the great Khan," said the interpreter,
"entreats your majesty to allow him to show you the highest proof of
his respect, to greet you in the manner in which he alone, in great and
beautiful Tartary, is permitted to greet the Khan."

"I grant his request," said the king.

Mustapha immediately opened the pouch which hung at his side, and took
from it a crystal flask, from which he poured a fluid into the cup,
and a delightful perfume immediately pervaded the room. After putting
a small quantity of white powder into the cup, he proceeded to stir the
contents with a brush, of which the handle was ornamented with
three diamonds of immense size. The fluid now arose into a sparkling
milk-white foam.

The king looked curiously at him at first, and then turned to his
ambassador. "What does this mean?" he asked in German, probably because
he did not wish to be understood by the interpreter.

"Sire," said Rexin, smiling, "that means that the noble Mustapha Aga
wishes to show you the greatest honor in his power, he wishes to shave
you."

"To shave me!" exclaimed the king. "Who and what is the noble Mustapha
Aga?"

"Sire, he is one of the greatest dignitaries of Tartary; he is the
barber of the Khan!"

The king could scarcely restrain a smile at this explanation. "Well,"
he said, "it is not a bad idea to make a diplomat and ambassador of a
barber. The gentlemen of the diplomatic corps are given to shaving in
politics and frequently put soap in the eyes of the world."

Mustapha Aga now approached the king with solemn steps, and bending
forward, he thrust his forefinger into the foam in the golden cup and
passed it lightly across the king's chin. He then drew forth the
golden razor from his belt. But before opening it, he raised his eyes
prayerfully to heaven, and spoke a few solemn words. "Allah is the light
of heaven and earth! May He illuminate me in my great work!" said the
interpreter, translating Mustapha's words.

Then the ambassador began his dignified work; drawing the blade of his
knife across the chin of the king with a rapid movement.

The king and his generals and attendants, were scarcely able to retain
their composure during this performance.

When Mustapha had finished, he signed to one of the interpreters to
approach, and as he kneeled before him he wiped the foam from his razor
on the back of his uplifted hand. Then thrusting it in his belt, he
bowed deeply and solemnly to the king.

"May Allah keep