18 
TRAVELS IN ABYSSINIA. 
persons began to call out, one after another, 
" Sire, those whom thou hast commanded we 
** bring." In this manner the Portuguese were 
conducted to the royal bed, which was placed 
within a large house constructed of earth, and 
was supported on pillars of cypress. Before it, 
on each side, was an even row of eighty torches. 
The bed was adorned with five curtains of fine 
silk, one of which was embroidered with gold. 
The Prete was behind the curtains, and imme- 
diately began to hold a conversation with them. 
He inquired, with evident suspicion, into the mo- 
tives of their journey, and into the want of some 
presents which he had been taught to expect. 
He seemed not at all disposed to admit the au- 
thenticity of Matthew's diplomatic character. 
The Portuguese endeavoured to satisfy him upon 
these points, and in the course of the conver- 
sation his mind appeared to be much mollified. 
Next day provisions were sent, and they were 
assured of a regular supply. 
On the 3d his majesty again sent for them, and 
a conversation was held through the medium of 
the Cabeata. He asked many questions of a mi- 
litary nature ; such as, how many arquebusses 
they had brought with them ? — an object appa- 
rently of some jealousy. He asked also, how the 
Moors and Turks had learned to make fire-arms 
and ordnance? whether the Moors were most 
