Though a few are highly educated, the majority of Persian women are ignorant, indolent, and sensual.

_Mariages de convenance_ are as common as in France, and have a good deal to do with the immorality and intrigue that go on in the larger cities.
An eye-witness thus describes an "anderoon," or harem, of a prince in Ispahan: "A large courtyard some thirty yards by ten in extent.

All down the centre is the 'hauz,' or tank--a raised piece of ornamental water, the surface of which is about two feet above the ground.

The edges are formed of huge blocks of well-wrought stone, so accurately levelled that the 'hauz' overflows all round its brink, making a pleasant sound of running water.

Goldfish of large size flash in shoals in the clear tank.