The Man Who Counted Extra Chapter

Written By Robin S.

The Co-Operating Machines

            One day, while Beremiz and I were walking through the crowded streets of Baghdad, a strange man approached us. He was wearing a green and white turban, showing that he was a peaceful and prosperous man. He examined Beremiz closely, and then an enormous smile came over his face.
            “I can’t believe you are the one! The famous and brilliant Persian calculator I have heard so much about! You must be the wise Beremiz Samir!” he exclaimed.
            “Yes, that is my name” Beremiz replied. “And whom may I have the pleasure of meeting?”
            “My apologies for not introducing myself correctly, but I am Sheik Namir. I have been searching for you because I have a dilemma that I just cannot resolve.”
            “Do not worry; I have heard this many times before. What seems to be the problem?”
            “Here, come to my house and I will show you”

We followed Sheik Namir to his home, which was quite extravagant and luxurious. There were also many curiosities, for displayed along his walls were wondrous machines and creations. It was obvious that this sheik was some sort of inventor because each instrument had its own function. They were not machines that would be of any practical use, but were just built to entertain.   Each one was made up of gears, levers, and other parts that would work together to put on some performance. For example, I could see that one of them was constructed to shoot water up constantly to create the effect of a fountain.

“These are very interesting objects, Sheik Namir” Beremiz said while gazing at one of the marvelous inventions.

“Thank you, I have created all of them myself. I build these contraptions purely to amuse the people of Baghdad and my guests” the sheik replied.