The musician touched the strings of the golden harp which was decorated with lapis lazuli shells. A dozen young ladies of the harem lay on their backs in two parallel rows; they were dressed alike, with fascinating headbands, large earrings of gold, veils held in place by slender copper pins. Guardsmen stood at attention. In the offing was the great king's chariot, drawn by two asses. Grooms held the reins; another flunky was in attendance. Gaming boards with dice, copper bowls, tumblers, and other diversions awaited His Majesty. But he was nowhere...
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