"
The scoff reached the ears of Sidi Abu Said and rankled in his
heart.
At other times, Ahmed gave way to grief and tenderness, recalling
past scenes of happiness, reproaching Hafsah with her inconstancy, and
warning her in despairing accents that she would be the cause of his
death. His words were unheeded. The idea of having the son of the
Sultan for a lover had captivated the imagination of the poetess.
Maddened by jealousy and despair, Ahmed joined in a conspiracy
against the ruling dynasty. It was discovered, and the conspirators
fled from Granada. Some escaped to a castle on the mountains, Ahmed
took refuge in Malaga, where he concealed himself, intending to embark
for Valencia. He was discovered, loaded with chains and thrown into
a dungeon, to abide the decision of Sidi Abu Said.
He was visited in prison by a nephew, who has left on record an
account of the interview. The youth was moved to tears at seeing his
illustrious relative, late so prosperous and honored, fettered like
a malefactor.
"Why dost thou weep?" said Ahmed. "Are these tears shed for me?
For me, who have enjoyed all that the world could give? Weep not for
me. I have had my share of happiness; banqueted on the daintiest fare;
quaffed out of crystal cups; slept on beds of down; been arrayed in
the richest silks and brocades; ridden the fleetest steeds; enjoyed
the loves of the fairest maidens.
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