answer is, a national existence, which we have not. You ask me what I wish: my answer is, the Land of Promise. You ask me what I wish: my answer is, Jerusalem. You ask me what I wish: my answer is, the Temple, all we have forfeited159, all we have yearned160 after, all for which we have fought, our beauteous country, our holy creed, our simple manners, and our ancient customs.’
‘Manners change with time and circumstances; customs may be observed everywhere. The ephod on thy breast proves our faith; and, for a country, is the Tigris less than Siloah, or the Euphrates inferior to the Jordan?’
‘Alas161! alas! there was a glorious prime when Israel stood aloof162 from other nations, a fair and holy thing that God had hallowed. We were then a chosen family, a most peculiar163 people, set apart for God’s entire enjoyment164. All about us was solemn, deep, and holy. We shunned165 the stranger as an unclean thing that must defile166 our solitary sanctity, and, keeping to ourselves and to our God, our lives flowed on in one great solemn tide of deep religion, making the meanest of our multitude feel greater than the kings of other lands. It was a glorious time: I thought it had returned; but I awake from this, as other dreams.’
‘We must leave off dreaming, good Jabaster, we must act. Were I, by any chance, to fall into one of those reveries, with which I have often lost the golden hours at Hamadan, or in our old cave, I should hear, some fine morning, his Sultanship of Roum rattling167 at my gates.’ Alroy smiled as he spoke; he would willingly have introduced a lighter168 tone into the dialogue, but the solemn countenance of the priest was not sympathetic with his levity169.
‘My heart is full, and yet I cannot speak: the memory of the past overpowers my thought. I had vainly deemed that my voice, inspired by the soul of truth, might yet preserve him; and now I stand here in his presence, silent and trembling, like a guilty thing. O, my prince! my pupil!’ said the priest, advancing, falling on his knee, and seizing the robe of Alroy, ‘by thy sacred lineage; by the sweet memory of thy ardent170 youth, and our united studies, by all thy zealous thoughts, and solemn musings, and glorious aspirations171 after fame; by all thy sufferings, and by all thy triumphs, and chiefly by the name of that great God, who hath elected thee his favoured child; by all the marvels of thy mighty mission, I do adjure172 thee! Arise, Alroy, arise and rouse thyself. The lure173 that snared174 thy fathers may trap thee, this Delilah may shear175 thy mystic locks. Spirits like thee act not by halves. Once fall out from the straight course before thee, and, though thou deemest ‘tis but to saunter ‘mid the summer trees, soon thou wilt176 find thyself in the dark depths of some infernal forest, where none may rescue thee!’
‘What if I do inherit the eager blood of my great ancestor, at least I hold his sceptre. Shall aught of earthly power prevail against the supernatural sway of Heaven and Hades?’
‘Sire, sire, the legend that came from Sinai is full of high instruction. But shape thy conduct by its oracles, and all were well. It says our people can be established only by him who rules them with the rod of Solomon. Sire, when the Lord offered his pleasure to that mighty king, thou knowest his deep discretion177. Riches and length of days, empire and vengeance, these were not the choice of one to whom all accidents were proffered178. The legend bears an inward spirit, as well as an outward meaning. The capture of the prize was a wise test of thy imperial fitness. Thou hast his sceptre, but, without his wisdom, ‘tis but a staff of cedar.’
‘Hah! Art thou there? I am glad to see Jabaster politic179. Hear me, my friend. What my feelings be unto this royal lady, but little matters. Let them pass, and let us view this question by the light wherein you have placed it, the flame of policy and not of passion. I am no traitor180 to the God of Israel, in whose name I have conquered, and in whose name I shall rule; but thou art a learned doctor, thou canst inform us. I have heard no mandate181 to yield my glorious empire for my meanest province. I am Lord of Asia, so would I have my long posterity182. Our people are but a remnant, a feeble fraction of the teeming183 millions that own my sway. What I hold I can defend; but my children may not inherit the spirit of their sire. The Moslemin will recognise their rule with readier hearts, when they remember that a daughter of their caliphs gave them life. You see I too am politic, my good Jabaster!’
‘The policy of the son of Kareah67, ‘twas fatal. He preferred Egypt to Judah, and he suffered. Sire, the Lord hath blessed Judah: it is His land. He would have it filled by His peculiar people, so that His worship might ever flourish. For this He has, by many curious rites184 and customs, marked us out from all other nations, so that we cannot, at the same time, mingle185 with them and yet be true to Him. We must exist alone. To preserve that loneliness is the great end and essence of our law. What have we to do with Bagdad, or its people, where every instant we must witness some violation186 of our statutes187? Can we pray with them? Can we eat with them? Alike in the highest duties, and the lowest occupations of existence, we cannot mingle. From the altar of our God to our domestic boards, we are alike separated from them. Sire, you may be King of Bagdad, but you cannot, at the same time, be a Jew.’
‘I am what I am. I worship the Lord of Hosts. Perhaps, in His mercy, He will accept the days of Nishapur and the Tigris as a compensation for some slight relaxation in the ritual of the baker188 and the bath.’
‘And mark my words: it was by the ritual of the baker and the bath that Alroy rose, and without it he will fall. The genius of the people, which he shared, raised him; and that genius has been formed by the law of Moses. Based on that law, he might indeed have handed down an empire to his long posterity; and now, though the tree of his fortunes seems springing up by the water-side, fed by a thousand springs, and its branches covered with dew, there is a gangrene in the sap, and to-morrow he may shrink like a shrivelled gourd189. Alas! alas! for Israel! We have long fed on mallows; but to lose the vintage in the very day of fruition, ‘tis very bitter. Ah! when I raised thy exhausted190 form in the cavern141 of Genthesma, and the star of David beamed brightly in the glowing heavens upon thy high fulfilment, who could have dreamed of a night like this? Farewell, sire.’
‘Stop, Jabaster! earliest, dearest friend, prythee, prythee stop!’
The priest slowly turned, the prince hesitated.
‘Part not in anger, good Jabaster.’
‘In sorrow, sire, only in sorrow; but deep and terrible.’
‘Israel is Lord of Asia, my Jabaster. Why should we fear?’
‘Solomon built Tadmor in the wilderness, and his fleet brought gold from Ophir; and yet Alroy was born a slave.’
‘But did not die one. The sultans of the world have fallen before me. I have no fear. Nay, do not go. At least you will give some credence191 to the stars, my learned Cabalist. See, my planet shines as brightly as my fortunes.’ Alroy withdrew the curtain, and with Jabaster stepped out upon the terrace. A beautiful star glittered on high. As they gazed, its colour changed, and a blood-red meteor burst from its circle, and fell into space. The conqueror and the priest looked at each other at the same time. Their countenances192 were pale, enquiring, and agitated193.
‘Sire,’ said Jabaster, ‘march to Judah.’
‘It portends194 war,’ replied Alroy, endeavouring to recover himself. ‘Perchance some troubles in Persia.’
‘Troubles at home, no other. The danger is nigh. Look to thyself.’
A wild scream was heard in the gardens. It sounded thrice.
‘What is this?’ exclaimed Alroy, really agitated. ‘Rouse the guard, Jabaster, search the gardens.’
‘What said it?’
‘Mené, Mené, Tekel, Upharsin!’
‘The old story, the priest against the king,’ said Honain to Alroy, when at his morrow’s interview, he had listened to the events of the preceding night. ‘My pious brother wishes to lead you back to the Theocracy197, and is fearful that, if he prays at Bagdad instead of Zion, he may chance to become only the head of an inferior sect56, instead of revelling198 in the universal tithes199 of a whole nation. As for the meteor, Scherirah must have crossed the river about the same time, and the Sultan of Roum may explain the bloody200 portent201. For the shriek196, as I really have no acquaintance with spirits, I must leave the miraculous202 communication to the favoured ears and initiated203 intelligences of your highness and my brother. It seems that it differed from “the Daughter of the Voice” in more respects than one, since it was not only extremely noisy, but, as it would appear, quite unintelligible204 except to the individual who had an interest in the interpretation205, an ingenious one, I confess. When I enter upon my functions as your highness’s chamberlain, I will at least guarantee that your slumbers206 shall not be disturbed either by spirits or more unwelcome visitors.’
‘Enter upon them at once, good Honain. How fares my Persian rose to-day, my sweet Schirene?’
‘Feeding on your image in your absence. She spares no word to me, I do assure your highness.’
‘Nay, nay, we know you are a general favourite with the sex, Honain. I’faith I’m jealous.’
The approaching marriage between the King of the Hebrews and the Princess of Bagdad was published throughout Asia. Preparations were made on the plain of the Tigris for the great rejoicing. Whole forests were felled to provide materials for the buildings and fuel for the banqueting. All the governors of provinces and cities, all the chief officers and nobility of both nations, were specially208 invited, and daily arrived in state at Bagdad. Among them the Viceroy of the Medes and Persians, and his recent bride, the Princess Miriam, were conspicuous209, followed by a train of nearly ten thousand persons.
A throne, ascended by one hundred steps covered with crimson210 cloth, and crowned by a golden canopy211, was raised in the middle of the plain; on each side was a throne less elevated, but equally gorgeous. In the front of these thrones an immense circus was described, formed by one hundred chartaks or amphitheatres, ample room for the admittance of the multitude being left between the buildings. These chartaks were covered with bright brocades and showy carpets; on each was hoisted212 a brilliant banner. In some of them were bands of choice musicians, in others companies of jugglers, buffoons214, and storiers. Five chartaks on each side of the thrones were allotted215 for the convenience of the court; the rest were filled by the different trades of the city. In one the fruiterers had formed a beautiful garden, glowing with pomegranates and gourds216 and watermelons, oranges, almonds, and pistachio-nuts; in another the butchers exhibited their meats carved in fanciful shapes, and the skins of animals formed into ludicrous figures. Here assembled the furriers, all dressed in masquerade, like leopards217, lions, tigers and foxes; and in another booth mustered218 the upholsterers, proud of a camel made of wood, and reeds, and cord, and painted linen219, a camel which walked about as if alive, though ever and anon a curtain drawn220 aside discovered to the marvelling221 multitude the workman within, performing in his own piece. Further on might be perceived the cotton manufacturers, whose chartak was full of birds of all shapes and plumage, formed nevertheless of their curious plant; and, in the centre rose a lofty minaret222, constructed of the same material, with the help of reeds, although every one imagined it to be built with bricks and mortar223. It was covered with embroidered224 work, and on the top was placed a stork225, so cunningly devised that the children pelted226 it with pistachio-nuts. The saddlers showed their skill in two litters, open at top, each carried on a dromedary, and in each a beautiful woman, who diverted the spectators with light balls of gilt227 leather, throwing them up both with their hands and feet. Nor were the mat-makers backward in the proof of their dexterity228, since, instead of a common banner, they exhibited a large standard of reeds worked with two lines of writing in Kufic, proclaiming the happy names of Alroy and Schirene.
But indeed in every chartak might be seen some wondrous specimens229 of the wealth of Bagdad, and of the ingenuity230 of its unrivalled artisans.
Around this mighty circus, on every side for the space of many miles, the plain was studded with innumerable pavilions. At measured intervals231 were tables furnished with every species of provision, and attended by appointed servants; flagons of wine and jars of sherbets, mingled232 with infinite baskets of delicious fruits and trays of refreshing233 confectionery. Although open to all comers, so great and rapid was the supply, that these banqueting tables seemed ever laden234; and that the joys of the people might be complete, they were allowed to pursue whatever pleasures they thought fit without any restraint, by proclamation, in these terms.
‘This is the time of feasting, pleasure, and rejoicing. Let no person reprimand or complain of another: let not the rich insult the poor, or the strong the weak: let no one ask another, “why have you done this ?”’
Millions of people were collected in this Paradise. They rejoiced, they feasted, they frolicked, they danced, they sang. They listened to the tales of the Arabian story-teller, at once enchanted235 and enchanting236, or melted to the strain of the Persian poet as he painted the moon-lit forehead of his heroine and the wasting and shadowy form of his love-sick hero; they beheld with amazement237 the feats238 of the juggler213 of the Ganges, or giggled239 at the practised wit and the practical buffoonery of the Syrian mime240. And the most delighted could still spare a fascinating glance to the inviting241 gestures and the voluptuous grace of the dancing girls of Egypt.68 Everywhere reigned242 melody and merriment, rarity and beauty. For once mankind forgot their cares, and delivered themselves up to infinite enjoyment.
‘I grow courteous,’ said Kisloch the Kourd, assisting a party into one of the shows.
‘And I humane,’ said Calidas the Indian. ‘Fellow, how dare you violate the proclamation, by thrashing that child?’ He turned to one of the stewards243 of the table, who was belabouring the unfortunate driver of a camel which had stumbled and in its fall had shivered its burden, two panniers of porcelain.
‘Mind your own business, fellow,’ replied the steward244, ‘and be thankful that for once in your life you can dine.’
‘Is this the way to speak to an officer?’ said Calidas the Indian; ‘I have half a mind to cut your tongue out.’
‘Never mind, little fellow,’ said the Guebre, ‘here is a dirhem for you. Run away and be merry.’
‘A miracle!’ grinned the Negro; ‘he giveth alms.’
‘And you are witty,’ rejoined the Guebre. ‘‘Tis a wondrous day.’
‘What shall we do?’ said Kisloch.
‘Let us dine,’ proposed the Negro.
‘Ay! under this plane-tree,’ said Calidas. ‘‘Tis pleasant to be alone. I hate everybody but ourselves.’
‘Here stop, you rascal,’ said the Guebre. ‘What’s your name?’
‘I am a Hadgee,’ said our old friend Abdallah, the servant of the charitable merchant Ali, and who was this day one of the officiating stewards.
‘Are you a Jew, you scoundrel?’ said the Guebre, ‘that is the only thing worth being. Bring some wine, you accursed Giaour!’
‘Instantly,’ said Kisloch, ‘and a pilau.’ ‘And a gazelle stuffed with almonds,’ said Calidas. ‘And some sugar-plums,’ said the Negro. ‘Quick, you infernal Gentile, or I’ll send this javelin245 in your back,’ hallooed the Guebre.
The servile Abdallah hastened away, and soon bustled246 back, bearing two flagons of wine, and followed by four servants, each with a tray covered with dainties.
‘Where are you going, you accursed scoundrels?’ grumbled247 Kisloch; ‘wait upon the true believers.’ ‘We shall be more free alone,’ whispered Calidas. ‘Away, then, dogs,’ growled248 Kisloch. Abdallah and his attendants hurried off, but were soon summoned back.
‘Why did you not bring Schiraz wine?’ asked Calidas, with an eye of fire.
‘The pilau is overdone,’ thundered Kisloch. ‘You have brought a lamb stuffed with pistachio-nuts, instead of a gazelle with almonds,’ said the Guebre.
‘Not half sugar-plums enough,’ said the Negro. ‘Everything is wrong,’ said Kisloch. ‘Go, and get us a kabob.’
In time, however, even this unmanageable crew were satisfied; and, seated under their plane-tree, and stuffing themselves with all the dainties of the East, they became more amiable249 as their appetites decreased. ‘A bumper250, Calidas, and a song,’ said Kisloch. ‘‘Tis rare stuff,’ said the Guebre; ‘come, Cally, it should inspire you.’
‘Here goes, then; mind the chorus.’
Drink, drink, deeply drink,
Never feel, and never think;
What’s love? what’s fame? a sigh, a smile.
Drown them in the goblet’s flow.
Yes! dash them in this brimming cup;
Dash them in, and drink them up.
Drink, drink, deeply drink,
Never feel, and never think.
‘Hark, the trumpets! The King and Queen! ‘The procession is coming. Let’s away.’
‘Again! they must be near. Hurry, hurry, for good places.’
‘Break all the cups and dishes. Come along!’
The multitude from all quarters hurried to the great circus, amid the clash of ten thousand cymbals253 and the blast of innumerable trumpets. In the distance, issuing from the gates of Bagdad, might be discerned a brilliant crowd, the advance company of the bridal procession.
There came five hundred maidens crowned with flowers, and beauteous as the buds that girt their hair. Their flowing robes were whiter than the swan, and each within her hand a palm-branch held. Followed these a band of bright musicians, clothed in golden robes, and sounding silver trumpets.
Then five hundred youths, brilliant as stars, clad in jackets of white-fox skin, and alternately bearing baskets of fruit or flowers.
Followed these a band of bright musicians, clothed in silver robes, and sounding golden trumpets.
The standard of Medad.
Medad, on a coal-black Arab, followed by three hundred officers of his division, all mounted on steeds of pure race.
Slaves, bearing the bridal present of Medad; six Damascus sabres of unrivalled temper.70
Twelve choice steeds, sumptuously caparisoned, each led by an Anatolian groom.
The household of Ithamar, in robes of violet, lined with ermine.
The standard of Ithamar.
Ithamar, on a snow-white Anatolian charger, followed by six hundred officers of his division, all mounted on steeds of pure race.
Slaves bearing the marriage present of Ithamar; a golden vase of rubies257 borne on a violet throne.
One hundred Negroes, their noses bored, and hung with rings of brilliants, playing upon wind instruments and kettle-drums.
The standard of the City of Bagdad.
The deputation from the citizens of Bagdad.
Two hundred mules258, with caparisons of satin, embroidered with gold, and adorned260 with small golden bells. These bore the sumptuous254 wardrobe, presented by the city to their princess. Each mule259 was attended by a girl, dressed like a Péri, with starry261 wings, and a man, masked as a hideous262 Dive.
The standard of Egypt.
The deputation from the Hebrews of Egypt, mounted on dromedaries, with silver furniture.
Fifty slaves, bearing their present to the princess, with golden cords, a mighty bath of jasper, beautifully carved, the sarcophagus of some ancient temple, and purchased for an immense sum.
The standard of Syria.
The deputation from the Hebrews of the Holy Land, headed by Rabbi Zimri himself, each carrying in his hand his offering to the nuptial263 pair, a precious vase, containing earth from the Mount of Zion.
The standard of Hamadan.
The deputation from the citizens of Hamadan, headed by the venerable Bostenay himself, whose sumptuous charger was led by Caleb.
The present of the city of Hamadan to David Al-roy, offered at his own suggestion; the cup in which the Prince of the Captivity264 carried his tribute, now borne full of sand.
Fifty choice steeds, sumptuously caparisoned, each led by a Median or Persian groom.
The household of Abner and Miriam, in number twelve hundred, clad in chain armour265 of ivory and gold.
The standard of the Medes and Persians.
Two white elephants, with golden litters, bearing the Viceroy and his Princess.
The offering of Abner to Alroy; twelve elephants of state, with furniture embroidered with jewels, each tended by an Indian clad in chain armour of ivory and gold.
The offering of Miriam to Schirene; fifty plants of roses from Rocnabad;71 a white shawl of Cachemire fifty feet in length, which folded into the handle of a fan; fifty screens, each made of a feather of the roc;72 and fifty vases of crystal full of exquisite266 perfumes, and each sealed with a talisman267 of precious stones.
After these followed the eunuch guard.
Then came the band of the serail, consisting of three hundred dwarfs268, hideous indeed to behold, but the most complete musicians in the world.
The steeds of Solomon, in number one hundred, each with a natural star upon its front, uncaparisoned, and led only by a bridle269 of diamonds.
The household of Alroy and Schirene. Foremost, the Lord Honain riding upon a chestnut270 charger, shod with silver; the dress of the rider, pink with silver stars. From his rosy turban depended a tremulous aigrette of brilliants,73 blazing with a thousand shifting tints271.
Two hundred pages followed him; and then servants of both sexes, gorgeously habited, amounting to nearly two thousand, carrying rich vases, magnificent caskets, and costly272 robes. The treasurer273 and two hundred of his underlings came next, showering golden dirhems on all sides.
The sceptre of Solomon borne by Asriel himself.
A magnificent and lofty car, formed of blue enamel274 with golden wheels, and axletrees of turquoises275 and brilliants, and drawn by twelve snow-white and sacred horses, four abreast276; in the car Alroy and Schirene.
Five thousand of the Sacred Guard closed the procession.
Amid the exclamations277 of the people, this gorgeous procession crossed the plain, and moved around the mighty circus. The conqueror and his bride ascended their throne; its steps were covered by the youths and maidens. On the throne upon their right sat the venerable Bostenay; on the left, the gallant278 Viceroy and his Princess. The chartaks on each side were crowded with the court.
The deputations made their offerings, the chiefs and captains paid their homage279, the trades of the city moved before the throne in order, and exhibited their various ingenuity. Thrice was the proclamation made, amid the sound of trumpets, and then began the games.
A thousand horsemen dashed into the arena280 and threw the jerreed. They galloped at full speed; they arrested their fiery281 charges in mid course, and flung their long javelins282 at the minute but sparkling target, the imitative form of a rare and brilliant bird. The conquerors283 received their prizes from the hand of the princess herself, bright shawls, and jewelled daggers284, and rosaries of gems285. Sometimes the trumpets announced a prize from the vice-queen, sometimes from the venerable Bostenay, sometimes from the victorious286 generals, or the loyal deputations, sometimes from the united trades, sometimes from the City of Bagdad, sometimes from the City of Hamadan. The hours flew away in gorgeous and ceaseless variety.
‘I would we were alone, my own Schirene,’ said Alroy to his bride.
‘Will the sun never set? Give me thy hand to play with.’
‘Hush! See, Miriam smiles.’
‘Lovest thou my sister, my own Schirene?’
‘None dearer but thyself.’
‘Talk not of my sister, but ourselves. Thinkest thou the sun is nearer setting, love?’
‘I cannot see; thine eyes they dazzle me, they are so brilliant, sweet!’
‘Oh, my soul! I could pour out my passion on thy breast.’
‘Thou art very serious.’
‘Love is ever so.’
‘Nay, sweet! It makes me wild and fanciful. Now I could do such things, but what I know not. I would we had wings, and then we would fly away.’
‘See, I must salute288 this victor in the games. Must I unloose thy hand! Dear hand, farewell! Think of me while I speak, my precious life. ‘Tis done. Give back thy hand, or else methinks I shall die. What’s this?’
A horseman, in no holiday dress, but covered with dust, rushed into the circus, bearing in his hand a tall lance, on which was fixed289 a scroll. The marshals of the games endeavoured to prevent his advance, but he would not be stayed. His message was to the king alone. A rumour290 of news from the army circulated throughout the crowd. And news from the army it was. Another victory! Scherirah had defeated the Sultan of Roum, who was now a suppliant for peace and alliance. Sooth to say, the intelligence had arrived at dawn of day, but the courtly Honain had contrived291 that it should be communicated at a later and more effective moment.
There scarcely needed this additional excitement to this glorious day. But the people cheered, the golden dirhems were scattered292 with renewed profusion293, and the intelligence was received by all parties as a solemn ratification112 by Jehovah, or by Allah, of the morning ceremony.
The sun set, the court rose, and returned in the same pomp to the serail. The twilight died away, a beacon294 fired on a distant eminence295 announced the entrance of Alroy and Schirene into the nuptial chamber, and suddenly, as by magic, the mighty city, every mosque, and minaret, and tower, and terrace, and the universal plain, and the numberless pavilions, and the immense circus, and the vast and winding296 river, blazed with light. From every spot a lamp, a torch, a lantern, tinted297 with every hue298, burst forth; enormous cressets of silver radiancy beamed on the top of each chartak, and huge bonfires of ruddy flame started up along the whole horizon.
For seven days and seven nights this unparalleled scene of rejoicing, though ever various, never ceased. Long, long was remembered the bridal feast of the Hebrew prince and the caliph’s daughter; long, long did the peasantry on the plains of Tigris sit down by the side of that starry river, and tell the wondrous tale to their marvelling posterity.
Now what a glorious man was David Alroy, lord of the mightiest299 empire in the world, and wedded300 to the most beautiful princess, surrounded by a prosperous and obedient people, guarded by invincible armies, one on whom Earth showered all its fortune, and Heaven all its favour; and all by the power of his own genius!
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1
trumpets
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| 喇叭( trumpet的名词复数 )； 小号； 喇叭形物； （尤指）绽开的水仙花 | |
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onward
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| adj.向前的，前进的；adv.向前，前进，在先 | |
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defiling
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| v.玷污( defile的现在分词 )；污染；弄脏；纵列行进 | |
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warrior
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| n.勇士，武士，斗士 | |
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warriors
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| 武士，勇士，战士( warrior的名词复数 ) | |
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plaintive
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| adj.可怜的，伤心的 | |
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haughty
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| adj.傲慢的，高傲的 | |
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8
hearths
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| 壁炉前的地板，炉床，壁炉边( hearth的名词复数 ) | |
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prancing
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| v.（马）腾跃( prance的现在分词 ) | |
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valiant
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| adj.勇敢的，英勇的；n.勇士，勇敢的人 | |
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sages
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| n.圣人( sage的名词复数 )；智者；哲人；鼠尾草（可用作调料） | |
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overthrown
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| adj. 打翻的，推倒的，倾覆的 动词overthrow的过去分词 | |
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overthrow
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| v.推翻，打倒，颠覆；n.推翻，瓦解，颠覆 | |
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wilderness
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| n.杳无人烟的一片陆地、水等，荒漠 | |
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shroud
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| n.裹尸布，寿衣；罩，幕；vt.覆盖，隐藏 | |
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harps
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| abbr.harpsichord 拨弦古钢琴n.竖琴( harp的名词复数 ) | |
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bazaars
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| （东方国家的）市场( bazaar的名词复数 )； 义卖； 义卖市场； （出售花哨商品等的）小商品市场 | |
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garrisoned
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| 卫戍部队守备( garrison的过去式和过去分词 )； 派部队驻防 | |
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garrison
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| n.卫戍部队；驻地，卫戍区；vt.派(兵)驻防 | |
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distinguished
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| adj.卓越的，杰出的，著名的 | |
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cavalry
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| n.骑兵；轻装甲部队 | |
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mid
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| adj.中央的，中间的 | |
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24
galloped
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| （使马）飞奔，奔驰( gallop的过去式和过去分词 )； 快速做[说]某事 | |
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25
immediate
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| adj.立即的；直接的，最接近的；紧靠的 | |
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26
ushered
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| v.引，领，陪同( usher的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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27
suite
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| n.一套(家具)；套房；随从人员 | |
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28
chamber
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| n.房间，寝室；会议厅；议院；会所 | |
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29
conqueror
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| n.征服者，胜利者 | |
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30
divan
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| n.长沙发；（波斯或其他东方诗人的）诗集 | |
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31
transparent
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| adj.明显的，无疑的；透明的 | |
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32
porcelain
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| n.瓷；adj.瓷的，瓷制的 | |
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33
hovering
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| 鸟( hover的现在分词 )； 靠近（某事物）； （人）徘徊； 犹豫 | |
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34
worthy
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| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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35
retired
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| adj.隐退的，退休的，退役的 | |
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36
entreat
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| v.恳求，恳请 | |
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37
fatality
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| n.不幸，灾祸，天命 | |
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38
oracles
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| 神示所( oracle的名词复数 )； 神谕； 圣贤； 哲人 | |
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39
consorts
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| n.配偶( consort的名词复数 )；（演奏古典音乐的）一组乐师；一组古典乐器；一起v.结伴( consort的第三人称单数 )；交往；相称；调和 | |
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40
invincible
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| adj.不可征服的，难以制服的 | |
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41
quaint
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| adj.古雅的，离奇有趣的，奇怪的 | |
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42
fanatic
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| n.狂热者，入迷者；adj.狂热入迷的 | |
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43
majesty
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| n.雄伟，壮丽，庄严，威严；最高权威，王权 | |
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44
marvel
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| vi.(at)惊叹vt.感到惊异；n.令人惊异的事 | |
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45
supreme
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| adj.极度的，最重要的；至高的，最高的 | |
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46
volition
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| n.意志；决意 | |
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47
monarchs
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| 君主，帝王( monarch的名词复数 ) | |
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48
diadem
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| n.王冠，冕 | |
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49
mighty
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| adj.强有力的；巨大的 | |
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50
consecrate
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|
| v.使圣化，奉…为神圣；尊崇；奉献 | |
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51
glimmering
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| n.微光，隐约的一瞥adj.薄弱地发光的v.发闪光，发微光( glimmer的现在分词 ) | |
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52
twilight
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| n.暮光，黄昏；暮年，晚期，衰落时期 | |
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53
horde
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| n.群众，一大群 | |
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54
omnipotence
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| n.全能，万能，无限威力 | |
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55
impugn
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| v.指责，对…表示怀疑 | |
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56
sect
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|
| n.派别，宗教，学派，派系 | |
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57
massacre
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| n.残杀，大屠杀；v.残杀，集体屠杀 | |
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58
Moslem
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| n.回教徒，穆罕默德信徒；adj.回教徒的，回教的 | |
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59
bind
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| vt.捆，包扎；装订；约束；使凝固；vi.变硬 | |
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60
detest
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| vt.痛恨，憎恶 | |
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61
dagger
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| n.匕首，短剑，剑号 | |
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62
slippers
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| n. 拖鞋 | |
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63
sable
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| n.黑貂；adj.黑色的 | |
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64
sables
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| n.紫貂( sable的名词复数 )；紫貂皮；阴暗的；暗夜 | |
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65
solitary
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| adj.孤独的，独立的，荒凉的；n.隐士 | |
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66
glided
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| v.滑动( glide的过去式和过去分词 )；掠过；（鸟或飞机 ） 滑翔 | |
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67
descended
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| a.为...后裔的，出身于...的 | |
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68
ascended
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| v.上升，攀登( ascend的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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69
enveloped
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| v.包围，笼罩，包住( envelop的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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70
rosy
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| adj.美好的，乐观的，玫瑰色的 | |
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71
beheld
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| v.看，注视( behold的过去式和过去分词 )；瞧；看呀；（叙述中用于引出某人意外的出现）哎哟 | |
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72
extremity
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| n.末端，尽头；尽力；终极；极度 | |
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73
subdued
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| adj. 屈服的，柔和的，减弱的 动词subdue的过去式和过去分词 | |
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74
enquire
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| v.打听，询问；调查，查问 | |
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75
entrapped
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| v.使陷入圈套，使入陷阱( entrap的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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76
unity
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| n.团结，联合，统一；和睦，协调 | |
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77
irresistible
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| adj.非常诱人的，无法拒绝的，无法抗拒的 | |
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78
solicitation
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| n.诱惑；揽货；恳切地要求；游说 | |
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79
solicit
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| vi.勾引；乞求；vt.请求，乞求；招揽(生意) | |
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80
prudent
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| adj.谨慎的，有远见的，精打细算的 | |
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81
forth
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| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
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82
relaxation
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| n.松弛，放松；休息；消遣；娱乐 | |
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83
wondrous
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| adj.令人惊奇的，奇妙的；adv.惊人地；异乎寻常地；令人惊叹地 | |
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84
writhed
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| （因极度痛苦而）扭动或翻滚( writhe的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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85
ordinance
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| n.法令；条令；条例 | |
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86
embodied
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| v.表现( embody的过去式和过去分词 )；象征；包括；包含 | |
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87
mere
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| adj.纯粹的；仅仅，只不过 | |
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88
meddle
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| v.干预，干涉，插手 | |
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89
monarchy
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| n.君主，最高统治者；君主政体，君主国 | |
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90
maidens
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| 处女( maiden的名词复数 )； 少女； 未婚女子； （板球运动）未得分的一轮投球 | |
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91
bower
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| n.凉亭，树荫下凉快之处；闺房；v.荫蔽 | |
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92
bosom
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| n.胸，胸部；胸怀；内心；adj.亲密的 | |
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93
gush
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| v.喷，涌；滔滔不绝(说话)；n.喷，涌流；迸发 | |
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94
spiry
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| adj.尖端的，尖塔状的，螺旋状的 | |
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95
lute
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| n.琵琶，鲁特琴 | |
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96
graceful
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|
| adj.优美的，优雅的；得体的 | |
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97
bough
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| n.大树枝，主枝 | |
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98
pensive
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| a.沉思的,哀思的,忧沉的 | |
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99
voluptuous
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| adj.肉欲的，骄奢淫逸的 | |
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100
lustrous
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| adj.有光泽的；光辉的 | |
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101
eloquent
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| adj.雄辩的，口才流利的；明白显示出的 | |
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102
strings
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| n.弦 | |
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103
banished
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| v.放逐，驱逐( banish的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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104
countenance
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| n.脸色，面容；面部表情；vt.支持，赞同 | |
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105
bauble
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| n.美观而无价值的饰物 | |
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106
courteous
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| adj.彬彬有礼的，客气的 | |
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107
humbly
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| adv. 恭顺地，谦卑地 | |
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108
consolation
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| n.安慰，慰问 | |
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109
peril
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| n.(严重的)危险；危险的事物 | |
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110
adoration
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| n.爱慕，崇拜 | |
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111
boundless
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| adj.无限的；无边无际的；巨大的 | |
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112
ratification
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| n.批准，认可 | |
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113
passionate
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| adj.热情的，热烈的，激昂的，易动情的，易怒的，性情暴躁的 | |
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114
shrine
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| n.圣地，神龛，庙；v.将...置于神龛内，把...奉为神圣 | |
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115
sanctuary
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| n.圣所，圣堂，寺庙；禁猎区，保护区 | |
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116
idol
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| n.偶像，红人，宠儿 | |
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117
creed
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| n.信条；信念，纲领 | |
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118
avenged
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| v.为…复仇，报…之仇( avenge的过去式和过去分词 )；为…报复 | |
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119
vengeance
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| n.报复，报仇，复仇 | |
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120
gathering
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| n.集会，聚会，聚集 | |
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121
suppliant
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| adj.哀恳的；n.恳求者，哀求者 | |
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122
spurned
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| v.一脚踢开，拒绝接受( spurn的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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123
misty
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| adj.雾蒙蒙的，有雾的 | |
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124
lustre
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| n.光亮，光泽；荣誉 | |
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125
devoted
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| adj.忠诚的，忠实的，热心的，献身于...的 | |
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126
musing
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| n. 沉思，冥想 adj. 沉思的, 冥想的 动词muse的现在分词形式 | |
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127
enquired
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| 打听( enquire的过去式和过去分词 )； 询问； 问问题； 查问 | |
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128
Christian
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| adj.基督教徒的；n.基督教徒 | |
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129
envoy
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| n.使节，使者，代表，公使 | |
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130
entrusted
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| v.委托，托付( entrust的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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131
behold
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| v.看，注视，看到 | |
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132
pallid
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| adj.苍白的，呆板的 | |
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133
scroll
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| n.卷轴，纸卷；(石刻上的)漩涡 | |
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134
mosque
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| n.清真寺 | |
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135
zeal
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| n.热心，热情，热忱 | |
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136
zealous
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| adj.狂热的，热心的 | |
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137
utterly
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| adv.完全地，绝对地 | |
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138
custody
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| n.监护，照看，羁押，拘留 | |
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139
grove
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| n.林子，小树林，园林 | |
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140
caverns
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| 大山洞，大洞穴( cavern的名词复数 ) | |
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141
cavern
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| n.洞穴，大山洞 | |
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142
harassed
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| adj. 疲倦的，厌烦的 动词harass的过去式和过去分词 | |
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143
wager
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| n.赌注；vt.押注，打赌 | |
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144
plundered
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| 掠夺，抢劫( plunder的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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145
imperative
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| n.命令，需要；规则；祈使语气；adj.强制的；紧急的 | |
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146
pious
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| adj.虔诚的；道貌岸然的 | |
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147
reverence
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| n.敬畏，尊敬，尊严；Reverence:对某些基督教神职人员的尊称；v.尊敬，敬畏，崇敬 | |
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148
nay
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| adv.不；n.反对票，投反对票者 | |
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149
torrents
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| n.倾注；奔流( torrent的名词复数 )；急流；爆发；连续不断 | |
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150
bondage
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| n.奴役，束缚 | |
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151
cedar
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| n.雪松，香柏(木) | |
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152
swell
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| vi.膨胀，肿胀；增长，增强 | |
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153
marvels
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| n.奇迹( marvel的名词复数 )；令人惊奇的事物（或事例）；不平凡的成果；成就v.惊奇，对…感到惊奇( marvel的第三人称单数 ) | |
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154
spoke
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| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
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155
enquiring
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| a.爱打听的，显得好奇的 | |
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156
peremptory
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| adj.紧急的，专横的，断然的 | |
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157
ordeal
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| n.苦难经历，（尤指对品格、耐力的）严峻考验 | |
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158
omnipotent
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| adj.全能的，万能的 | |
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159
forfeited
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| （因违反协议、犯规、受罚等）丧失，失去( forfeit的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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160
yearned
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| 渴望，切盼，向往( yearn的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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161
alas
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| int.唉(表示悲伤、忧愁、恐惧等) | |
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162
aloof
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| adj.远离的；冷淡的，漠不关心的 | |
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163
peculiar
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| adj.古怪的，异常的；特殊的，特有的 | |
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164
enjoyment
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| n.乐趣；享有；享用 | |
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165
shunned
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| v.避开，回避，避免( shun的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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166
defile
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| v.弄污，弄脏；n.(山间)小道 | |
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167
rattling
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| adj. 格格作响的, 活泼的, 很好的 adv. 极其, 很, 非常 动词rattle的现在分词 | |
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168
lighter
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| n.打火机，点火器；驳船；v.用驳船运送；light的比较级 | |
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169
levity
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| n.轻率，轻浮，不稳定，多变 | |
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170
ardent
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| adj.热情的，热烈的，强烈的，烈性的 | |
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171
aspirations
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| 强烈的愿望( aspiration的名词复数 )； 志向； 发送气音； 发 h 音 | |
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172
adjure
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| v.郑重敦促(恳请) | |
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173
lure
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| n.吸引人的东西，诱惑物；vt.引诱，吸引 | |
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174
snared
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| v.用罗网捕捉，诱陷，陷害( snare的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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175
shear
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| n.修剪，剪下的东西，羊的一岁；vt.剪掉，割，剥夺；vi.修剪，切割，剥夺，穿越 | |
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176
wilt
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| v.(使)植物凋谢或枯萎；(指人)疲倦，衰弱 | |
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177
discretion
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| n.谨慎；随意处理 | |
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178
proffered
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| v.提供，贡献，提出( proffer的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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179
politic
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| adj.有智虑的；精明的；v.从政 | |
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180
traitor
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| n.叛徒，卖国贼 | |
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181
mandate
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| n.托管地；命令，指示 | |
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182
posterity
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| n.后裔，子孙，后代 | |
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183
teeming
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| adj.丰富的v.充满( teem的现在分词 )；到处都是；（指水、雨等）暴降；倾注 | |
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184
rites
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| 仪式，典礼( rite的名词复数 ) | |
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185
mingle
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| vt.使混合，使相混；vi.混合起来；相交往 | |
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186
violation
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| n.违反(行为)，违背(行为)，侵犯 | |
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187
statutes
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| 成文法( statute的名词复数 )； 法令； 法规； 章程 | |
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188
baker
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| n.面包师 | |
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189
gourd
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| n.葫芦 | |
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190
exhausted
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| adj.极其疲惫的，精疲力尽的 | |
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191
credence
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| n.信用，祭器台，供桌，凭证 | |
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192
countenances
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| n.面容( countenance的名词复数 )；表情；镇静；道义支持 | |
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193
agitated
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| adj.被鼓动的，不安的 | |
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194
portends
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| v.预示( portend的第三人称单数 )；预兆；给…以警告；预告 | |
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195
shrieked
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| v.尖叫( shriek的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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196
shriek
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| v./n.尖叫，叫喊 | |
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197
theocracy
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| n.神权政治；僧侣政治 | |
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198
revelling
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| v.作乐( revel的现在分词 )；狂欢；着迷；陶醉 | |
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199
tithes
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| n.（宗教捐税）什一税，什一的教区税，小部分( tithe的名词复数 ) | |
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200
bloody
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| adj.非常的的；流血的；残忍的；adv.很；vt.血染 | |
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201
portent
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| n.预兆；恶兆；怪事 | |
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202
miraculous
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| adj.像奇迹一样的，不可思议的 | |
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203
initiated
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| n. 创始人 adj. 新加入的 vt. 开始，创始，启蒙，介绍加入 | |
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204
unintelligible
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| adj.无法了解的，难解的，莫明其妙的 | |
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205
interpretation
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| n.解释，说明，描述；艺术处理 | |
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206
slumbers
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| 睡眠，安眠( slumber的名词复数 ) | |
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207
demurely
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| adv.装成端庄地，认真地 | |
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208
specially
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| adv.特定地；特殊地；明确地 | |
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209
conspicuous
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| adj.明眼的，惹人注目的；炫耀的，摆阔气的 | |
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210
crimson
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| n./adj.深(绯)红色(的)；vi.脸变绯红色 | |
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211
canopy
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| n.天篷，遮篷 | |
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212
hoisted
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| 把…吊起，升起( hoist的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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213
juggler
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| n. 变戏法者, 行骗者 | |
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214
buffoons
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| n.愚蠢的人( buffoon的名词复数 )；傻瓜；逗乐小丑；滑稽的人 | |
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215
allotted
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| 分配，拨给，摊派( allot的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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216
gourds
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| n.葫芦( gourd的名词复数 ) | |
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217
leopards
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| n.豹( leopard的名词复数 )；本性难移 | |
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218
mustered
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| v.集合，召集，集结（尤指部队）( muster的过去式和过去分词 )；（自他人处）搜集某事物；聚集；激发 | |
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219
linen
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| n.亚麻布，亚麻线，亚麻制品；adj.亚麻布制的，亚麻的 | |
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220
drawn
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| v.拖，拉，拔出；adj.憔悴的，紧张的 | |
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221
marvelling
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| v.惊奇，对…感到惊奇( marvel的现在分词 ) | |
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222
minaret
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| n.（回教寺院的）尖塔 | |
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223
mortar
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| n.灰浆，灰泥；迫击炮；v.把…用灰浆涂接合 | |
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224
embroidered
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| adj．绣花的 | |
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225
stork
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| n.鹳 | |
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226
pelted
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| （连续地）投掷( pelt的过去式和过去分词 )； 连续抨击； 攻击； 剥去…的皮 | |
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227
gilt
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| adj.镀金的；n.金边证券 | |
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228
dexterity
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| n.(手的)灵巧，灵活 | |
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229
specimens
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| n.样品( specimen的名词复数 )；范例；（化验的）抽样；某种类型的人 | |
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230
ingenuity
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| n.别出心裁；善于发明创造 | |
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231
intervals
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| n.[军事]间隔( interval的名词复数 )；间隔时间；[数学]区间；（戏剧、电影或音乐会的）幕间休息 | |
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232
mingled
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| 混合，混入( mingle的过去式和过去分词 )； 混进，与…交往[联系] | |
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233
refreshing
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| adj.使精神振作的，使人清爽的，使人喜欢的 | |
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234
laden
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| adj.装满了的；充满了的；负了重担的；苦恼的 | |
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235
enchanted
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| adj. 被施魔法的，陶醉的，入迷的 动词enchant的过去式和过去分词 | |
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236
enchanting
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| a.讨人喜欢的 | |
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237
amazement
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| n.惊奇，惊讶 | |
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238
feats
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| 功绩，伟业，技艺( feat的名词复数 ) | |
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239
giggled
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| v.咯咯地笑( giggle的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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240
mime
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| n.指手画脚，做手势，哑剧演员，哑剧；vi./vt.指手画脚的表演，用哑剧的形式表演 | |
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241
inviting
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| adj.诱人的，引人注目的 | |
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242
reigned
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| vi.当政，统治（reign的过去式形式） | |
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243
stewards
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| （轮船、飞机等的）乘务员( steward的名词复数 )； （俱乐部、旅馆、工会等的）管理员； （大型活动的）组织者； （私人家中的）管家 | |
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244
steward
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| n.乘务员，服务员；看管人；膳食管理员 | |
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245
javelin
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| n.标枪，投枪 | |
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246
bustled
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| 闹哄哄地忙乱，奔忙( bustle的过去式和过去分词 )； 催促 | |
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247
grumbled
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| 抱怨( grumble的过去式和过去分词 )； 发牢骚； 咕哝； 发哼声 | |
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248
growled
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| v.（动物）发狺狺声， （雷）作隆隆声( growl的过去式和过去分词 )；低声咆哮着说 | |
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249
amiable
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| adj.和蔼可亲的，友善的，亲切的 | |
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250
bumper
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| n.(汽车上的)保险杠；adj.特大的，丰盛的 | |
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251
wile
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| v.诡计，引诱；n.欺骗，欺诈 | |
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252
woe
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| n.悲哀，苦痛，不幸，困难；int.用来表达悲伤或惊慌 | |
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253
cymbals
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| pl.铙钹 | |
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254
sumptuous
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| adj.豪华的，奢侈的，华丽的 | |
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255
sumptuously
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| 奢侈地，豪华地 | |
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256
groom
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| vt.给（马、狗等）梳毛，照料，使...整洁 | |
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257
rubies
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| 红宝石( ruby的名词复数 )； 红宝石色，深红色 | |
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258
mules
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| 骡( mule的名词复数 )； 拖鞋； 顽固的人； 越境运毒者 | |
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259
mule
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| n.骡子，杂种，执拗的人 | |
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260
adorned
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| [计]被修饰的 | |
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261
starry
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| adj.星光照耀的, 闪亮的 | |
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262
hideous
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| adj.丑陋的，可憎的，可怕的，恐怖的 | |
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263
nuptial
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| adj.婚姻的，婚礼的 | |
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264
captivity
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| n.囚禁；被俘；束缚 | |
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265
armour
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| （=armor）n.盔甲；装甲部队 | |
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266
exquisite
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| adj.精美的；敏锐的；剧烈的，感觉强烈的 | |
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267
talisman
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| n.避邪物，护身符 | |
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268
dwarfs
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| n.侏儒，矮子（dwarf的复数形式）vt.（使）显得矮小（dwarf的第三人称单数形式） | |
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269
bridle
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| n.笼头，束缚；vt.抑制，约束；动怒 | |
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270
chestnut
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| n.栗树，栗子 | |
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271
tints
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| 色彩( tint的名词复数 )； 带白的颜色； （淡色）染发剂； 痕迹 | |
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272
costly
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| adj.昂贵的，价值高的，豪华的 | |
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273
treasurer
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| n.司库，财务主管 | |
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274
enamel
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| n.珐琅，搪瓷，瓷釉；(牙齿的)珐琅质 | |
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275
turquoises
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| n.绿松石( turquoise的名词复数 )；青绿色 | |
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276
abreast
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| adv.并排地；跟上(时代)的步伐，与…并进地 | |
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277
exclamations
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| n.呼喊( exclamation的名词复数 )；感叹；感叹语；感叹词 | |
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278
gallant
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| adj.英勇的，豪侠的；(向女人)献殷勤的 | |
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279
homage
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| n.尊敬，敬意，崇敬 | |
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280
arena
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| n.竞技场，运动场所；竞争场所，舞台 | |
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281
fiery
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| adj.燃烧着的，火红的；暴躁的；激烈的 | |
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282
javelins
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| n.标枪( javelin的名词复数 ) | |
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283
conquerors
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| 征服者，占领者( conqueror的名词复数 ) | |
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284
daggers
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| 匕首，短剑( dagger的名词复数 ) | |
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285
gems
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| growth； economy； management； and customer satisfaction 增长 | |
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286
victorious
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| adj.胜利的，得胜的 | |
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287
prostrate
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| v.拜倒，平卧，衰竭；adj.拜倒的，平卧的，衰竭的 | |
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288
salute
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| vi.行礼，致意，问候，放礼炮；vt.向…致意，迎接，赞扬；n.招呼，敬礼，礼炮 | |
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289
fixed
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| adj.固定的，不变的，准备好的；(计算机)固定的 | |
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290
rumour
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| n.谣言，谣传，传闻 | |
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291
contrived
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| adj.不自然的，做作的；虚构的 | |
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292
scattered
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| adj.分散的，稀疏的；散步的；疏疏落落的 | |
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293
profusion
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| n.挥霍；丰富 | |
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294
beacon
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| n.烽火，（警告用的）闪火灯，灯塔 | |
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295
eminence
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| n.卓越，显赫；高地，高处；名家 | |
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296
winding
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| n.绕，缠，绕组，线圈 | |
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297
tinted
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| adj. 带色彩的 动词tint的过去式和过去分词 | |
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298
hue
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| n.色度；色调；样子 | |
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299
mightiest
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| adj.趾高气扬( mighty的最高级 )；巨大的；强有力的；浩瀚的 | |
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300
wedded
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| adj.正式结婚的；渴望…的，执著于…的v.嫁，娶，（与…）结婚( wed的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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