Hussein. Patrick O’Brian

and am dumb,’ replied Hussein, awaking from his doze. ‘By the name of Allah, I wish that my friend had been here that he might have been confounded, for I fear that he will close his ears against me when I tell him that he is wrong, being an obstinate creature and full of all manner of vice.’

      The Imâm smiled. ‘But you may still defeat him, O excellent Hussein, for I shall write my conclusion with ink upon a fine piece of paper, that you may show it to him.’ The old man did so, and Hussein poured forth his thanks.