I greet Alal-Sin at the door and wave my hand in welcome. "You may indeed have some figs as well as our special lettuce dish, which I hear", lowering my voice to a whisper, "is one of god Enki's favourite dishes".

The servant girl rushes out to the kitchen while I busy myself clearing away cobwebs and thanking the gods. I bring him a pot of milk and a cup. Ahh, it is so nice to have a guest again after such a long time..."But..", I get him to look outside, "who is that strange fellow who just tripped over and muddied your carpet?"