text: " The hareems of the grandees are generally surrounded by lofty walls as high or higher than the neighbouring houses; a vigilant _bowwab_ or doorkeeper is stationed at the outer portal; and within this the eunuchs guard the curtains heavy with golden embroidery which cover the doorway leading to the interior; and woe to the intruder who should attempt to penetrate beyond the entrance! A closed door is never permitted in the hareem; but etiquette forbids the husband to enter when slippers laid before the doorway denote that his wife is receiving visitors--a method of exclusion which is said to be sometimes kept in operation for many days together