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CHAPTER XXV

THE WAYS OF THE VOLUPTUOUS IN THE WORLD

(Effeminate Voluptuaries.)

Searchall said: "Let us then go upward; there wilt thou behold other things, delights only." And we mount the steps and enter the first hall; and behold, there were here rows of couches that were suspended in the air, and rocked to and fro; and they were bestrewed with soft cushions. Now on these couches some men wallowed who had around them a large crowd of servants, ready to render them all services, and carrying fly-flaps, fans, and other implements. If one of these men arose, hands were stretched out from all directions to assist him; if he robed himself, soft silken garments only were handed to him; if he had to go somewhere, he was carried on a chair bestrewed with pillows.[1] "Well, here hast thou that comfort which thou hast sought," said the interpreter. "What more canst thou desire? To have so many good things that you need not heed anything; to put your hand to no labour; to have a plenitude of

  1. I.e., a litter.

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