Usbek to Solim in the seraglio in Isfahan
I place a sword in your hand. To you I entrust that which is presently dearest to me on earth, which is my vengeance. Assume this new employ, but bring to it neither heart nor pity. I am writing to my wives to obey you blindly ; in the turmoil of so many crimes, they will fall before your gaze. To you I must owe my happiness and tranquillity : make my seraglio as I left it, but purge it first ; exterminate the guilty, and make those who had in mind to do the same to tremble. What can you not anticipate from your master for such signal services ? It is in your power to rise even above your condition and all the rewards you have ever desired.
Paris this 4th day of the moon of Chahban 17191
In reply to two letters (143-144) which he must have received at the same time, Usbek writes three the same day (145-147).