That during my absence in the hunt my wife had been carried off by the Base; that I had, on my return to my pillaged camp, galloped off in chase, and, overtaking the enemy, hundreds had fallen by my rifle and sword, and I had liberated and recovered the lady, who now had arrived safe with her lord in the country of the great Mek Nimmur, etc., etc.
This was all very pretty, no doubt, and as true as most poetical and musical descriptions; but I felt certain that there must be something to pay for this flattering entertainment.

If you are considered to be a great man, a PRESENT is invariably expected in proportion to your importance.

I suggested to Taher Noor that I must give him a couple of dollars.

"What!" said Taher Noor, "a couple of dollars?
Impossible! a musician of his standing is accustomed to receive thirty and forty dollars from great people for so beautiful and honorable a song." This was somewhat startling.

I began to reflect upon the price of a box at Her Majesty's Theatre in London; but there I was not the hero of the opera.