CHANGE OF MANNERS IN PERSIA. 
355 
choosing such simplicity for his transmission in a picture, was no 
indifferent specimen of his good taste. His head was covered 
with the cap of his country; a black lamb-skin, worn alike by 
prince and peasant. His robe was of fine gold brocade, having 
a deep cape of dark sable falling on his shoulders. His under¬ 
garments were composed of red Kashin ere shawls of the richest 
work. Another shawl, of deeper hues, but of greater value, 
bound his waist; in which was stuck a curved dagger, blazing 
with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds, and hung with a tassel of 
the largest pearls, with which he occasionally played while he 
discoursed. Behind him was placed one of his magnificent 
cushions, totally covered with orient net-work, and tasselled also 
at its corners with bunches of the same costly ornaments. Two 
Persian noblemen stood a few paces from him ; one bearing the 
royal mace, or sceptre ; the other, the shield and sword; each 
insignia of empire being thickly studded with every kind of pre¬ 
cious stone. The boss of the shield was one entire ruby ; 
which, for size, colour, and perfection, probably, is not to be 
matched in the world. 
We had taken our station in the saloon, during the review, 
standing at some little distance from the King ; and, when it was 
over, after a few minutes’ general conversation with us all, His 
Majesty entered on that which was the object of the morning, 
and desired me to draw as near to him as I would deem necessary, 
and to be seated. This command was considered the highest 
personal honour he could confer on any man. Formerly, stran¬ 
gers were not only permitted to sit in the presence of the Shah, 
but to eat and drink with him. These customs are now so 
totally done away, that none but embassadors, who are esteemed 
z z 2 
