text: " In the hareems of the middle and lower classes the same system of strict seclusion cannot of course be maintained as in the case of the "hidden jewels" (as they are called) of the grandees:--the women frequent the public baths and are allowed to visit their neighbours without restraint; but shopping is generally prohibited for reasons which may be gathered from the Thousand and One Nights:--and goods for sale are brought to the hareems by female brokers