Munira

Smiling is what keeps the hands moving fast. Otherwise my knees won't straighten by dawn.

• KamalIt carries all the way to the door.
  MuniraI'm laughing so it carries, you block of wood. If I laugh in here, I can see you fussing with that window latch too.
• RashidLady Munira, do you remember when the chamber lamp went out last night? I need the hour for something.
  MuniraChild, I don't count hours. I count basins.

The rule is that once the incense burns out you throw it away, but I couldn't bring myself to toss this piece. Last night's bent unusually straight.

• RashidHow many watches does that one burn for? I can measure the time by how far it's burned down.
  MuniraThis one really will put a ruler to anything.
• ZahiraGet rid of it.
  MuniraYes, yes, getting rid of it. Into the drawer it goes.