I am A’isha, hostess and wife of Ahmad ibn Galib.

I was born in Balansiya thirty three years ago. At twelve I married Ahmad ibn Galib, a perfumer, and have three children with him. First, Jalid, who last year married Muná, my husband’s niece. After Jalid came Fátima, who just agreed to marry Husayn ibn Hud, who belongs to a good family ofalfaquíes (ulema). Finally, came the youngest Ibrahim, who is now eight years old and my husband’s favourite. My daughter Fatima, Muná, and I conduct meetings and complete chores with the help of the other women of the house. We sift and grind corn, prepare the meal, card and spin wool, wash clothes, and we take care of Ibrahim and all the other household needs. However, Fatima will shortly leave to move in with her husband, and I will be alone with Muná. Her unconsciousness worries me: she forgets her obligations, she is still waiting for what will happen in his parent’s home and when they give us a grandchild.