Excerpt from Sultan's Wives, or a Visit to the Seraglios

Through the advice of friends I have altered the title of this book: The first edition was called a Trip to Constanti nople, the Women of Turkey, &c., 850. When writing it I had no idea of its being published, or that many of the general public would see it; I merely intended it for those who passed through or resided at Constantinople during the Crimean War; but from the many applications for copies, I am induced to have more printed, and to make this alteration, which it is thought will agree better with the reading, I have no pre tensions to writing, and when I assure you this is, my maiden attempt, perhaps, you may say Well, it is not so bad for a beginner. In my opinion a person about to write his first book, resembles one about to pop the question he is so bewildered to know how to commence; whereas practised writers or widowers do not feel so much concern except when pounds, shillings, and pence are in question. Some may say that it is all very well, but why do you make the alteration if it is not with the idea of making money? Decidedly it is; everyone wishes his undertaking to become as successful as possible; and although I may feel as desirous as my neighbours to pocket the cash, still I assure you my chief object is to try to prop up a readable sketch of a life in the Seraglios - which sketch I give not from heresay or sur mise, but from facts experienced both by Brown and myself. I am sorry I have described Brown's visit in the shape of a dream, but I thought it would be better to draw a veil of mystery over a portion of that midnight adventure when he really did visit the fair Belinda - not encumbered with slum ber, but with his eyes open to the fate which awaited him did the eunuchs but perceive him. For a trifling consideration an interpreter accompanied him, and thus it is I give so detailed an account of their conversation on the roof of the Seraglio not only Brown buti'your humble servant receivedletters from the ladies of the Seraglio, which a gentleman, who is now at the War Office, can certify, as our Greek Interpreter to whom I entrusted the interpretation of a few of the letters, informed him of it; this gentleman having held a high position at the Bosphorus, in the Civil Department. If any one should doubt my statement, they can, by enquiry, easily get to know who he is. There is also a person at the Tower, who is aware of it. I mention this merely to contradict the assertions of those inexperienced persons who state that it was or is impossible to carry on any correspondence with inmates of Seraglios. I am glad of this opportunity to contradict such statements, as in the absence of contradiction, some persons might fancy Brown's visit to the Seraglio, and other incidents to which I refer, were imaginary ideas, merely made up as home-spun yarns. I am aware, that, had a clever writer the opportunity which I had, he would be able to draw such a picture of Harem life, that would both surprise and amuse those not acquainted with eastern customs. I could not pourtray the thrilling as well as enchan ting scenes connected with these abodes of loneliness and intrigue the principal one, namely, the old Seraglio, which is the theme of my narrative, has latterly been consumed by fire. I wish it had occurred while we were there, we might at least have had an1 opportunity of assisting the ladies to escape from the flames.

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