The Quarter by Naguib Mahfouz

Author:Naguib Mahfouz
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Saqi

NAMLA’S PROPHESY

On the blessed night of the Prophet’s birthday, Haraq left the cellar, prodding the ground with his cane.

‘Charity for God, you charitable folk!’ he shouted in a weak but determined tone.

On his way to the square, Namla, the local madman, stopped him by the fountain.

‘Good news, Haraq,’ the madman yelled in a tone of voice used by those trained to speak up first.

‘On this joyous night,’ the beggar replied, ‘release me from your tongue!’

‘No, it’s good news for a hero,’ the madman insisted. ‘People will surround you, and rulers will come to see you!’

Some people heard this prophesy and had a good laugh. Even the Head of the Quarter joined in.

‘So now it’s Haraq’s turn,’ he whispered, ‘to ascend the ruler’s throne!’

Later that same night, Haraq fell down dead in a corner that was teeming with people celebrating. Was he hit by accident, or crushed by the crowd? God alone knows.

People clustered around the dead body, but then the authorities showed up, one after another: the police officer, the chief prosecutor, and the official doctor.

The Head of the Quarter rubbed his hands together.

‘You’re a genuine saint, Namla,’ he said. ‘You gave your prophecy and it came true. The miracle happened.’

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