Author Description

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1904 Excerpt:... So-and-so in this city has a noble soul, and universal benevolence: he has girt up his loins to serve those who have renounced the world,3 and watches to gratify the desire of all hearts; should he become acquainted with thy state, such as it is, he would feel it an obligation to show consideration for thy valued feelings, and would consider it a fortunate thing for himself." He replied, "Say no more; for it is better to die of hunger, than to carry one's wants before another." Stanza. E'en to sew patches together, and betake one's self to the nook of patience, Is better than to write letters to the rich for garments. Verily it is equal to the torment of hell To go to Paradise by a neighbour's help. 1 Lit., "was burning in the fire of starvation." Or "a generosity extended to all." Lit, "the free," i.e., "the free from worldly cares," "the religious." Lit., "has seated himself at the doors of all hearts." STORY IV. One of the kings of Persia1 sent a skilful physician to wait upon Mustafa--God bless him and grant him peace!--He was a whole year in Arabia (and) no one came to him for a single trial (of his skill), or asked in a single instance for treatment. One day he presented himself before the Prophet--may God bless him and grant him peace;--and complained, saying, "They sent me for the purpose of treating thy disciples, and no one, during all this time, has addressed himself to me, that I might discharge the duty2 for which I was appointed." The prophet--may God bless him and grant him peace!--said, "This band have (all) one course (of procedure), viz., they eat nothing till hunger overcomes them; and the appetite (for more) yet remains when they withdraw their han...