Begirt with many a gallant slave,20

Apparelled as becomes the brave,

Awaiting each his Lord's behest

To guide his steps, or guard his rest,

Old Giaffir sate in his Divan:

Deep thought was in his agéd eye;

And though the face of Mussulman

Not oft betrays to standers by

The mind within, well skilled to hide

All but unconquerable pride,

His pensive cheek and pondering brow[fb]30

Did more than he was wont avow.