Shortly afterwards there came out to them the Grand Vizier, the lame
Pasha, Topal Ozman, Patsmajezade, the chief Justiciary of Rumelia, the
cobbler's son, and the Tartar Khan, who patted their shoulders, tasted
of their food, drank out of their goblets, and after telling them what
fine brave fellows they were, discreetly withdrew.
The Divan meanwhile had assembled in the Hall of Lions.
There were gathered together the Ulemas, the Viziers, and the
representatives of the people. Halil Patrona was there also; and
presently Kabakulak, Topal Ozman, Patsmajezade, and Kaplan Giraj
arrived likewise and took their places.
The Grand Vizier turned first of all to Halil, whom he addressed with
benign condescension.
"The Padishah assures thee through me of his grace and favour, and of
his own good pleasure appoints thee Beglerbeg of Rumelia."
And with that a couple of duelbendars advanced with the costly kaftan of
investiture.
Halil Patrona reflected for an instant.
The Sultan indeed had always been gracious towards him. He evidently
wanted to favour him with an honourable way of retreat. He was offering
him a high dignity whereby he might be able to withdraw from the
capital, and yet at the same time gratify his ambition. The Sultan
really had a kindly heart then. He rewards the man whom his ministers
would punish as a malefactor.
But his hesitation only lasted for a moment. Then he recovered himself
and resolutely answered:
"I will not accept that kaftan.
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