[136] Faringee, as has been before remarked, implies European.
[137] This observation alluded to some embarrassments that had arisen in consequence of two British envoys, one from England, and the other India, meeting at the court of Persia.
[138] Nothing can be more curious than the fact of Mahomedan princes creating honours of knighthood to confer distinction on Christians. The usage commenced with the court of Constantinople, and was followed by that of Teheran. The King of Persia created the order of the Sun for General Gardanne, the ambassador from Buonaparte. This order was offered to Sir Harford Jones, envoy from the King of England, but was declined on account of the circumstances attending its origin. It was subsequently pressed upon the acceptance of the Elchee, but he deemed it proper to follow the example of the envoy of the King of England. The King of Persia determined, however, as he said, that his first European friend should wear an order of his creation, and instituted that of the Lion and Sun, which have been from very ancient times the arms of Persia.
[139] The number three is deemed fortunate in Persia as elsewhere.
[140] "Ajeb jâhee berâee chappau!" literally, a wonderful place for a foray!
[141] "_Poco di matto_" is deemed by the Italians an essential quality in a great man's companion.
[142] This remarkable lady, who for a long period might be said to govern Fars, died three years ago of the cholera.
[145] This title means, the security of the state.
[146] This minister died three years ago.
[147] This minister is dead since the journal was written from which this is taken.
[148] Since this journal was written he fell into disgrace and died, after being some time minister to the Prince Regent of Fars.
[149] This old and able minister died lately of the cholera.
[150] Merv is the ancient Antiochia Margiana. It was founded by Alexander and became the capital of one of his successors, Antiochus Nicator.
[151] For an account of this remarkable ruler, see History of Persia, vol. ii. p. 243.
[152] Sheher-Sebz means the Verdant City, a name given by Timoor to the ancient city of Kesh, which was the place of his birth. It lies about 130 miles direct east of Bokhara.