Chapters 7-9 Summary

Lying on a divan, Ali considers how his love for Nino differs from the Asian norm, where boys congregate to watch girls fetch water and, when lovestruck, let relatives close the deal. Without the veil, one sees much of a woman—but not what hides within. Ali is disgusted that Nino enjoys being looked at in public and caressed in private. She has been to Russia too often, but may still be a good wife. He falls asleep, imagining the wedding and the pranks of the bridal chamber, and awakens to hear that the Czar has declared war on several European monarchs. Persia and Turkey are staying out of the unbelievers' war. Bells ring and crowds form, asking Ali as he gallops to Nino's house if he is off to war. The Kipianis have returned to Baku. Angry at himself...