The Minister of War holds one of the most dangerous jobs in the empire. He is fully responsible for the safety of the Sultan. If anything goes wrong—if the Sultan is harmed or threatened—the punishment for the Minister is death.
Riza Pasha, the current Minister of War, is a very large man. His size makes the Sultan look even smaller by comparison. Sultan Abdul Hamid is short and slender, weighing only about 135 pounds Ephesus Day Tour.
A Sad and Watchful Ruler
Abdul Hamid is often compared to Jay Gould and Matias Romero, the former Mexican ambassador to the United States, due to his facial features. He wore a simple, worn-out military overcoat and a red fez. His face appeared deeply sad. His large eyes seemed to move constantly, full of thought and worry. Many say he is the saddest man on earth—and his expression seems to prove it.
Behind his carriage walked young officers, aides-de-camp, and secretaries. As the group passed, everyone around them bowed and saluted. The crowd outside the palace gates cheered, though not with great energy. It seemed more like a formal gesture than true excitement.
A Sharp Eye for Detail
Although the Sultan appeared solemn, his eyes noticed everything. His gaze moved quickly and sharply across the crowd and the soldiers. His officers often say that the Sultan never misses anything. He can spot even the smallest mistake—like a missing button on a soldier’s uniform—as he passes by Unusual Deliveries Before the Ceremony.
Horses Fit for a Sultan
Following the Sultan’s group was an empty phaeton, a type of elegant carriage. It was drawn by two white horses wearing gold-mounted harnesses and blankets made of leopard skin. Five beautiful saddle horses also followed. These were for the Sultan to choose from in case he decided to ride back to the palace instead of using the carriage. The horses were among the finest anyone could see.
Respecting the Pilgrims
As the Sultan passed the group of pilgrims waiting by the roadside, he bowed to them several times. When he reached the mosque, he paused on the steps. He turned to face the pilgrims again and bowed deeply. In return, they gave the traditional wailing cry of devotion and respect.
Then, the Sultan entered the mosque’s vestibule, followed closely by the Minister of War and several aides, completing the formal procession.
