[7] In some parts of Armenia, the meal is served in the middle of the floor; the food is placed on a round tray of wood or copper, about three feet in diameter, and standing about six inches from the floor. All the food is in one dish, from which each person helps himself; the thin, soft bread can be twisted into a sort of spoon, and used to convey liquid food to the mouth, gradually disappearing with the food. There are thus no dishes to be washed. It is customary to wash the hands before and after a meal. [8] The patron Saint of Armenia. He lived in the third century, and was the restorer of the Church in Armenia, suffering hardship and persecution for many years. The Armenian Church is very ancient, Christianity having been brought to the people in Apostolic times. [9] Ararat, the famous mountain, where Noah's Ark rested, is situated near the frontiers of Russia, Persia, and Turkey. It is the highest mountain of Western Asia, and its wonderful beauty and grandeur are praised by all travelers. [10] The Catholicos, or Patriarch, of Echmiadzin, is the Primate of the Armenian Church, and the successor of St. Gregory the Illuminator. [11] Mangal, a receptacle in which charcoal is burned; this is the only means of heating in some parts of Asia Minor. [12] Baklava: a sweet and very light paste made with honey. [13] Lokum: Turkish paste. [14] Ripsimeh: a noble and beautiful woman who lived at Rome, in the time of Diocletian. Having taken a religious vow, she refused to become the wife of the Emperor, and fled to Armenia. Here the king, Tiridates, wished to marry her, and furious at her refusal, had her put to death. The king was subsequently baptized and became a champion of Christianity in Armenia. [15] The young bride is confined to her home for nine months, during which time she may not see her parents or friends. [16] In Asia Minor every one has to go to the post-office to get his own mail. Before the Constitution, letters were more often lost than received at their destination. [17] Armenians of Aintab and throughout Cilicia speak Turkish; many do not even know Armenian. [18] Baron: Mr. or Sir. The author has often been amused by the ceremonious politeness of Oriental school-boys. [19] Stan, is Turkish for "Country," so Aram, in joking about America calls it "Yankee-stan." [20] Abou saboun, the "soap-father," the name given to an attendant at the hamam, whose duty it is to soap the frequenters of the bath.