He had a palace called Mazra'ih, about four miles north of the city, a lovely place, surrounded by gardens and with a stream of running water.

I went and called on this Pa_sh_a at his home.

I said: "Pa_sh_a, you have left the palace empty, and are living in Akka." He replied: "I am an invalid and cannot leave the city.

If I go there it is lonely and I am cut off from my friends." I said: "While you are not living there and the place is empty, let it to us." He was amazed at the proposal, but soon consented.

I got the house at a very low rent, about five pounds per annum, paid him for five years and made a contract.