Vathek

Though all seems lost, the next morning a group of little people carrying baskets of fruit appears. The little people announce that they work for the Emir Fakreddin, a faithful and wealthy lord of the mountains Vathek’s group is traveling through. A heavenly voice informed them of Vathek’s presence in the mountains and sent them to aid Vathek and bring him to Fakreddin as an honored guest. Frustrated with the Stranger due to the trials of his journey, Vathek decides to accept their hospitality, saying, “[The Stranger] hath made me dance attendance, too long already. Besides, who shall prescribe laws to me?—forsooth, must not enter any one’s habitation!” (53). As he eats the fruit brought to him by the little people, Vathek decides to pray with his Quran. Though the notes Carathis sent with Vathek warn against associating with faithful men, Vathek ignores the warning.

The valley Fakreddin lives in is beautiful and filled with comforts, though Vathek is frustrated by how much the little people and Fakreddin pray. He has his pages cause mischief in their progression to stop the prayers and provide entertainment. The entire party is welcomed to Fakreddin’s home. A troupe of beautiful girls takes Vathek’s wives to refresh themselves in the emir’s harem.