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manners was held in greatest repute among the Moors; and I 
found the leading principle of external behaviour to be a majestic 
and martial deportment, a serene and steady countenance, which 
should remain calm and unaltered amidst the greatest events; 
neither manifesting signs of depression nor exaltation, but capable 
of that pliability which softens the countenance to the reception 
of friends, and accompanies good offices with a benignant smile. 
This frequently borders upon dissimulation, since condemned per- 
sons of rank have often been dismissed from the presence to 
execution, without threats or menaces, but with every mark of 
politeness. Having discoursed upon this subject with the Moors, 
reminding them of similar circumstances in history, they have 
replied, those instances were marks of collected firmness in the 
prince; since whatever the cause might be, he should never dero- 
gate from his own dignity, nor forget the attentions due to a man 
of rank, whatever his situation or conduct might be. They are 
extremely careful not to interrupt one another in discourse; and 
generally possess a natural eloquence, which they utter with flu- 
ency, in a soft, but audible tone; and are peculiarly graceful in 
their action, which is so expressive, as often to forestall what they 
are about to deliver.” 
The same observant traveller makes a remark on the seclusion 
of the Mahomedan women from the society of the men, which I 
believe to have great weight in the general opinion of the Orientals. 
“ On combining together the inclinations of Mahomed with his 
policy, we shall find the seclusion of women from the society of 
men, gives to the latter all those hours, which, in Europe, are 
generally employed by men to please the object of their wishes; 
