Democratic Sentinel, Volume 12, Number 8, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 16 March 1888 — The Easy-Going Turk. [ARTICLE]

The Easy-Going Turk.

Judging by the thousands of soldiers whom I saw after the emeute in Bulgaria in 1e.85, and by the physique and robustness of those who, every Friday, pass our legation on their way to the salemlik, I think the average Turk is in a contented and healthy state. He shows an equable temper and a regular life. His religious observances and grave countenance give to his habitual reserve not merely the outward sign but the inward kindness, joined with an easy manner. Suppose he has the love of ease; suppose he is deficient in our ethics and education; suppose his mental faculties are not fully developed and sophisticated; suppose he does 101 l upon a divan and pass the time with his guests in talking of indifferent things; suppose he is content with his chibouque and coffee, his mosque, bath, and repetitious prayers, his game of chess or backgammon; supposing he is eager to listen to the old tales, proverbs and parables, or revels in the enjoyment of his astrologies and his pilaf —it may be said of him that when he comes down to work as a mechanic or merchant he is honest and fair in his labor and dealings. As a farmer he serenely plows his fields and reaps his harvests amid the vicissitudes of his lot and his trials with the tax-gatherer. At home he is a model of tenderness toward his family and loyal to his sovereign and religion. In summing up his character the qualities of patience, candor, contentment, and resignation are conspicuous beyond those of any other race upon the footstool.— Diversions of a Diplomat.