 an Inch and a half of the Edge, and fastened two Hooks in the Holes;
these Hooks were tied by a long Cord to the Harness, and thus my Hat was dragged
along for above half an English Mile: But the Ground in that Country being
extremely smooth and level, it received less Damage than I expected.
    Two Days after this Adventure, the Emperor having ordered that Part of his
Army, which quarters in and about his Metropolis, to be in a Readiness, took a
fancy of diverting himself in a very singular Manner. He desired I would stand
like a Colossus, with my Legs as far asunder as I conveniently could. He then
commanded his General (who was an old experienced Leader, and a great Patron of
mine) to draw up the Troops in close Order, and march them under me; the Foot by
Twenty-four in a Breast, and the Horse by Sixteen, with Drums beating, Colours
flying, and Pikes advanced. This Body consisted of three Thousand Foot, and a
Thousand Horse. His Majesty gave Orders, upon Pain of Death, that every Soldier
in his March should observe the strictest Decency, with regard to my Person;
which, however, could not prevent some of the younger Officers from turning up
their Eyes as they passed under me. And, to confess the Truth, my Breeches were
at that Time in so ill a Condition, that they afforded some Opportunities for
Laughter and Admiration.
    I had sent so many Memorials and Petitions for my Liberty, that his Majesty
at length mentioned the Matter first in the Cabinet, and then in a full Council;
where it was opposed by none, except Skyresh Bolgolam, who was pleased, without
any Provocation, to be my mortal Enemy. But it was carried against him by the
whole Board, and confirmed by the Emperor. That Minister was Galbet, or Admiral
of the Realm; very much in his Master's Confidence, and a Person well versed in
Affairs, but of a morose and sour Complection. However, he was at length
persuaded to comply; but prevailed that the Articles and Conditions upon which I
should be set free, and to which I must swear, should be drawn up by himself.
These Articles were brought to me by Skyresh Bolgolam in Person, attended by two
under Secretaries, and several Persons of Distinction. After they were read, I
was demanded to swear to the Performance of them; first in the Manner of my own
Country, and afterwards in the Method prescribed by their Laws; which was to
hold my right Foot in my left Hand,
