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+Project Gutenberg's The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4), by Anonymous
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4)
+
+Author: Anonymous
+
+Illustrator: Richard Westall
+
+Release Date: November 5, 2013 [EBook #44105]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ARABIAN NIGHTS, VOL III ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Delphine Lettau, Stephen Hutcheson and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Canada Team at
+http://www.pgdpcanada.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                                  THE
+                            ARABIAN NIGHTS.
+
+
+                              ILLUSTRATED
+                            WITH ENGRAVINGS,
+                              FROM DESIGNS
+                          BY R. WESTALL, R.A.
+
+
+                            IN FOUR VOLUMES.
+                               VOL. III.
+
+
+                                LONDON;
+        Printed for Rodwell & Martin; and the other Proprietors.
+                                 1819.
+
+   PRINTED FOR C. AND J. RIVINGTON; J. BOOKER; LONGMAN, HURST, REES,
+     ORME, AND CO.; BALDWIN, CRADOCK, AND JOY; RODWELL AND MARTIN;
+  G. B. WHITTAKER; SIMPKIN AND MARSHALL; AND HURST, ROBINSON, AND CO.
+
+                                 1825.
+
+                PRINTED BY THOMAS DAVIDSON, WHITEFRIARS.
+
+
+
+
+                               CONTENTS.
+
+
+                               VOL. III.
+
+
+                                                                    PAGE
+  The Story of Noureddin and the Fair Persian                          1
+  The Story of Beder, prince of Persia, and Giahaure, princess of
+          Samarcand                                                   70
+  The Story of Ganem, son to Abou Ayoub, and known by the surname
+          of Love’s Slave                                            155
+  The Story of Prince Zeyn Alasnam, and the king of the Genii        212
+  The Story of Codadad and his Brothers                              233
+  The Story of the princess of Deryabar                              243
+  The Story of the Sleeper awakened                                  269
+
+
+
+
+                            ARABIAN NIGHTS’
+                            ENTERTAINMENTS.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+                    NOUREDDIN AND THE FAIR PERSIAN.
+
+
+Balsora was for many years the capital of a kingdom tributary to the
+caliphs of Arabia. The king who governed it in the days of caliph Haroun
+Alraschid was named Zinchi. They were both cousins, the sons of two
+brothers. Zinchi not thinking it proper to commit the administration of
+his affairs to one single vizier, made choice of two, Khacan and Saouy.
+
+Khacan was of a sweet, generous, and affable temper, and took a wonderful
+pride in obliging those with whom he had any concern, to the utmost of
+his power, without the least hinderance or prejudice to justice, whenever
+it was demanded of him; so that he was universally respected both at
+court, in the city, and throughout the whole kingdom; and every body’s
+mouth was full of the praises he so highly deserved.
+
+Saouy was of a quite different character: he was always sullen and
+morose, and treated every body after a disrespectful manner, without any
+regard to their rank or quality; instead of making himself beloved and
+admired for his riches, he was so perfect a miser, as to deny himself the
+necessaries of life. In short, nobody could endure him; and if ever any
+thing was said of him, to be sure it was something of ill. But what
+increased the people’s hatred against him the more was his implacable
+aversion for Khacan; always interpreting in the worst sense the actions
+of that worthy minister, and endeavouring to do him all the ill offices
+imaginable with the king.
+
+One day, after council, the king of Balsora diverted himself with his two
+viziers, and some other members of the council: they fell into discourse
+about the women slaves, that with us are daily bought and sold, and are
+almost reckoned in the same rank with our wives. Some were of opinion,
+that it was enough if the slave that one bought was beautiful and well
+shaped, to make us amends for the wives, which, very often, upon the
+account of alliance or interest in families, we are forced to marry, who
+are not always the greatest beauties, nor mistresses of any perfection,
+either of mind or body. Others maintained, and amongst the rest Khacan,
+that neither beauty, nor a thousand other charming perfections of the
+body, were the only things to be coveted in a mistress; but they ought to
+be accompanied with a great deal of wit, prudence, modesty, and
+agreeableness; and, if possible, abundance of sense and penetration. The
+reason they gave for it was, that nothing in the world could be more
+agreeable to persons on whom the management of important affairs depend,
+than, after having spent the day in that fatiguing employment, to have a
+companion in their retirement whose conversation is not only agreeable,
+but useful and diverting; for, in short, continued they, there is but
+little difference between brutes and those men who keep a mistress only
+to look upon her, and gratify a passion that we have in common with them.
+
+The king was entirely of their opinion who spoke last, and he quickly
+gave some demonstration of it, by ordering Khacan to buy him a slave, one
+that was a perfect beauty, mistress of all those qualifications they had
+just mentioned, and especially very ingenious.
+
+Saouy, jealous of the honour the king had done Khacan, and vexed at his
+being of a contrary opinion, Sir, says he, it will be very difficult to
+find a slave so accomplished as to answer your majesty’s demand; and,
+should they light upon such a one, (as I scarce believe they will,) she
+will be a cheap bargain at ten thousand pieces of gold. Saouy, replied
+the king, I perceive plainly you think it too great a sum: it may be so
+for you, though not for me. Then turning to the chief treasurer, he
+ordered him to send the ten thousand pieces of gold to the vizier’s
+house.
+
+Khacan, as soon as he came home, sent for all the courtiers who used to
+deal in women slaves, and strictly charged them, that, if ever they met
+with a slave that answered the description he gave them, they should come
+and acquaint him with it. The courtiers, partly to oblige the vizier, and
+partly for their own interest, promised to use their utmost endeavours to
+find out one to his liking. Accordingly there was scarce a day past but
+they brought him one, yet he always found some fault or other with them.
+
+One day as Khacan was getting on horseback very early in the morning to
+go to court, a courtier came to him, and, with a great deal of eagerness,
+catching hold of the stirrup, told him there was a Persian merchant
+arrived very late the day before, who had a slave to sell so surprisingly
+beautiful, that she excelled all women that his eyes ever beheld; and, as
+for her parts and learning, the merchant engaged she could cope with the
+finest wits and the most knowing persons of the age.
+
+Khacan, overjoyed at this news, which made him hope for a favourable
+reception at court, ordered him to bring the slave to his palace against
+his coming back, and so continued his journey.
+
+The courtier failed not of being at the vizier’s at the appointed hour;
+and Khacan, finding the lovely slave so much beyond his expectation,
+immediately gave her the name of the Fair Persian. As she had an infinite
+deal of wit and learning, he soon perceived by her conversation that it
+was in vain to search any farther for a slave that surpassed her in any
+of those qualifications required by the king, and therefore he asked the
+courtier at what rate the Persian merchant valued her.
+
+Sir, replied the courtier, he is a man of few words in bargaining, and he
+tells me, that the very lowest rate he can part with her at, is ten
+thousand pieces of gold: he has also sworn to me, that without reckoning
+his pains and trouble from the time of his first taking care of her, he
+has laid out pretty near the sum upon her education, on masters to
+instruct and teach her, besides clothes and maintenance; and, as he
+always thought her fit for a king, so from her very infancy, in which he
+bought her, he has not been sparing in any thing that might contribute
+towards advancing her to that high honour. She plays on all sorts of
+instruments to perfection, she dances, sings, writes better than the most
+celebrated authors, understands poetry; and, in short, there is scarce
+any book but what she has read; so that there never was a slave of so
+vast a capacity heard of before.
+
+The vizier Khacan, who understood the merit of the Fair Persian better
+than the courtier, that only reported what he had heard from the
+merchant, was unwilling to drive off the bargain to another time; and
+therefore he sent one of his servants to look after the merchant, where
+the courtier told him he was to be found.
+
+As soon as the Persian merchant came, It is not for myself, but the king,
+says the vizier Khacan, that I buy your slave; but, however, you must let
+him have her at a more reasonable price than what you have already set
+upon her.
+
+Sir, replied the merchant, I should do myself an unspeakable honour in
+offering her as a present to his majesty, were I able to make him one of
+so inestimable a value. I barely ask no more than what her education and
+breeding up has cost me; and all I have to say is, that I believe his
+majesty will be extremely pleased with the purchase.
+
+The vizier Khacan would stand no longer bargaining with the merchant, but
+paid him the money down immediately. Sir, says he to the vizier, upon
+taking his leave of him, since the slave is designed for the king’s use,
+give me leave to tell you, that being extremely fatigued with our long
+journey together, you see her at a great disadvantage; and though she has
+not her equal in the world for beauty, yet if you please to keep her at
+your own house but for a fortnight, and strive a little to please and
+humour her, she will appear quite another creature: after that, you may
+present her to the king with abundance of honour and credit; for which, I
+doubt not but you will think yourself much obliged to me. The sun, you
+see, has a little tarnished her complexion; but after two or three times
+bathing, and when you have dressed her according to the fashion of your
+country, she will appear to your eyes infinitely more charming than now.
+
+Khacan was mightily pleased with the advice the merchant gave him, and
+was resolved to follow it. Accordingly the Fair Persian was lodged in a
+particular apartment near his lady’s, whom he desired to invite her to an
+entertainment, and henceforth to treat her as a mistress designed for the
+king: he also entreated his lady to get the richest clothes for her that
+possibly could be had, and especially those that became her best. Before
+he took his leave of the Fair Persian, he says, Your happiness, madam,
+cannot be greater than what I am about to procure for you, since it is
+for the king himself I have bought you; and I hope he will be better
+pleased with the enjoyment of you, than I am in discharging the trust his
+majesty has laid upon me: however, I think it my duty to warn you of my
+son, who, though he has a tolerable share of wit, yet is a young, wanton,
+forward youth; and therefore have a care how you suffer him to come near
+you. The Fair Persian thanked him for his good advice; and after she had
+given him an assurance of her intention to follow it, he withdrew.
+
+Noureddin, for so the vizier’s son was named, had all the liberty
+imaginable in his mother’s apartment, with whom he usually ate: he was
+very genteel, young, agreeable, and bold; and being master of abundance
+of wit and readiness of expression, he had the art of persuading people
+to whatever he pleased. He saw the Fair Persian; and from their first
+interview, though he knew his father had bought her purposely for the
+king, and he himself had declared the same, yet he never used the least
+endeavour to put a stop to the violence of his passion. In short, he
+resigned himself wholly to the power of her charms, by which his heart
+was at first conquered: and being ravished with her conversation, he was
+resolved to employ his utmost endeavours to get her from the king.
+
+On the other hand, the Fair Persian had no dislike to Noureddin. The
+vizier, says she to herself, has done me a particular honour in buying me
+for the king of Balsora; but I should have thought myself very happy if
+he had designed me only for his son.
+
+Noureddin was not backward in making use of the advantage of seeing,
+entertaining, and conversing with a beauty he was so passionately in love
+with; for he would never leave her until his mother forced him to do it.
+My son, she would say, it is not proper for a young man, as you are, to
+be always amongst the ladies; go mind your studies, that in time you may
+be worthy to succeed your father in his high posts and honours.
+
+It being a great while since the Fair Persian had bathed, on account of
+her late fatiguing journey, the vizier’s lady, five or six days after she
+was bought, ordered a private bath in her own house to be got ready
+purposely for her. She had a great many women slaves to wait upon her,
+who were charged by the vizier’s lady, to be as careful of her as of her
+own person, and, after bathing, to put on her a very rich suit of clothes
+that she had provided for her; and all this pains and care was taken
+purely to ingratiate herself the more into her husband’s affection, by
+letting him see how much she concerned herself in every thing that
+contributed to his pleasure.
+
+As soon as she came out of the bath, the Fair Persian, a thousand times
+more beautiful than ever she appeared to Khacan when he bought her, went
+to make a visit to his lady, who at first sight hardly knew her. After
+having saluted her in a very graceful manner, Madam, says she, I know not
+how you like me in this dress you have been pleased to order for me; but
+your women, who tell me it becomes me so extremely well they should
+scarce know me, are such gross flatterers, that it is from you alone I
+expect to hear the truth: but, however, if what they say be really so, it
+is to you entirely, madam, that I owe the advantage it has given me.
+
+Oh! my daughter, cries the vizier’s lady, quite transported with joy, you
+have no reason in the world to believe my women have flattered you: I am
+better skilled in beauty than they are; and, setting aside your dress,
+which becomes you admirably well, you appear so much handsomer than you
+did before your bathing, that I hardly knew you myself: if I thought the
+bath was yet hot enough, I would willingly take my turn, for I am now of
+an age that requires frequent use of it. Madam, replies the Fair Persian,
+I have nothing to say to the undeserved civilities you have been pleased
+to show me; but, as for the bath, it is wonderfully fine; and if you
+design to go in, you must be quick, for there is no time to be lost, as
+your women can inform you as well as I.
+
+The vizier’s lady, considering that she had not bathed for some days
+past, was willing to make use of that opportunity; and accordingly she
+acquainted her women with her intention, who immediately prepared all
+things necessary on such an occasion. The Fair Persian withdrew to her
+apartment; and the vizier’s lady, before she went to bathe, ordered two
+little slaves to stay with her, with a strict charge, that if Noureddin
+came they should not give him admittance.
+
+While the vizier’s lady was bathing, and the fair slave alone in her
+apartment, in came Noureddin, and not finding his mother in her chamber,
+went directly to the Fair Persian’s, where he found the two little slaves
+in the antechamber: he asked them where his mother was. They told him, in
+the bath. Where is the Fair Persian, then? replied Noureddin. In her
+chamber, answered the slaves; but we have positive orders from your
+mother not to let you go in.
+
+The entrance into the Fair Persian’s chamber being only covered with a
+piece of tapestry, Noureddin went to lift it up in order to go in, but
+was opposed by the two slaves, who clapped themselves just before it on
+purpose to stop his passage: he presently caught hold of both their arms,
+and thrusting them out of the antechamber, locked the door upon them.
+Away they immediately ran with a great outcry to the bath, and with
+weeping eyes told their lady that Noureddin, having driven them away by
+force, had got into the Fair Persian’s chamber.
+
+The vizier’s lady received the astonishing news of her son’s presumption
+with the greatest concern that could be: she immediately left off
+bathing, and dressing herself with all possible speed, came directly to
+the Fair Persian’s chamber; but before she could get thither, Noureddin
+was fairly marched off.
+
+The Fair Persian was extremely surprised to see the vizier’s lady enter
+her chamber all in tears, and in the utmost confusion imaginable: Madam,
+says she to her, may I presume to ask you the occasion of your concern;
+and what accident has happened in the bath, that makes you leave it so
+soon?
+
+What! cries the vizier’s lady, can you so calmly ask that question, after
+your entertaining my son Noureddin alone in your chamber? or can there
+happen a greater misfortune either to him or me?
+
+I beseech you, madam, says the fair slave, what injury can this action of
+Noureddin’s do either to you or him?
+
+How! replied the vizier’s lady, did not my husband tell you that you were
+designed for the king, and sufficiently caution you to have a care of
+Noureddin?
+
+I have not forgot it, madam, replied the Fair Persian; but your son came
+to tell me the vizier his father had changed his mind, and, instead of
+reserving me for the king, as he first designed, has made him a present
+of my person. I easily believed him, madam; for oh! think how a slave as
+I am, accustomed from my infant years to the bonds of servitude, could
+have the heart and power to resist him! I must own I did it with the less
+unwillingness on account of a violent passion for him, which the freedom
+of conversation, and seeing one another daily, has raised in my soul. I
+could freely lose the hopes of ever being the king’s, and think myself
+the happiest of creatures in spending my whole life with Noureddin.
+
+At this discourse of the Fair Persian’s, Would to God, cries the vizier’s
+lady, that what you say were true! for then I should have no reason to be
+concerned: but, believe me, Noureddin is an impostor, and you are
+deceived; for it is impossible his father should ever make him the
+present you spoke of. Ah! wretched youth, how miserable hast thou made
+me, but more thy father, by the dismal consequences we must all expect to
+share with him! Neither my prayers nor tears will be able to prevail, or
+obtain a pardon for him; but, as soon as his father hears of his violence
+to you, he will inevitably sacrifice him to his just resentment. At the
+end of these words she fell a-weeping bitterly; and the slaves, who had
+as tender a regard for Noureddin as herself, bore her company.
+
+A little after this, in came the vizier Khacan; and being mightily
+surprised to find his lady and her slaves all in tears, and the Fair
+Persian very melancholy, asked the reason of it; but they, instead of
+answering him, kept on weeping and making hideous lamentations. He was
+more astonished at this than he was before; at last, addressing himself
+to his wife, I command you, says he, to let me know the occasion of your
+tears, and to tell me the whole truth of the matter.
+
+The poor disconsolate lady being forced to satisfy her husband, Sir, says
+she, you shall first promise not to use me unkindly upon the discovery of
+what you are desirous to know, since I tell you beforehand that what has
+happened has not been occasioned by any fault of mine. While I was
+bathing with my women, continued she, your son, laying hold of that fatal
+opportunity to ruin us both, came hither, and made the Fair Persian
+believe that, instead of reserving her for the king, as you once
+designed, you had given her to him as a present: I do not say he has done
+this out of any ill design, but shall leave you to judge of it yourself.
+It is upon your account, and his, for whom I want confidence to implore
+your pardon, that I am so extremely concerned.
+
+It is impossible to express the vizier Khacan’s distraction upon the
+hearing of the insolence of his son Noureddin: Ah! cried he, beating his
+breast, and tearing his beard, Miserable son! unworthy of life! hast thou
+at last thrown thy father from the highest pinnacle of happiness into a
+misfortune that must inevitably involve thee also in its ruin? Neither
+will the king be satisfied with thy blood nor mine, but will revenge
+himself after a more severe manner for the affront offered to his royal
+person.
+
+His lady used her utmost endeavours to comfort and assuage his sorrow.
+Concern yourself no more about the matter, my dear, said she; I will sell
+part of my jewels for ten thousand pieces of gold, with which you may buy
+another slave, handsomer, and more agreeable to the king’s fancy than
+this.
+
+Ah! replied the vizier, could you think me of so mean a spirit, as to be
+so extremely afflicted at the losing ten thousand pieces of gold? It is
+not that, nor the loss of all my goods, which I can easily part with; but
+the forfeiting of my honour, more precious than all the riches in the
+world, that torments and touches me so nearly. However, methinks, replied
+the lady, this can be no very considerable damage, since it is in the
+power of money to repair it.
+
+How! cried the vizier, you know Saouy is my mortal enemy; and as soon as
+this affair comes to his knowledge, do you think he will not insult over
+me, and mock my misfortunes before the king? Your majesty, he will say to
+him, is always talking of Khacan’s zeal and affection for your service:
+but see what a proof he has lately given of his being worthy the respect
+you have hitherto shown him. He has received ten thousand pieces of gold
+to buy a slave with; and, to do him justice, he has honourably performed
+that commission, in buying the most beautiful that ever eyes beheld; but,
+instead of bringing her to your majesty, he has thought it better to make
+a present of her to his son: Here, my son, said he, take this slave,
+since thou art more worthy of her than the king. Then, with his usual
+malice, will he go on: His son has her now entirely in his possession,
+and every day revels in her arms, without the least disturbance: this,
+sir, is the whole truth of the matter, that I have done myself the honour
+of acquainting you with; and if your majesty questions the truth of it,
+you may easily satisfy yourself. Do you not plainly see, my dear,
+continued the vizier, how, upon such a malicious insinuation as this, I
+am every moment liable to have my house forced open by the king’s guards,
+and the Fair Persian taken from me, besides a thousand other misfortunes
+that will unavoidably follow? Sir, said the vizier’s lady to her husband,
+after he had finished his discourse, I am sensible the malice of Saouy is
+very great, and that, if he has had but the least intimation of this
+affair, he will certainly give it a turn very disadvantageous to your
+interest: but how is it possible that he or any body else should come to
+the knowledge of what has been privately transacted in your family?
+Suppose it comes to the king’s ear, and he should ask you about it,
+cannot you say, that upon strict examination, you did not think the slave
+so fit for his majesty’s use as you did at the first view; that the
+merchant has cheated you; that, indeed, she has a great deal of beauty,
+but is nothing near so witty or agreeable as she was reported to be? The
+king will certainly believe what you say, and Saouy be vexed to the soul
+to see all his malicious designs of ruining you eternally disappointed.
+Take courage, then, and, if you will follow my advice, send for all the
+courtiers, tell them you do not like the Fair Persian, and order them to
+be as expeditious as possible in getting another slave.
+
+The vizier Khacan, highly approving of this advice, was resolved to make
+use of it; and though his passion began to cool a little, yet his
+indignation against his son Noureddin was not in the least abated.
+
+Noureddin came not in sight all that day; and, not daring to hide himself
+among his companions, lest his father should search their houses for him,
+he went a little way out of town, and took sanctuary in a garden where he
+had never been before, and where his person was utterly unknown. It was
+very late when he came back, being willing to stay till his father was
+a-bed, and then his mother’s women opening the door very softly, let him
+in without any manner of noise. The next morning he went out before his
+father was stirring; and thus for a whole month was he put to his shifts,
+which was a terrible mortification to him. Indeed the women never
+flattered him, but told him plainly his father’s anger was as great as
+ever, and if he came in his sight he would certainly kill him.
+
+Though the vizier’s lady was informed by her women of Noureddin’s lying
+every night in the house, yet she durst not presume to entreat her
+husband to pardon him. At last, one day, says she to him; I have hitherto
+been silent, not daring to take the liberty of talking to you about your
+son; but now give me leave to ask you what you design to do with him.
+Indeed it is impossible for a son to be more criminal towards a father
+than Noureddin has been towards you; he has robbed you of the honour and
+satisfaction of presenting the king with a slave so accomplished as the
+Fair Persian: but, after all, are you absolutely resolved to destroy him;
+and, instead of a light evil, draw upon yourself a far greater than
+perhaps you imagine at present? Are you not afraid that the world, which
+spitefully inquires after the reason of your son’s absconding, should
+find out the true cause which you are so desirous of keeping secret? and
+if that should happen, you would justly fall into a misfortune which it
+is so much your interest to avoid.
+
+Madam, said the vizier, there is abundance of sound reasoning in what you
+have urged: however, I cannot think of pardoning Noureddin till I have
+humbled him a little more. He shall be sufficiently mortified, replied
+the lady, if you will put in execution what is just come into my mind.
+You must know, then, your son comes hither every night after you are
+a-bed; he lies here, and steals out every morning before you are
+stirring: you shall wait for his coming in to-night; make as if you
+designed to kill him; upon which I will run to his assistance, and when
+he finds his life entirely owing to my prayers and entreaties, you may
+oblige him to take the Fair Persian on what condition soever you please.
+He loves her, and I am sensible the fair slave has no aversion for him.
+
+Khacan was very willing to make use of this stratagem: so, when Noureddin
+came at the usual hour, before the door was opened, he placed himself
+behind it: as soon as ever he entered, he rushed suddenly upon him, and
+got him down under his feet. Noureddin, lifting up his head, saw his
+father with a dagger in his hand, ready prepared to stab him.
+
+At that very instant, in came his mother, and, catching hold of the
+vizier’s arm, Sir, cried she, what are you a-doing? Let me alone, replied
+the vizier, that I may kill this base unworthy son. You shall kill me
+first, cried the mother; nor will I suffer you to imbrue your hands in
+your own blood: speak to him, Noureddin, speak to him, and improve this
+tender moment. My father, cried he, with tears in his eyes, I implore
+your clemency and compassion; nor must you deny me pardon, since I ask it
+in His name before whom we must all appear at the last day.
+
+Khacan suffered the poniard to be taken out of his hand; and as soon as
+Noureddin was released, he threw himself at his father’s feet, and kissed
+them, to show how sincerely he repented of his having ever offended him.
+Noureddin, said he, return your mother thanks, since it is purely for her
+sake I pardon you. I design also to give you the Fair Persian, on
+condition that you will oblige yourself by an oath not to look upon her
+any longer as a slave, but as your wife, that you will not sell her, nor
+ever be divorced from her; for, having abundance of wit and prudence,
+besides much better conduct than you, I am persuaded she will be able to
+moderate those rash sallies of youth which are enough to ruin you.
+
+Noureddin, who little expected to be treated after so kind and indulgent
+a manner, returned his father a thousand thanks, with all the gratitude
+and sincerity imaginable; and, in the conclusion, the vizier, the Fair
+Persian, and he, were well pleased and satisfied with the match.
+
+The vizier Khacan would not stay in expectation of the king’s asking him
+about the order he had given him, but took particular care to mention it
+often, in representing to his majesty the many difficulties he met with
+in that affair, and how fearful he was of not acquitting himself to his
+majesty’s satisfaction. In short, he managed the business with so much
+cunning and address, that the king insensibly forgot it; and, though
+Saouy had got some small information of the matter, yet Khacan was so
+much in the king’s favour, that he was afraid to speak of it.
+
+It was now above a year that this nice affair had been kept with greater
+secrecy than at first the vizier expected; when, being one day in the
+bath, and some important business obliging him to leave it all in a
+sweat, the air, which was then a little moist, struck a damp to his
+breast, caused a defluxion of rheum to fall upon his lungs, which threw
+him into a violent fever, and confined him to his bed. His illness
+growing every day worse, and perceiving he had but a few moments to live,
+he thus addressed himself to his son Noureddin, who never stirred from
+him during his whole sickness: My son, I know not whether I have made a
+good use of the riches Heaven has blessed me with, but you see they are
+not able to save me from the hands of death: the last thing I desire of
+you, with my dying breath, is, that you would be mindful of the promise
+you made concerning the Fair Persian; and, with a certainty of that, I
+shall die pleased and well contented.
+
+These were the vizier’s last words; who, dying a few moments after, left
+his family, the court, and the whole city in great affliction for his
+death. The king lamented him, as having lost a wise, zealous, and
+faithful minister; and the whole city wept for him as their protector and
+benefactor. Never was there a funeral at Balsora solemnized with greater
+pomp and magnificence; the viziers and emirs, and, in general, all the
+grandees of the court, strove for the honour of bearing his coffin, one
+after another, upon their shoulders to the place of burial; and both rich
+and poor accompanied him thither with tears.
+
+Noureddin gave all the demonstration of a sorrow equal to the loss he had
+lately sustained, and lived a great while without ever seeing any
+company. At last, he admitted of a visit from an intimate friend of his.
+His friend endeavoured to comfort him all he could; and, finding him a
+little inclinable to hear reason, he told him, that, having paid what was
+due to the memory of his father, and fully satisfied all that custom and
+decency required of him, it was now high time to appear again in the
+world to converse with his friends, and maintain a character suitable to
+his birth and merit: For, continued he, we should sin both against the
+laws of nature and civility, and be thought insensible, if, upon the
+death of our fathers, we neglected to pay them what filial love and
+tenderness require at our hands; but having once performed that duty, and
+put it out of the power of any man to reproach us upon that account, we
+are obliged to return to our usual method of living. Dry up your tears
+then, and re-assume that wonted air of gaiety which always inspires with
+joy those that have the honour of your conversation.
+
+This advice seeming very reasonable to Noureddin, he was easily persuaded
+to follow it; and, if he had been ruled by his friend in every thing, he
+would certainly have avoided all the misfortunes that afterwards befell
+him. He treated him very nobly; and, when he took his leave, Noureddin
+desired him to come the next day, and bring three or four friends of
+their acquaintance. By this means he insensibly fell into the society of
+about ten young gentlemen, pretty near his own age, with whom he spent
+his time in continual feasting and entertainments; and scarce a day came
+over his head but he made every one of them some considerable present.
+
+Sometimes, to oblige his friends after a more particular manner,
+Noureddin would send for the Fair Persian to entertain them; who,
+notwithstanding her obedience to his command, never approved of his
+extravagant way of living, and often took the liberty of speaking her
+mind freely. Sir, said she, I question not but your father has left you
+abundance of riches; but, how great soever they are, be not angry with
+your slave for telling you that, at this rate of living, you will quickly
+see an end of them. We may indeed sometimes afford to treat our friends,
+and be merry with them; but, to make a daily practice of it, is certainly
+the high road to ruin and destruction. Therefore, for your own honour and
+reputation, you would do much better to follow the footsteps of your
+deceased father, that, in time, you may rise to that dignity by which he
+acquired so much glory and renown.
+
+Noureddin hearkened to the fair Persian’s discourse with a smiling
+countenance; and, when she had done, My charmer, said he, with the same
+air of mirth, say no more of that; let us talk of nothing but mirth and
+pleasure. In my father’s lifetime I was always under restraint, and I am
+now resolved to enjoy the liberty I so much sighed for before his death.
+It is time enough for me to think of leading a sober regular life; and a
+man of my age ought to taste the pleasures of youth.
+
+What contributed very much towards ruining Noureddin’s fortune, was his
+unwillingness to reckon with his steward; for, whenever he brought in his
+accounts, he still sent him away without examining them. Go, go, said he,
+I trust wholly to your honesty; therefore only take care to let me have
+wherewith to make merry.
+
+You are the master, sir, replied he, and I but the steward; however, you
+would do well to think upon the proverb, He that spends much and has but
+little, must at last insensibly be reduced to poverty. You are not
+contented with keeping an extravagant table, but you must lavish away
+your estate with both hands: and were your coffers as large as mountains,
+they would not be sufficient to maintain you. Begone, replied Noureddin;
+your grave lessons are needless; only take care to provide good eating
+and drinking, and trouble your head no farther about the rest.
+
+In the mean time Noureddin’s friends were constant guests at his table,
+and never failed making some advantage of the easiness of his temper.
+They praised and flattered him, extolling his most indifferent actions to
+the very skies. But, above all, they took particular care to commend
+whatever belonged to him and his; and this, they found, turned to some
+account. Sir, says one of them, I came the other day by your estate that
+lies in such a place: certainly there is nothing so magnificent, or so
+handsomely furnished, as your house; and the garden belonging to it is a
+paradise upon earth. I am very glad it pleases you, says Noureddin. Here,
+bring me pen, ink, and paper: but, without more words, it is at your
+service, and I make you a present of it. No sooner had others commended
+his house, baths, and some public buildings erected for the use of
+strangers, the yearly revenue of which was very considerable, than he
+immediately gave them away. The Fair Persian could not forbear letting
+him know how much injury he did himself; but, instead of taking any
+notice of it, he continued his extravagances, and, upon the first
+opportunity, squandered away the little he had left.
+
+In short, Noureddin did nothing for a whole year together, but feasted
+and made himself merry, wasting and consuming, after a prodigal manner,
+the riches that his predecessors, and the good vizier his father, had,
+with so much pains and care, heaped together and preserved.
+
+The year was but just expired, when somebody one day knocked at the hall
+door, where he and his friends were at dinner together by themselves,
+having sent away their slaves, that they might enjoy a greater liberty
+and freedom of conversation.
+
+One of his friends offered to rise, but Noureddin stepped before him, and
+opened the door himself. It seems it was the steward; and Noureddin going
+a little out of the hall to know his business, left the door half open.
+
+The friend that offered to rise from his seat, seeing it was the steward,
+and being somewhat curious to know what he had to say to Noureddin,
+placed himself between the hangings and the door, where he plainly
+overheard the steward’s discourse to his master. Sir, said the steward, I
+ask a thousand pardons for my coming to disturb you in the height of your
+joys; but this affair is of such importance, that I thought myself bound
+in duty to acquaint you with it. I come, sir, to make up my last
+accounts, and to tell you that what I all along foresaw, and have often
+warned you of, is at last come to pass. Behold, sir, says he, (showing
+him a small piece of money,) the remainder of all the sums I have
+received from you during my stewardship; the other funds you were pleased
+to assign me are all exhausted. The farmers, and those that owe you rent,
+have made it so plainly appear to me that you have assigned over to
+others whatever remains in their hands due to you, that it is impossible
+for me to get any more from them upon your account. Here are my books; if
+you please, examine them: and if you think fit to continue me in the
+place I am now in, order me some other funds, or else give me leave to
+quit your service. Noureddin was so astonished at this discourse, that he
+gave him no manner of answer.
+
+The friend who had been listening all this while, and had heard every
+syllable of what the steward said, immediately came in and told the
+company what he had lately overheard. It is your business, gentlemen,
+says he, to make use of this caution; for my part, I declare it openly to
+you, this is the last visit I design to make Noureddin. Nay, replied
+they, if matters go thus, we have as little business here as you; and,
+for the future, shall take care not to trouble him with our company.
+
+Noureddin returned presently after; yet, notwithstanding his carrying it
+pleasantly to his guests, by putting them into a merry humour again, he
+could not so handsomely dissemble the matter but they plainly perceived
+the truth of what they had been informed of. He was scarce sat down in
+his place, when one of his friends rose up, saying, Sir, I am sorry I
+cannot have the honour of your company any longer; and, therefore, I hope
+you will excuse my rudeness of leaving you so soon. What urgent affair
+have you, replied Noureddin, that obliges you to be going? My wife, sir,
+said he, was brought to bed to-day, and upon such an occasion, you know a
+husband’s company is very acceptable; so, making a very low bow, away he
+went. A minute afterwards, a second took his leave upon another sham
+excuse; and so one after another, till at last not one of those ten
+friends that had hitherto kept Noureddin company, was left in the room.
+
+As soon as they were gone, Noureddin, little suspecting the resolution
+they had made of never visiting him, went directly to the Fair Persian’s
+apartment, to whom, in private, he related all the steward had told him,
+and seemed extremely concerned at the ill posture of his affairs. Sir,
+said the Fair Persian to him, you would never take my advice, but always
+managed your concerns after your own way, and now you see the fatal
+consequences of it. I find I was not mistaken, when I presaged to what a
+miserable condition you would bring yourself at last; but what afflicts
+me the more, is, that at present you do not see the worst of your
+misfortunes. Whenever I presumed freely to impart my thoughts to you, Let
+us be merry, said you, and in pleasures improve the time that fortune has
+kindly given us; perhaps she will not always be so prodigal of her
+favours. But was I now to blame in telling you that we are the makers or
+undoers of our own fortunes, by a prudent or foolish management of them?
+You indeed would never hearken to me; so, at last, much against my will,
+I was forced to desist, and let you alone.
+
+I must own, replied Noureddin, I was extremely in the wrong in not
+following the advice that you, out of your abundance of prudence and
+discretion, was pleased to give me. It is true I have spent my estate;
+but do you not consider it is among friends of a long acquaintance, who,
+I am persuaded, have more generosity and gratitude in them than to
+abandon and forsake me in distress? Sir, replied the Fair Persian, if you
+have nothing but the gratitude of your friends to depend on, you are in a
+desperate condition; for, believe me, that hope is vain and ill-grounded,
+and you will tell me so yourself in a very little time.
+
+To this Noureddin replied, Charming Persian, I have a much better opinion
+of my friends’ generosity than you. To-morrow I design to make a visit to
+them all, before the usual time of their coming hither, and you shall see
+me return with a vast sum, that they will raise among them to support me.
+I am resolved to change my way of living, and, with the money they lend
+me, set up for a merchant.
+
+The next morning, Noureddin failed not to visit his ten friends, who
+lived in the very same street. He knocked at the first door he came at,
+where one of the richest of them lived. A slave came to the door; but,
+before he would open it, he asked who was there? Go to your master, says
+he to the slave, and tell him it is Noureddin, the late vizier’s son.
+Upon this the slave opens the door, and shows him into a hall, where he
+left him to go and tell his master, who was in an inner room, that
+Noureddin was come to wait on him. Noureddin! cried he, in a disdainful
+tone, loud enough for Noureddin to hear it with surprise. Go, tell him I
+am not at home; and whenever he comes hither, be sure you give him the
+same answer. The slave came back, and told Noureddin he thought his
+master was within, but he was mistaken.
+
+Noureddin came away in the greatest confusion in the world. Ah! base,
+ungrateful wretch! said he to himself, to treat me so basely to-day,
+after the vows and protestations of love and friendship that you made me
+yesterday! From thence he went to another door, but that friend ordered
+his slaves also to say he was gone out. He had the same answer at the
+third; and, in short, all the rest denied themselves, though every one of
+them was at home at the same time.
+
+It was now that Noureddin began in earnest to reflect with himself, and
+be convinced of the folly of his too credulous temper, in relying so much
+upon the vows and protestations of amity, that his false friends in the
+time of his prosperity had solemnly made him. It is very true, said he to
+himself, that a fortunate man, as I was, may be compared to a tree laden
+with fruit, which, as long as there is any remaining on its boughs,
+people will be crowding round; but, as soon as it is stripped of all,
+they immediately leave it, and go to another. He smothered his passions
+as much as possible while he was abroad; but, no sooner was he got home,
+than he gave loose to his sorrow, and resigned himself wholly to it.
+
+The Fair Persian, seeing him so extremely concerned, fancied he had not
+found his friends so ready to assist him as he expected. Well, sir, said
+she, are you now convinced of the truth of what I told you? Ah! cried he,
+my dear, thou hast been too true a prophetess; for not one of them would
+so much as know me, see me, or speak to me. Oh! who could ever have
+believed that persons so highly obliged to me as they are, and on whom I
+have spent my estate, could ever have used me so barbarously? I am
+distracted, and I fear committing some dishonourable action, below
+myself, in the deplorable condition I am reduced to, without the aid and
+assistance of your prudent advice. Sir, replied the Fair Persian, I see
+no other way of supporting yourself in your misfortunes, but selling off
+your slaves and moveables, and living upon the money, till Heaven shall
+find out some other means to deliver you from your present misery.
+
+Noureddin was very loath to make use of this expedient; but what could he
+do in the necessitous circumstance he was in? He first sold off his
+slaves; those unprofitable mouths, which were a greater expense to him
+than what his present condition could bear. He lived on the money for
+some time; and when all of it was spent, he ordered his goods to be
+carried into the market-place, where they were sold for half their worth;
+among which were several valuable things that cost immense sums. Upon
+this he lived for a considerable time: but that supply failing at last,
+he had nothing at all left by which he could raise any more money; of
+which he complained to the Fair Persian in the most tender expressions
+that sorrow could inspire.
+
+Noureddin only waited to hear what answer this prudent creature would
+make. Sir, said she, at last, I am your slave, and you know that the late
+vizier your father gave ten thousand pieces of gold for me: perhaps I am
+a little sunk in value since that time, but I believe I shall sell for
+pretty near that sum yet. Let me entreat you then instantly to carry me
+to the market, and expose me to sale; and with the money that you get for
+me, which will be very considerable, you may turn merchant in some city
+where you are unknown, and by that means find a way of living, if not in
+splendour, yet with happiness and content.
+
+
+         THE STORY OF NOUREDDIN AND THE FAIR PERSIAN CONTINUED.
+
+Ah! lovely and adorable Persian, cried Noureddin, is it possible you can
+entertain such a thought of me? Have I given you such slender proofs of
+my love, that you should think me capable of so base an action? But
+suppose me so vile a wretch, could I do it without being guilty of
+perjury, after the oath I have taken never to sell you? No, I could
+sooner die than part with you, whom I love infinitely beyond myself;
+though by the unreasonable proposition you have made me, it is plain your
+love is not so tender as mine.
+
+Sir, replied the Fair Persian, I am sufficiently convinced that your
+passion for me is as violent as you say it is; and Heaven, who knows with
+what reluctance I have made this proposition that you dislike, is my
+witness, that mine is as great as yours; but, to silence reason at once,
+I need only bid you remember that necessity has no law. I love you to
+that degree, it is impossible for you to love me more: and be assured,
+that to what master soever I shall belong, my passion shall always
+continue the same: and if you are ever able to redeem me, as I hope you
+may, it will be the greatest pleasure in the world to be in your
+possession again. Alas! to what a fatal and cruel necessity are we
+driven! But I see no other way of freeing ourselves from the misery that
+involves us both.
+
+Noureddin, who very well knew the truth of what the Fair Persian had
+spoken, and that there was no other way of avoiding a shameful poverty,
+was in the end forced to yield to her first request. Accordingly he led
+her to the market, where the women-slaves are exposed to sale, with a
+regret that cannot be easily expressed. He applied himself to a courtier
+named Hagi Hassan: Hagi Hassan, said he, here is a slave that I have a
+mind to sell; I pray thee to see what they will give for her. Hagi Hassan
+desired Noureddin and the Fair Persian to walk into a room; and when she
+had pulled off the veil that covered her face, Sir, said Hagi Hassan to
+Noureddin, in a great surprise, if I am not mistaken, this is the slave
+your father, the late vizier, gave ten thousand pieces of gold for?
+Noureddin assured him it was the same; and Hagi Hassan gave him some
+hopes of selling her at a good rate, and promised to use all his art and
+cunning to raise her price as high as it would bear.
+
+Hagi Hassan and Noureddin went out of the room, and locked the Fair
+Persian in; after which Hagi Hassan went to look after the merchants; but
+they being busy in buying slaves that came from different countries, he
+was forced to stay till the market was done. When their sale was over,
+and the greatest part of them got together, My masters, said he to them,
+with an air of gaiety in his looks and actions, every thing that is round
+is not a nut; every thing that is long is not a fig; all that is red is
+not flesh; and all eggs are not fresh. It is true you have seen and
+bought a great many slaves in your lives, but you never yet saw one
+comparable to her I am going to tell you of; in short, she is the very
+pearl of slaves. Come, follow me, and you shall see her yourselves, and
+by that judge at what rate I shall cry her.
+
+The merchants followed Hagi Hassan into the chamber where the Fair
+Persian was; and, as soon as they beheld her, they were so surprised at
+her beauty, that at the first word they unanimously agreed that four
+thousand pieces of gold was the very lowest price that they could set
+upon her. The merchants then left the room, and Hagi Hassan, who came out
+with them, without going any farther, proclaimed with a loud voice, Four
+thousand pieces of gold for the Persian slave.
+
+None of the merchants had yet offered any thing, and they were but just
+consulting together about what they might afford to give for her, when
+the vizier Saouy, perceiving Noureddin in the market, appeared. Said he
+to himself, Noureddin has certainly made some more money of his goods,
+(for he knew of his exposing them to sale,) and is come hither to buy a
+slave with it. Upon this he advanced forward just as Hagi Hassan began to
+proclaim a second time, Four thousand pieces of gold for the Persian
+slave.
+
+The vizier Saouy, concluding by the extravagance of the price, that she
+must be some extraordinary piece of beauty, had a longing desire to see
+her; so spurring his horse forward, he rode directly up to Hagi Hassan,
+who was in the very middle of the merchants. Open the door, said he, and
+let me see this slave. It was never the custom to show their slaves to
+any particular person, till after the merchants had seen her, and had the
+refusal: but Saouy being a person of so great authority, none of them
+durst dispute their right with him; and Hagi Hassan being forced to open
+the door, beckoned the fair slave to come forward, that Saouy might have
+a sight of her without the trouble of alighting from his horse.
+
+The vizier was astonished at the sight of so beautiful a slave; and
+knowing the courtier’s name, (having formerly dealt with him,) Hagi
+Hassan, said he, is it not at four thousand pieces of gold that you cry
+her? Yes, sir, answered he, it is but a moment since I cried her at that
+price, and the merchants you see gathered together here are come to bid
+money for her; and I question not but they will give a great deal more
+than that.
+
+If nobody offers any higher, I will give that sum, replied Saouy, looking
+upon the merchants at the same time with a countenance that forbade them
+to advance any more. In short, he was so universally dreaded, that nobody
+durst speak a word, not so much as to complain of his encroaching upon
+their privilege.
+
+The vizier Saouy having staid some time, and finding none of the
+merchants outbid him, What do you stay for? said he to Hagi Hassan: go,
+look after the seller, and strike a bargain with him at four thousand
+pieces of gold, or more if he demands it; not knowing yet the slave
+belonged to Noureddin.
+
+Hagi Hassan having locked the chamber-door, went to confer notes with
+Noureddin: Sir, said he to him, I am very sorry to bring you the ill news
+of your slave’s being just going to be sold for nothing. How so? replied
+Noureddin. Why sir, said Hagi Hassan, you must know that the business at
+first went on rarely; for, as soon as the merchants had seen your slave,
+they ordered me to cry her at four thousand pieces of gold. Accordingly I
+cried her at the price; upon which the vizier Saouy came, and his
+presence has stopped the mouths of all the merchants, who seemed
+inclinable to raise her, at least to the same price your deceased father
+gave for her. Saouy will give no more than four thousand pieces, and it
+is much against my inclination that I am come to tell you the despicable
+price he offers. The slave indeed is your own; but I will not advise you
+to part with her upon those terms, since you and every body else are
+sensible of her being worth infinitely more: besides, he is base enough
+to contrive a way to trick you out of the money.
+
+Hagi Hassan, replied Noureddin, I am highly obliged to thee for thy
+advice; but do not think I will ever sell my slave to an enemy of our
+family. My necessities indeed are at present very great, but I would
+sooner die in the most shameful poverty, than ever consent to the
+delivering her up to his arms. I have only one thing to beg of thee, who
+art skilful in all the turns and shifts of life, that thou wouldst put me
+in a way to prevent the sale of her.
+
+Sir, said Hagi Hassan, there is nothing more easy: you must pretend,
+that, being in a violent passion with your slave, you swore to expose her
+in the market, and for the sake of your oath you have now brought her
+hither, without any manner of intention of selling her. This will satisfy
+every body, and Saouy will have nothing to say against it. Come along
+with me then; and just as I am presenting her to Saouy, as if it were by
+your own consent, pull her to you, give her two or three blows, and send
+her home. I thank thee for thy counsel, said Noureddin, and thou shalt
+see I will make use of it.
+
+Hagi Hassan went back to the chamber, and having in two words acquainted
+the Fair Persian with their design, that she might not be surprised at
+it, he took her by the hand, and led her to the vizier Saouy, who was
+still, on horseback at the door: Sir, said he, here is the slave: she is
+yours; pray take her.
+
+These words were scarce out of Hagi Hassan’s mouth, when Noureddin,
+catching hold of the Fair Persian, pulled her to him, and giving her a
+box on the ear, Come hither, impertinence, said he, and get you home
+again; for though your ill humour obliged me to swear I would bring you
+hither, yet I never intended to sell you; I have business for you to do
+yet, and it will be time enough to part with you when I have nothing else
+left.
+
+This action of Noureddin’s put the vizier Saouy into a violent passion.
+Miserable debauchee, cried he, wouldst thou have me believe thou hast any
+thing else left to make money of but thy slave? And at the same instant,
+spurring his horse directly against him, endeavoured to have carried off
+the Fair Persian. Noureddin, nettled to the quick at the affront the
+vizier had put upon him, quits the Fair Persian, and, laying hold of his
+horse’s bridle, made him run two or three paces backwards. Vile dotard,
+said he to the vizier, I would tear thy soul out of thy body this very
+moment, were it not for the crowd of people here present.
+
+The vizier Saouy being loved by nobody, but, on the contrary, hated by
+all, there was not one among them but was now pleased to see Noureddin
+mortifying him a little; and, by shrewd signs, they let him understand he
+might revenge himself upon him as much as he pleased, for nobody would
+meddle with their quarrel.
+
+Saouy endeavoured all he could to make Noureddin quit the bridle; but he
+being a lusty vigorous man, and encouraged by those that stood by, pulled
+him off his horse, in the middle of a brook, gave him a thousand blows,
+and dashed his head against the stones till it was all of a gore of
+blood. The slaves that waited upon the vizier would fain have drawn their
+scimitars and fallen upon Noureddin, but the merchants interposing
+prevented them from doing it. What do you mean? said they to them; do not
+you see the one is a vizier, and the other a vizier’s son? Let them
+dispute their quarrel themselves; perhaps they will be reconciled one
+time or other; whereas, if you had killed Noureddin, your master, with
+all his greatness, could not have been able to protect you against the
+law.
+
+Noureddin having given over beating the vizier Saouy, left him in the
+middle of the brook, and taking the Fair Persian, marched home with her,
+being attended by the people with shouts and acclamations for the action
+he had performed.
+
+The vizier Saouy, cruelly bruised with the strokes he had received, by
+the assistance of his slaves made shift to get up, and had the
+mortification to see himself besmeared all over with blood and dirt. He
+leaned upon the shoulders of two slaves, and in that condition went
+straight to the palace, in the sight of all the people, with so much
+greater confusion because nobody pitied him. As soon as he reached the
+king’s apartment, he began to cry out, and call for justice, after a
+lamentable manner. The king ordered him to be admitted; and as soon as he
+came, he asked him who it was that had abused and put him into that
+miserable pickle. Sir, cried Saouy, your majesty ought to afford me a
+large share of your favour, and to take into your royal consideration my
+late abuse, since it was chiefly upon your account that I have been so
+barbarously treated. Say no more of that, replied the king, but let me
+hear the whole story, simply as it is, and who the offender is; and if he
+is in the wrong, you may depend upon it he shall be severely punished.
+
+Sir, said Saouy then, telling the whole matter to his own advantage,
+having an occasion for a cook-maid, I went to the market of women-slaves
+to buy me one. When I came thither, there was a slave just cried at four
+thousand pieces of gold: I ordered them to bring the slave before me, and
+I think my eyes never did, nor ever will, behold a more glorious creature
+than she is. I had not time to examine her beauty thoroughly: but,
+however, I immediately asked to whom she belonged; and upon inquiry I
+found that Noureddin, son to the late vizier Khacan, had the disposing of
+her.
+
+Sir, you may remember that, about two or three years ago, you gave that
+vizier ten thousand pieces of gold, strictly charging him to buy you a
+slave with it. The money indeed was laid out upon this very slave; but
+instead of bringing her to your majesty, thinking his son deserved her
+better, he made him a present of her. Noureddin, since his father’s
+death, having wasted his whole fortune in riot and feasting, has nothing
+left but this slave, which he intended to part with, and therefore she
+was to be sold in his name. I sent for him, and without mentioning any
+thing of his father’s baseness, or rather treachery, to your majesty, I
+very civilly said to him, Noureddin, the merchants, I perceive, have put
+your slave up at four thousand pieces of gold; and I question not but, in
+emulation of each other, they will raise the price considerably: let me
+have her for the four thousand pieces; I am going to buy her for the
+king, our lord and master: this will be a handsome opportunity of making
+your court to him, and his favour will be worth a great deal more than
+the merchants can propose to give you.
+
+Instead of returning me a civil answer, as in good manners he ought to
+have done, the insolent wretch beholding me with an air of fierceness,
+Decrepit villain, said he, I would rather sell my slave to a Jew for
+nothing than to thee for money. Noureddin, replied I, without any manner
+of passion, though I had some reason to be a little warm, you do not
+consider that in talking at this rate you affront the king, who has
+raised your father and me to the honours we have enjoyed.
+
+This admonition, instead of moving him to a compliance, provoked him to a
+higher degree; so that, falling upon me like a madman, he pulled me off
+my horse, beat me as long as he could stand over me, and has put me into
+this miserable plight your majesty sees me in; and therefore I beseech
+you, sir, to consider me, since it is upon your account I have been so
+openly affronted. At the end of these words, he bowed his head, and
+turning about, wept a plentiful shower of tears.
+
+The abused king, highly incensed against Noureddin by this relation, full
+of malice and artifice, discovered by his countenance the violence of his
+anger; and, turning to the captain of his guards that stood near him,
+Take forty of your soldiers, said he, and immediately go plunder
+Noureddin’s house; and, having ordered it to be razed to the ground,
+bring him and his slave along with you.
+
+The captain of the guards was not gone out of the king’s presence, when a
+gentleman-usher belonging to the court, who overheard the order that had
+been given, got before him. His name was Sangiar, and he had been
+formerly the vizier Khacan’s slave, by whose favour he was brought into
+the court service, where by degrees he was advanced higher.
+
+Sangiar, full of gratitude to his old master, and affection for
+Noureddin, with whom in his infancy he had often played, and being no
+stranger to Saouy’s hatred to Khacan’s family, could not hear the orders
+without concern and trembling. May be, said he to himself, this action of
+Noureddin’s is not altogether so black as Saouy has represented it; but,
+however, the king is prejudiced against him, and will certainly put him
+to death without allowing him time to justify himself.
+
+Sangiar made so much haste to Noureddin’s house, as to get thither time
+enough to acquaint him with what had passed at court, and to desire him
+to provide for his own and the Fair Persian’s safety. He knocked so
+violently loud at the door, that Noureddin, who had been a great while
+without any servant, ran immediately to open it: My dear lord, said
+Sangiar, here is no more staying for you in Balsora: if you design to
+save yourself, you must lose no time, but depart hence this very moment.
+
+Why so? replied Noureddin; what is the reason I must be gone so soon? Ah!
+sir, said Sangiar, make haste away, and take your slave with you; for, in
+short, Saouy has been just now acquainting the king, after his own way of
+telling it, all that happened between you and him; and the captain of the
+guards will be here in an instant, with forty soldiers, and seize you and
+the Fair Persian. Here, sir, take these forty pieces of gold; it is all I
+have about me, to assist you in finding out some other place of safety.
+Excuse my not staying any longer with you: I leave you with a great deal
+of unwillingness; but I do it for the good of us both. I have so much
+interest with the captain of the guards, that he will take no notice of
+me. Sangiar gave Noureddin but just time to thank him, and away he went.
+
+Noureddin presently acquainted the Fair Persian with the absolute
+necessity of their going that moment. She only staid to put on her veil,
+and then they both stole out of the house together, and were so very
+lucky, as not only to get clear of the city, without the least notice
+being taken of their escape, but also safely to arrive at the mouth of
+the Euphrates, where they embarked in a vessel that lay ready to weigh
+anchor.
+
+They were no sooner on ship-board than the captain came upon deck amongst
+his passengers: My children, said he to them, are you all here? have any
+of you any more business to do in the city? or have you left any thing
+behind you? They answered him they were all there, and ready prepared; so
+that he might set sail as soon as he pleased. When Noureddin came aboard,
+the first question he asked was, whither the ship was bound? and being
+told for Bagdad, he greatly rejoiced at it. And now the captain having
+weighed anchor, set sail, and the vessel with a very favourable wind lost
+sight of Balsora.
+
+But now let us see how matters went at Balsora, in the mean time, while
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian made their escape from the fury of the
+enraged king.
+
+The captain of the guards came to Noureddin’s house and knocked at the
+door, but nobody coming to open it, he ordered his soldiers to break it
+down, who immediately obeyed him, and in they rushed in a full body. They
+searched every hole and corner of the house, but neither he nor the Fair
+Persian were to be found. The captain of the guards made them inquire of
+the neighbours, and he asked himself if they had seen them lately: it was
+all in vain; for, though they had seen him go out of his house, so
+universally beloved was Noureddin, that not one of them would have said
+the least word that might be injurious to him. As soon as they had rifled
+the house and levelled it to the ground, they went to acquaint the king
+with the news. Look for them, said he, in some other places, for I am
+resolved to have them found.
+
+The captain of the guards made a second search after them; and the king
+dismissed the vizier Saouy with a great deal of honour. Go home, said he
+to him; trouble yourself no farther with Noureddin’s punishment; for with
+my own hand I will revenge the insolence he has offered your person.
+
+Without any farther delay, the king ordered the public criers to proclaim
+throughout the whole city a reward of a thousand pieces of gold for any
+person that should apprehend Noureddin and the Fair Persian, with a
+severe punishment upon whomsoever should conceal them. But after all this
+pains and trouble, there was no news to be heard of them; and the vizier
+Saouy had only the comfort of seeing the king espouse his quarrel.
+
+In the mean time, Noureddin and the Fair Persian, after a prosperous
+voyage, landed safe at Bagdad. As soon as the captain came within sight
+of that city, pleased that his voyage was at an end, Children, cried he
+to the passengers, cheer up, and be merry! look, yonder is that great and
+wonderful city, where there is perpetual concourse of people from all
+parts of the world: there you shall meet with innumerable crowds every
+day, and never feel the extremity of cold in winter, nor the excess of
+heat in summer; but enjoy an eternal spring, always crowned with flowers,
+and the delicious fruits of autumn.
+
+When the vessel came to anchor a little below the city, the passengers
+got ashore, and every body went to the place they designed to lie at that
+night. Noureddin gave the captain five pieces of gold for his passage,
+and went ashore also with the Fair Persian; but being a perfect stranger
+in Bagdad, he was at a loss for a lodging. They rambled a considerable
+time about the gardens that bordered on the Tigris; and, keeping close to
+one of them that was enclosed with a very high wall, at the end of it
+they turned into a street finely paved, where they perceived a garden
+door, and a charming fountain near it.
+
+The door, which was very magnificent, happened to be shut, but the porch
+was open, in which there stood a sofa on each side. This is a very
+convenient place for us, said Noureddin to the Fair Persian: night comes
+on apace; and though we have eaten nothing since our landing, yet I
+believe we must even lie here to-night, and to-morrow we shall have time
+enough to get a lodging; what say ye to it, my dear? Sir, replied the
+Fair Persian, you know very well I am never against what you propose;
+therefore let us go no farther, since you are willing to stay here. Each
+of them having drunk a draught of water at the fountain, they laid
+themselves down upon one of the sofas; and, after a little chat, being
+invited by the agreeable murmur of the water, they fell fast asleep.
+
+The garden, it seems, belonged to the caliph; and in the middle of it
+there was a pavilion, called the Pavilion of Pictures, because its chief
+ornament was pictures, after the Persian manner, drawn by the most
+celebrated limners in Persia, whom the caliph sent for on purpose. The
+stately hall beneath this pavilion was adorned with fourscore windows,
+and in every window a branched candlestick. The candles were never
+lighted but when the caliph came thither to spend the evening, which was
+never but when the weather was so very calm that not a breath of air was
+stirring. Then, indeed, they made a glorious illumination, and could be
+plainly discerned at a vast distance in the country on that side, and by
+the greatest part of the city.
+
+There was but one person that had the charge of this fine garden, and the
+place was at this time enjoyed by a very ancient officer, named Scheich
+Ibrahim, whom the caliph himself, for some important service, put into
+that employment, with a strict charge not to let all sorts of people in,
+but especially to suffer nobody either to sit or lie down on the sofas
+that stood at the outward door, that they might always be clean and
+handsome; and whenever he found any body there, to punish them severely.
+
+Some business had obliged this officer to go abroad, and he was not as
+yet returned. When he came back, there was just daylight enough for him
+to discern two persons asleep upon one of the sofas, with both their
+heads under a piece of linen cloth, to secure them from the gnats. Very
+well, said Scheich Ibrahim to himself, here are brave people, to disobey
+the caliph’s orders; but I shall take care to pay them handsomely what
+they deserve. Upon this, he opens the door very softly, and a moment
+after returns with a swinging cane in his hand, and his sleeve tucked up
+to the elbow. He was just going to lay on them with all his force; but,
+withholding his arm, he began to reason with himself after this manner:
+Thou wast going to strike, without any consideration that these perhaps
+are strangers, destitute of a lodging, and utterly ignorant of the
+caliph’s order; for that reason, it would be advisable in thee to know
+first who they are. Upon this, he gently lifts up the linen that covered
+their heads, and being wonderfully astonished to see two persons so
+mightily beautiful and well-shaped, waked Noureddin, with pulling him
+softly by the feet.
+
+[Illustration p45:  Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chad Heath.]
+
+Noureddin presently lifting up his head, and seeing an old man with a
+long white beard standing at his feet, got up, and throwing himself upon
+his knees, Good father, said he, Heaven preserve you! What do you want,
+my son? replied Scheich Ibrahim: who are you, and from whence came you?
+We are strangers newly arrived, answered Noureddin, and we would fain
+tarry here till to-morrow. This is not a proper place for you, said
+Scheich Ibrahim: but come in with me, and I will find one fitter for you
+to sleep in than this; and I fancy the sight of the garden, which is very
+fine, will please you, when you see it to-morrow by daylight. Is this
+garden your own? said Noureddin. Yes, replied Scheich Ibrahim; it is an
+inheritance left me by my father: pray walk in, for I am sure you will
+not repent your seeing it.
+
+Noureddin rose up to thank Scheich Ibrahim for the civility he had shown
+them, and afterwards the Fair Persian and he went into the garden.
+Scheich Ibrahim locked the door, and going before, led them to an
+eminence, from whence at one look they might almost take a view of the
+grandeur, order, and beauty of the whole garden.
+
+Noureddin had seen very fine gardens in Balsora, but never any comparable
+to this. Having satisfied his curiosity in looking upon every thing worth
+taking notice of, as he was walking in one of the alleys, he turned about
+to the officer that was with him, and asked what his name was. As soon as
+he told him it was Scheich Ibrahim; Scheich Ibrahim, said he to him, I
+must confess this is a charming garden indeed. Heaven send you long to
+enjoy the pleasures of it; and we cannot sufficiently thank you for the
+favour of showing us a place so worthy our seeing. However, it is but
+just that we should make you some amends for your kindness: therefore,
+here are two pieces of gold; take them, and get us something to eat, that
+we may be merry together before we part.
+
+At the sight of the two pieces of gold, Scheich Ibrahim, who was a great
+admirer of that metal, laughed in his sleeve: he took them, and leaving
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian by themselves, went to provide what he was
+sent about. As soon as he was alone, said he to himself with abundance of
+joy, These are generous people; I should highly have injured myself, if,
+through imprudence or rashness, I had abused or driven them hence: the
+tenth part of the money will treat them like princes, and the rest I will
+keep for my pains and trouble.
+
+While Scheich Ibrahim was gone to fetch something for his own supper, as
+well as for his guests, Noureddin and the Fair Persian took a walk in the
+garden, sometimes in one place and sometimes in another, till at last
+they came to the pavilion of pictures that was in the middle of it. They
+stood a pretty while to admire its wonderful structure, beauty, and
+loftiness; and, after taking a full view of it on every side, they went
+up a great many steps of fine white marble, to the hall door, which they
+found locked.
+
+They were but just got to the bottom of the steps as Scheich Ibrahim
+returned, loaded with provisions. Scheich Ibrahim, said Noureddin in a
+great surprise, did you not tell us that this was your garden? I did,
+replied Scheich Ibrahim, and do so still. And does this magnificent
+pavilion also belong to you? said Noureddin. Scheich Ibrahim was put to a
+nonplus, and would not hearken to any more questions: For, said he to
+himself, if I should say it is none of mine, he will presently ask me how
+I can be the master of the garden and not the pavilion? So, being willing
+to make them believe the garden was his, he said the same of the
+pavilion. My son, said he, the pavilion is not distinct from the garden,
+but they both belong to me. If so, said Noureddin, since you are willing
+to let us be your guests to-night, do us the favour to show us the inside
+of it; for, if we may judge by the outward appearance, it must certainly
+be very splendid and magnificent.
+
+It would have been a great piece of incivility in Scheich Ibrahim to have
+refused Noureddin that favour, after the returns he had made him:
+moreover, he considered that the caliph not having given any notice,
+according to the usual custom, it was likely he would not be there that
+night, and therefore resolved to treat his guests, and sup with them in
+that room. He laid the provisions upon the first step, while he went to
+his chamber to fetch the key. He soon returned with a light, and opened
+the door.
+
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian entered the hall; and finding it so
+extravagantly surprising, could not forbear admiring the beauty and
+richness of the place. Indeed, without saying anything of the pictures,
+which were admirably well drawn, the sofas were very noble and costly;
+and, besides the branched candlesticks that were fixed to every window,
+there was a silver spring between each cross bar, with a wax candle in
+it. Noureddin could not behold those glorious objects, which put him in
+mind of his former greatness, without sighing.
+
+In the mean time, Scheich Ibrahim was getting supper ready; and the cloth
+being laid upon a sofa, and every thing in order, Noureddin and the Fair
+Persian and he sat down and ate together. When supper was done, and they
+had washed their hands, Noureddin opened the casement, and calling the
+Fair Persian to him, Come hither, my dear, said he, and with me admire
+the charming prospect and beauty of the garden by moonlight; for
+certainly nothing can be more agreeable. She came to him, and they both
+together diverted themselves with that lovely object, while Scheich
+Ibrahim was busy in taking away the cloth.
+
+When Scheich Ibrahim came to his guests again, Noureddin asked him
+whether he had any good liquor in his lodgings to treat them with. What
+liquor would you have? replied Scheich Ibrahim. Sherbet, I have the best
+in the world; but sherbet, you know, my son, is never drunk after supper.
+
+I know that very well, said Noureddin; it is not sherbet, but another
+sort of liquor that we ask you for; and I am surprised at your not
+understanding me. It is wine that I perceive you speak of, said Scheich
+Ibrahim. You have hit right, replied Noureddin; and if you have any, pray
+let us have a bottle: you know a bottle after supper is a very proper
+companion to spend the hours with till bed-time.
+
+Heaven defend me from keeping wine in my house, cried Scheich Ibrahim,
+and from ever coming to a place where any is to be sold! A man as I am,
+who has been a pilgrimage four times to Mecca, has renounced wine for
+ever.
+
+However, said Noureddin, you would do us a singular kindness in getting
+us a little for our own drinking: and if it be not too much trouble, I
+will put you in a way how you may do it, without ever going into the inn,
+or so much as laying your hand upon the vessel that contains it. Upon
+that condition, I will do it, replied Scheich Ibrahim; therefore pray let
+me know how I am to manage it.
+
+Why then, said Noureddin to him, we just now saw an ass tied at the
+entrance of the garden, which certainly must be yours, and which you may
+make use of in this extremity. Here are two pieces of gold more; take
+them, and lead your ass with the panniers towards the next inn: you may
+stand at as great a distance as you please; only give something to the
+next passenger that comes by, and desire him to go with your ass to the
+inn, there load him with two pitchers of wine, one in one pannier and
+another in another, which he must pay for out of the money we have given
+you; and so let him bring the ass back to you: you will have nothing to
+do but drive the beast hither before you; for we will take the wine out
+of the panniers; and by this means you will act nothing but what you may
+do without any scruple at all.
+
+The two last pieces of gold that Scheich Ibrahim was going to receive,
+wrought wonderfully upon his temper. Ah! my son, cried he, after
+Noureddin had done speaking, you have contrived the matter rarely; and
+had it not been for your invention, I should never have found out a way
+of getting you some wine, without a little scruple of conscience. Away he
+went to execute the orders he had received; and upon his return, which
+was in a little time, Noureddin went down stairs, and taking the wine out
+of the panniers, carried it into the hall.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim having led the ass back to the place from whence he took
+him, came back again. Scheich Ibrahim, said Noureddin to him, we cannot
+enough thank you for the trouble we have already given you; but, my
+friend, we want something yet. What is that? replied Scheich Ibrahim; is
+it anything that I can be farther serviceable to you in? Why, said
+Noureddin, we have no cups to drink out of; and a little choice fruit, if
+you have any, would be very acceptable to us. Do but say what you have a
+mind to, replied Scheich Ibrahim, and you shall have every thing to your
+heart’s content.
+
+Down went Scheich Ibrahim, and in a short time spread a table for them
+with porcelain dishes, full of all sorts of delicious fruits, besides a
+great number of gold and silver cups to drink out of; and having asked
+them if they wanted any thing else, he withdrew, though they pressed him
+earnestly to stay.
+
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian sat down again, and after a cup a-piece,
+they were mightily pleased with the wine. Well, my dear, said Noureddin
+to the Fair Persian, are we not the most fortunate persons in the world,
+after so many dangers, to meet with so charming and agreeable a place?
+come, let us be merry, and think no more on the hardships of our voyage.
+Can my happiness be greater in this world, than to have you on one side
+of me, and my bottle on the other? They took off their cups pretty
+heartily, and diverted themselves very agreeably, in singing each of them
+a song.
+
+Both of them having very fine voices, but especially the Fair Persian,
+Scheich Ibrahim, who had stood hearkening a great while on the steps
+without discovering himself, was perfectly charmed with their songs. He
+could contain himself no longer; but, thrusting his head in at the door,
+Courage, sir, said he to Noureddin, whom he took to be quite drunk; I am
+overjoyed to see you so merry.
+
+Ah! Scheich Ibrahim, cried Noureddin, turning to him, you are a glorious
+man, and we are extremely obliged to you. We dare not ask you to drink a
+cup; but pray walk in, and let us have the honour at least of your
+company. Excuse me, sir, said Scheich Ibrahim; the pleasure of hearing
+your songs is sufficient for me. Upon this, he immediately retired.
+
+The Fair Persian perceiving Scheich Ibrahim, through one of the windows,
+standing upon the steps without the door, told Noureddin of it. Sir, said
+she, you see what an aversion he has for wine; yet I question not in the
+least to make him drink some, if you would do as I would have you.
+Noureddin asked her what it was. Do but say the word, replied he, and I
+am ready to do what you please. Prevail with him, then, only to come in
+and bear us company: some time after, fill up a bumper, and give it him;
+if he refuses it, drink it off, feign yourself to be asleep, and leave
+the rest to me.
+
+Noureddin quickly finding out the drift of the Fair Persian’s design,
+called to Scheich Ibrahim, who came again to the door: Scheich Ibrahim,
+said he, we are your guests; you have entertained us after the most
+obliging manner in the world; and will you now refuse us the honour of
+bearing us company? We do not ask you to drink, but only the favour of
+seeing you.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim being at last prevailed upon, came into the hall, and sat
+down upon the edge of a sofa that stood the nearest to the door. You do
+not sit well there, said Noureddin; besides, you are too far off for us
+to converse with you: pray come nearer, and sit down by the lady, since
+she will have it so. I will obey you, replied Scheich Ibrahim; so, coming
+forward with a simpering countenance, to think he should be seated near
+so beautiful a creature, he placed himself at some distance from the Fair
+Persian. Noureddin desired a song of her, upon the account of the honour
+that Scheich Ibrahim had done them; and she sang one that charmed him to
+an ecstasy.
+
+When the Fair Persian had ended her song, Noureddin poured out a cup of
+wine, and presented it to Scheich Ibrahim; Scheich Ibrahim, said he,
+here, drink this to our healths. Sir, replied he, starting back, as if
+the very sight of the wine had put him into a horror and confusion, I
+beseech you to excuse me; I have already told you, that I have forsworn
+the use of wine these many years. Then positively you will not drink our
+healths, said Noureddin; however, give me leave to drink yours.
+
+While Noureddin was drinking, the Fair Persian cut a piece of apple, and
+presented it to Scheich Ibrahim. Though you refused drinking, said she,
+yet I believe you will not refuse eating this piece of apple, since it is
+a very good one. Scheich Ibrahim had no power to refuse it from so fair a
+hand; but taking it with a very low bow, kissed it, and put it in his
+mouth. She said a great many amorous things upon that occasion; and
+Noureddin tumbling back upon a sofa, pretended to fall fast asleep. The
+Fair Persian presently advanced towards Scheich Ibrahim; and speaking in
+a very low voice, See, said she, the sleepy sot! thus, in all our merry
+bouts, he constantly serves me; and no sooner has he drunk a cup or two,
+than he falls asleep, and leaves me alone; but I hope you will have the
+goodness to keep me company till he awakes.
+
+At this, the Fair Persian took a cup, and filling it to the brim with
+wine, offered it to Scheich Ibrahim: Here, said she, drink off this to my
+health: I am going to pledge you. Scheich Ibrahim made a great many
+difficulties of the matter at first, and begged her to excuse him from
+drinking; but, at last, overcome by her charms and entreaties, he took
+the cup, and drank every drop of the wine off.
+
+The good old man loved a cheruping cup to his heart, but was ashamed to
+drink among strangers. He often went to the tavern in private, as
+abundance of people do; and now his hand being once in, without any more
+ceremony, or round-about ways, as Noureddin had instructed him, he goes
+directly to the next inn, where he was very well known, and fetches some
+more wine (the night serving him instead of a cloak) with the money that
+Noureddin had ordered him to give the messenger that went for the first.
+
+As soon as Scheich Ibrahim had taken off his cup, and made an end of the
+piece of apple, the Fair Persian filled him out another, which he
+received with less difficulty than the former, but made none at all at
+the third. In short, he drank four times before ever Noureddin discovered
+his pretended sleeping; but then bursting out into a violent fit of
+laughter, he rose up, and looking upon him, Ha! ha! said he, Scheich
+Ibrahim, are you caught at last? did you not tell me you had forsworn
+wine? and now you have drank it all up from me.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, not expecting to be surprised after that manner, blushed
+a little: however, that did not spoil his draught: but when he had done,
+Sir, said he to Noureddin, laughing, if there is any crime in what I have
+done, it lies at this fair lady’s door, not mine; for who could possibly
+resist so many charms?
+
+The Fair Persian, who knew well enough what Noureddin would be at, took
+Scheich Ibrahim’s part: Let him talk, said she; Scheich Ibrahim, take no
+notice of him; but let us drink on, and be merry. A while after,
+Noureddin fills out a cup for himself and the Fair Persian; but when
+Scheich Ibrahim saw that Noureddin had forgot him in his turn, he took
+his cup, and presenting it to the Fair Persian, Madam, said he, do I
+pretend I cannot drink now?
+
+At these words of Scheich Ibrahim’s, Noureddin and the Fair Persian were
+ready to split their sides with laughing. Noureddin poured him out some
+wine; and there they sat laughing, chatting, and drinking, till pretty
+near midnight. About that hour, the Fair Persian began to take notice of
+there being but one candle upon the table. Scheich Ibrahim, said she to
+the good old officer, methinks you might have afforded us another candle,
+since there are so many wax-lights yonder: pray do us the favour to light
+some of them, that we may see a little better what we are doing here.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim making use of the liberty that wine gives a man, when it
+gets up into the crown-office, and not caring to be interrupted in his
+discourse with Noureddin, bid the Fair Persian light them herself: It is
+fitter for you to do it than me, said he: but, hark ye, be sure not to
+light above five or six; for this is enough. Up rose the Fair Persian
+immediately, and taking a wax-candle in her hand, lights it with that
+which stood upon the table; and, without any regard to Scheich Ibrahim’s
+orders, set fire to the whole fourscore.
+
+By and by, while Scheich Ibrahim was entertaining the Fair Persian with
+some other discourse, Noureddin took his turn to desire him to light up
+some of the candles in the branched candlesticks, not taking notice that
+all the wax-lights were already in a blaze: Certainly, replied Scheich
+Ibrahim, you are lazier, or less vigorous, than I am, that you are not
+able to light them yourself: get you gone; but be sure you light no more
+than three. To work he went; but, instead of that number, he lighted them
+all, and opened the shutters of the fourscore windows, before Scheich
+Ibrahim, who was deeply engaged with the Fair Persian, knew any thing of
+the matter.
+
+The caliph Haroun Alraschid being not yet gone to bed, was in a parlour
+at his palace by the river Tigris, from whence he could take a side-view
+both of the garden and pavilion. By chance, he opened the casement, and
+seeing the pavilion was illuminated, was mightily surprised at it; and at
+first, by the greatness of the light, thought the city was on fire. The
+grand vizier Giafar was still with him, who only waited for his going to
+rest, and then designed to go home too. The caliph, in a great rage,
+called the vizier to him: Careless vizier, said he, come hither, look
+upon the pavilion of pictures, and tell me the reason of its being
+illuminated, now I am not there.
+
+The grand vizier Giafar, upon this news, fell into a violent trembling,
+fearing something else was the matter; but, when he came nearer, and with
+his own eyes saw the truth of what the caliph had told him, he was more
+astonished than before. However, being obliged to make some excuse to
+appease the caliph’s anger, he said, Commander of the true believers, all
+that I can say to your majesty about this matter is, that about five or
+six days ago, Scheich Ibrahim came to acquaint me, that he had a design
+to call an assembly of the ministers of his mosque, to assist at a
+ceremony he was ambitious of performing in your majesty’s auspicious
+reign. I asked him if I could be any way serviceable to him in this
+affair; upon which he entreated me to get leave of your majesty to
+perform the ceremony in the pavilion. When he left me, I told him he
+might do it, and I would take care to acquaint your majesty with it; but
+indeed I had quite forgot it, and I heartily ask pardon. Scheich Ibrahim,
+continued he, has certainly made choice of this day for the ceremony;
+and, after treating the ministers of his mosque, he was willing to divert
+them with the sight of this illumination.
+
+Giafar, said the caliph, with a tone that plainly showed his anger was a
+little mollified, according to thy own words, thou hast committed three
+faults that are unpardonable: the first, in giving Scheich Ibrahim leave
+to perform his ceremony in my pavilion; for a person in so mean an office
+as his, is not worthy of so great an honour: the second, in not
+acquainting me with it: and the third, in not diving into the bottom of
+the good old man’s intention. For my part, I am persuaded he only did it
+to try if he could get any money towards bearing the charge of it; but
+perhaps that never came into thy head: and sure I shall not wrong him, in
+forgiving him the expense of the night’s illumination, which will be some
+amends for thy presenting him with nothing.
+
+The grand vizier Giafar, overjoyed to hear the caliph put the matter upon
+that foot, very willingly owned the faults he reproached him with, and
+freely confessed he was to blame in not giving Scheich Ibrahim a few
+pieces of gold. Since the case is so, added the caliph, it is just that
+thou shouldst be punished for thy mistakes; but thy punishment shall be
+light: thou shalt spend the remainder of the night as I do, with these
+honest souls, whose company I am very well pleased with; and while I am
+putting on a citizen’s habit, go thou and disguise thyself, with Mesrour,
+and come both of you along with me. The vizier Giafar told him it was
+late, and that all the company would be gone before he could get thither;
+but the caliph said he would positively go. The vizier, who knew that not
+a syllable of what he said before was true, began to be in great
+consternation; but there was no reply to be made, and go he must.
+
+The caliph then, disguised like a citizen, with the grand vizier Giafar,
+and Mesrour, chief of the eunuchs, stole out of the palace together. They
+rambled through the streets of Bagdad, till at last they came to the
+garden: the door, through the carelessness of Scheich Ibrahim, was open,
+having forgot to shut it when he came back from buying the wine. The
+caliph was very angry at it: Giafar, said he to the grand vizier, what
+excuse have you for the door’s being open at this unseasonable hour? Is
+it possible that Scheich Ibrahim makes a custom of leaving it thus all
+night? No; I rather believe the hurry of the feast has been the occasion
+of this neglect.
+
+The caliph went into the garden; and when he came to the pavilion,
+resolving not to go into the hall till he knew what they were doing
+there, he consulted with the grand vizier, whether it was not his best
+way to climb up into one of the trees that was near it, to make a
+discovery. The grand vizier at last casting his eye upon the door,
+perceived it stood half open, and told the caliph of it. It seems Scheich
+Ibrahim had left it so, when he was prevailed upon to come in and bear
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian company.
+
+The caliph laying aside his first design, stole softly up to the
+hall-door, which standing half-open, he had the conveniency of seeing all
+the company that were within, without being discovered himself.
+
+Never was any person so surprised as he, when he saw a lady of an
+incomparable beauty, and a young, handsome, fine-shaped man, sitting at
+the table, with Scheich Ibrahim by them. Scheich Ibrahim had just then
+got a cup in his hand: My dear creature, said he to the Fair Persian, a
+right toper never drinks without singing a brisk tune first. If you
+please to hear, I will give you one of my best songs.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim sang; and the caliph wondered at it more, because till
+that very moment he never knew any thing of his drinking wine, but always
+took him for a grave solid man, as he seemed to be to outward appearance.
+The caliph retired from the door with the same caution as he made his
+approach to it; and coming to the grand vizier Giafar, who was standing
+upon the steps a little lower, Come up, said he to him, and see if those
+within yonder are the ministers of the mosque, as you would fain have me
+believe.
+
+By the tone of the voice in which the caliph spoke these last words, the
+vizier understood that things went ill on his side: however, he went up
+the steps; but when he had peeped in at the door, and saw them all three
+sitting, and in that condition, he fell a-trembling for fear of his life.
+He went back to the caliph, but in so great a confusion, that he had not
+a word to say to him. What riotous doings are here? said the caliph to
+him: who are those people that have presumed to take the liberty of
+diverting themselves in my garden and pavilion? and how durst Scheich
+Ibrahim give them admittance, and partake of the diversion with them?
+However, I must confess, I never saw two persons more beautiful, or
+better paired, in my life; and therefore, before I discover my anger, I
+will inform myself a little better, and inquire who they are, and the
+reason of their being here. He went to the door again, to observe them
+more narrowly; and the vizier who followed, stood behind him, and fixed
+his eyes upon them. They both of them plainly heard every word that
+Scheich Ibrahim spoke to the Fair Persian. Is there any thing, my
+charming lady, wanting to render the pleasures of this night complete?
+Nothing but a lute, replied the Fair Persian; and methinks, if you could
+get me one, all things would be very well. Can you play upon it? said
+Scheich Ibrahim. Fetch me one, replied the Fair Persian, and you shall
+hear whether I can or not.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, without stirring very far from his place, pulled a lute
+out of a cupboard, and presented it to the Fair Persian, who began to put
+it in tune. The caliph, in the mean time, turning to the grand vizier;
+Giafar, said he, the young lady is going to play upon the lute; and if
+she performs well, I will forgive her, and the young man for her sake;
+but, as for thee, thou mayest go hang thyself. Commander of the true
+believers, replied the grand vizier, if that is your intention I wish she
+may play ill. Why so? said the caliph. Because, replied the grand vizier,
+the longer we live in this world, the more time we shall have to comfort
+ourselves with the hopes of dying in good social company. The caliph, who
+loved a jest dearly, began to laugh at this repartee; and putting his ear
+to the open side of the door, he listened to hear the Fair Persian play.
+
+The Fair Persian made such artful flourishes upon the lute, that from the
+first moment of her touching it, the caliph perceived that she did it
+with a masterly hand. Afterwards, she began to sing; and suiting her
+voice, which was admirably fine, to the lute, she sang and played with so
+much skill and sweetness, that the caliph was quite ravished to hear her.
+
+As soon as the Fair Persian had finished her song, the caliph went down
+the steps, and the vizier Giafar after him. When he came to the bottom,
+By my soul, said he to the vizier, I never heard a more charming voice,
+or a lute better touched in my life. Isaac[1], that hitherto I thought
+the most skilful player in the world, does not come up to her. In short,
+I am so charmed with her music, that I must hear her play before me; and
+therefore contrive some way how to bring it about.
+
+Commander of the true believers, said the grand vizier, if you should go
+in, and Scheich Ibrahim chance to know you, he would infallibly die with
+the fright. I should be extremely concerned at that, replied the caliph,
+and should be loath to be the occasion of his death, after so many years’
+service. But there is a thought just come into my head, how to compass my
+design: stay here with Mesrour, and wait for me in the next alley till I
+come.
+
+The neighbourhood of the Tigris had given the caliph the conveniency of
+turning a sufficient quantity of water under a stately bridge, well
+terraced, into his garden, to make a fine canal, whither the choicest
+fish of the whole river used to retire. The fishermen knew it very well,
+and would have given the world to fish there; but the caliph had
+expressly charged Scheich Ibrahim not to suffer any of them to come near
+it. However, that very night, a fisherman passing by the garden door,
+which the caliph had left open as he found it, made use of this
+opportunity, and going in, went directly to the canal.
+
+The fisherman immediately fell to work with his casting-nets, and was
+just ready to draw them, when the caliph, fearing what would be the
+effect of Scheich Ibrahim’s negligence, but willing to make use of it, to
+bring his design about, came to the same place. The fisherman, in spite
+of his disguise, knew him, and throwing himself at his feet, humbly
+implored his pardon, and excused himself upon account of his poverty.
+Rise, saith the caliph, and be not afraid; only draw your nets, that I
+may see what fish you have got.
+
+The fisherman, recovered of his fright, quickly obeyed the caliph’s
+orders. He drew out five or six very large fishes; and the caliph,
+choosing the two largest, tied them together by the head with a sprig of
+a tree. After this, said he to the fisherman, Give me thy clothes, and
+here take mine. The exchange was soon made; and the caliph being dressed
+like a fisherman, even to his boots and turban, Take thy nets, said he to
+the fisherman, and get thee about thy business.
+
+When the fisherman, very well pleased with his good fortune, was gone,
+the caliph, taking the two fishes in his hand, went to look after the
+grand vizier Giafar and Mesrour. He made a full stop at the grand vizier,
+who, not knowing him, asked him what he wanted, and bade him go about his
+business. Upon this, the caliph fell a-laughing; by which the vizier
+finding it to be him, Commander of the true believers, said he, is it
+possible it can be you? I knew you not; and I ask a thousand pardons for
+my rudeness: you are so strangely disguised now, that without any fear of
+being discovered by Scheich Ibrahim, you may venture into the hall. Stay
+you here with Mesrour, said the caliph, while I go yonder and play my
+part.
+
+The caliph went up to the hall, and knocked at the door. Noureddin
+hearing him first, told Scheich Ibrahim of it, who asked who was there.
+The caliph opened the door, and stepping a little way into the hall to
+show himself, Scheich Ibrahim, said he, I am the fisherman Kerim, who
+being informed of your design to treat some of your friends, have brought
+two very large fishes, fresh caught, to see if you have any occasion for
+them.
+
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian, mightily pleased to hear him name fish,
+Pray, said she to Scheich Ibrahim, let him come in, that we may look upon
+them. Scheich Ibrahim, by this time, was incapable of asking this
+counterfeit fisherman how or what way he came thither; but his whole
+design being only to oblige the Fair Persian, with much ado he turns his
+head towards the door, being quite drunk, and in a stammering tone,
+calling to the caliph, whom he took to be a fisherman, Come hither, thou
+nightly thief, said he, and let us see what thou hast got.
+
+The caliph went forwards, and counterfeiting all the humours and actions
+of a fisherman to a nicety, presented them with the two fishes. These are
+very fine ones indeed, said the Fair Persian; and if they were well
+ordered, and delicately dressed, I should be glad to eat some of them.
+The lady is in the right, answered Scheich Ibrahim; but what the plague
+can we do with your fish, unless it was dressed? Go, dress it thyself,
+and bring it to us; thou wilt find every thing necessary for thee in my
+kitchen.
+
+The caliph went back to the grand vizier: Giafar, said he, I have been
+very well received; but they want the fish to be dressed. I will take
+care to dress it myself, said the grand vizier, and they shall have it in
+a moment. Nay, replied the caliph, so eager am I to accomplish my design,
+that I will take abundance of pains about it too; for since I have
+personated the fisherman so well, sure I can play the cook for once:
+besides, in my younger days, I dealt a little in cookery, and always came
+off with flying colours. In saying these words, he went directly towards
+Scheich Ibrahim’s lodgings, and the grand vizier and Mesrour followed
+him.
+
+All three of them presently fell to work, and though Scheich Ibrahim’s
+kitchen was not very large, yet there was every thing in it that they
+wanted. The fish was quickly cooked, and the caliph served it up, putting
+to every one’s plate a lemon to squeeze, if they thought it proper, into
+the sauce. They all ate very heartily, but especially Noureddin and the
+Fair Persian; and the caliph sat down with them at the lower end of the
+table.
+
+As soon as the repast was over, Noureddin looking upon the caliph,
+Fisherman, said he, never were better fish eaten, and you have done us
+the greatest favour in the world. At the same time putting his hand into
+his bosom, and pulling out a purse of thirty pieces of gold, the
+remainder of the forty that Sangiar, gentleman-usher to the king of
+Balsora, had given him just upon his departure; Here, said he to him,
+take that, and if I had any more, thou shouldst have it: had I known thee
+in my prosperity, I would have taken care of securing thee from ever
+wanting: do not refuse the small present I make thee, but accept of it as
+kindly as if it was much greater.
+
+The caliph took the purse, and perceiving by the weightiness that it was
+all gold, Sir, said he, I cannot enough thank you for your liberality,
+and I think myself very fortunate in having to do with a person of your
+generosity; but before I take my leave, I have a favour to ask, which I
+beg you not to deny me. Yonder is a lute, which makes me believe that the
+lady understands playing upon it; and if you can prevail with her to play
+but one tune, I shall go away the best satisfied in the world: a lute,
+sir, is an instrument I greatly admire.
+
+Fair Persian, said Noureddin, immediately addressing himself to her, I
+ask that favour of you, and I hope you will not refuse me. She took up
+the lute without more entreaties, and putting it presently in tune,
+played and sang with such an air as charmed the very soul of the caliph
+with its harmony. Afterwards she played upon the lute without singing,
+but with so much skill and softness that it transported him into an
+ecstasy of joy.
+
+When the Fair Persian had given over playing, the caliph cried out, What
+a voice! What a hand! What skill is here! Was there ever finer singing,
+or better playing upon the lute? Never was there any heard or seen like
+it.
+
+Noureddin, who was a person of breeding, and always returned the
+compliment that was made him; Fisherman, said he, I find thou hast some
+taste for music, since thou art delighted with her performance; and if
+thou likest her she is thine; I make thee a present of her. At the same
+time he rose up, and taking his robe, which he had laid by, was for going
+away and leaving the pretended fisherman in possession of the Fair
+Persian.
+
+The Fair Persian was extremely surprised at Noureddin’s liberality; she
+took hold of him, and looking very wishfully at him, Whither, sir, are
+you going? said she; sit down in your place, I entreat you, and hearken
+to the song I am going to sing and play. He did as she desired him, and
+then the Fair Persian touching her lute, and looking upon him with tears,
+sang some verses that she had made _extempore_ to reproach him with his
+indifference, and the easiness as well as cruelty of resigning her to
+Kerim. She only hinted, without explaining herself any farther to the
+fisherman, for she was ignorant of his being the caliph, as well as
+Noureddin. When she had done playing, she put the lute down by her, and
+clapped a handkerchief to her face to hide the tears she could not help
+shedding.
+
+Noureddin made no answer to all these reproaches, but by his silence
+seemed to declare he did not repent of what he had done. The caliph
+surprised at what he had newly heard, Sir, said he, as far as I see, this
+beautiful lady, that so generously you have made me a present of just
+now, is your slave, and you are her master. It is very true, Kerim,
+replied Noureddin, and thou wouldst be more surprised than thou art now,
+should I tell thee all the misfortunes that have happened to me on her
+account. Ah! I beseech you, sir, replied the caliph, still behaving
+himself like a fisherman, oblige me so far as to let me hear part of your
+story.
+
+Noureddin, who had already obliged him in several things of a higher
+nature than this, was so complaisant as to relate the whole story to him.
+He began with his father’s buying the Fair Persian for the king of
+Balsora, and omitted nothing of what he had done, or what had happened to
+him, from that time to their arrival at Bagdad, and since, to that very
+moment he was talking to him.
+
+When Noureddin had ended his story, Whither are you going now? said the
+caliph. Even where Heaven shall direct me, answered Noureddin. Believe
+me, replied the caliph, you shall go no farther, but on the contrary,
+return to Balsora: I will go and write a short letter, which you shall
+give the king in my name; and you shall see upon the reading of it, he
+will give you a very handsome reception, and nobody will dare to speak
+against you.
+
+Kerim, said Noureddin, what thou hast told me is very unaccountable and
+singular: didst thou ever hear that a poor fisherman, as thou art, had
+any correspondence with a king? Be not astonished at that, replied the
+caliph; you must know then, that we both studied together under the same
+masters, and were always the best friends in the world. It is true,
+fortune has not been equally favourable to us both; she has made him a
+king, and me but a fisherman. However, this inequality has not at all
+lessened our friendship: he has often expressed a readiness and desire to
+advance my fortune, but I always refused it; and am better pleased with
+the satisfaction of knowing that he never will deny me whatever I ask for
+the service and advantage of my friends. Let me do it then, and you shall
+see the success.
+
+Noureddin consented to what the caliph had proposed; and there being
+every thing necessary for writing in the hall, the caliph wrote a letter
+to the king of Balsora; at the top of which, pretty near the edge of the
+paper, he placed this set form, in three small characters: ‘In the name
+of the most merciful God,’ to show he would be absolutely obeyed.
+
+
+      THE LETTER OF CALIPH HAROUN ALRASCHID TO THE KING OF BALSORA
+
+‘Haroun Alraschid, son of Mandi, sends this letter to Mohammed Zinchi,
+his cousin, greeting. As soon as Noureddin, son to the late vizier
+Khacan, the bearer, has delivered you this letter and you have read it,
+pull off the royal mantle, put it on his shoulders, and place him in thy
+seat: fail not. So farewell.’
+
+
+The caliph folded up the letter, and sealed it, and giving it to
+Noureddin, without saying any thing of what was in it, Go, said he, and
+embark immediately in a vessel that is ready to go off, (as there did
+constantly every day at the same hour), and you may sleep when you are
+aboard.
+
+Noureddin took the letter, and away he went with the little money he had
+about him when Sangiar gave him his purse; and the Fair Persian,
+distracted with grief at his departure, retired by herself to one of the
+sofas, and fell a-weeping bitterly.
+
+Noureddin was scarce gone out of the hall, when Scheich Ibrahim, who had
+been silent during the transaction of this affair, looking steadfastly
+upon the caliph, whom he still believed to be a fisherman: Hark you, said
+he, Kerim, thou hast brought us two fishes that are worth twenty pieces
+of leather or more, and thou hast got a purse and a slave: but dost thou
+think to have it all for thyself? I here declare that I will go halves
+with thee in the slave; and as for the purse, show me what is in the
+inside: if it is silver, thou shalt have one piece for thyself; but if it
+is gold, I will have it all, and in exchange, give thee some pieces of
+leather I have in my pocket.
+
+(For the better understanding of what follows, said Scheherazade,
+interrupting herself here, we must observe to you, that the caliph,
+before his serving up the fish, had despatched the grand vizier Giafar to
+his palace, with orders to get four slaves with a rich habit, and to wait
+on the other side of the pavilion till he gave a signal with his finger
+against the window. The grand vizier receiving his commission, he,
+Mesrour, and the four slaves, waited at the appointed place, expecting
+the sign).
+
+The caliph, still personating the fisherman, answered Scheich Ibrahim
+very boldly, I know not what there is in the purse, gold or silver:
+whatever it is, you shall freely go my halves; but, as to the slave, I
+will have her all to myself; and if you will not accept of these
+conditions, you shall have nothing at all.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, enraged to the last degree at this insolence,
+considering him only as a fisherman, snatched up one of the china dishes,
+and flung it at the caliph’s head. The caliph easily avoided the blow,
+being thrown by a person in drink; but the dish striking against the
+wall, was dashed into a thousand pieces. Scheich Ibrahim having missed
+his aim, grew more enraged, and catching up the candle that stood upon
+the table, rose from his seat, and staggering along, went down a back
+pair of stairs to look for a cane.
+
+The caliph made use of this opportunity, and striking his hands against
+the window, the grand vizier, Mesrour, and the four slaves were with him
+in a trice, who quickly pulled off the fisherman’s clothes, and put on
+him the habit they had brought. They had not quite dressed the caliph,
+(who had seated himself upon the throne that was in the hall), but they
+were very busy about him, when Scheich Ibrahim, spurred on by interest,
+came back, with a swinging cane in his hand, with which he designed to
+pay the pretended fisherman soundly; but, instead of finding him, he saw
+his clothes in the middle of the hall, and the caliph upon his throne,
+with the grand vizier and Mesrour on each side of him. He stood a while
+gazing upon this unexpected sight, doubting whether he was awake or
+asleep. The caliph fell a-laughing at his astonishment; and, calling to
+him, Scheich Ibrahim, said he, what dost thou want? whom dost thou look
+after?
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, no longer doubting that it was the caliph, immediately
+threw himself at his feet, with his face to the ground: Commander of the
+true believers, cried he, your vile slave has offended you; but he
+implores your clemency, and asks a thousand pardons for his offence. As
+soon as the slaves had made an end of dressing him, he came down from his
+throne, and advancing towards him, Rise, said he; I forgive thee.
+
+Afterwards the caliph addressed himself to the Fair Persian, who had
+suspended her sorrow, as soon as she understood that the garden and
+pavilion belonged to that prince, and not to Scheich Ibrahim, as he had
+all along made her believe, and that it was he himself disguised in the
+fisherman’s clothes. Fair Persian, said he, rise and follow me: by what
+you have lately seen, you ought to know who I am, and to believe that I
+am above taking any advantage of Noureddin’s humour, who, with a
+generosity not to be paralleled, has made me a present of your person. I
+have sent him to Balsora to be king there; and when I have despatched
+some business necessary for his establishment, you shall also go thither
+and be a queen. In the mean time, I am going to order an apartment for
+you in my palace, where you shall be treated according to your desert.
+
+This discourse put the Fair Persian in heart again, and comforted her
+after a very sensible manner. The joy of Noureddin’s advancement, whom
+she passionately loved, to so high an honour, made her sufficient amends
+for her affliction. The caliph kept his promise, and recommended her to
+the care of his lady Zobeide, whom he acquainted with the esteem he had
+lately entertained for Noureddin.
+
+Noureddin’s return to Balsora was more fortunate and speedier by some
+days than he could have expected. Upon his arrival, without visiting any
+of his friends or relations, he went directly to the palace, where the
+king at that time was giving public audience. He pressed through the
+crowd with the letter held up in his hand, who presently made way for him
+to come forward and deliver it. The king took and opened it; and his
+colour changed in reading it: he kissed it thrice, and was just about to
+obey the caliph’s orders, when he bethought himself of showing it to the
+vizier Saouy, Noureddin’s irreconcileable enemy.
+
+Saouy, who had discovered Noureddin, and began to think with himself,
+with a great deal of uneasiness, what might be the design of his coming,
+was no less surprised than the king, at the order contained in the
+letter; and being as much concerned in it, he thought upon a way that
+very moment how to evade it. He pretended not to have read the letter
+quite through, and therefore desired a second view of it; he turned
+himself a little on one side, as if he wanted a better sight, and without
+being perceived by any body, dexterously tore off the set form that
+showed the caliph would be absolutely obeyed, from the top of it, and
+putting it into his mouth, swallowed it down.
+
+After this notorious piece of villany, Saouy turned to the king, and
+giving him the letter, Sir, said he to him, in a low voice, what does
+your majesty intend to do? What the caliph has commanded me, replied the
+king. Have a care, sir, said the wicked vizier, what you do: it is true,
+this is the caliph’s hand; but the set form is not to it. The king had
+observed that very well, but in the confusion he was in, he thought his
+eyes deceived him, when he saw it was gone.
+
+Sir, continued the vizier, we have no reason to doubt, but that the
+caliph upon the complaints he has made against your majesty and me, has
+granted him this letter purely to get rid of him, not with any intention
+of having the order contained in it executed. Besides, we must consider,
+he has sent no express with a patent: and without that, the order is of
+no force: and since a king of your majesty’s grandeur was never deposed
+without that formality, let who will bring such a letter as this, it
+ought not to be put in execution. Your majesty may depend upon what I
+have said; and how dangerous soever the consequence of disobeying this
+order may be, I will take it all upon myself.
+
+King Zinchi, easily persuaded by this pernicious counsel, left Noureddin
+entirely to the discretion of the vizier Saouy, who led him to his house
+after a very insulting manner; where, after causing him to be bastinadoed
+till he was almost dead, he ordered him to a prison, where he commanded
+him to be put in the darkest dungeon, with a strict charge to the gaoler
+to give him nothing but bread and water.
+
+When Noureddin, sadly bruised with the strokes, came to himself, and
+found what a nasty dungeon he was in, he bewailed his misfortunes after
+the most pathetic manner imaginable. Ah! fisherman, cried he, how hast
+thou cheated me; and how easy have I been in believing thee! Could I,
+after the civility I showed thee, expect so inhuman and barbarous usage!
+However, may Heaven reward thee: for I cannot persuade myself, that thy
+intention was so base, and I will with patience wait the end of my
+afflictions.
+
+The poor disconsolate Noureddin remained six whole days in this miserable
+condition, and Saouy did not forget that he had confined him there, but
+being resolved to put him to a shameful death, and not daring to do it by
+his own authority, to accomplish his villanous design, he ordered some of
+his slaves to prepare some very rich presents, which he, at the head of
+them, went and presented to the king, saying, Behold, sir, what the new
+king hath sent you upon his accession to the crown, and begs your majesty
+to accept of it.
+
+The king taking the matter just as Saouy intended it, What! replied he,
+is the wretch still living? I thought you had put him to death already.
+Sir, I have no power, answered the vizier, to take any person’s life
+away; that only belongs to your majesty. Go, said the king, behead him
+instantly; I give you full authority. Sir, replied the vizier Saouy, I am
+infinitely obliged to your majesty for the justice you do me; but, since
+Noureddin has publicly affronted me, I humbly beg the favour that his
+execution may be performed before the palace, and, that the criers may
+publish it in every quarter of the city, that every body may be satisfied
+that he has made sufficient reparation for the affront. The king granted
+the request, and the criers, in performing their office, diffused a
+universal sorrow through the whole city. The memory of his father’s
+virtues being yet fresh among them, there was no one could hear of the
+ignominious death the son was going to suffer, through the villany and
+instigation of the vizier Saouy, without horror and indignation.
+
+Saouy went in person to the prison, accompanied with twenty slaves, his
+ministers of cruelty, who took Noureddin out of his dungeon, and put him
+on a shabby horse without a saddle. When Noureddin saw himself in the
+hands of his enemy, Thou triumphest now, said he, but thou abusest thy
+power. Yet, I have still some confidence in the truth of what is written
+in one of our books: ‘You judge unjustly, and in a little time you shall
+be judged yourself.’ The vizier Saouy, who really triumphed in his heart,
+What! insolent, said he, darest thou insult me yet? but go, I pardon
+thee, and care not whatever happens to me, so I have the pleasure of
+seeing thee lose thy head in the public view of all Balsora. Thou
+oughtest also to remember what another of our books says: ‘What signifies
+dying the next day the death of his enemy?’
+
+The vizier, still implacable and full of malice, surrounded by one part
+of his slaves in arms, ordered Noureddin to be conducted by the other
+towards the palace. The people were ready to fall upon him as they went
+along; and, if any body had set them the example, they would certainly
+have stoned him to death. When he had brought him to the place of
+suffering, which was in sight of the king’s apartment, he left him in the
+executioner’s hands, and went straight to the king, who was in his closet
+ready to glut his eyes with the bloody spectacle he had prepared.
+
+The king’s guard and the vizier’s slaves, who made a circle round
+Noureddin, had much ado to withstand the people, who made all the efforts
+possible, but in vain, to break through them and carry him off by force.
+The executioner coming up to him, Sir, said he, I hope you will forgive
+me; I am but a slave, and cannot help doing my duty. If you have no
+occasion for any thing, I beseech you prepare yourself, for the king is
+just going to give me orders to strike the blow.
+
+The poor unfortunate Noureddin, at that cruel moment, looked round upon
+the people: Will no charitable body, cried he, bring me a little water to
+quench my thirst? which immediately they did, and handed it up to him
+upon the scaffold. The vizier Saouy, perceiving this delay, called out to
+the executioner from the king’s closet window, where he had planted
+himself, Strike, what dost thou stay for? At these barbarous and inhuman
+words the whole palace echoed with loud imprecations against him; and the
+king, jealous of his authority, made it appear, by ordering him to stay a
+while, that he was angry at his presumption. But there was another
+reason; for the king that very moment casting his eyes up into a large
+street that faced him and joined to the place of execution, saw about the
+middle of it a troop of horsemen coming with full speed towards the
+palace. Vizier, said the king immediately, look yonder, what is the
+meaning of those horsemen? Saouy, who knew not what it might be,
+earnestly pressed the king to give the executioner the sign. No, replied
+the king, I will first see who these horsemen are. It was the vizier
+Giafar and his train, who came in person from Bagdad by the caliph’s
+order.
+
+To make the occasion of this minister’s coming to Balsora a little
+plainer, we must observe, that after Noureddin’s departure with the
+caliph’s letter, the caliph the next day, nor several days after, ever
+thought of sending the patent that he mentioned to the Fair Persian. He
+happened one day to be in the inner palace, which was the women’s, and
+passing by the apartment, he heard the sound of a fine voice: he listened
+to it, and he had no sooner heard the words of one complaining for the
+absence of somebody, than he asked the officer of his eunuchs that
+attended him, who that woman was that belonged to that apartment. The
+officer told him that it was the young stranger’s slave, whom he had sent
+to Balsora to be king in the room of Mohammed Zinchi.
+
+Ah! poor Noureddin, cried the caliph presently, I had forgot thee; but
+haste, said he to the officer, and bid Giafar come to me. The vizier was
+with him in an instant. As soon as he came, Giafar, said he, I have
+hitherto neglected sending the patent to Noureddin, which was to confirm
+him king of Balsora; but we have no time now to draw up one, therefore
+immediately take post-horses, and, with some of your servants, make what
+haste you can to Balsora. If Noureddin is dead, and put to death by them,
+order the vizier Saouy to be hanged; but, if he be living, bring him to
+me with the king and the vizier.
+
+The grand vizier staid no longer than just the time of getting on
+horseback, and being attended by a great train of officers belonging to
+his house, he set forward for Balsora, where he arrived after the manner,
+and at the time above mentioned. As soon as he came to the palace-yard
+the people cleared the way for him, crying out, A pardon for Noureddin!
+and with his whole train he rode into the palace, even to the very
+stairs, where he alighted.
+
+The king of Balsora knowing him to be the caliph’s chief minister, went
+to meet him, and received him at the entrance of his apartment. The first
+question the vizier asked was, if Noureddin was living; and, if he was,
+that he might be sent for. The king made answer, He was alive, and gave
+orders to have him brought in. Accordingly he soon made his appearance as
+he was, tied, and bound with cords. The grand vizier Giafar caused him to
+be untied, and setting him at liberty, ordered the vizier Saouy to be
+seized, and bound with the same cords.
+
+The grand vizier Giafar lay but one night in Balsora. The next day he set
+out again for Bagdad; and, according to the order he had received,
+carried Saouy, the king of Balsora, and Noureddin along with him. As soon
+as he came to Bagdad, he presented them all to the caliph; and after he
+had given him an account of his journey, and particularly of the
+miserable condition he found Noureddin in, and that all his ill usage was
+purely by the advice and malice of Saouy, the caliph desired Noureddin to
+behead the vizier himself. Commander of the true believers, said
+Noureddin, notwithstanding the injury this wicked man has done me, and
+the mischief he endeavoured to do my deceased father, I should think
+myself the basest of mankind if I had stained my hands with his blood.
+The caliph was extremely pleased with his generosity, and ordered justice
+to be done by the executioner’s hand.
+
+The caliph would fain have sent Noureddin back to Balsora to have been
+king there; but Noureddin humbly begged to be excused from accepting the
+offer, saying, Commander of the true believers, the city of Balsora,
+after the misfortunes that have happened to me there, is so much my
+aversion, and will always continue to be so, that I beseech your majesty
+to give me leave to keep the oath I have made of never returning thither
+again: and I shall think it my greatest glory to do you some services
+near your royal person, if you are pleased to do me the honour. The
+caliph consented to it; and placing him among the number of those
+courtiers who were his greatest favourites, restored the Fair Persian to
+him again. To all these favours he added a plentiful fortune; and he and
+the Fair Persian lived together to their dying day, with all the
+satisfaction they could both desire.
+
+As for the king of Balsora, the caliph contented himself with only
+letting him see how careful he ought to be in the choice of his viziers,
+and so sent him back into his kingdom.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+     BEDER, PRINCE OF PERSIA, AND GIAHAURE, PRINCESS OF SAMARCAND.
+
+
+Persia is a country of so vast extent, that their ancient monarchs have,
+not without some colour of reason, assumed the haughty title of king of
+kings. For, not to mention those nations subdued by their arms, there are
+whole kingdoms and provinces whose kings are not only tributary, but also
+in as great subjection to them as petty governors in other nations are to
+kings.
+
+Some ages ago one of these kings, who, in the beginning of his reign, had
+signalized himself by many glorious and successful conquests, enjoyed so
+profound and lasting a peace and tranquillity as rendered him the
+happiest of monarchs. The only thing in which he could be termed
+unfortunate was, that amongst all his mistresses not one of them ever
+brought him a son; and being now far advanced in years, he was desirous
+of an heir to succeed him after his death. However, he had above a
+hundred ladies all lodged in separate apartments, after a magnificent
+manner, with women slaves and eunuchs to wait upon and take care of them.
+Yet, notwithstanding all his endeavours to please and humour them in
+every thing, there was not one that answered his expectation. He had
+women very often brought him from the most remote countries, and if they
+pleased him, he not only gave the merchants their full price at the first
+word, but treated them with all respect and civility imaginable, and by
+considerable presents obliged them still to bring others, flattering
+himself, that at last he might be so happy as to meet with one by whom he
+might have a son. There was scarce any act of charity but what he
+performed, fancying by that means to prevail with Heaven. He gave immense
+sums to the poor, besides large donatives to the religious of his own
+persuasion, building for their use many noble colleges richly endowed, in
+hopes of obtaining by their prayers what he earnestly desired.
+
+One day, according to the custom of his royal predecessors, during their
+residence in the capital city, he gave his mistresses a ball, at which
+all the ambassadors and strangers of quality about the court were
+present; and where they not only entertained one another with talking of
+news and politics, but also of learning, history, poetry, and whatever
+else was capable of diverting the understanding after the most agreeable
+manner. It was upon that day that an eunuch came to acquaint him with the
+arrival of a certain merchant from a far country, who, having brought a
+slave along with him, desired leave to show her to his majesty. Give him
+admittance instantly, says the king, and after the ball is done I will
+talk with him: the merchant was introduced, and seated in a convenient
+place, from whence he might easily have a full view of the king, and hear
+him talk with abundance of familiarity to those that stood near his
+person. The king was extremely civil in his conversation with strangers,
+with a design, that by degrees they might grow acquainted with him; so
+that when they saw with what freedom and civility he addressed himself to
+the whole assembly, they took courage and began to discourse with him
+also, without being the least surprised at the dazzling pomp and
+splendour of his appearance, which was enough to deprive those of their
+power of speech that were not used to such glorious sights. He treated
+the ambassadors also after the same manner: first he ate with them, and
+during the repast, he asked them several questions concerning their
+health, of their voyage, and the affairs of their country; and, after
+they had been encouraged by his generous entertainment, he gave them
+audience.
+
+When the ball was over, all the company retired; the merchant, who was
+the only person left, fell prostrate before the king’s throne with his
+face to the earth, wishing his majesty an accomplishment of all his
+desires. As soon as he rose up, the king asked him if the news of his
+having brought a slave for him was true, and whether she was handsome.
+
+Sir, replied the merchant, I doubt not in the least but your majesty has
+very beautiful women, since you search every corner of the earth for
+them; but I may boldly affirm, without overvaluing my merchandise, that
+you never saw a woman that could stand in competition with her for shape
+and beauty, besides a thousand other agreeable qualifications that she is
+mistress of. Where is she? says the king; bring her to me instantly. Sir,
+replied the merchant, I have delivered her into the hands of one of your
+chief eunuchs, and your majesty may send for her at your pleasure.
+
+The fair slave was immediately brought in, and no sooner had the king
+cast his eyes on her, than the genteelness of her mien and shape charmed
+him. He went presently into his closet, whither the merchant, with a few
+eunuchs, followed him. The slave wore a red satin veil, striped with
+gold, over her face; and when the merchant had taken it off, the king of
+Persia beheld a lady that surpassed in beauty, not only his present
+mistresses, but even all that ever he had before; in short, he
+immediately fell passionately in love with her, and bade the merchant
+name his price.
+
+Sir, said he, I gave a thousand pieces of gold to the persons of whom I
+bought her, and in my three years’ journey to your court, I have spent as
+much: but I shall forbear setting any price to so great a monarch; and,
+therefore, if your majesty likes her, I humbly beg you would accept of
+her as a present. I am highly obliged to you, replied the king; but it is
+never my custom to treat merchants, who come hither purely for my
+pleasure, after so ungenerous a manner. I am going to order thee ten
+thousand pieces of gold; therefore speak, whether thou art pleased with
+that sum or not. Sir, answered the merchant, though I should have
+esteemed myself very happy in your majesty’s acceptance of her for
+nothing, yet I dare not refuse so generous an offer. I shall take care to
+publish it, not only in my own country, but also in every place through
+which I pass. The money was presently paid him; and, before he stirred
+out of his presence, the king made him put on a rich suit of cloth of
+gold.
+
+The king caused the fair slave to be lodged in the finest apartment next
+his own, and gave particular orders to the matrons and to the women
+slaves appointed to attend her, that after bathing they should dress her
+in the richest clothes the kingdom afforded. He also commanded them to
+carry her some pearl-necklaces, with abundance of diamonds, and other
+precious stones, that she might have the liberty of choosing those she
+liked best.
+
+The officious matrons, whose only care it was to please the king, were
+astonished with admiration at her beauty; and being well skilled in that
+affair, they told his majesty, that, if he would allow them but three
+days, they would engage to make her so much handsomer than she was at
+present, that he should scarce know her again. The king at first was very
+loath to defer the pleasure of enjoyment so long; but at last he
+consented, upon condition they would be as good as their word.
+
+The king of Persia’s capital was situated in an island, and his palace,
+which was very magnificent, was built upon the sea-shore: his apartment
+looked upon that element; and the fair slave’s, which was pretty near it,
+had also the same prospect; and it was the more agreeable upon the
+account of the sea beating almost against the foot of the wall.
+
+At the three days’ end, the fair slave, gloriously dressed and set off,
+was alone in her chamber, sitting upon a sofa, and leaning against one of
+the windows that faced the sea, when the king, being informed that he
+might visit her, came in. The slave hearing somebody walk in the room,
+with an air quite different from that of the women slaves who had
+hitherto attended her, immediately turned her head about to see who it
+was. She knew him to be the king; but without discovering the least
+surprise, or so much as rising from her seat to salute or receive him, as
+if he had been the meanest person in the world, she put herself in the
+same posture again.
+
+The king of Persia was extremely surprised to see a slave of so beauteous
+a form so ignorant of the world. He attributed this piece of ill breeding
+to the narrowness of her education, and the little care that was taken of
+instructing her at first in the rules of civility and good manners. He
+went to her at the window, where, notwithstanding the coldness and
+indifferency with which she had just now received him, she suffered
+herself to be admired, caressed, and embraced, as much as he pleased.
+
+In the midst of these amorous embraces and tender endearments, this
+monarch paused a while to gaze upon, or rather to devour her with his
+eyes: My goddess! my angel! my charmer! cried the king; whence came you?
+and where do those happy parents live that brought into the world so
+surprising a masterpiece of nature as you are? Ah! how I adore you! and
+my passion shall continue the same. Never did I feel for a woman what I
+now suffer for you: and though I have seen, and do see every day, a vast
+number of beauties, yet never did my eyes behold so many charms in one
+single person, which have so transported me out of myself, that I am no
+longer at my own, but entirely at your disposal. My dearest life,
+continued he, you neither answer me, nor by any visible token give me the
+least reason to believe that you are sensible of the many demonstrations
+I have given you of the violence of my passion; neither will you turn
+your eyes on me, to afford mine the pleasure of meeting them with an
+amorous glance, and to convince you that it is impossible to love more
+than I do you. Why will you still keep this obstinate silence, which
+freezes me to death? and whence proceeds the seriousness, or rather
+sorrow, that torments me to the soul? Do you mourn for your country, your
+friends, or your relations? Alas! is not the king of Persia, who loves
+and adores you, capable of comforting and making you amends for the loss
+of every thing in the world?
+
+What protestations of love soever the king of Persia made the fair slave
+to oblige her to speak to him, she continued her astonishing
+reservedness, and keeping her eyes still fixed on the ground, would not
+so much as open her lips.
+
+The king of Persia, charmed with the purchase he had made of a slave that
+pleased him so well, pressed her no farther, in hopes that, by treating
+her civilly, he might prevail upon her to change her mind. He presently
+gave the usual sign to the women that waited in an outward room; and as
+soon as they entered, he commanded them to bring in supper. When it was
+on the table, My dear, said he to the slave, come hither and sup with me.
+She rose up from her seat, and being placed over against the king, his
+majesty helped her before he began eating himself; and so he did of every
+dish during the whole supper. The slave ate with downcast eyes, and
+without speaking one word, though he often asked her how she liked the
+entertainment, and whether it was dressed to her taste.
+
+The king, willing to change the discourse, asked her what her name was,
+how she liked the clothes and the jewels she had on, what she thought of
+her apartment and the rich furniture, and whether the prospect of the sea
+was not very agreeable and charming. But to all these questions she
+answered not a word; so that the king was at a loss what to think of her
+silence. He imagined at first, that perhaps she might be dumb: But then,
+said he to himself, can it be possible that Heaven should form a creature
+so beautiful, so perfect, and so accomplished, and yet at the same time
+with so great an imperfection? However, I cannot love with less passion
+than I do.
+
+When the king of Persia rose from the table, he washed his hands on one
+side, while the fair slave washed hers on the other. He took that time to
+ask the women that held the basin and the towel, if ever they had heard
+her speak. One of them presently made answer, Sir, we have neither seen
+her open her lips, nor heard her speak, any more than your majesty has
+just now: we have taken care of her in the bath, we have combed and
+dressed her head, put on her clothes, and waited upon her in her chamber;
+but she has never opened her lips, so much as to say, That is well, or, I
+like this. We have often asked her, Madam, do you want any thing? let us
+know what you would have; do but ask, and we are ready to get it for you:
+but we have never been able to draw a word from her; so that we cannot
+tell whether her silence proceeds from pride, sorrow, stupidity, or
+dumbness; and this is all we can inform your majesty.
+
+The king of Persia was more astonished at hearing this than he was
+before: however, believing the slave might have some reason for her
+sorrow, he was willing to endeavour to divert it, and make her merry.
+Accordingly, he made a very splendid ball, to which all the fine ladies
+of the court came, and those who were skilful in playing upon musical
+instruments showed their parts, while others sang or danced, or did both
+together: in short, they played at a great many sorts of games, which
+mightily diverted the king. The fair slave was the only person that took
+no pleasure in those diversions: she never stirred out of her place, but
+with her eyes still fixed on the ground, without taking any notice of the
+entertainment, behaved herself with so much indifferency that all the
+ladies were no less surprised at it than the king. After the ball was
+done, every one retired to her apartment; and the king, who was left
+alone with the fair slave, lay with her that night.
+
+The next morning, the king of Persia arose more pleased than he had been
+with all the women he had ever seen, and more enamoured with the fair
+slave than he was before. Indeed, he soon made it appear, by resolving
+henceforth to keep constant to her; and he performed his resolution. On
+the very same day he dismissed all his other women, giving every one of
+them their jewels and other valuable things, besides a considerable
+fortune, with free leave to marry whom they thought fit, and only kept
+the matrons, and a few other old women, to wait upon and attend the fair
+slave. However, for a whole year together, she never afforded him the
+pleasure of one single word; yet the king took abundance of pains to
+please her, and, with all complaisance imaginable, to give her the most
+signal proofs of his violent passion.
+
+The year was now expired, when the king, sitting one day by his mistress,
+protested to her that his love, instead of being diminished, grew every
+day more violent: My queen, said he, I cannot conceive what your thoughts
+are; but, however, nothing is more true, and I swear to you the same,
+that in having the happiness of possessing you, there remains nothing for
+me to desire: I esteem my kingdom, great as it is, less than an atom,
+when I have the pleasure of beholding your eyes, and of telling you a
+thousand times how I adore you. You see I have given you some other
+proofs of my affection than bare words; and therefore surely you can
+never doubt of it, after the vast number of women I have sacrificed to
+your beauty. You may remember, it is about a year since I sent them away
+from my court; and I repent of it as little even now I am talking with
+you, as I did the first moment of their departure, and I believe I never
+shall. Nothing would be wanting to complete my happiness, and crown my
+joys for ever, would you speak but one single word to me, by which I
+might be assured that you thought yourself in some measure obliged to me.
+But how can you speak to me if you are dumb? and alas! how fearful I am
+lest it should be true! yet what reason have I to doubt of it, since you
+still torment me with silence, after a whole year’s entreating you every
+hour to speak to me! However, if it is impossible for me to obtain that
+consolation, may Heaven, at least, grant me the blessing of a son by you
+to succeed me after my death. I find myself growing old every day, and I
+begin to want one to assist me in bearing the weight of a crown. But
+still I cannot refrain from the desire I have of hearing you speak; for
+methinks something within me tells me you are not dumb; and, therefore,
+dear madam, I beseech, I conjure you, to break through this obstinate
+humour, and speak but one word to me; and after that, I care not how soon
+I die.
+
+At this discourse, the fair slave, who, according to her usual custom,
+had hearkened to the king with downcast eyes, and had given him cause to
+believe, not only that she was dumb, but that she never had laughed in
+her life, began to look up and smile a little. The king of Persia
+perceived it with a surprise that made him break forth into an
+exclamation of joy; and no longer doubting but that she was going to
+speak, he waited for that happy moment with an eagerness and attention
+that cannot be easily expressed.
+
+At last, the fair slave, breaking her long silence, thus addressed
+herself to the king: Sir, said she, I have so many things to say to your
+majesty, that, having once broke silence, I know not where to begin.
+However, in the first place, I think myself obliged in duty to thank your
+majesty for all the favours and honours you have been pleased to confer
+upon me, and to implore the gods to bless and prosper you, to prevent the
+wicked designs and intentions of your enemies, and that they would not
+suffer you to die after hearing me speak, but grant you a long and happy
+reign. After this, sir, I cannot give you a greater satisfaction than
+acquainting you with my being with child; and I wish, as you do, it may
+be a son. Had it never been my fortune to have been breeding, I was
+resolved (I beg your majesty to pardon the sincerity of my intention)
+never to have loved you, as well as to have kept an eternal silence; but
+now I love and respect you as I ought to do.
+
+The king of Persia, ravished to hear the fair slave not only speak, but
+at the same time tell him news in which he was so nearly concerned,
+embraced her tenderly: Shining light of my eyes, said he, it is
+impossible for me to receive a greater joy than what you have now given
+me: you have spoken to me, and declared your being with child; so that I
+am fully satisfied in myself, that after these two signal occasions of
+joy, I ought to expect no other.
+
+The king of Persia, in the transport of joy he was in, said no more to
+the fair slave. He left her; but after such a manner as made her perceive
+his intention was speedily to return; and being willing that the occasion
+of his joy should be made public, he declared it to his officers, and
+sent in all haste for the grand vizier. As soon as he came, he ordered
+him to distribute a thousand pieces of gold among the holy men of his
+religion, who had made vows of poverty; as also among the hospitals and
+the poor, by way of returning thanks to Heaven; and his will was obeyed,
+by the direction of that minister.
+
+After the king of Persia had given this order, he came to the fair slave
+again: Madam, said he, pardon me for leaving you so abruptly, since you
+have been the occasion of it; but I hope you will entertain me some other
+time, since I am desirous to know of you several things of a much greater
+consequence. However, in the mean time, tell me, I beseech you, my
+dearest charmer, what were the powerful reasons that induced you to
+persist in that obstinate silence for a whole year together, though every
+day you saw me, heard me talk to you, ate and drank with me, and every
+night lay with me? I shall pass by your not speaking; but how you could
+carry yourself after such an indifferent manner, that I could never
+discover whether you were sensible of what I said to you, or no, I must
+confess it surpasses my understanding: and I cannot yet comprehend, how
+you could contain yourself so long: therefore I must conclude the
+occasion of it to be very extraordinary.
+
+To satisfy the king of Persia’s curiosity, this fair person replied,
+Think whether or no to be a slave, far from my own country, without any
+hopes of ever seeing it again, to have a heart torn with grief, for being
+separated from my mother, my brother, my friends, and my acquaintance,
+are not sufficient reasons for my keeping a silence your majesty has
+thought so strange and unaccountable. The love of our native country is
+as natural to us as that of our parents; and the loss of liberty is
+unsupportable to every one, who is not wholly destitute of sense and
+reason, and knows how to set a value on it. The body indeed may be
+enslaved, and under the subjection of a master who has the power and
+authority in his hands; but the will can never be conquered or domineered
+over, but still remains free and unconfined, depending on itself alone,
+and your majesty has found an example of it in me; and it is a wonder
+that I have not followed the example of abundance of unfortunate
+wretches, whom the loss of liberty has reduced to the mournful resolution
+of procuring their own deaths a thousand ways, rather than survive it,
+and wear out a wretched life in shameful slavery.
+
+Madam, replied the king, I am now convinced of the truth of what you say;
+but till this moment I was of opinion, that a person beautiful,
+well-shaped, with a great deal of wit and good sense, such as yourself,
+whom her rigorous stars had destined to be a slave, ought to think
+herself very happy in meeting with a king for her master.
+
+Sir, replied the fair slave, whatever the slave is, supposing her to be
+such as I have already mentioned to your majesty, there is no king on
+earth can tyrannize over her will. But, however, when you speak of a
+slave, mistress of charms enough to captivate a monarch, and make him
+adore her, provided she is of a rank infinitely below him, I am of your
+opinion she ought to think herself happy in her misfortune; but what
+happiness can it be when she considers herself only as a slave, torn from
+her parents’ arms, and perhaps a lover’s, for whom she has a passion that
+death only can extinguish? But when this very slave is nothing inferior
+to the king that bought her, your majesty shall then judge yourself of
+the rigour of her destiny, of her misery, and of her sorrow, and to what
+desperate attempts the anguish of despair may drive her.
+
+The king of Persia, astonished at this discourse, said, Madam, can it be
+possible that you are of royal blood, as by your words you seem to
+intimate? Explain the whole secret to me, I beseech you, and no longer
+augment my impatience. Ah! let me instantly know who are the happy
+parents of so great a prodigy of beauty, who are your brothers, your
+sisters, and your relations; but above all, what your name is.
+
+Sir, said the fair slave, my name is Gulnare of the sea; and my father,
+who is now dead, was one of the most potent monarchs of the ocean. When
+he died, he left his kingdom to a brother of mine, named Saleh, and to
+the queen my mother, who is also a princess, the daughter of another
+puissant monarch of the sea. We enjoyed a profound peace and tranquillity
+through the whole kingdom, till a neighbouring prince, an enemy to our
+repose, invaded our dominions with a mighty army; and, penetrating as far
+as our capital, made himself master of it: and we had but just time
+enough to save ourselves in a steep inaccessible place, with a few trusty
+officers, who were so generous as not to forsake us in our distress.
+
+In this retreat, my brother was not negligent in contriving all manner of
+ways to drive the unjust invader from our dominions. While this affair
+was in agitation, one day taking me into his closet, Sister, said he, the
+events of the least undertakings in this world are always dubious. As,
+for my own part, I am willing to die in the attempt I design to make to
+re-establish myself in my kingdom; and I shall be less concerned for my
+own disgrace, than for what may possibly happen to you; and therefore to
+prevent it, and to secure you from whatever accident may befall you, I
+would fain see you married first. But in the miserable condition that our
+affairs are at present, I see no probability of matching you to any of
+the princes of the sea; and therefore I should be very glad if you would
+resolve to be of my opinion, and think of marrying to some of the princes
+of the earth. I am ready to contribute all that lies in my power towards
+it, and I am certain there is not one of them, considering the beauty you
+are mistress of, but would be proud of your accepting of their crown.
+
+At this discourse of my brother’s, I fell into a violent passion.
+Brother, said I, you know that I am descended, as well as you, by both
+father and mother’s sides, from the kings and queens of the sea, without
+any mixture of alliance with those of the earth; therefore I do not
+design to marry below myself, any more than they did: and I took an oath
+of it, as soon as I had understanding to inquire into the nobleness and
+antiquity of our family. The condition to which we are reduced shall
+never oblige me to alter my resolution; and if you perish in the
+execution of your design, I am prepared to fall with you, rather than
+follow the advice I so little expected from you.
+
+My brother, who was still earnest for the marriage, endeavoured to make
+me believe that there were kings of the earth who were no ways inferior
+to those of the sea. This put me again into a violent passion, which
+occasioned him to speak several bitter reflecting things that nettled me
+to the quick. At last he left me, as much dissatisfied with myself as he
+could possibly be; and in this peevish mood, I gave a spring from the
+bottom of the sea, directly up to the island of the moon.
+
+Notwithstanding the violent discontent that made me cast myself upon that
+island, I lived pretty easy in a by-corner of it, where I retired for
+conveniency and safety. But, alas! this happiness lasted not long; for,
+in spite of all my endeavours to lie concealed in my beloved obscurity, a
+certain person of distinction and figure, attended by his servants,
+surprised me sleeping, and carried me to his own house. He made violent
+love to me, and omitted nothing which he thought might reasonably induce
+me to make a return to his passion. When he saw that fair means would
+prevail nothing upon me, he attempted to make use of force; but I soon
+made him repent of his insolence. So at last, finding that there was
+nothing to be done with me, he resolved to part with me, which he did to
+that very merchant who brought me hither and sold me to your majesty. He
+was a very prudent, courteous, obliging person; and during the whole
+journey, which was somewhat tedious, he never gave me the least reason to
+complain of his usage.
+
+As for your majesty, sir, continued the princess Gulnare, if you had not
+shown me all the respect you have hitherto paid (for which I am extremely
+obliged to your goodness) and given me such undeniable marks of your
+affection, that I could no longer doubt of it; if you had not immediately
+sent away your women; give me leave to tell you plainly, sir, that I was
+positively resolved not to have lived with you: I would have thrown
+myself into the sea, out of this very window, where your majesty first
+saw me when you came into this apartment; and I would have gone in search
+after my mother, my brother, and the rest of my relations. I still
+persisted in that design, and I would infallibly have put it in
+execution, if, after a certain time, I had found myself deceived in the
+hopes of being with child: but now, in the condition I am in, I shall
+take care what I do. Should I tell my mother or my brother that I have
+been a slave, even to a king as mighty as you are, they would never
+believe it, but would for ever upbraid me with the crime I have committed
+against my honour, since it was a voluntary act of my own. However, sir,
+be it a prince or a princess that I bring into the world, it will be a
+pledge to engage me never to be parted from your majesty; and therefore I
+hope you will no longer look upon me as a slave, but as a princess worthy
+of your alliance.
+
+It was after this manner that the princess Gulnare finished her story she
+had been telling the king of Persia. My charming and adorable princess,
+cried he, what wonders have I heard! and what an ample subject have you
+afforded my curiosity, of asking a thousand questions concerning those
+strange and unheard-of things which you have related to me! But, in the
+first place, I ought to thank you for your goodness and patience in
+making a trial of the truth and constancy of my passion. I must confess,
+I thought it impossible for me to love you more than I did; but since I
+know you to be so great a princess, I love you a thousand times more.
+What! did I say princess? Madam, you are no longer so; but you are my
+queen, the queen of Persia; and by that title you shall soon be
+proclaimed throughout the whole kingdom. Tomorrow the ceremony shall be
+performed in my capital, with a pomp and magnificence that was never yet
+beheld; which will plainly show, that you are both my queen and lawful
+wife. This should have been done long ago, had you sooner convinced me of
+my error; for, from the first moment of my seeing you, I have been of the
+same opinion as now, to love you for ever, and never to place my
+affection on any other.
+
+However, I am pleased with myself for having, in the mean time, paid you
+all the respect and civility I ought, that is due to your merit; and
+therefore, madam, I beseech you to inform me in a more particular manner,
+of the kingdoms and people of the sea, which are altogether unknown to
+me. I have heard much talk indeed of the inhabitants of the sea; but I
+always looked upon it as nothing but a pleasant tale or fable: however,
+by what you have told me, I am convinced there is nothing more true; and
+I have a very good proof of it in your own person, who are one of them,
+and are pleased to condescend to be my wife; which is an honour no other
+inhabitant on the earth can boast of besides myself. There is one thing
+yet, madam, which puzzles me a little, therefore I must beg the favour of
+you to explain it; that is, I cannot comprehend how it is possible for
+you to move, breathe, and walk up and down in the water, without being
+drowned. There are but few amongst us who have the art of staying under
+water; but they would surely perish there, if after a certain space of
+time, which is according to their skill, and constitution of their
+bodies, they did not come up again.
+
+Sir, replied the queen Gulnare, I shall take a great deal of pleasure in
+satisfying the king of Persia in any thing that lies in my power. You
+must know, then, that we can walk at the bottom of the sea with as much
+ease as you can upon the dry land; and can breathe in the water as well
+as you do in the air; so that instead of suffocating us, as it does you,
+it is absolutely necessary for the preservation of our lives. What is yet
+more remarkable is, that it never wets our clothes: so that when we have
+a mind to visit your upper world, we have no occasion of drying them. Our
+vulgar language is the same in which the writing upon the seal of the
+great prophet Solomon, the son of David, was engraven.
+
+I must not forget to tell you, that the water does not in the least
+hinder us from seeing in the sea; for we can open and shut our eyes when
+we please, without any manner of inconveniency; and as we have generally
+a very quick, piercing sight, so we can discern any object as clearly in
+the deepest part of the sea, as upon land. We have also a succession
+there of day and night; the moon affords us her light, and even the
+planets and the stars appear very visible to us. I have already spoken of
+their kingdoms; but as the sea is a great deal larger than the earth, so
+there are a greater number of them, and of vaster extent. They are
+divided into provinces, and in every province there are several great
+cities, well peopled; and, in short, there are an infinite number of
+nations, differing in manners and customs, as well as upon the earth.
+
+The palaces of the kings and princes are very sumptuous and magnificent.
+There are some of them of marble of various colours; others of
+rock-crystal, mother-of-pearl, coral, and of other materials more
+valuable; gold, silver, and all sorts of precious stones, are more
+plentiful there than with you. I say nothing of the pearls, since the
+largest that ever was seen upon the earth would not be valuable amongst
+us; and none but the very lowest rank of citizens would wear them.
+
+As we have a marvellous and almost incredible agility of transporting
+ourselves whither we please in the twinkling of an eye, so we have no
+occasion for any coaches or horses: not but that every king has his
+stables, and his breed of sea-horses; but they seldom make use of them,
+but upon public feasts and rejoicing days. After they have been well
+managed, they set riders upon their backs, who show their skill and
+dexterity in the art of riding: others are put to chariots of
+mother-of-pearl, adorned with an infinite number of shells of all sorts,
+of the liveliest colours in the world. These chariots are open; and in
+the middle there is a throne on which the king sits, and exposes himself
+to the public view of his subjects. The horses are trained up to draw by
+themselves, so that there is no occasion for a coachman to guide them. I
+pass over a thousand other particulars relating to these sea-countries,
+full of wonder and curiosity, which would be very entertaining to your
+majesty; but I believe, sir, you will be pleased I should defer it, to
+speak of something of much greater consequence; which is, that the method
+of delivering, and the way of managing the women of the sea in their
+lying-in, is quite different from those of the women of the earth; and I
+am afraid to trust myself in the hands of the midwives of this country.
+Therefore, sir, since my safe delivery is a thing which equally concerns
+us both, with your majesty’s permission, I think it proper to send for my
+mother and my cousins to assist at my labour; at the same time to desire
+my brother’s company, to whom I have a great desire to be reconciled.
+They will be very glad to see me again, after I have related my story to
+them, and when they understand that I am wife to the mighty king of
+Persia. I beseech your majesty to give me leave to send for them: I am
+sure they will be proud to pay their respects to you; and I dare say you
+will be extremely pleased to see them.
+
+Madam, said the king of Persia, you are mistress, and so do whatever you
+please; I will endeavour to receive them with all the honours they
+deserve. But I would fain know how you would acquaint them with what you
+desire, and when they will arrive; that I may make some preparation for
+their reception, and go myself in person to meet them.
+
+Sir, replied the queen Gulnare, there is no need of any of these
+ceremonies; they will be here in a moment: and if your majesty will be
+pleased but to step into the closet and look through the lattice, you
+shall see the manner of their arrival.
+
+As soon as the king of Persia was gone into the closet, the queen Gulnare
+ordered one of her women to bring her a perfuming-pan, with a little fire
+in it. After that, she bade her retire, and shut the door. When she was
+alone, she took a little piece of aloes out of a box, and put it into the
+perfuming-pan. As soon as she saw the smoke arise, she repeated some
+mystical words, utterly unknown to the king of Persia, who observed with
+great attention what she was doing. She had no sooner ended her charm,
+than the sea began to be disturbed. The closet that the king was in was
+so contrived, that looking through the lattice, on the same side with the
+windows that faced the sea, he could plainly perceive it.
+
+In short, the sea opened at some distance; presently there appeared a
+tall handsome young man, with whiskers of a sea-green colour; a little
+behind him, a lady well in years, but of a stately majestic air, attended
+by five young ladies, nothing inferior in beauty to queen Gulnare.
+
+The queen Gulnare immediately came to one of the windows, and saw the
+king her brother, the queen her mother, and the rest of her relations,
+who at the same time perceived her also. The company came forward, not
+walking, but carried, as it were, upon the surface of the waves. When
+they came to the brink of the sea, they nimbly, one after another, leaped
+in at the window, from whence the queen Gulnare was retired, to make room
+for them. The king Saleh, the queen her mother, and the rest of her
+relations, embraced her tenderly, with tears in their eyes, upon their
+first entrance.
+
+After the queen Gulnare had received them with all the honour imaginable,
+and placed them upon a sofa, the queen her mother addressed herself to
+her after a very tender manner. Daughter, said she, I am overjoyed to see
+you again, after so long an absence; and I am confident that your brother
+and your relations are no less so than I. Your leaving us, without
+acquainting any body with it, put us into an inexpressible concern; and
+it is impossible to tell you how many tears we have shed upon that
+account. We know of no other reason that could induce you to take such a
+surprising resolution, but the discourse that passed between your brother
+and you, of which he afterwards informed me. The advice he gave you
+seemed very advantageous to him at that time, for settling you handsomely
+in the world; and was then very suitable to the posture of our affairs.
+However, if you had not approved of his proposals, you ought not to have
+been so much alarmed; and give me leave to tell you, you took the thing
+quite otherwise than you ought to have done. But no more of this
+discourse, which serves only to renew the occasion of our sorrows and
+complaints, that we and you ought to bury for ever in oblivion. Give us
+now a relation of all that has happened to you since you left us, and
+also an account of the present circumstances you are in; but especially
+let us know if you are pleased and contented.
+
+The queen Gulnare immediately threw herself at her mother’s feet, and
+after rising up and kissing her hand, said, Madam, I own I have been
+guilty of a very great crime, and I shall be indebted to your goodness
+for the pardon which I hope you will be pleased to grant me. What I am
+going to say, in obedience to your commands, will soon convince you, that
+it is very often in vain for us to have an aversion for some certain
+things: I have experienced it myself; and the only thing I had an
+abhorrence to, either justly, or by the malice of my stars, has happened
+to me here. She began to relate the whole story of what had befallen her
+since her quitting the sea, in a violent passion, for the earth. As soon
+as she had made an end, and had acquainted them with her having been sold
+to the king of Persia, in whose palace she was at present; Sister, cried
+the king her brother, you have been mightily wronged in having so many
+affronts offered you; but you can blame nobody but yourself: you have it
+in your power now to free yourself; and I cannot but admire your
+patience, that you could endure so long a slavery. Rise, and return with
+us into my kingdom, that I have reconquered, and taken from the proud
+usurper that was once master of it.
+
+The king of Persia, who heard these killing words from the closet where
+he stood, was in the utmost confusion imaginable. Ah! said he to himself,
+I am ruined and undone; and if my queen, my angel, leaves me, I shall
+surely die, for it is impossible for me to live without her: and will
+they be so barbarous as to deprive me of her? But the queen Gulnare soon
+put him out of his fears, and eased the sorrow of his heart.
+
+Brother, said she, and smiled, what I have just now heard, gives me a
+greater proof than ever I had of the sincerity of your friendship for me;
+but as heretofore I could not brook your proposing a match between me and
+a prince of the earth, so now I can scarce forbear being angry with you,
+for advising me to break the engagement I have made with the most
+puissant and most renowned monarch in the world. I do not speak here of
+an engagement between a slave and her master; if that were all, it would
+be easy to return the ten thousand pieces of gold that I cost him; but I
+speak now of a contract between a woman and her husband, who has never
+given her the least reason to complain or be discontented: besides, he is
+a king, wise, temperate, religious, and just, and has given me the most
+essential demonstrations of his love that possibly he could. What can be
+a greater instance of the violence of his passion, than sending away all
+his women (of which he had a great number) immediately upon my arrival,
+and confining himself only to me? I am now his wife, and he has lately
+declared me queen of Persia; and I am to sit with him in the council:
+besides, I am breeding; and if Heaven shall be pleased to favour me with
+a son, that shall be another motive to engage my affections to him the
+more. So, brother, continued the queen Gulnare, instead of following your
+advice, you see I have all the reason in the world, not only to love the
+king of Persia as passionately as I do, but also to live and die with
+him, more out of gratitude than duty. I hope, then, neither my mother,
+nor you, nor any of my cousins, will disapprove of the resolution and
+alliance I have made, which will be an equal honour to the kings of both
+the sea and earth. I ask a thousand pardons for giving you the trouble of
+coming hither from the bottom of the deep to partake of it; and I return
+you thanks for the pleasure of seeing you after so long a separation.
+
+Sister, replied king Saleh, the proposition I made you of going back with
+us into my kingdom, upon the recital of your adventures, (which I could
+not hear without concern,) was to let you see what a particular love and
+honour I had for you, and that nothing in the world was so dear to me as
+your welfare and happiness. Upon the same account, then, for my own part,
+I cannot condemn a resolution so reasonable, and so worthy of yourself,
+after what you have told me of the king of Persia your husband, and the
+many obligations you have to him; and I am persuaded that the queen our
+mother will be of the same opinion.
+
+The queen confirmed what her son had just spoken, and addressing herself
+immediately to her daughter, said, My dear, I am very glad to hear you
+are pleased; and I have nothing else to add to what your brother has
+already said to you. I should have been the first that would have
+condemned you, if you had not expressed all the gratitude you were
+capable of for a monarch that loves you so passionately, and has done
+such mighty things to oblige you.
+
+As the king of Persia, who was still in the closet, had been extremely
+concerned for fear of losing his beloved queen, so now he was transported
+with joy at her resolution never to forsake him; and having no room to
+doubt of her love, after so open a declaration, he began to love her more
+than ever, and was resolved within himself to give her all the outward
+proofs of it, after the most sensible manner he possibly could.
+
+While the king was entertaining himself with a pleasure that cannot
+easily be imagined, the queen Gulnare clapped her hands aloud, and
+presently in came some of her slaves, whom she had ordered to bring in a
+collation. As soon as it was served up, she invited the queen her mother,
+the king her brother, and her cousins, to sit down and take part of it.
+They began to consider, that, without ever asking leave, they were got
+into the palace of a mighty king, who had never seen or heard of them,
+and were all of the same opinion, that it would be a great piece of
+rudeness and incivility to eat at his table without him. This reflection
+raised a blush in their faces, and their eyes glowing with the concern
+they were in, they breathed nothing but flames at their mouths and
+nostrils.
+
+This unexpected sight put the king of Persia, who was perfectly ignorant
+of the cause of it, into a most dreadful consternation. The queen Gulnare
+fancying that his majesty might be a little surprised at it, and finding
+her relations desirous of the honour of seeing him, rose from her seat,
+and told them she would be back in a moment. She went directly to the
+closet, and by her presence recovered the king of Persia from his
+surprise: Sir, said she, I doubt not but that your majesty is well
+pleased with the acknowledgment I have lately made of the many favours
+that I am still indebted to your goodness for. It was wholly in my power
+to have complied with my relations, who would fain have persuaded me to
+have forsaken you, and gone back with them into their dominions; but
+alas! I am not capable of being guilty of such ingratitude as I should
+have condemned in another. Ah! my queen, cried the king of Persia, speak
+no more of your obligations to me, for indeed you have none; it is I that
+am your debtor so much, that I am afraid I shall never be able to repay,
+or return you thanks equal to the favour you have done me; for I never
+thought it possible you could have loved me so tenderly as you do, and as
+you have made it appear to me, after the most signal manner in the world.
+Ah! sir, replied the queen Gulnare, could I do less than I have done? I
+rather fear I have not done enough, considering all the honours and
+favours that your majesty has heaped upon me; and it is impossible for me
+to remain insensible of your passion, after so many convincing proofs as
+you have given me. But let us drop this, and give me leave to assure you
+of the sincere friendship that the queen my mother, and the king my
+brother, are pleased to honour you with; they earnestly desire to see
+you, and tell you themselves. I intended to have discoursed with them a
+little before I introduced them to your majesty, and accordingly I have
+ordered a banquet for them; but they are very impatient to pay their
+respects to you, and therefore I desire your majesty would be pleased to
+walk in, and honour them with your presence.
+
+Madam, said the king of Persia, I should be very glad to salute persons
+that have the honour to be so nearly related to you; but I am afraid of
+the flames that they breathe at their mouths and nostrils. Sir, replied
+the queen, laughing, you need not in the least be afraid of those flames,
+which are nothing but a sign of their unwillingness to eat in your palace
+without your honouring them with your presence, and eating with them.
+
+The king of Persia taking heart at these words, went into his chamber
+with his queen Gulnare. She presented him to the queen her mother, to the
+king her brother, and to her other relations, who instantly threw
+themselves at his feet, with their faces to the ground. The king of
+Persia ran to them, and lifting them up, embraced them one after another
+after a very tender manner. After they were all seated, king Saleh began
+his speech: Sir, said he to the king of Persia, we are at a loss for
+words to express our joy, to think that the queen my sister, after all
+her hardships and affronts, should have the happiness of falling under
+the protection of so powerful a monarch as your majesty. We can assure
+you, sir, she is not unworthy of the high honour that you have been
+pleased to raise her to; and we have always had so much love and
+tenderness for her, that we could never think of parting with her, even
+to the most puissant princes of the sea, who have often demanded her in
+marriage before she came of age: but Heaven has reserved her for you,
+sir; and we have no better way of returning thanks for the favour it has
+done her, than beseeching it to grant your majesty a long and happy life
+with her, and to crown your days with content and satisfaction.
+
+Certainly, replied the king of Persia, Heaven reserved her purely for me,
+as you were pleased to observe; and I love her with so tender and violent
+a passion, that it is plain I never loved any woman till I saw her. Oh!
+how I am blessed and transported with her charms! and I cannot
+sufficiently thank either the queen her mother, or you, prince, or your
+whole family, for the matchless generosity with which you have consented
+to receive me into so glorious an alliance as yours. At the end of these
+words, he invited them to take part of the collation, and he and his
+queen sat down at his table with them. After the collation was over, the
+king of Persia entertained them with discourse till it was very late; and
+when they thought it convenient to retire, he waited upon them himself to
+the several apartments he had ordered to be prepared for them.
+
+The king of Persia treated his illustrious guests for a great many days
+together; during which time, he omitted nothing that might show his court
+in its greatest splendour and magnificence, and insensibly prevailed with
+them to stay there till the queen was brought to bed. When the time of
+her lying-in drew near, he gave particular orders to get every thing in
+readiness that was necessary upon such an occasion. At last there was a
+son born, to the great joy of the queen his mother, who, as soon as he
+was dressed in swaddling-clothes, which were very rich and costly, went
+and presented him to the king.
+
+The king of Persia received the present with a joy easier to be imagined
+than expressed. The young prince being of a beautiful countenance, and
+all over charms, he thought no name so proper for him as that of Beder,
+which, in the Arabian language, signifies the Full Moon. By way of thanks
+to Heaven, he was very liberal in his alms to the poor, and caused the
+prison-doors to be set open, and gave all the prisoners of both sexes
+their liberty. He distributed vast sums among the priests and the holy
+men of his religion. He also gave large donatives to his courtiers,
+besides a great deal that was thrown amongst the people; and, by a
+proclamation, ordered several rejoicing days to be kept publicly through
+the whole city.
+
+One day after the queen’s up-sitting, as the king of Persia, queen
+Gulnare herself, the queen her mother, king Saleh her brother, and the
+princesses their relations, were discoursing together in her majesty’s
+bed-chamber, the nurse chanced to come in with the young prince Beder in
+her arms. King Saleh no sooner saw him, than he ran to embrace him, and
+taking him in his arms, fell a kissing and caressing him after a mighty
+rate. He took several turns with him about the room, dancing and dandling
+him about, when all of a sudden, through a transport of joy, the window
+being open, he leaped out, and plunged with him into the sea.
+
+The king of Persia, who expected no such sight, set up a hideous cry,
+verily believing he should either see the dear prince his son no more, or
+that he should see him drowned; nay, he was like to give up the ghost
+amidst his so great grief and affliction. Sir, quoth queen Gulnare, with
+a quiet and undisturbed countenance, (the better to comfort him,) let
+your majesty fear nothing; the young prince is my son as well as yours,
+and I do not love him less than you do. You see I am not alarmed at the
+loss of him; neither in truth ought I to be so. In short, he runs no
+risk, and you will soon see the king his uncle appear with him again, who
+will return him to you safe and sound. Although he be born of your blood
+as well as mine, he will not fail to have the same advantage his uncle
+and I have, of living equally in the sea and upon the land. The queen his
+mother, and the princesses his relations, confirmed the same thing: yet
+all was no great consolation to the king; he could not possibly recover
+from his fright till he saw prince Beder appear again as before.
+
+The sea at length became troubled, when immediately king Saleh arose,
+with the young prince in his arms, and dancing and dandling him about,
+re-entered at the same window he went out at. The king of Persia,
+overjoyed to see prince Beder again, became as calm as before he lost
+sight of him. Then king Saleh said, Sir, was not your majesty in a great
+fright, when you first saw me plunge into the sea with the prince my
+nephew? Alas! prince, answered the king of Persia, I cannot express my
+concern: I thought him lost from that very moment, and you now restore
+life to me by bringing him again. I thought as much, replied king Saleh,
+though you had not the least reason to apprehend any danger; for before I
+plunged into the sea with him, I pronounced certain mysterious words over
+him, which were engraven on the seal of the great Solomon the Son of
+David. We practise the like in relation to all those children that are
+born in the regions at the bottom of the sea, by virtue whereof they
+receive the same privileges that we have over those people who inhabit
+the earth. Now, from what your majesty has observed, you may easily see
+what advantage your son prince Beder has acquired on the part of his
+mother queen Gulnare my sister; for as long as he lives, and as often as
+he pleases, it shall be free for him to plunge into the sea, and traverse
+the vast empires it contains at its bottom.
+
+Having so spoken, king Saleh, who had restored prince Beder to his
+nurse’s arms, opened a box he had fetched from his palace in that little
+time he had disappeared, which was filled with three hundred diamonds, as
+large as pigeons’ eggs; a like number of rubies, of extraordinary size;
+as many emerald wands, of half a foot long; and with thirty strings of
+necklaces of pearl, consisting each of ten pieces. Sir, said he to the
+king of Persia, presenting him with this box, when I was first summoned
+by the queen my sister, I knew not what part of the earth she was in, or
+that she had the honour to be married to so great a monarch as I now
+find; wherefore I came empty-handed: but now I understand how much we
+have been both obliged to your majesty, I beg you therefore to accept of
+this small token of gratitude, in acknowledgment of the many particular
+favours you have been pleased to do us, and whereof I am not less
+sensible than she.
+
+It cannot be imagined how greatly the king of Persia was surprised at the
+sight of so much riches enclosed in so little compass. What! prince,
+cried he, do you call so inestimable a present a small token of your
+gratitude, when you never have been indebted to me? I declare you have
+never been in the least obliged to me, neither you nor the queen your
+mother; I esteem myself but too happy in the consent you have been
+pleased to give to the alliance I have contracted with you. Madam,
+continued he, turning to Gulnare, the king your brother has put me into
+the greatest confusion in the world; and I would beg of him to retain his
+present, were it not that I fear to disoblige him. Do you therefore
+endeavour to obtain his leave, that I may be dispensed with on this
+occasion.
+
+Sir, replied king Saleh, I am not at all surprised that your majesty
+thinks this present so extraordinary: I know you are not accustomed upon
+earth to see such and so many fine stones; but if you knew, as I do, the
+mines from whence these jewels were taken, and that it is in my power to
+heap up a treasure, much larger than those, of all the things of the
+earth, you would, it may be, wonder I should have the boldness to make
+you a present of so small a value. I beseech you therefore not to regard
+it in that respect, but on account of the sincere friendship I am obliged
+to offer to you, which I hope you will not give me the mortification to
+refuse. These engaging expressions obliged the king of Persia to accept
+the present, for which he returned many thanks, both to king Saleh and
+the queen his mother.
+
+A few days after, king Saleh gave the king of Persia to understand that
+the queen his mother, the princesses his relations, and himself could
+have no greater pleasure than to spend their whole lives at his court;
+but that having been absent from their own kingdom for some time, where
+their presence was absolutely necessary, they begged of him not to take
+it ill, if they took leave of him and queen Gulnare. The king of Persia
+assured them he was very sorry that it was not in his power to come and
+visit them in their dominions; but added, As I am verily persuaded you
+will not forget queen Gulnare, but come and see her now and then, I hope
+I shall have the honour to kiss your hands again many times before I die.
+
+Many tears were shed on both sides upon their separation. King Saleh
+departed first; but the queen his mother, and the princesses his
+relations, were fain to force themselves, in a manner, from the embraces
+of queen Gulnare, who could not prevail with herself to let them go. This
+royal company were no sooner out of sight, than the king of Persia said
+to queen Gulnare, Madam, I should have looked upon that person as one who
+would have imposed on my credulity in the grossest manner, that had
+pretended to palm those wonders upon me for true, which I myself have
+been an eye-witness of from the time I have been honoured with your
+illustrious family at my court: but I cannot escape conviction of this
+kind; and shall remember it as long as I live, and be always ready to
+bless Heaven for directing you to me, rather than to any other prince.
+
+Young prince Beder was brought up and educated in the palace, under the
+care of the king and queen of Persia, who both saw him grow and increase
+in beauty, to their great satisfaction. He gave them yet greater pleasure
+as he advanced in years, by his continued sprightliness, by his agreeable
+ways in whatever he did, and by the justness and vivacity of his wit in
+whatever he said; and they were the more sensible of this satisfaction,
+by reason king Saleh his uncle, the queen his grandmother, and the
+princesses his relations, came from time to time to take part of it.
+
+He was easily taught to read and write, and was instructed with the same
+facility in all the sciences that became a prince of his rank.
+
+When he arrived at fifteen, he acquitted himself of all his exercises
+with infinitely better address, and good grace, than any of his masters.
+He was withal very wise and prudent. The king, who had almost from his
+cradle discovered in him virtues so necessary for a monarch, and who
+moreover began to perceive the infirmities of old age coming upon
+himself, would not stay till death gave him the possession of his throne,
+but purposed to resign it to him immediately. He had no great difficulty
+to make his council consent to it; and the people heard this resolution
+with so much the more joy, as they conceived prince Beder worthy to
+govern them. In a word, as the king had not for a long time appeared in
+public, they had all the opportunity in the world to observe he had not
+that disdainful, proud, and crabbed air, which most princes, who look
+upon all below them with scorn and contempt, have. They saw, on the
+contrary, he treated all mankind with that goodness which invited them to
+approach him, that he heard favourably all who had any thing to say to
+him; that he answered every body with a goodness that was peculiar to
+him; and that he refused nobody any thing that had the least appearance
+of reasonableness.
+
+The day for the ceremony was appointed, when in the midst of the whole
+assembly, which was then more numerous than ordinary, the king of Persia,
+then sitting on his throne, came down from it, took the crown off his
+head, put it on that of prince Beder; and having seated him in his place,
+kissed his hand, as a token that he resigned his authority to him: after
+which, he ranged himself among the crowd of viziers and emirs.
+
+Hereupon the viziers, emirs, and other principal officers, came
+immediately and threw themselves at the new king’s feet, taking each the
+oath of fidelity, according to their degrees. Then the grand vizier made
+a report of divers important matters; on which the young king gave
+judgment with that admirable prudence and sagacity that surprised all the
+council. He next turned out divers governors convicted of
+mal-administration, and put others in their room; which he did with that
+wonderful and just discernment as excited the acclamations of every body,
+which were so much the more honourable, as flattery had no share in them.
+He at length left the council, accompanied by the late king his father,
+and went to wait on his mother queen Gulnare, at her apartment. The queen
+no sooner saw him coming with the crown upon his head, than she ran to
+embrace him with a great deal of tenderness, wishing him a long and
+prosperous reign.
+
+The first year of his reign, king Beder acquitted himself of all his
+royal functions with great assiduity. Above all, he took care to instruct
+himself in affairs of state, and all that might any way contribute
+towards the happiness of his people. Next year, having left the
+administration to his council, under the direction of the old king his
+father, he went out of his capital city, under pretence of diverting
+himself with hunting; but his real intention was to visit all the
+provinces of his kingdom, that he might reform all abuses there,
+establish good order and discipline every where, and deprive all
+ill-minded princes, his neighbours, of any opportunities of attempting
+any thing against the security and tranquillity of his subjects, by
+appearing and showing himself seasonably on his frontiers.
+
+No less than a whole year sufficed this young king to put in practice a
+purpose so worthy of him. Soon after his return, the old king his father
+fell so dangerously ill, that he knew at first he should never recover.
+He waited for his last moment with great tranquillity, and his only care
+was to recommend to the ministers and other lords of his son’s court to
+persist in the fidelity they had sworn to him; insomuch that there was
+not one but willingly renewed his oath as freely as at first. He died at
+length, to the great grief of king Beder and queen Gulnare, who caused
+his corpse to be carried to a stately mausoleum, worthy of his rank and
+dignity.
+
+When the funeral obsequies were ended, king Beder found no difficulty to
+comply with that ancient custom in Persia to mourn for the dead a whole
+month, and not to be seen by any body during all that time. He had
+mourned the death of his father his whole life, had he hearkened to his
+excessive affliction, and had it been permitted to so great a prince as
+he was to amuse himself after that manner. During this interval, the
+queen, mother to queen Gulnare, and king Saleh, together with the
+princesses their relations, arrived at the Persian court, and shared in
+great part of their affliction, before they proposed any consolation.
+
+Though the month was expired, the king could not prevail on himself to
+give admittance to the grand vizier and the other lords of his court, who
+all besought him to lay aside his mourning habit, to show himself to his
+subjects, and take upon him the administration of affairs as before.
+
+He showed so great unwillingness to their request, that the grand vizier
+took upon him to speak in the following manner: Sir, it would be needless
+to represent to your majesty that it belongs only to women to persist in
+perpetual mourning. We doubt not but you are sufficiently convinced of
+that, and that it is not your intention to follow their example. Neither
+our tears nor yours are capable of restoring life to the good king your
+father, though we should lament all our days. He has undergone the common
+fate of all men, which nobody can resist. Yet we cannot say absolutely
+that he is dead, since we see him reviving in the person of your sacred
+majesty. He did not himself doubt, when he was dying, but he should
+revive in you, and to your majesty it belongs to show that he was not
+deceived.
+
+King Beder could no longer oppose such pressing instances. He laid aside
+his mourning habit that very moment; and after he had resumed the royal
+ornaments, he began to provide for the necessities of his subjects with
+the same assiduity as before his father’s death. He acquitted himself
+with universal approbation; and, as he was exact in maintaining his
+predecessor’s ordinances, the people perceived no alteration in their
+sovereign.
+
+King Saleh, who was returned to his dominions in the sea, with the queen
+his mother and the princesses, no sooner saw that king Beder had resumed
+the government, than he came alone to visit him; and king Beder and queen
+Gulnare were overjoyed to see him. One day, as they rose from table, they
+fell to discoursing of several matters. King Saleh fell insensibly on the
+praises of the king his nephew, and the queen his sister, how glad he was
+to see him govern so prudently, which had acquired him so great
+reputation, not only among his neighbours, but more remote princes. King
+Beder, who could not bear to hear himself so well spoken of, and not
+being willing to interrupt the king his uncle, through good manners
+turned on one side, and seemed to be asleep, leaning his head against a
+cushion that was behind him.
+
+From these commendations, which regarded only the wonderful conduct and
+surprising wit of king Beder, king Saleh came to speak of the perfections
+of his body, which he extolled after a mighty rate, as having nothing
+equal to them, either upon the earth, or the kingdoms under the waters,
+which he was well acquainted with.
+
+Sister, said he in an ecstasy, so beautiful as he is, and of such
+excellent endowments, I wonder you have not thought of marrying him ere
+this: if I mistake not, he is at present in his twentieth year, and at
+that age no prince ought to be suffered to be without a wife. I will
+think of a match for him myself, since you will not, and marry him to
+some princess of our lower world, that may be worthy of him.
+
+Brother, replied queen Gulnare, you call to my remembrance a thing, I
+must own, I have never thought of to this very moment. As he never
+discovered any inclination for marriage, I never thought of mentioning it
+to him; and I am glad you have now spoken of it to me. I like your
+proposing one of your princesses; and I desire you to name one who may be
+beautiful and well accomplished, that the king my son may be obliged to
+love her.
+
+I know one that will be proper, replied king Saleh, softly; but before I
+will tell you who she is, let us see if the king my nephew sleeps or not,
+and I will tell you afterwards why it is necessary we should take that
+precaution. Queen Gulnare then looked upon her son, and thought she had
+no reason to doubt but he was profoundly asleep, (king Beder
+nevertheless, very far from sleeping, redoubled his attention, as being
+unwilling to lose any thing the king his uncle said upon that subject.)
+There is no necessity for your speaking so low, said the queen to the
+king her brother; you may speak out with all freedom, without fear of
+being heard.
+
+It is by no means proper, replied king Saleh, that the king my nephew
+should as yet have any knowledge of what I am going to say. Love, you
+know, sometimes enters the ear; and it is not necessary he should love
+this lady I am about to name, after that sort: in short, I see many
+difficulties to surmount in this case, not on the lady’s part, as I hope,
+but on that of her father. I need only mention to you the princess
+Giahaure[2], and the king of Samarcand.
+
+How, brother, replied queen Gulnare, is not the princess Giahaure yet
+married? I remember to have seen her a little before I left your palace;
+she was then about eighteen months old, and surprisingly beautiful, and
+must needs be the wonder of the world, if her charms have increased equal
+with her years. The few years she is older than the king my son, ought
+not to hinder our doing our utmost to bring the match about. Let me know
+but the difficulties that are to be surmounted, and I will warrant we
+will do well enough.
+
+Sister, replied king Saleh, the greatest difficulty is, that the king of
+Samarcand is insupportably vain, looking upon all others as his
+inferiors: it is not likely we shall easily get him to enter into this
+alliance. For my part, I will go to him in person, and demand the
+princess his daughter of him; and in case he refuses her, will address
+ourselves elsewhere, where we shall be like to be more favourably heard.
+For this reason, as you may perceive, added he, it is not proper for the
+king my nephew to know any thing of our design, lest he should fall in
+love with the princess Giahaure, and we afterwards not be able to obtain
+her for him. They discoursed a little longer upon this point, and before
+they parted, agreed that king Saleh should forthwith return to his own
+dominions, and demand the princess Giahaure of the king of Samarcand, her
+father, for the king of Persia, his nephew.
+
+This done, queen Gulnare and king Saleh, who verily believed king Beder
+asleep, agreed to wake him; and he dissembled the matter so well, that he
+seemed to wake from a profound sleep. He had nevertheless heard every
+word they said; and the character they gave of the princess Giahaure had
+inflamed his heart with an unknown passion. He had conceived so bright an
+idea of her beauty, that he could not sleep a wink all night, but
+remained under continual inquietudes.
+
+Next day king Saleh would needs take leave of queen Gulnare and the king
+his nephew. The young king, who knew the king his uncle would not have
+departed so soon, but to go and promote his happiness, blushed when he
+heard him mention his departure. His passion was become so violent, it
+would not suffer him to wait so long for the sight of his mistress as
+would suffice to accomplish the marriage. He more than once resolved to
+desire his uncle to bring her away with him; but as he did not care to
+let the queen his mother understand he knew any thing of what had passed,
+he desired him only to stay with him a day or two, that they might hunt
+together, intending to make use of that occasion to discover his mind to
+him.
+
+The day for hunting was set, and king Beder had many opportunities to
+declare his mind to his uncle; but he had not the courage so much as once
+to open his mouth to acquaint him with what he designed.
+
+In the midst of the chase, when not only king Saleh but all his
+attendants had left him, he alighted near a spring; and, having tied his
+horse to a tree that afforded a very plentiful shade, as did several
+others along the banks of the rivulet, he laid himself down on the grass,
+and gave a free course to his tears, which issued forth in great
+abundance, accompanied with many sobs and sighs. He remained in this
+condition, overwhelmed with thought, and not speaking so much as one
+word. King Saleh, in the mean time, missing the king his nephew, and not
+meeting with any one who could tell tidings of him, began to be much
+concerned to know what was become of him. He therefore left his company
+to go in search of him, and at length perceived him at a distance. He had
+observed the day before, and even more evidently that day, that he was
+not so merry as he used to be, that he was more pensive than ordinary,
+and that if he was asked a question, he either answered not at all, or
+nothing to the purpose: but he never so much as in the least suspected
+the cause of all this alteration, till he saw him lying in that
+disconsolate posture; when he immediately guessed he had not only heard
+what passed between him and the queen Gulnare, but was become
+passionately in love. He hereupon alighted, at some distance from him,
+and having tied his horse to a tree, took a compass, and came upon him so
+softly, that he heard him pronounce the following words:
+
+Adorable princess of the kingdom of Samarcand, cried he out, I have no
+doubt had but an imperfect sketch of your incomparable beauty; yet I hold
+you to be preferable to all the princesses in the world in charms, and to
+excel them as much as the sun does the moon and stars. I would this
+moment go and offer you my heart, if I but knew where to find you: it
+belongs to you, dear princess, and nobody shall be the possessor of it
+but you.
+
+King Saleh would hear no more: he advanced immediately, and discovered
+himself to king Beder. From what I have understood, nephew, said he, you
+heard that which the queen your mother and I discoursed the other day of
+the princess Giahaure. It was not our intention you should have known any
+thing, and we verily thought you were asleep. My dear uncle, replied king
+Beder, I heard every word you said, and have sufficiently experienced the
+effect you foretold; which it was not in your power to prevent. I
+detained you on purpose to acquaint you with my love before your
+departure; but the confusion I had to let you know my weakness, if it be
+any to love so worthy a princess as this seems to be, altogether sealed
+my mouth. I beseech you then, by the friendship you profess for a prince
+that has the honour to be so nearly allied to you, that you would pity
+me, and not delay to procure me the consent of the king of Samarcand,
+that I may marry his daughter, the adorable Giahaure, with all speed,
+unless you have a mind to see me die with love before I have the sight of
+her.
+
+These words of the king of Persia troubled king Saleh very much: he gave
+him to understand how difficult it was to give him the satisfaction he
+desired, and that he could not well do it without carrying him along with
+him; which might be of dangerous consequences, since his presence was so
+absolutely necessary in his kingdom, that the least absence might
+occasion his subjects to revolt. He conjured him, therefore, to moderate
+his passion till such time as he had put things into a better posture;
+assuring him he would use his utmost diligence to content him, and, when
+he had brought matters to bear, he would come to acquaint him. But these
+reasons were not sufficient to satisfy the king of Persia. Cruel uncle,
+said he, I find you do not love me so much as you pretended, and that you
+had rather see me die than grant the first request that ever I made you.
+
+I am ready to convince your majesty, replied king Saleh, that I would do
+any thing to serve you in reason; but as for carrying you along with me,
+I cannot do that till I have spoken to the queen your mother. What would
+she say if I should do this? If she consents, I am ready to do all you
+would have me. You cannot be ignorant, replied the king of Persia, that
+the queen my mother would never willingly part with me; and therefore
+this excuse of yours does but yet farther convince me of the hardness of
+your heart. If you do really love me, as you would have me to believe you
+do, you must return to your kingdom immediately, and carry me along with
+you.
+
+King Saleh, finding himself in a manner obliged to yield to his nephew’s
+importunity, drew a ring off his finger, which was engraved with the same
+mysterious names of God that were upon Solomon’s seal, that had wrought
+so many wonders by their virtue. Here, take this ring, said he, put it
+upon your finger, and fear neither the waters of the sea, nor their
+depth. The king of Persia took the ring, and when he had put it on his
+finger, king Saleh said unto him, Follow me; when, at the same time, they
+both mounted leisurely up into the air, and made towards the sea, which
+was not far off, whereinto they jointly plunged.
+
+The sea-king was not long in going to his palace with the king of Persia,
+whom he immediately carried to the queen’s apartment, and presented him
+to her. The king of Persia kissed the queen his grandmother’s hands, and
+she embraced him with great demonstrations of joy. I do not ask you how
+you do, said she to him, I see you are well enough, and I am rejoiced at
+it; but I desire to know how my daughter and your mother queen Gulnare
+does. The king of Persia took great care not to let her know he came
+without her consent; and therefore told her the queen his mother was in
+perfect health, and had enjoined him to pay her duty to her. Then the
+queen presented him to the princesses; and while he was in conversation
+with them, she left him, and went with king Saleh into a closet. He there
+told her how the king of Persia was fallen in love with the princess
+Giahaure, upon the bare relation of her beauty; and, contrary to his
+intention, that he had brought him along with him, without being able to
+hinder it, and that he was going to concert measures to procure the
+princess for him in marriage.
+
+Although king Saleh was, to do him justice, perfectly innocent of the
+king of Persia’s passion, yet the queen could hardly forgive his
+indiscretion, in mentioning the princess Giahaure before him. Your
+imprudence is beyond parallel, said she to him: can you think that the
+king of Samarcand, whose character is so well known, will have greater
+consideration for you than the many other kings he has refused his
+daughter to with scorn and contempt? Would you have him send you away
+with the same confusion he has done them?
+
+Madam, replied king Saleh, I have told you it was contrary to my
+intention that the king my nephew heard what I related of the beauty of
+the princess Giahaure to the queen my sister. The fault, if it be one, is
+already committed; and we must consider what a violent passion he has for
+this princess, and that he will die with grief and affliction if we do
+not speedily obtain her for him, with whatever trouble we are to do it.
+For my part, I shall omit nothing that may contribute to it, since I was,
+though innocently, the cause of the malady: I will therefore do all that
+I can to remedy it. I hope, madam, you will approve of my resolution, to
+go and wait upon the king of Samarcand, with a rich present of precious
+stones, and demand the princess his daughter of him for the king of
+Persia, your grandson and my nephew. I have some reason to believe he
+will not refuse me, nor neglect to ally himself with one of the greatest
+potentates of the earth.
+
+It were to have been wished, replied the queen, that we had not been
+under a necessity of making this demand, since the success of our attempt
+is not so certain as we could desire; but since my grandson’s quiet and
+content totally depend upon it, I freely give my consent to it. But,
+above all, I charge you, since you sufficiently know the humour of the
+king of Samarcand, that you take care to show him due respect, and not in
+any wise offend him by too presuming a behaviour.
+
+The queen prepared the present herself, composing it of diamonds, rubies,
+emeralds, and strings of pearl; all which she put into a box, very neat
+and very rich. Next morning, king Saleh took his leave of her majesty and
+the king of Persia, and departed with a chosen but small troop of
+officers and other attendants. He soon arrived at the capital and palace
+of the king of Samarcand, who did not scruple to afford him audience
+immediately upon his arrival. He rose from his throne as soon as he
+perceived king Saleh; who, being willing to forget his character for some
+moments, knowing whom he had to deal with, prostrated himself at his
+feet, wishing him an accomplishment of whatever he desired. The king of
+Samarcand immediately stooped to take him up; and, after he had placed
+him by him on his left-hand, he told him he was welcome, and asked him if
+there was any thing he could do to serve him.
+
+Sir, answered king Saleh, though I should have no other motive than that
+of rendering my respects to the most potent and most prudent prince in
+the world, yet would I endeavour to convince your majesty, though poorly,
+how much I honour and adore you. Were it possible you could penetrate
+into my inmost soul, you would soon be convinced of the great veneration
+I have had for you, and the ardent desire I entertain to pay you my most
+humble acknowledgments. Having spoken these words, he took the box of
+jewels from one of his servants, and having opened it, presented it to
+the king, imploring him to accept of it for his sake.
+
+Prince, replied the king of Samarcand, I hope you do not make me this
+present without requiring a proportional benefit from me. If there be any
+thing within the compass of my capacity, you may freely command it, and
+will do me signal honour in accepting it. Speak, and tell me frankly
+wherein I can serve you.
+
+I must own ingenuously, replied king Saleh, I have a boon to ask of your
+majesty; but I shall take care to ask nothing but what is within your
+power to grant. The thing depends so absolutely on yourself, that it
+would be to no purpose to require it of any other. I ask it then with all
+possible earnestness, and I beg of you not to refuse it me. If it be so,
+replied the king of Samarcand, you have nothing to do but to acquaint me
+what it is, and you shall see after what manner I can oblige people of
+desert.
+
+Sir, then said king Saleh, after the confidence your majesty has been
+pleased to think I have put in your good-will, I will not dissemble any
+longer, that I came to beg of you to honour our house with your alliance
+by marriage, and by that means to fortify the good understanding that has
+always hitherto been between our two crowns.
+
+At these words, the king of Samarcand began to laugh heartily, falling
+back in his throne against a cushion that supported him; and soon after
+said, with an injurious and scornful air, to king Saleh; King Saleh, I
+have always hitherto thought you were a prince of great sense and wisdom;
+but now I find you just the contrary. Tell me, I beseech you, where was
+your wit or discretion, when you formed to yourself so great a chimera as
+you have just now proposed to me? Could you conceive a thought only of
+aspiring in marriage to so great a princess as my daughter? You ought to
+have considered better the great distance between us, and not to run the
+risk of losing in a moment the esteem I always had for your person.
+
+King Saleh was extremely nettled at this affronting answer, and had much
+ado to restrain his just resentment: however he replied, with greater
+moderation than could be expected, God reward your majesty according as
+you deserve. I beg the honour to inform you, I do not demand the princess
+in marriage for myself: had I done so, your majesty, or the princess,
+ought to have been so far from being offended, that you might rather have
+taken it for an honour done to both. Your majesty knows well I am a king
+of the sea as well as yourself; that the kings my ancestors have no
+reason to yield in antiquity to any other royal families; and that the
+kingdom I inherit from them is no less potent and flourishing than it has
+ever been. If your majesty had not interrupted me, you had soon
+understood, that the favour I asked of you was not for myself, but for
+the young king of Persia, my nephew, whose power and grandeur, no less
+than his personal good qualities, cannot be unknown to you. Every body
+acknowledges the princess Giahaure to be one of the finest ladies under
+the heavens; but it is at the same time acknowledged by all, that the
+young king of Persia, my nephew, is as accomplished as any prince, either
+upon land or under the water. Thus the favour that is asked being likely
+to redound both to the honour of your majesty and the princess your
+daughter, you ought not to delay your consent to an alliance so equal,
+and which no doubt will be approved by the generality of people. The
+princess is worthy of the king of Persia, and the king of Persia is no
+less worthy of her. No king or prince in the world can deny me this.
+
+The king of Samarcand had not let king Saleh go on so long after this
+rate, had not the rage he put him in deprived him of all power of speech.
+He was moreover some time longer before he could find his tongue, so much
+was he transported with passion. At length, however, he broke out into
+outrageous and injurious expressions, unworthy of a king. Dog, says he
+aloud, dare you talk to me after this manner, and so much as once to
+mention my daughter’s name in my presence? Can you think the son of your
+sister Gulnare worthy to come in competition with my daughter? Who are
+you? who was your father? who is your sister? and who your nephew? Was
+not his father a dog, and a son of a dog, like thee? Guards, seize the
+insolent wretch, and immediately cut off his head.
+
+The few officers that were about the king of Samarcand were immediately
+going to obey his orders, when king Saleh, who was in the flower of his
+age, nimble and vigorous, got from them before they could draw their
+sabres; and, having reached the palace gate, he there found a thousand
+men of his relations and friends, well armed and equipped, who were but
+just arrived. The queen his mother having considered the small number of
+attendants he took with him, and moreover foreseeing the bad reception he
+would probably have from the king of Samarcand, had sent these troops to
+protect and defend him, in case of danger. Those of his relations who
+were at the head of this troop immediately saw how seasonably they were
+arrived, when they beheld him and his companions come running in great
+disorder, and a small number of officers at their heels in pursuit of
+them. My lord, cried out his friends, at the moment he joined them, what
+is the matter? We are ready to revenge you; you need only command us.
+
+King Saleh related his case to them in as few words as he could; and
+afterwards putting himself at the head of a large troop, he, whilst some
+seized on the gates, re-entered the palace as before. The few officers
+and guards who had pursued him being soon dispersed, he re-entered the
+king of Samarcand’s apartment, who, being abandoned by his attendants,
+was soon seized. King Saleh left sufficient guards to secure his person,
+and then went from apartment to apartment, to search after the princess
+Giahaure. But that princess, on the first noise of this alarm, had,
+together with her women, flung herself on the surface of the sea, and
+escaped to a desert island.
+
+As matters passed thus in the palace of the king of Samarcand, those of
+king Saleh’s attendants, who had fled at the first menaces of the king,
+put the queen his mother into a terrible consternation, upon relating the
+danger her son was in. King Beder, who was by at that time, was the more
+concerned, in that he looked upon himself as the principal author of all
+the mischief that might ensue: therefore, not caring to abide the queen’s
+presence any longer, he, whilst she was giving the necessary orders at
+that conjuncture, darted himself upwards from the bottom of the sea; and
+not knowing how to find his way to the kingdom of Persia, he happened to
+light on the same island where the princess Giahaure had saved herself.
+
+The prince, not a little disturbed in his mind, went and seated himself
+under the shade of a large tree, surrounded with divers others. Whilst he
+was endeavouring to recover his temper, he heard one that talked, but was
+too far off to understand what was said. He arose, and advanced softly
+towards the place whence the sound came, where, among the branches, he
+perceived a beauty that dazzled him. Doubtless, said he within himself,
+stopping, and considering her with great attention, this must be the
+princess Giahaure, whom fear has obliged to abandon her father’s palace;
+or, if it be not, she is, at least, one that no less deserves my love and
+admiration. This said, he moved forward, and discovering himself,
+approached the princess with a profound reverence. Madam, said he, I can
+never sufficiently thank Heaven for the favour it has done me, in
+regaling my eyes this day with so glorious a sight. A greater blessing
+could not be conferred on me than this opportunity to offer you my most
+humble services. I beseech you, therefore, madam, to accept them, it
+being impossible that a lady, under such solitary circumstances, should
+not want assistance.
+
+True, my lord, replied Giahaure, very sorrowfully, it is not a little
+extraordinary for a lady of my quality to be found in this condition. I
+am a princess, daughter of the king of Samarcand, and my name is
+Giahaure. As I was at ease in my father’s palace, and in my apartment, I
+all of a sudden heard a dreadful noise: news was immediately brought me,
+that king Saleh, I know not for what reason, had fired the palace, seized
+upon the king my father, and murdered all the guards that made any
+resistance. I had only time to save myself, and escape hither from his
+violence.
+
+At these words of the princess, king Beder began to be concerned that he
+had quitted his grandmother so hastily, without staying to hear from her
+the news that had been brought her; but he was, on the other hand,
+overjoyed to find that the king his uncle had rendered himself master of
+the king of Samarcand’s person, not doubting but he would consent to give
+up the princess for his liberty. Adorable princess, continued he, your
+concern is most just; but it is easy to put an end both to that and your
+father’s captivity. You will agree with me, when I shall tell you that I
+am Beder, king of Persia, and king Saleh is my uncle. I assure you,
+madam, he has no design to seize upon the king your father’s dominions:
+his only intent is, to obtain of him that I may have the honour to be
+received for his son-in-law. I had already given my heart to you, upon
+the bare relation of your charming beauty; and now, very far from
+repenting of what I have done, I beg of you to accept it, and to be
+assured that I will love you as long as I live. I dare flatter myself you
+will not refuse this favour, but be ready to acknowledge, that a king
+that quitted his dominions purely on your account deserves some favour.
+Permit then, beauteous princess, that I may have the honour to go and
+present you to the king my uncle; and the king your father shall no
+sooner have consented to our marriage, than king Saleh will leave him
+sovereign of his dominions as before.
+
+This declaration of king Beder had not all the success he could have
+desired. It is true the princess no sooner saw his person, and the good
+mien wherewith he accosted her, than she had some kindness for him; but
+when she came to understand from his own mouth that he had been the
+occasion of all the ill treatment her father had undergone, of the grief
+and fright she had endured, and especially the necessity she was reduced
+to in flying her country to save her life, she looked upon him with that
+horror, that she considered him rather as an enemy than a friend, with
+whom she resolved to have no manner of converse. Moreover, whatever
+inclination she might by any means be thought to have in regard to this
+marriage, she determined never to yield to it, in consideration that one
+of the reasons her father might have against this match might be, that
+king Beder was son of a king of the earth; and therefore she proposed to
+obey her father, especially in that particular.
+
+She nevertheless resolved to let king Beder know nothing of her
+resentment, and only sought an occasion to deliver herself dexterously
+out of his hands, seeming, in the mean time, to have a great kindness for
+him. Are you then, said she, with all possible civility, son of the queen
+Gulnare, so famous for her wit and beauty? I am highly glad of it, and
+moreover rejoice that you are the son of so worthy a mother. The king my
+father was much in the wrong for so strongly opposing our conjunction: he
+could no sooner have seen you but he must have consented to have made us
+both happy. Saying these words, she reached forth her hand to him as a
+token of friendship.
+
+King Beder, believing himself arrived at the very pinnacle of happiness
+held forth his hand, and was stooping to take that of the princess to
+kiss it, when she, pushing him back, and spitting at him, said, Wretch,
+quit that form of a man, and take one of a white bird, with a red bill
+and feet. Upon her pronouncing these words, king Beder was immediately
+changed into a bird of that sort, to his great surprise and astonishment.
+Take him now, said she to one of her women, and carry him to the Desert
+Island. This island was only one frightful rock, where there was not a
+drop of water to be had.
+
+The waiting-woman took the bird; and, in executing the princess’s orders,
+had compassion on king Beder’s destiny. It would be great pity, said she
+to herself, to let a prince, so worthy to live, die of hunger and thirst.
+The princess will, it may be, repent of what she has ordered, when she
+comes again to herself: it were better that I carried him to a place
+where he may die a natural death. She then carried him to a
+well-frequented island, and left him on a charming plain, planted with
+all sorts of fruit-trees, and watered by divers rivulets.
+
+Let us now return to king Saleh, who, after he had sought a good while
+for the princess Giahaure, and ordered others to seek for her, to no
+purpose, caused the king of Samarcand to be shut up in his palace, under
+a good guard; and, having given the necessary orders for governing the
+kingdom in his absence, he returned to give the queen his mother an
+account of what he had done. The first thing he asked, upon his arrival,
+was, Where was the king his nephew? and he was answered, to his great
+surprise and astonishment, that he disappeared soon after he left him.
+News being brought me, said the queen, of the danger you was in at the
+palace of the king of Samarcand, while I was giving orders to send troops
+for you to revenge yourself, he disappeared. He must necessarily have
+been frightened at the hearing of your being in so great danger, and did
+not think himself in sufficient security with us.
+
+This news exceedingly afflicted king Saleh, who now repented of his being
+so easily wrought upon by king Beder, as to carry him away with him
+without his mother’s consent. He sent every where after him; but whatever
+diligence was used, he could hear no news of him; and instead of the joy
+he conceived at having carried on the marriage so far, which he looked
+upon as his own work, he felt a grief for this accident that was
+mortifying to him. While he was under suspense about his nephew, he left
+his kingdom to the administration of his mother, and went and governed
+that of the king of Samarcand, whom he continued to keep with great
+vigilance, though with all due respect to his character.
+
+The same day that king Saleh returned to the kingdom of Samarcand, queen
+Gulnare, mother to king Beder, arrived at the court of the queen her
+mother. The princess was not at all surprised to find her son did not
+return the same day he set out; because it was common for him to go
+farther than he proposed, in the heat of the chase: but when she saw he
+neither returned the next day nor the day after that, she began to be
+alarmed, as may easily be imagined, from the kindness she professed for
+him. This alarm was considerably augmented, when the officers who had
+accompanied the king, and were retired, after they had for a long time
+sought in vain both for him and his uncle, came and told her majesty they
+must of necessity have come to some harm, since, whatever diligence they
+had used, they had heard no tidings of them. Their horses, indeed, they
+had found; but, as for their persons, they knew not where to look for
+them. The queen, hearing this, dissembled and concealed her affliction,
+bidding the officers go and search once more with their utmost diligence;
+but in the mean time, saying nothing to any body, she went and plunged
+into the sea, to satisfy herself in the suspicion she had that king Saleh
+must have carried away his nephew along with him.
+
+This great queen would have been the more affectionately received by the
+queen her mother, had she not, upon first sight of her, guessed the
+occasion of her coming. Daughter, said she, I plainly perceive you are
+not come hither to visit me; you come only to inquire after the king your
+son; and I can only tell you such news of him as will augment both your
+grief and mine. I must confess, I no sooner saw him arrive in our
+territories, than I greatly rejoiced: yet, when I came to understand he
+had come away without your knowledge, I began to partake with you in the
+concern you must needs have at it. Then she related to her with what zeal
+king Saleh went to demand the princess Giahaure in marriage for king
+Beder, and what happened upon it, till such time as her son disappeared.
+I have sent diligently after him, added she; and the king my son, who is
+just gone to govern the kingdom of Samarcand, has done all that lay in
+his power on his part. All our endeavours have hitherto proved
+unsuccessful; but we hope nevertheless to see him again, perhaps when we
+least expect it.
+
+Comfortless queen Gulnare was not satisfied with this hope: she looked
+upon the king her dear son as lost; and she lamented him grievously,
+laying all the blame upon the king his uncle. The queen her mother made
+her to consider the necessity there was of her not yielding too much to
+her grief. The king your brother, said she, ought not, it is true, to
+have talked to you so inconsiderately about that marriage, nor ever have
+consented to carry away the king your son without your privacy: yet,
+since it is not certain that the king of Persia is absolutely lost, you
+ought to neglect nothing to preserve his kingdom for him. Lose then no
+more time; but return to your capital: your presence there will be
+necessary; and it will not be hard for you to preserve the public peace,
+by causing it to be published that the king of Persia was gone to visit
+his grandmother.
+
+This reason was sufficient to oblige queen Gulnare to submit to it. She
+took leave of the queen her mother, and was got back to the palace of her
+capital of Persia before she had been missed. She despatched immediately
+persons to recall the officers she had sent after the king, and to tell
+them she knew where his majesty was, and that they should soon see him
+again. She also caused the same report to be spread throughout the city,
+and governed, in concert with the prime minister and council, with the
+same tranquillity as if the king had been present.
+
+To return to king Beder, whom the princess Giahaure’s waiting-woman had
+carried and left in the island before mentioned. That monarch was not a
+little surprised when he found himself alone, and under the form of a
+bird. He esteemed himself more unhappy, in that he knew not where he was,
+nor in what part of the world the kingdom of Persia lay. But if he had
+known, and sufficiently knew the force of his wings to traverse so vast
+watery regions, what could he have gained by it, but the mortification to
+continue still in the same ill plight, not to be accounted so much as a
+man, in the lieu of being acknowledged for king of Persia? He was then in
+a manner constrained to remain where he was, and live upon such
+nourishment as birds of his kind were wont to have.
+
+A few days after, a peasant, who was skilled in taking birds with nets,
+chanced to come to the place where he was; when, perceiving this fine
+bird, the like of which he had never seen, though he had used that sport
+for a long while, he began greatly to rejoice. He employed all his art to
+become master of him; and at length used such proper methods, that he
+took him. Overjoyed at so great a prize, which he looked upon to be of
+more worth than all the other birds he commonly took, by reason of its
+being so great a rarity, he shut it up in a cage, and carried it to the
+city. As soon as he was come into the market, a citizen stopped him, and
+asked him how much he would have for that bird.
+
+Instead of answering, the peasant demanded of the citizen what he would
+do with him in case he should buy him. What wouldst thou have me do with
+him, answered the citizen, but roast and eat him? Very well, replied the
+peasant; and so, I suppose, you would think me very well paid if you
+should give me the smallest piece of money for him: but know, I set a
+much greater value upon him; and you should not have him for a large
+piece of gold. Although I am pretty well advanced in years, I never saw
+such a bird in my life. I intend to make a present to the king of him;
+and I am sure he will know the worth of him better than you.
+
+Without staying any longer in the market, the peasant went directly to
+the court, and placed himself exactly before the king’s apartment. His
+majesty being at a window where he could see all that passed in the
+base-court, at length cast his eyes on this beautiful bird; and, being
+charmed with the sight of it, he immediately sent the commander of his
+eunuchs to buy it for him. The officer, going to the peasant, demanded of
+him how much he would have for that bird. If it be for his majesty,
+answered the peasant, I humbly beg of him to accept it of me as a
+present, and I desire you to carry it to him. Hereupon the officer took
+the bird, and brought it to the king, who found it so great a rarity,
+that he ordered the same officer to take ten pieces of gold and carry
+them to the peasant, who departed very well satisfied with the market he
+had made. The king ordered the bird to be put into a magnificent cage,
+and gave it corn and water in rich vessels.
+
+His majesty being then ready to mount on horseback, had not time to
+consider the bird, therefore had it brought to him as soon as he came
+back. The officer brought the cage; and the king, that he might better
+view the bird, took it out himself, and perched it upon his hand. Looking
+earnestly upon it, he demanded of the officer if he had seen it eat. Sir,
+replied the officer, your majesty may observe his eating: the drawer is
+still full; and I believe he has hardly touched any of his meat; at least
+I did not see him. Then the king ordered him meat of divers sorts, that
+he might take what he liked best.
+
+The table being spread, (for dinner happened to be served up just as the
+king had given these orders), and the plates being placed, the bird
+leaped off the king’s hand, and, clapping his wings, flew upon the table,
+where he began to peck the bread and victuals after an extraordinary
+rate. The king seeing this, was so surprised at it, that he immediately
+sent for the queen to come and see this miracle. The person that was sent
+related the matter to her majesty, and she came forthwith; but she no
+sooner saw the bird, than she covered her face with her veil, and would
+have retired. The king, admiring her proceedings, in that there were none
+but the eunuchs of the chamber and the women that waited on her, asked
+the reason of it.
+
+Sir, answered the queen, your majesty will no longer admire at my
+proceeding, when you come to know that this bird, which you take to be
+such, is no bird, but a man. Madam, said the king, more astonished than
+before, you are pleased to banter me, I suppose; but you shall never
+persuade me that a bird can be a man. Sir, replied the queen, far be it
+from me to banter your majesty; yet nothing is more certain than what I
+have had the honour to tell you.
+
+I can assure your majesty it is the king of Persia, named Beder, son of
+the celebrated Gulnare, princess of one of the largest kingdoms of the
+sea, nephew of Saleh, king of that kingdom, and grand-child of queen
+Farasche, mother of Gulnare and Saleh; and it was the princess Giahaure,
+daughter of the king of Samarcand, who thus metamorphosed him into a
+bird. Moreover, that the king might no longer doubt of what she affirmed,
+she told him the whole story, as how, and for what reason, the princess
+Giahaure had thus revenged herself for the ill treatment which king Saleh
+had used towards the king of Samarcand, her father.
+
+The king had the less difficulty to believe this assertion of the
+queen’s, in that he knew her to be a skilful sorceress, perhaps one of
+the greatest in the world; and as she knew every thing which passed in
+it, he was always timely informed of the designs of the kings his
+neighbours against him, and so prevented them. His majesty had compassion
+on the king of Persia, and therefore earnestly besought his queen to
+break the enchantment, that he might return to his own form.
+
+The queen consented to it with great willingness. Sir, said she to the
+king, be pleased to take the bird into your closet, and I will show you a
+thing worthy of the consideration you have for him. The bird, which had
+never minded eating, by reason of his attentiveness to what the king and
+queen said, would not give his majesty the trouble to take him, but
+hopped into the closet before him; and the queen came in soon after, with
+a pot full of water in her hand. She mumbled over the pot some words,
+unknown to the king, till such time as the water began to boil; when she
+took some of it in her hand, and sprinkling a little upon the bird, said,
+By virtue of these holy and mysterious words I am going to pronounce, and
+in the name of the Creator both of heaven and earth, who raises the dead,
+and maintains the universe in its distinct state, quit that form of a
+bird, and reassume that form which thou receivedst from thy Creator.
+
+The words were scarce out of the queen’s mouth, when, instead of a bird,
+the king saw a young prince of good shape, air, and mien. King Beder
+immediately fell on his knees, and thanked God for the mercy that had
+been bestowed upon him. Then he took the king’s hand, who helped him up,
+and kissed it as a token of his acknowledgment; but the king embraced him
+with a great deal of joy, and testified to him the great satisfaction he
+had to see him. He would then have paid his acknowledgments to the queen,
+but she was already retired to her apartment. The king made him sit at
+the table with him, and after supper was over, he prayed him to relate to
+him how the princess Giahaure had had the inhumanity to transform him
+into a bird, so agreeable and amiable a prince as he was; and the king of
+Persia immediately applied himself to satisfy him. When he had done, the
+king, disdaining the proceeding of the princess, could not help blaming
+her. It was commendable, said he, in the princess of Samarcand, not to be
+insensible of the king her father’s ill treatment; but to carry her
+vengeance so far, and especially against one that was not culpable, was
+by no means to be excused, and she will never be able to justify herself.
+But let us have done with this discourse, and tell me, I beseech you, in
+what I can farther serve you.
+
+Sir, answered king Beder, my obligation to your majesty has been so
+great, that I ought to remain with you all my life-time to testify my
+acknowledgments; but since your majesty has set no limits to your
+generosity, I humbly entreat you to grant me one of your ships to
+transport me to Persia, where I fear my absence, which has been but too
+long, may have occasioned some disorder; and moreover, that the queen my
+mother, from whom I concealed my departure, may be dead of grief, under
+the uncertainty she must needs be of my life or of my death.
+
+The king granted what he desired with all the good will imaginable, and
+immediately gave orders for equipping one of his largest ships and best
+sailers in all his numerous fleet. The ship was soon furnished with all
+its complement of men, provisions, and ammunition; and as soon as the
+wind became fair, king Beder embarked, after having taken leave of the
+king, and thanked him for all his favours.
+
+The ship sailed before the wind for ten days together, which made it
+advance considerably. The eleventh day the wind changed, and becoming
+very violent, there followed a furious tempest. The ship was not only
+driven out of its course, but so grievously agitated, that all its masts
+were thrown overboard; and driving along at the pleasure of the wind, it
+at length struck against a rock and bulged.
+
+The greatest part of the people were drowned, though some few were saved
+by swimming, and others by getting on pieces of the wreck. King Beder was
+one of the last; when, after having been tossed about for some time under
+great uncertainty of his fate, he at length perceived himself near the
+shore, and not far from a city that seemed large. He used his utmost
+endeavours to reach the land, and was at length so fortunate to come so
+near as to be able to touch the ground with his feet. He then immediately
+abandoned his piece of wood, which had been of so great service to him;
+but when he came pretty near the shore, he was greatly surprised to see
+horses, camels, mules, asses, oxen, cows, bulls, and other animals,
+crowding towards the shore, and putting themselves in a posture to oppose
+his landing. He had all the difficulty in the world to conquer their
+obstinacy, and force his way; but at length he did it, which when done,
+he sheltered himself among the rocks till such time as he had recovered
+his breath, and dried his clothes in the sun.
+
+When the prince advanced to enter the city, he met with the same
+opposition from these animals, who seemed to intend to make him forego
+his design, and give him to understand it was dangerous to proceed.
+
+King Beder, however, got into the city soon after, and saw many fair and
+spacious streets, but was surprised to find never a man there. This made
+him think it was not without a cause that so many animals had opposed his
+passage. Going forward, nevertheless, he observed divers shops open,
+which gave him reason to believe the place was not destitute of
+inhabitants, as he imagined. He approached one of these shops, where
+several sorts of fruits were exposed to sale, and saluted very
+courteously an old man that was sitting there.
+
+The old man, who was busy about something, suddenly lifted up his head,
+and seeing a youth that showed some grandeur in his air, started, and
+asked him whence he came, and what business had brought him hither. King
+Beder satisfied him in a few words; and the old man farther asked him, if
+he had met any body on the road. You are the first person I have seen,
+answered the king; and I cannot comprehend how so fine and large a city
+comes to be without inhabitants. Come in, sir, stay no longer on the
+threshold, replied the old man, or peradventure some misfortune may
+happen to you. I will satisfy your curiosity at leisure, and give you a
+reason why it is necessary you should take this precaution.
+
+King Beder would not be bid twice. He entered the shop, and sat himself
+down by the old man. The old man, who had learned from him an account of
+his misfortunes, knew he must needs want nourishment, therefore
+immediately presented him with what was necessary to recover his spirits;
+and, although king Beder was very earnest to know why he gave him that
+precaution before he entered the shop, he would nevertheless not be
+prevailed upon to tell him any thing till he had done eating, for fear
+the sad things he had to relate might balk his appetite. In a word, when
+he found he ate no longer, he said to him, You have great reason to thank
+God you got hither without any ill accident. Alas! why? replied king
+Beder, very much surprised and alarmed.
+
+Because, answered he, this city is the city of enchantments, and governed
+not by a king, but a queen, who is not only one of the finest women of
+her sex, but likewise a dangerous sorceress. You will be convinced of
+this, added he, when you come to know that these horses, mules, and other
+animals that you have seen, are so many men like you and me, whom she has
+transformed by her diabolical art: and for young men like you only, that
+come to enter into the city, she has hired servants to stop and bring
+them, either by good will or force, before her. She receives them with
+all the seeming civility in the world: she caresses them, she treats and
+lodges them magnificently, and gives them so many reasons to believe that
+she loves them, that they think they cannot be mistaken. But she does not
+suffer them to enjoy long their happiness. Not one of them but she has
+transformed into some animal or bird, within the space of forty days. You
+told me those animals presented themselves to oppose your landing, and
+hinder your entering the city; and I must now tell you they were your
+friends, and what they did was to make you comprehend the danger you were
+going to expose yourself to.
+
+This account afflicted exceedingly the young king of Persia. Alas! cried
+he out aloud, to what extremities has my ill fortune reduced me! I am
+hardly freed from one enchantment, which I look back upon with horror,
+but I incur another much more terrible to me. This gave him occasion to
+relate his story to the old man much more at length, and to acquaint him
+of his birth and quality, his passion for the princess of Samarcand, and
+her cruelty in changing him into a bird, the very moment he came to see
+and declare his love to her.
+
+When the prince came to that passage where he spoke of his good fortune
+in finding a queen that broke the enchantment, the old man said to him,
+Notwithstanding all I have told you of the magic queen being true, yet
+that ought not to give you the least disquiet, since I am generally
+beloved throughout the city, and am not even unknown to the queen
+herself, who has no small respect for me; therefore it was your peculiar
+happiness to address yourself to me rather than elsewhere. You are secure
+in my house, where I advise you to continue, if you think fit; and,
+provided, you do not stray from hence, I dare assure you, you will have
+no just cause to complain of my breach of faith; so that you are under no
+sort of constraint whatsoever.
+
+King Beder thanked the old man for his kind reception of him, and the
+protection he was pleased to afford him. Then he sat down at the entrance
+into the shop, where he no sooner appeared, than his youth and good mien
+drew the eyes of all that passed that way on him. Many stopped and
+complimented the old man on his having so fine a slave, as they imagined
+the king to be; and they could not comprehend how so beautiful a youth
+could escape the queen’s knowledge. Believe not, said the old man, this
+is a slave: you all know I am not rich enough to have one of this
+consequence: he is my nephew, son of a brother of mine that is dead; and
+as I had no children of my own, I sent for him to keep me company. They
+all congratulated his good fortune, in having so fine a young man for his
+relation; but withal told him, they feared the queen would take him from
+him. You know her well, said they to him; and you cannot be ignorant of
+the danger you expose yourself and nephew to, after all the examples you
+have seen of the kind. How grieved would you be, if she should serve you
+as she has done so many others!
+
+I am obliged to you, gentlemen, replied the old man, for your good will
+towards me, and I thank you for the care you seem to take of my interest;
+but I shall never entertain the least thought that the queen will do me
+any injury, after all the kindness she has professed for me. In case she
+happens to hear of this young man, and speaks to me about him, I doubt
+not but she will be contented to excuse him, as soon as she comes to know
+he is my nephew.
+
+The old man was exceedingly glad to hear the commendations they bestowed
+on the young king of Persia. He was as much affected with them as if he
+had been his own son; and he conceived such a kindness for him, as
+augmented every day during the stay he made with him. They lived about a
+month together, when king Beder, sitting at the shop-door after his
+ordinary manner, queen Labe (so was this magic queen’s name) happened to
+come by with great pomp. The young king no sooner perceived the guards
+coming, who marched before her, than he arose, and going into the shop,
+asked the old man what all that show meant. The queen is coming by,
+answered he; but stand you still, and fear nothing.
+
+The queen’s guards, clothed in purple, and well armed and mounted,
+marched in four files, with their sabres drawn, to the number of a
+thousand, and not one of their officers but, as they passed by the shop,
+saluted the old man. Then followed a like number of eunuchs habited in
+brocade silk, and better mounted, whose officers did the old man the like
+honours. Next came as many young ladies on foot, equally beautiful,
+richly dressed, and set off with precious stones. They marched gravely,
+with half pikes in their hands; and in the midst of them appeared queen
+Labe, on a horse all glittering with diamonds, with a golden saddle, and
+a housing of inestimable price. All the young ladies saluted the old man
+as they passed by him; and the queen, moved with the good mien of king
+Beder, stopped as soon as she came over-against the shop. Abdallah, (so
+was the old man’s name,) said she to him, tell me, I beseech thee, does
+that beautiful and charming slave belong to thee, and is it long that
+thou hast been in possession of him?
+
+Abdallah, before he answered the queen, threw himself on the ground, and
+rising again, said, Madam, he is my nephew, son of a brother I had, who
+has been dead for some time. Having no children, I look upon him as my
+son, and sent for him to come and comfort me, intending to leave him what
+I have when I die.
+
+Queen Labe, who had never yet seen any one that pleased her so well as
+king Beder, and who began to conceive a mighty passion for him, thought
+immediately of getting the old man to abandon him to her. Father, quoth
+she, will not you oblige me so far as to make me a present of this young
+man? Do not refuse me, I conjure you; and I swear by the fire and the
+light, I will make him as great and powerful as ever private man was in
+the world. Although my design be to do evil to all mankind, yet he shall
+be the sole exception. I trust you will grant me what I desire, more on
+account of the friendship you have for me, than the esteem you know I
+have always had, and shall ever have, for your person.
+
+Madam, replied the good Abdallah, I am infinitely obliged to your majesty
+for all the kindness you have for me, and the honours you propose to do
+my nephew. He is not worthy to approach so great a queen, and I humbly
+beseech your majesty to excuse him.
+
+Abdallah, replied the queen, I all along flattered myself you loved me,
+and I could never have thought you would have given me so evident a token
+of your slighting my request: but I swear once more by the fire and
+light, and even by whatsoever is most sacred in my religion, that I will
+pass on no farther until I have conquered thy obstinacy. I understand
+very well what raises fears in thee; but I here promise, thou shalt never
+have any occasion to repent thy having trusted me.
+
+Old Abdallah was exceedingly grieved, in relation to king Beder and
+himself, for being in a manner forced to obey the queen. Madam,
+therefore, replied he, I would not willingly have your majesty have an
+ill opinion of the sincere respect I have for you, but would always
+contribute whatever I can to oblige you: I put an entire confidence in
+your royal word, and I do not in the least doubt but you will keep it: I
+only beg of your majesty to delay doing this great honour to my nephew
+till you shall again pass by this way. That shall be to-morrow, quoth the
+queen; and so saying, she inclined her head, as a token of her being
+pleased, and so went forward towards her palace.
+
+When queen Labe and all her attendants were out of sight, the good
+Abdallah said to king Beder, Son, (for so he was wont to call him, for
+fear of some time or other betraying himself in public,) it has not been
+in my power, as you may have observed, to refuse the queen what she
+demanded of me with so great earnestness, to the end I might not force
+her to an extremity of employing her magic both against you and myself.
+But I have some reason to believe she will use you well, as she promised,
+on account of that particular esteem she professes for me. This you may
+have seen, by the respect both she and all her court paid me. She would
+be a cursed creature indeed, if she should deceive me; but in case she
+should, she shall not deceive me unrevenged, for I know how to be even
+with her.
+
+All these assurances, which appeared very doubtful, were not sufficient
+to support king Beder’s spirits. After all you have told me of this
+queen’s wickedness, replied he, you cannot wonder if I am somewhat
+fearful to approach her. I should, it may be, slight all you could tell
+me of her, and suffer myself to be dazzled by the lustre of grandeur that
+surrounds her, if I had not already been at the mercy of a sorceress. The
+condition I was in, through the enchantment of the princess Giahaure, and
+from whence I was delivered only to enter anew into another, has made me
+look upon such a fate with horror. His tears hindered him from going on
+any farther, and sufficiently showed with what repugnance he held himself
+in a manner under a fatal necessity of being delivered to queen Labe.
+
+Son, replied old Abdallah, do not afflict yourself; for though I must own
+there is no great stress to be laid upon the oaths and promises of so
+perfidious a queen, yet I must withal acquaint you, her power extends no
+farther than I am pleased to permit it: she knows it full well herself;
+and that is the reason, and no other, that she pays me so great respect.
+I can quickly hinder her from doing you the least harm, though she should
+be perfidious enough to attempt it. You may entirely depend upon me; and,
+provided you follow exactly the advice I shall give you before I abandon
+you to her, she shall have no more power over you than she has over me.
+
+The magic queen did not fail to pass by the old man’s shop the next day,
+with the same pomp she had done the day before; and Abdallah waited for
+her with great respect. Father, cried she, stopping just against him, you
+may judge of my impatience to have your nephew with me, by my punctual
+coming to put you in mind of your promise: I know you are a man of your
+word, and I cannot think you will break it with me.
+
+Abdallah, who fell on his knees as soon as he saw the queen approaching,
+rose up when she had done speaking; and as he would have nobody hear what
+he had a mind to say to her, he advanced with great respect as far as her
+horse’s head, and then said softly, Puissant queen! I am persuaded your
+majesty will not be offended at my seeming unwillingness to trust my
+nephew with you yesterday, since you cannot be ignorant of the reasons I
+had for it; but I conjure you to lay aside the secrets of that art which
+you possess in so wonderful a degree. I respect my nephew as my own son;
+and your majesty would reduce me to the utmost despair, if you should
+think fit to deal with him as you have done with others.
+
+I promise you once more I will not, replied the queen; and I once more
+repeat the oath I made yesterday, that neither you nor your nephew shall
+have any cause to be offended at me. I see plainly, added she, you are
+not yet well enough acquainted with me: you never saw me yet but through
+a veil; but as I find your nephew worthy of my friendship, I will show
+you I am not any wise unworthy of his. With that she threw off her veil,
+and discovered to king Beder, who came near her with Abdallah, an
+incomparable face: but king Beder was little charmed. It is not enough,
+said he within himself, to be beautiful; one’s actions ought to
+correspond in regularity with one’s features.
+
+While king Beder was making these reflections, with his eyes fixed on
+queen Labe, the old man turned towards him, and, taking him by the arm,
+presented him to her majesty, saying, Here he is, madam; and I beg of
+your majesty once more to remember he is my nephew, and to let him come
+and see me sometimes. The queen promised he should; and, to give a
+farther assurance of her acknowledgment, she caused a bag of a thousand
+pieces of gold to be given him. He excused himself at first from
+receiving them; but she insisted absolutely upon it, and he could not
+refuse her. She had caused a horse to be brought, as richly harnessed and
+set out as her own, for the king of Persia. While he was mounting him, I
+forgot, said the queen to Abdallah, to ask you your nephew’s name; pray
+how is he called? He answered, his name was Beder, (The Full Moon); and
+her majesty replied, Sure his ancestors were mistaken; they ought to have
+given him the name of Shems, (The Sun).
+
+When king Beder was mounted, he would have taken his post behind the
+queen; but she would not suffer him, and made him to ride on her left
+hand. She looked upon Abdallah; and, after having made him an inclination
+with her head, she set forward on her march.
+
+Instead of observing a satisfaction in the people’s faces at the sight of
+their sovereign, king Beder took notice that they rather despised and
+cursed her. The sorceress, said some, has got a new subject to exercise
+her wickedness upon: will Heaven never deliver the world from her
+tyranny? Poor stranger, cried out others, thou art much deceived if thou
+thinkest thy happiness will last long: it is to render thy fall more
+terrible, that she has raised thee so high. This talk gave king Beder to
+understand Abdallah had told him nothing but the truth of queen Labe; but
+as he no longer depended on him, he had recourse to divine Providence to
+free him from the danger he was got into.
+
+The magic queen arrived at her palace, whither she was no sooner come,
+than she alighted, and, giving her hand to king Beder, entered with him,
+accompanied by her women and the officers of her eunuchs. She herself
+showed him all her apartments, where there was nothing to be seen but
+massy gold, precious stones, and furniture of wonderful magnificence.
+When she had carried him into her closet, she led him out into a balcony,
+from whence he observed a garden of surprising beauty. King Beder
+commended all he saw, with a great deal of wit, but nevertheless in such
+a manner that he might not be discovered to be any other than old
+Abdallah’s nephew. They discoursed of divers indifferent matters, till
+such time as news was brought the queen that dinner was upon the table.
+
+The queen and king Beder arose, and went to place themselves at table,
+which was of pure massy gold, and the plates of the same. They began to
+eat, but did not drink till almost the dessert came, when the queen
+caused a cup to be filled with excellent wine: she took it, and drank to
+king Beder’s health; and then causing it to be filled again, presented it
+to him. King Beder received it with profound respect, and, by a very low
+bow, signified to her majesty that he likewise drank to her health.
+
+Soon after, ten of queen Labe’s women entered with musical instruments,
+with which, accompanied with their voices, they made an agreeable concert
+during the whole drinking, which continued till late at night. At length
+they began to be so heated with wine, that king Beder insensibly forgot
+he had to do with a magic queen, and looked upon her only as the finest
+woman he ever saw. As soon as the queen perceived she had wrought him to
+the pitch she desired, she made a sign to her eunuchs and women to
+retire. They obeyed; and king Beder and she went and lay together all
+night.
+
+Next morning the queen and king Beder went to the bagnio; and as soon as
+they came out, the women who had served the king there, presented him
+with fine linen and a magnificent habit. The queen likewise, who was more
+splendidly dressed than the day before, came to receive him, and they
+went together to her apartment, where they had a good repast brought
+before them, and spent the remainder of the day in walking and other
+amusements.
+
+Queen Labe treated king Beder after this manner for forty days, as she
+had been accustomed to do all her lovers. The fortieth night, as they
+were lying together, she, believing he was really asleep, arose without
+making any noise; but he was awake, and perceiving she had some design
+upon him, watched all her motions. Being up, she opened a chest, from
+whence she took a little box, full of a certain yellow powder. Taking
+some of the powder, she laid a train of it across the chamber, and
+immediately flowed in a rivulet of water, to the great astonishment of
+king Beder. He trembled with fear, but still pretended to sleep, that he
+might not discover to the sorceress he was awake.
+
+Queen Labe next took up some of the water in a pot, and poured it into a
+basin where there was flour, with which she made paste, and kneaded it
+for a long time: then she mixed certain drugs with it, which she took
+from different boxes, and made a cake, and put it into a covered
+baking-pan. As she had taken care at first to make a good fire, she took
+some of the coals, and set the pan upon them; and as the cake was baking,
+she put up her pot and boxes again; and at the pronouncing of certain
+words, dismissed the rivulet, which appeared no more. When the cake was
+baked, she took it off the coals, and carried it into her closet, and
+afterwards returned to bed again to king Beder, who dissembled the matter
+so well with her, that she had not the least suspicion that he knew any
+thing of what she had done.
+
+King Beder, whom the pleasures and delights of a court had made to forget
+his good host Abdallah, began now to think of him again, and believed he
+had more than ordinary occasion for his advice at this juncture, since he
+saw all the queen had done that night. As soon as he was up, therefore,
+he expressed a great desire to go and see his uncle, and begged of her
+majesty to permit him. Alas! my dear Beder, cried the queen, are you then
+already tired, I will not say with the pleasures of so superfine a palace
+as mine is, but with the company of a queen who loves you so passionately
+as I do?
+
+Great queen, answered king Beder, how can I be tired with so many favours
+and graces as your majesty perpetually heaps upon me? Very far from that,
+I desire this permission, madam, purely to go and give my uncle an
+account of the mighty obligations I have to your majesty. I must own
+likewise it is partly in this respect, that my uncle loving me so
+tenderly, as it is very well known he does, and I having been from him
+now forty days, without so much as once seeing him, he will surely take
+it very unkindly if I cannot afford him one visit. Go, said the queen, I
+consent to it; but you will not be long before you return, if you
+consider I cannot possibly live without you. This said, she ordered him a
+fine horse richly caparisoned, and so he departed.
+
+Old Abdallah was overjoyed to see his dear adopted son again; insomuch
+that, without regard to his quality, he embraced him heartily, and king
+Beder returned the like, that nobody might doubt but that he was his
+nephew. As soon as they were sat down, Well, said Abdallah to the king,
+how do you do, sir? and how have you passed your time with that infidel
+sorceress?
+
+Hitherto, answered king Beder, I must needs own she has been
+extraordinary kind to me, and has done all she could to persuade me that
+she loves me entirely; but I observed something last night, which gives
+me just reason to suspect that all her kindness hitherto is but
+dissimulation. Whilst she thought me asleep, although I was really awake,
+she stole from me with a great deal of precaution, which made me suspect
+her intention, and therefore I resolved to watch her. Going on with his
+discourse, he related to Abdallah how, and after what manner, he had seen
+her make the cake; and then added, Hitherto, said he, I must needs
+confess I had almost forgot, not only you, but all the advice you gave me
+concerning the wickedness of this queen: but this last action of hers
+gives me reason to fear she neither intends to observe any of her oaths
+nor promises. I thought of you immediately, and esteem myself happy in
+that I have obtained permission to come to you.
+
+You are not deceived in this wicked queen, replied old Abdallah with a
+smile, to show he did not himself believe she would observe one word she
+spoke, nor oath she made; nothing is capable of obliging a perfidious
+woman to mend her morals. But fear nothing; I have a way to make the
+mischief she intends you fall upon herself. You are become jealous in
+time; and you could not have done better than this, to have recourse to
+me. It is her ordinary practice to keep her lovers only forty days; and
+after that time, instead of sending them home, to turn them into animals
+to stock her forests and parks; but I thought of measures yesterday to
+prevent her doing any harm. The earth has borne this monster long enough,
+and it is now high time she should be served as she deserves.
+
+So saying, Abdallah put two cakes into king Beder’s hands, bidding him
+keep them to make use of as he should direct. You told me, continued he,
+the sorceress made a cake last night: it was for you to eat of, depend
+upon it, but take great care you do not touch it. Nevertheless, do not
+refuse to receive it when she offers it you; but, instead of tasting it,
+break off part of one of the two that I gave you, unobserved, and eat
+that. As soon as she thinks you have swallowed it, she will not fail to
+attempt transforming you into some animal, but she shall not succeed;
+which when she sees, she will immediately turn the thing to pleasantry,
+as if what she had done was only to frighten you; but she will conceal a
+mortal aversion in her heart, and think her having failed proceeded only
+from the want of something in the composition of her cake. As for the
+cake she made, and which she will not know to be her own, you shall make
+a present of it to her, and press her to eat it; which she will not
+refuse to do, if it were only to convince you she does not mistrust you,
+though she has given you so much reason to mistrust her. When she has
+quite eaten it, take a little water in the hollow of your hand, and,
+throwing it in her face, say, Quit that form you now wear, and take that
+of such or such an animal, as you shall think fit; which done, come to me
+with the animal, and I will tell you what you shall do afterwards.
+
+King Beder made all possible acknowledgments to old Abdallah, for the
+great obligations he had to him, for defending him from the wiles of a
+pestilent sorceress who sought to ruin him; and after some little
+discourse, he took his leave of him and returned to the palace. Upon his
+arrival, he understood that the queen waited for him with great
+impatience in the garden. He went to pay his respects to her, and she no
+sooner perceived him, than she came in great haste to meet him. My dear
+Beder! said she, it is said, with a great deal of reason, that nothing
+moves more the force and excess of love than absence from the object
+beloved. I have had no quiet since I saw you, and the minutes I have been
+separated from you have seemed so many ages; nay, if you had staid ever
+so little longer, I was preparing to come and fetch you once more to my
+arms.
+
+Madam, replied king Beder, I can assure your majesty that I have not been
+under less disquiets on your account; but I could not refuse to stay a
+little longer than ordinary with an uncle who loves me so dearly, and had
+not seen me for so long a while. He would have kept me still longer, but
+I tore myself away from him to come and pay my vows where they are so
+much due. Of all the collations he prepared for me, I have only brought
+away this cake, which I desire your majesty to accept. King Beder had
+wrapped up one of the two cakes in a handkerchief very neatly, took it
+out, and presented it to the queen, saying, I beg your majesty to accept
+of it, though it be so inconsiderable a present.
+
+I do accept of it with all my heart, replied the queen, receiving it, and
+will eat it cheerfully for yours and your good uncle’s sake: but before I
+taste of it, I desire you will eat a piece of mine, which I have made for
+you during your absence. Fair queen, answered king Beder, receiving it
+with great respect, such hands as your majesty’s can never make any thing
+but what is excellent; and the favour hereby done me will exact an
+eternal acknowledgment.
+
+King Beder then substituted, in the place of the queen’s cake, the other
+which old Abdallah had given him, and having broken off a piece, he put
+it to his mouth, and cried, while he was eating, Ah! queen, I never
+tasted any thing so charming in my life. They being near a cascade, the
+sorceress seeing him swallow one bit of the cake, and ready to eat
+another, she took a little water in the palm of her hand, and throwing it
+on the king’s face, said, Wretch! quit that form of a man thou bearest,
+and take that of a vile horse, lame and blind.
+
+These words not having the desired effect, the sorceress was strangely
+surprised to find king Beder still in the same form, and that he only
+started, being a little frightened. Blushes came suddenly into her
+cheeks; and as she saw that she had missed her aim, Dear Beder, cries
+she, this is nothing, recover thyself; I did not intend thee any harm;
+what I did, was only to see what thou wouldst say. I should be the most
+miserable and execrable of women, should I attempt aught against thy
+tranquillity; I do not only say, after all the oaths I made to the
+contrary, but even after so many testimonies of love as I have given
+thee.
+
+Puissant queen, replied king Beder, however well satisfied I were, that
+what your majesty did was only to divert yourself, yet I could not help
+being a little frightened with the surprise. Also, what could hinder me
+from being a little moved at the pronouncing of such terrible words, as
+are capable of making so strange a transformation? But, madam, continued
+he, let us set aside this discourse; and since I have ate of your cake, I
+desire you would do me the like favour by tasting of mine.
+
+Queen Labe, who could no better justify herself than by putting this
+confidence in the king of Persia, broke off a piece of his cake and ate
+it; which she had no sooner done, than she appeared much troubled, and
+remained, as it were, motionless. King Beder, seeing his time, took water
+out of the same basin she had done, and, throwing it in her face, cried,
+Abominable sorceress! quit that form of a woman, and be turned instantly
+into a mare.
+
+The same instant queen Labe was transformed into a very beautiful mare;
+and she was so concerned to find herself in that condition, that she shed
+tears in great abundance, which perhaps no mare before had been ever
+known to do. She bowed her head with great obeisance to king Beder,
+thinking to move him to compassion; but, though he could have been so
+moved, it was absolutely out of his power to repair the damage he had
+done her. He led her then into the stable belonging to the palace, and
+put her into the hands of a groom, to bridle and saddle; but of all the
+bridles he tried upon her, not one would fit her. This made him cause two
+horses to be saddled, one for the groom and the other for himself; and
+the groom led the mare after him to old Abdallah’s.
+
+Abdallah, seeing king Beder coming with the mare at a distance, doubted
+not but he had done what he advised him. Cursed sorceress! said he
+immediately to himself very joyfully. Heaven has at length punished thee
+as thou deservest. King Beder alighted at Abdallah’s door, and entered
+with him into the shop embracing and thanking him for all the signal
+services he had done him. He related to him the whole matter, with all
+its circumstances; and moreover told him, he could find no bridle fit for
+the mare. Abdallah found one that fitted exactly; and as soon as king
+Beder had sent back the groom, he said to him, My lord, you have no
+reason to stay any longer in this city; take the mare, mount her, and
+return to your kingdom. I have but one thing more to recommend to you;
+and that is, if ever you should happen to part with the mare, be sure to
+deliver her bridle. King Beder promised to observe all his commands, and
+this especially; and so, having taken leave of the good old man, he
+departed.
+
+The young king of Persia no sooner got out of the city, than he began to
+reflect on the deliverance he had had, and to rejoice he had the
+sorceress in his power, who had given him so much cause to tremble. Three
+days after, he arrived at a great city, where, entering the suburbs, he
+met a venerable old man, walking on foot towards a pleasure-house he had
+hard by: Sir, said the old man to him, stopping, may I presume to ask
+from what part of the world you come? The king stopped to satisfy him;
+and, as they were discoursing together, an old woman chanced to come by,
+who, stopping likewise, wept and sighed bitterly at the sight of the
+mare.
+
+King Beder and the old man left off discoursing, to look on the old
+woman, whom the king asked, whom she had to lament so much. Alas! sir,
+replied she, It is because your mare resembles so perfectly one my son
+had, and which I still mourn the loss of on this account, and should
+think yours were the same, did I not know she was dead. Sell her to me,
+sir, I beseech you, and I will give you even more than she is worth, for
+the sake of the person that once owned her likeness.
+
+Good woman, replied king Beder, I am heartily sorry I cannot comply with
+your request; my mare is not to be sold. Alas! sir, continued the old
+woman, do not refuse me this favour, for the love of God. I conjure you
+to do it out of pure charity, since my son and I shall certainly die with
+grief if you do not grant it. Good mother, replied the king, I would
+grant it with all my heart, if I was disposed to part with so good a
+beast; but if I were so disposed, I believe you would hardly give a
+thousand pieces of gold for her, which is the lowest price I shall ever
+put upon her. Why should I not give so much? replied the old woman: if
+that be the lowest price, you need only say you will take it, and I will
+fetch you the money.
+
+King Beder, seeing the old woman so poorly dressed, could not imagine she
+could find the money; therefore, to try her, he said, not thinking to
+part with his mare for all that, Go fetch me the money, and the mare is
+yours. The old woman immediately unloosed a purse she had fastened to her
+girdle, and desiring him to alight, bade him tell over the money: and, in
+case he found it came short of the sum demanded, her house was not far
+off, and she could quickly fetch the rest.
+
+The surprise king Beder was in at the sight of this purse was not small.
+Good woman, said he, do you not perceive I have bantered you all this
+while? I will assure you my mare is not to be sold.
+
+The old man, who had been witness to all that was said, now began to
+speak: Son, quoth he to king Beder, it is necessary you should know one
+thing, which I find you are ignorant of; and that is, that in this city
+it is not permitted any one to lie, on any account whatsoever, and that
+on pain of death: now, you having made this bargain with this old woman,
+you must not refuse her money, and delivering your mare according to the
+agreement; and this you had better do without any noise, than expose
+yourself to what may ensue.
+
+King Beder, sorely afflicted to find himself thus trapped by his rash
+proffer, was nevertheless forced to alight and perform his agreement. The
+old woman stood ready to seize the bridle; which when she had done, she
+immediately unbridled the mare, and taking some water in her hand from a
+spring that ran in the middle of the street, she threw it in the mare’s
+face, uttering these words: Daughter, quit that bestial form, and
+reassume thy own. The transformation was effected in a moment; and king
+Beder, who swooned as soon as he saw queen Labe appear, would have fallen
+to the ground, if the old man had not hindered him.
+
+The old woman, who was mother to queen Labe, and who had instructed her
+in all her magic, had no sooner embraced her daughter, than in an
+instant, she, by whistling, caused a genie to rise, of a gigantic form
+and stature: this genie immediately took king Beder on one shoulder, and
+the old woman with the magic queen on the other, and transported them in
+a few minutes to the palace of queen Labe, in the city of enchantments.
+
+The magic queen immediately fell upon king Beder, reproaching him
+grievously, in the following manner: Is it thus, ungrateful wretch, that
+thy unworthy uncle and thou make me amends for all the kindnesses I have
+done for you? I shall soon be able to make you both feel what you so well
+deserve. She said no more, but, taking water in her hand, threw it in his
+face, with these words, Come out of that form, and take that of a vile
+owl. These words were soon followed by the effect; and immediately she
+commanded one of her women to shut up the owl in a cage, and give him
+neither meat nor drink.
+
+The woman took the cage, and, without regarding what the queen ordered,
+gave him both meat and drink; and being old Abdallah’s friend, she sent
+him word privately how the queen had treated his nephew, and what design
+she had taken to destroy him and king Beder, in case he did not take
+timely measures to prevent it.
+
+Abdallah knew no common measures would do with queen Labe; he therefore
+did but whistle after a certain manner, and there immediately rose a vast
+giant, with four wings, who presented himself before him, and asked what
+he would have with him. Lightning, said Abdallah to him, (for so was the
+genie’s name,) I command you to preserve the life of king Beder, son of
+the queen Gulnare. Go to the palace of the magic queen, and transport
+immediately to the capital of Persia the compassionate woman who has the
+cage in custody, that she may inform queen Gulnare of the danger the king
+her son is in, and the occasion he has of her assistance. Take care not
+to fright her when you come before her, and acquaint her from me what she
+ought to do.
+
+Lightning immediately disappeared, and got in an instant to the palace of
+the magic queen. He instructed the woman, lifted her up into the air, and
+transported her to the capital of Persia, where he placed her on the
+terrace of the apartment where queen Gulnare was. She went down stairs to
+the apartment, and she there found queen Gulnare and queen Farasche,
+lamenting their mutual misfortunes. She made them a profound reverence,
+and, by the relation she gave them, they soon came to understand the
+great necessity king Beder was in of their assistance.
+
+Queen Gulnare was so overjoyed at the news, that, rising from her seat,
+she went and embraced the good woman, telling her how much she was
+obliged to her for the service she had done her.
+
+Then going immediately out, she commanded the trumpets to sound and the
+drums to beat, to acquaint the city, that the king of Persia would
+suddenly return safe to his kingdom. She then went again, and found king
+Saleh her brother, whom Farasche had caused to come speedily thither, by
+a certain fumigation. Brother, said she to him, the king your nephew, and
+my dear son, is in the city of enchantments, under the power of queen
+Labe. Both you and I must see what we can do to deliver him, for there is
+no time to be lost.
+
+King Saleh forthwith assembled a puissant body of sea-troops, and even
+called to his assistance the genies his allies, who appeared with a much
+more numerous army. As soon as the two armies were joined, he put himself
+at the head of them, together with queen Farasche, queen Gulnare, and the
+princesses, who would all have their share in this glorious action. They
+then lifted themselves up into the air, and soon poured down on the
+palace and city of enchantments, where the magic queen, her mother, and
+all the other adorers of fire, were destroyed in an instant.
+
+Queen Gulnare had ordered the woman who brought her the news of queen
+Labe’s transforming and imprisoning her son, to follow her close, and
+bade her, in her hurly-burly, to take no other care than to go and seize
+the cage, and bring it to her. She did as she was ordered, and queen
+Gulnare was no sooner in the possession of the cage, than she opened it,
+and took the owl out, saying, after she had sprinkled a little water upon
+him, My dear son, quit that foreign form which has been given thee, and
+resume thy natural one of a man. In a moment queen Gulnare no more saw
+the hideous owl, but king Beder her son instead of him. She immediately
+embraced him with that excess of joy which is better expressed by actions
+than words. She could not find in her heart to let him go; and, if he had
+not been in a manner torn from her by queen Farasche, who had a mind to
+embrace him in her turn, for aught I know, they might not have parted
+till now, so great queen Gulnare’s affection was for him. After the queen
+his grandmother had done with him, he was likewise embraced by the king
+his uncle, and the princesses his relations.
+
+The next care queen Gulnare had, was to look out for old Abdallah, to
+whom she had been obliged for the recovery of the king of Persia; and
+who, being brought to her, she said to him, My obligations to you, sir,
+have been so great, that there is nothing within my power but I will
+freely do for you as a token of my acknowledgment. Do but satisfy me in
+what I can serve you; and you shall see I will immediately set about it.
+Great queen, replied Abdallah, if the lady next to your majesty will but
+consent to the marriage I offer her, and the king of Persia will give me
+leave to reside at his court, I will spend the remainder of my days in
+his service. The queen turned towards the lady; and, finding by her
+modesty that she was not against the match proposed, she caused them to
+join hands, and the king of Persia and she took care of their fortune.
+
+This marriage occasioned the king of Persia to speak thus, addressing
+himself to the queen: Madam, I am heartily glad of this match which your
+majesty has just now made: there remains one more, which I desire you to
+think of. Queen Gulnare did not at first comprehend what marriage he
+meant; but, after a little considering, she said, Of yours do you mean,
+son? I consent to it with all my heart. Then, turning about, and looking
+on her brother’s sea-attendants, and the genies, who were still present,
+she said, Go you, and traverse both the sea and land, to find out the
+most lovely and amiable princess, worthy of the king my son, and come and
+bring us word.
+
+Madam, replied king Beder, it is to no purpose for them to take all that
+pains. You have, no doubt, heard that I have already given my heart to
+the princess of Samarcand, upon the bare relation of her beauty. I have
+seen her, and do not repent of the present I then made her. In a word,
+neither earth nor sea, in my opinion, can furnish a princess any thing
+like her. It is true, upon declaring my love to her, she used me after a
+rate that would have extinguished any flame less fierce than mine: but I
+hold her excused; for, after a rigorous treatment, and imprisoning the
+king her father, which I was in some measure the cause of, how could she
+use me more civilly? But, it may be, the king of Samarcand may have
+changed his resolution; and his daughter, the princess, may consent to
+love me, when she sees her father has agreed to it.
+
+Son, replied queen Gulnare, if only the princess Giahaure can make you
+happy in this world, I shall not make it my business to oppose you. The
+king your uncle need only have the king of Samarcand brought, and we
+shall see whether he be still of the same untractable temper.
+
+How strictly soever the king of Samarcand had been kept during his
+captivity, by king Saleh’s orders, yet he always had great respect shown
+him, and was become very familiar with the officers that guarded him. In
+order to bring him, king Saleh caused a chafing dish of coals to be
+brought, into which he threw a certain composition, uttering at the same
+time some mysterious words. As soon as the smoke began to arise, the
+palace shook, and immediately the king of Samarcand, with king Saleh’s
+officers, appeared. The king of Persia cast himself at the king of
+Samarcand’s feet; and then, rising upon one knee, he said, It is no
+longer king Saleh that demands of your majesty the honour of your
+alliance for the king of Persia: it is the king of Persia himself that
+humbly begs that boon; and I persuade myself your majesty will never
+persist in being the cause of the death of a king, who can no longer live
+than he is in the possession of the adorable princess Giahaure.
+
+The king of Samarcand did not long suffer the king of Persia to remain on
+his knee; he took him up, and embracing him, said, I should be very sorry
+to have contributed in the least towards the death of a monarch who is so
+worthy to live. If it be true that so precious a life cannot be
+preserved, without being in possession of my daughter, live, sir, and
+live happy; she is yours. She has always hitherto been obedient to my
+will, and I cannot think she will now oppose it. Speaking these words, he
+ordered one of the officers that king Saleh had assigned him, to go and
+look for the princess Giahaure, and bring her to him immediately.
+
+The princess continued all this while where the king of Persia had left
+her. The officer brought her with her women to attend her. The king of
+Samarcand embraced her, and said, Daughter, I have provided a husband for
+you: it is the king of Persia you see there, the most accomplished
+monarch at this juncture in the universe. The preference he has given you
+to all other princesses obliges us both to make him suitable
+acknowledgments.
+
+Sir, replied the princess Giahaure, your majesty well knows I have never
+presumed to disobey your will in any thing: I shall be always ready to
+obey you; and I hope the king of Persia will please to forget the ill
+treatment I gave him, and consider it was duty, not inclination, that
+forced me to it.
+
+The nuptials were celebrated in the palace of the city of enchantments,
+with so much the greater solemnity, as all the lovers of the magic queen,
+who resumed their pristine forms as soon as ever that queen ceased to
+live, assisted at them, and came to pay their acknowledgments to the king
+of Persia, queen Gulnare, and king Saleh. They were all either sons of
+kings, or princes of extraordinary merit.
+
+King Saleh at length conducted the king of Samarcand to his dominions,
+and put him once again in possession of them. The king of Persia, having
+what he most desired, returned to his capital with queen Giahaure, queen
+Gulnare, queen Farasche, and the princesses; and queen Farasche and the
+princesses continued there, till such time as king Saleh came to
+re-conduct them to his kingdom under the waves of the sea.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+  GANEM, SON TO ABOU AYOUB, AND KNOWN BY THE SURNAME OF LOVE’S SLAVE.
+
+
+There was formerly a merchant at Damascus, who had, by care and industry,
+acquired great wealth, on which he lived in a very honourable manner. His
+name was Abou Ayoub, and he had one son and a daughter. The son was at
+first called Ganem, but afterwards had the surname of Love’s Slave. He
+was graceful as to his person, and the excellent natural qualities of his
+mind had been improved by able masters his father had taken care to
+provide him. The daughter’s name was Alcolomb, signifying ravisher of
+hearts, because her beauty was so accomplished, that whosoever saw her
+could not but love her.
+
+Abou Ayoub died, and left immense riches: an hundred loads of brocades,
+and other silks that lay in his warehouse, were the least part of it. The
+loads were ready made up, and on every bale was written, in large
+characters, “For Bagdad.”
+
+Mohammed, the son of Soliman, surnamed Zinebi, reigned at that time in
+Damascus, the capital of Syria. His kinsman Haroun Alraschid, whose
+residence was at Bagdad, had bestowed this kingdom on him as tributary to
+him.
+
+Soon after the death of Abou Ayoub, Ganem, discoursing with his mother
+about their private affairs, among the rest, concerning the bales of
+merchandise that lay in the warehouse, asked her the meaning of what was
+written upon each bale. My son, answered his mother, your father used to
+travel sometimes into one province and sometimes into another, and it was
+customary with him, before he set out, to write the name of the city he
+designed to repair to on every bale. He had provided all things to take a
+journey to Bagdad, and was upon the point of setting forwards, when
+death——She had not the power to proceed any farther; the lively
+remembrance of the loss of her husband would not permit her to say any
+more, and drew from her a shower of tears.
+
+Ganem could not see his mother so sensibly affected without relenting.
+Thus they continued some time in silence; but at length he recovered
+himself; and, as soon as he found his mother calm enough to listen to
+him, he directed his discourse to her, and said: Since my father designed
+these goods for Bagdad, and is no longer in being to put his design in
+execution, I will prepare myself to perform that journey; and I am of
+opinion, it will be proper for me to expedite my departure, for fear
+those commodities should perish, or, at least, that we lose the
+opportunity of selling them to the best advantage.
+
+Abou Ayoub’s widow, who tenderly loved her son, was much surprised at
+this resolution; and replied, My dear child, I cannot but commend you for
+designing to follow your father’s example; but consider that you are too
+young, inexperienced, and altogether a stranger to the toils of
+travelling. Besides, can you think of leaving me, and by that means add
+to that sorrow with which I am already oppressed? Is it not better to
+sell those goods to the merchants of Damascus, and to take up with a
+moderate profit, than to expose yourself to the danger of perishing?
+
+It was in vain for her to oppose Ganem’s resolution by the strongest
+arguments, for they had no weight with him. An inclination to travel, and
+to accomplish himself by a thorough knowledge of the affairs of the
+world, urged him on to set out, and prevailed above all his mother’s
+remonstrances, her entreaties, and even her tears. He went away to the
+market where the slaves are sold, and bought such as were able of body,
+hired one hundred camels, and, having furnished all other necessaries, he
+entered upon his journey, with five or six merchants of Damascus, who
+were going to trade at Bagdad.
+
+Those merchants, attended by all their slaves, and accompanied by several
+other travellers, made up such a considerable caravan, that they had no
+occasion to fear the Bedouins, that is, the Arabs who make it their only
+profession to range the country, and to attack and plunder the caravans
+which are not strong enough to repulse them. Thus they had no other
+difficulty to encounter than the usual fatigues of a long journey, which
+were easily forgot when they saw the city of Bagdad, where they arrived
+in safety.
+
+They went to alight at the most magnificent and most resorted khan in the
+city; but Ganem, who had a mind to be lodged conveniently, and by
+himself, took no apartment there. He only left his goods in a warehouse
+for their greater security, and hired a very fine house in the
+neighbourhood, richly furnished; having a garden, which was very
+delightful, on account of the many water-works and shady groves that were
+in it.
+
+Some days after this young merchant had been settled in his house, and
+perfectly recovered of the fatigue of his journey, he dressed himself
+genteelly, and repaired to the public place where the merchants meet to
+buy and sell their commodities, with a slave following him, carrying a
+parcel of fine stuffs and silks.
+
+The merchants received Ganem very courteously, and their syndic, or
+chief, to whom he first made application, bought all his parcel at the
+price set down in the ticket annexed to every piece of stuff. Ganem
+continued his trade so successfully, that he daily sold all the goods he
+exposed.
+
+He had no more left than one bale, which he had caused to be carried from
+the warehouse to his own house, and then went to the public rendezvous,
+where he found all the shops shut. This seemed somewhat extraordinary to
+him; and, having asked the cause of it, was told, that one of the prime
+merchants, whom he knew, was dead, and that all his brother traders were
+gone to his funeral.
+
+Ganem inquired after the mosque where the ceremony was to be performed,
+and whence the body was to be conducted to the grave; and having been
+told it, sent back his slaves with the goods, and walked towards the
+mosque. He got thither before the prayers were ended, which were said in
+a hall hung with black satin. The corpse was taken up and followed by the
+kindred, the merchants, and Ganem, to the place of burial, which was at a
+great distance without the city. It was a stone structure, like a dome,
+purposely built to receive the bodies of all the family of the deceased,
+and, being very small, they had pitched tents all about it, that all the
+company might be sheltered during the ceremony. The monument was opened,
+and the corpse laid into it, after which it was shut up again. Then the
+iman, and other ministers of the mosque, sat down in a ring on carpets,
+in the largest tent, and said the rest of the prayers. They also read the
+chapters of the Alcoran appointed for the burial of the dead. The kindred
+and merchants sat round in the same manner behind the ministers.
+
+It was near night before the whole was ended. Ganem, who had not expected
+such a long ceremony, began to be uneasy; and was the more so, when he
+saw meat served up in memory of the deceased, according to the custom of
+Bagdad. He was also told that the tents had been set up, not only against
+the heat of the sun, but also against the evening dew, because they
+should not return to the city before the next morning. These words
+perplexed Ganem: I am a stranger, said he to himself, and have the
+reputation of being a rich merchant: thieves may take this opportunity of
+my absence, and go rob my house: my very slaves may be tempted to make
+their advantage of so convenient a time; they may run away with all the
+gold I have received for my goods; and whither shall I look for them? His
+head being full of these thoughts, he ate a few mouthfuls hastily, and
+dexterously slipped away from the company.
+
+He made all possible haste to gain time; but, as it often happens, the
+more a man puts on, the less he advances: he mistook his way, and went
+astray in the dark; so that it was near midnight when he came to the
+city-gate; and, to add to this misfortune, that was shut. That
+disappointment was a fresh affliction to him; and he was obliged to think
+of finding some convenient place to pass the rest of the night in, and
+wait till the gate was opened. He went into a burial-place, so very
+spacious, that it reached from the city to the very place he was come
+from. He advanced to a parcel of pretty high walls, which enclosed a
+small field, being the peculiar burying-place of a family, and in which
+there was a palm-tree. There was an infinite number of other particular
+burial-places, the doors whereof they did not take much care to shut
+fast. Ganem, finding that this burial-place was open, went into it, and
+put to the door after him. He lay down on the grass, and did all he could
+to sleep; but the uneasiness he was under, for being absent from home,
+would not permit him. He got up; and, after having passed by the door
+several times, as he walked forwards and backwards, he opened it, without
+knowing why he did so, and immediately perceived a light at a distance,
+which seemed to come towards him. He was startled at that sight, put to
+the door, which had nothing to make it fast but a latch, and got up as
+fast as he could to the top of the palm-tree, looking upon that as the
+safest retreat under his present apprehensions. No sooner was he got up,
+than, by the help of the light which had frightened him, he plainly
+perceived three men, whom, by their habit, he knew to be slaves, come
+into the burial-place. One of them went foremost with a lantern, and the
+two others followed him, being loaded with a chest, between five and six
+feet long, which they carried on their shoulders. They laid it down, and
+then one of the three slaves said to his comrades, Brothers, if you will
+be advised by me, we will leave the chest here, and return to the city.
+No, no, replied another, that is not the way of doing what we were
+ordered by our mistress; we may have cause to repent our not doing as we
+were commanded: let us bury the chest, since we are so enjoined to do.
+The two other slaves complied with him; so they began to break ground
+with the tools they had brought for that purpose. When they had made a
+deep trench, they put the chest into it, and covered it with the earth
+they had taken out; then departed, and returned home.
+
+Ganem, who, from the top of the palm-tree, had heard every word the
+slaves had spoken, could not tell what to think of that adventure. He
+concluded that chest must needs contain something of value, and that the
+person to whom it belonged had some particular reasons for causing it to
+be buried in that church-yard. He resolved immediately to satisfy his
+curiosity, came down from the palm-tree, his fear being gone with the
+slaves, and fell to work upon the pit, plying his hands and feet so well,
+that in a short time he discovered the chest, but found it secured with a
+great padlock. This new obstacle to the satisfying of his curiosity was
+no small mortification to him: yet he would not be discouraged; but the
+day beginning then to appear, he saw several great pebbles about the
+burial-place: he picked out one, with which he easily knocked off the
+padlock, and then, with much impatience, opened the chest. Ganem was
+strangely surprised, when, instead of finding money in it, he discovered
+a young lady of incomparable beauty. Her fresh and rosy complexion, and
+her gentle regular breathing, satisfied him that she was alive; but he
+could not conceive, why, if she were only asleep, she had not awaked at
+the noise he made in forcing off the padlock. Her habit was so costly,
+with bracelets and pendants of diamonds, and a necklace of true pearl,
+and so large, that he made not the least doubt of her being one of the
+prime ladies about the court. At the sight of so beautiful an object, not
+only natural inclination to relieve persons in danger, but also something
+more powerful, which Ganem could not then give an account of, prevailed
+on him to afford that young beauty all the assistance he was able.
+
+[Illustration p170: Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chas. Heath.]
+
+He first shut the gate of the burial-place, which the slaves had left
+open, then returning, took the lady in his arms out of the chest, and
+laid her on the soft earth he had thrown off the chest. As soon as the
+lady was laid down, and had the benefit of the open air, she sneezed; and
+having made a motion in turning her head there came from her mouth a
+liquor, which seemed to have been offensive to her stomach; then opening
+and rubbing her eyes, she, with such a voice as charmed Ganem, whom she
+did not see, cried out, Zohorob Bostan, Schragrom Matglon, Cassabos
+Soucear, Nouron Nihar, Nagmatos Sobi, Nour Hatos Zoman, why do you not
+answer? where are you? Those were the names of six female slaves that
+used to wait on her, and signified, Flower of the Garden, Branch of
+Coral, Sugar Cane, Light of the Day, Morning Star, and Delight of the
+Season. She called them, and wondered that nobody answered; but at length
+looking about, and perceiving she was in a burial-place, she was in a
+mighty fright. How now, cried she, much louder than before, is this the
+resurrection of the dead? Is the day of judgment come? What a wonderful
+change is this from night to morning!
+
+Ganem did not think fit to leave the lady any longer in that confusion,
+but immediately appeared before her with all possible respect; and, in
+the most courteous manner, said, Madam, I am scarce able to express my
+joy, for having happened to be here to do you the service I have done,
+and for being present to offer you all the assistance you shall stand in
+need of, under your present circumstances.
+
+In order to persuade the lady to repose all her confidence in him, he, in
+the first place, told her who he was, and what accident it was that had
+brought him into that place. Next, he acquainted her with the coming of
+the three slaves, and how they had buried the chest. The lady, who had
+covered her face with her veil as soon as Ganem appeared, was
+extraordinarily sensible of the obligations she owed him. I return thanks
+to God, said she, for having sent so worthy a person as you are to
+deliver me from death; but, since you have begun so charitable a work, I
+conjure you not to leave it imperfect. Let me beg of you to go into the
+city, and provide a muleteer to come with his mule, and carry me to your
+house in the chest; for, should I go in with you on foot, my dress being
+different from that of the city-ladies, some one might happen to take
+notice of it, and follow me, which it highly concerns me to prevent. When
+I shall be in your house, I will give you an account of myself; and, in
+the mean time, be assured that you have not obliged an ungrateful person.
+
+Before the young merchant left the lady, he drew the chest out of the
+pit, which he filled up with the earth, laid her again in the chest, and
+shut it in such a manner, that it did not look as if the padlock had been
+forced off; but, for fear of stifling her, he put it not quite close,
+leaving room for the air to get in. Going out of the burial-place, he
+drew the door after him; and the city-gate being then open, soon found
+what he sought for. He returned with speed to the burial-place, and
+helped the muleteer to lay the chest across his mule; telling him, to
+remove all causes of suspicion, that he came to that place the night
+before, with another muleteer, who, being in haste to return home, had
+laid down the chest in the burial-place.
+
+Ganem, who had minded nothing but his business since his arrival at
+Bagdad, was still unacquainted with the power of love, and now felt the
+first sallies of it. It had not been in his power to look upon the young
+lady without being disturbed; and the uneasiness he felt, following the
+muleteer at a distance, and the fear lest any accident might happen by
+the way that should deprive him of his conquest, taught him to unravel
+his intricate thoughts. It was an extraordinary satisfaction to him,
+when, being arrived safe at home, he saw the chest unloaded. He dismissed
+the muleteer; and having caused a slave to shut the doors of his house,
+he opened the chest, helped the lady out, gave her his hand, and
+conducted her to his apartment, lamenting how much she must have endured
+in that close confinement. If I have suffered, said she, I have
+satisfaction enough in what you have done me, and in the pleasure of
+seeing myself out of danger.
+
+Though Ganem’s apartment was very richly furnished, the lady did not so
+much regard that, as she did the handsome presence and engaging mien of
+her deliverer, whose politeness and obliging behaviour highly heightened
+her gratitude. She sat down on a sofa; and, to begin to give the merchant
+to understand how sensible she was of the service done her, she took off
+her veil. Ganem, on his part, was sensible of the favour so lovely a lady
+did in uncovering herself, or rather felt he had already a most violent
+passion for her. Whatsoever obligations she owed him, he thought himself
+more than requited by so singular a favour.
+
+The lady dived into Ganem’s thoughts, yet was not at all surprised,
+because he appeared very full of respect. He, judging she might have
+occasion to eat, and not willing to trust any but himself with the care
+of entertaining so charming a guest, went out with a slave to an
+eating-house to give directions for a treat. From thence he went to a
+fruit-seller, where he chose the finest and most excellent fruit; buying
+also the choicest wine, and some of the same bread that was eaten at the
+caliph’s table.
+
+As soon as he returned home, he, with his own hands, made a pyramid of
+the fruit he had bought, and served it up himself to the lady, in a large
+dish of the finest china ware, saying, Madam, be pleased to make choice
+of some of this fruit, while a more solid entertainment, and more worthy
+yourself, is made ready. He would fain have continued standing before
+her; but she declared she would not touch any thing, unless he sat down
+and ate with her. He obeyed; and when they had eaten some small matter,
+Ganem observing that the lady’s veil, which she had laid down by her on a
+sofa, was embroidered along the edge with golden letters, begged leave of
+her to look upon that embroidery. The lady immediately took up the veil,
+and delivered it to him, asking him whether he could read. Madam, replied
+he, with a modest air, a merchant would be able to manage his business
+very ill, if he could not at least read and write. Well then, said she,
+read the words which are embroidered on that veil, which gives me an
+opportunity of telling you my story.
+
+Ganem took the veil, and read these words, ‘I am yours, and you are mine,
+thou descendant from the prophet’s uncle.’ That descendant from the
+prophet’s uncle was the caliph Haroun Alraschid, who then reigned, and
+was descended from Abbas, Mahomet’s uncle.
+
+When Ganem perceived the sense of these words, Alas! madam, said he, in a
+melancholy tone, I have just saved your life, and this embroidery is my
+death! I do not comprehend all the mystery; but it makes me too sensible
+that I am the most unfortunate of men. Pardon the liberty I take, madam,
+of telling you so much. It was impossible for me to see you without
+giving you up my heart. You are not ignorant yourself, that it was not in
+my power to refuse it to you; and that makes my presumption excusable. I
+proposed to myself to move yours by my respect, my diligence, my
+complaisance, my assiduity, my submission, and my constancy; and no
+sooner had I flattered myself with that design, than I am robbed of all
+my hopes. But be that as it will, I shall have the satisfaction of dying
+entirely yours. Proceed, madam, I conjure you, to give me a full
+information of my unhappy state.
+
+He could not deliver those words without letting fall some tears. The
+lady was moved, but was so far from being displeased at the declaration
+he made, that she felt an inward joy, for her heart began to yield.
+However, she concealed it; and, as if she had not regarded what Ganem
+said, I would have been very cautious, answered she, of showing you my
+veil, had I thought it would have made you so uneasy; and I do not
+perceive that what I have to say to you can make your condition so
+deplorable as you imagine.
+
+You must understand, proceeded she, in order to acquaint you with my
+story, that my name is Fetnah, (which signifies a storm or tempest) which
+was given me at my birth, because it was judged that the sight of me
+would occasion many calamities. You cannot be a stranger to it, since
+nobody in Bagdad but knows that the caliph Haroun Alraschid, my sovereign
+lord and yours, has a favourite so called.
+
+I was carried into his palace in my very tender years, and I have been
+brought up there with all the care that is usually taken with such
+persons of my sex as are designed to reside there. I made no ill advances
+in all they took the pains to teach me; and that, with some share of
+beauty, gained me the caliph’s affection, who gave me a particular
+apartment adjoining to his own. That prince was not satisfied with such a
+mark of distinction: he appointed twenty women to wait on me, and as many
+eunuchs; and, ever since, he has made me such considerable presents, that
+I was once richer than any queen in the world. You may reasonably judge,
+by what I have said, that Zobeide, the caliph’s wife and kinswoman, could
+not but be jealous of my happiness. Though Haroun has all the regard
+imaginable for her, she has used all her endeavours to ruin me.
+
+Hitherto, I had secured myself against all her snares; but, at length, I
+fell under the last effort of her jealousy; and, were it not for you, I
+had now been exposed to inevitable death. I do not question but that she
+had corrupted one of my slaves, who, last night, in some lemonade, gave
+me a drug, which causes such a deep sleep, that it is easy to dispose of
+those who have taken it; and that sleep is so profound, that nothing can
+dispel it for the space of seven or eight hours. I have the more reason
+to judge so, because naturally I am very light of sleep, and apt to wake
+at the least noise.
+
+Zobeide, the better to put her design in execution, has laid hold of the
+opportunity of the absence of the caliph, who has been gone lately to put
+himself at the head of his troops, to chastise some neighbouring kings,
+who have presumed to join in league to make war on him. Were it not for
+this opportunity, my rival, courageous as she is, durst not have presumed
+to attempt any thing against my life. I know not what she will do to
+conceal this action from the caliph; but you see it highly concerns me
+that you should keep my secret. My life depends on it. I shall be safe in
+your house as long as the caliph is from Bagdad. It behoves you to keep
+my adventure private; for, should Zobeide know the obligation I owe you,
+she would punish you for having saved me.
+
+When the caliph returns, I shall not need to be so much upon my guard. I
+shall find means to acquaint him with all that has happened, and I am
+fully persuaded he will be more earnest than myself to requite a service
+which restores me to his love.
+
+As soon as Haroun Alraschid’s beautiful favourite had done speaking,
+Ganem began, and said, Madam, I return you a thousand thanks for having
+given me the information I took the liberty to desire of you; and I beg
+of you to believe that you are here in safety; the sentiments you have
+inspired in me are a pledge of my secrecy.
+
+As for my slaves, I own there is cause to suspect them; they may perhaps
+fail of the fidelity they owe me, should they know by what accident, and
+in what place I had the good fortune to find you; but it is impossible
+they should guess at that. Nay, I dare assure you that they will not have
+the curiosity to inquire after it. It is so natural for young men to
+purchase beautiful slaves, that it will be no way surprising to them to
+see you here, as believing you to be one, and that I have bought you.
+They will also believe that I had some particular reasons for bringing
+you home as I did. Set your heart therefore at rest as to that point, and
+remain satisfied that you shall be served with all the respect that is
+due to the favourite of so great a monarch as ours is. But how great
+soever he is, give me leave, madam, to declare, that nothing will be able
+to make me recall the present I have made you of my heart. I know, and
+shall never forget, that what belongs to the master is forbidden to the
+slave; but I loved you before you told me that you were engaged to the
+caliph: it is not in my power to overcome a passion, which, though now in
+its infancy, has all the force of a love strengthened by a perfect
+correspondence. I wish your august and most fortunate lover may revenge
+you against the malice of Zobeide, by calling you back to him; and, when
+you shall be restored to his wishes, that you may remember the
+unfortunate Ganem, who is no less your conquest than the caliph. As
+powerful as that prince is, I flatter myself he will not be able to blot
+me out of your memory. If love be your predominant passion, he cannot
+love you more passionately than I do; and I shall never cease to burn in
+your flames, whatsoever part of the world I go into to expire, after
+having lost you.
+
+Fetnah perceived that Ganem was under the greatest of afflictions, and it
+moved her; but, considering the uneasiness she was likely to bring upon
+herself by prosecuting the discourse upon that subject, which might
+insensibly lead her to discover the inclination she felt in herself for
+him, she said, I perceive that this sort of conversation gives you too
+much trouble; let us change the discourse, and talk of the infinite
+obligations I owe you. I can never sufficiently express my satisfaction,
+when I consider that, without your assistance, I had not beheld the light
+of the sun.
+
+It was happy for them both that somebody just then knocked at the door:
+Ganem went to see who it was, and found it was one of his slaves to
+acquaint him that the entertainment was ready. Ganem, who, by way of
+precaution, would have none of his slaves to come into the room where
+Fetnah was, took what was brought, and served it up himself to his
+beautiful guest, whose soul was ravished to behold with what diligence
+and respect he attended her.
+
+When they had eaten, Ganem took away, as he covered the table; and having
+delivered all things at the chamber-door to his slaves, he said to
+Fetnah, Madam, you may now perhaps desire to take some rest; I will leave
+you, and when you have reposed yourself you shall find me ready to
+receive your commands.
+
+Having spoken these words, he left her, and went to buy two women-slaves.
+He also bought two parcels, the one of linen, and the other of all such
+things as were proper to make up a toilet fit for the caliph’s favourite.
+Having conducted home the two women-slaves, he presented them to Fetnah,
+saying, Madam, a person of your quality cannot be without two maids, at
+least, to serve you; be pleased to allow me to give you these.
+
+Fetnah, admiring Ganem’s forecast, My lord, said she, I perceive you are
+not one that will do things by halves: you add by your courtesy to the
+obligations I owe you already; but I hope I shall not die ungrateful, and
+that Heaven will soon put me in a condition to make acknowledgments for
+all your acts of generosity.
+
+When the women-slaves were withdrawn into a chamber adjoining, which the
+young merchant showed them, he sat down on the sofa where Fetnah was;
+but, at some distance from her, in token of the greater respect. He then
+began again to discourse of his passion, and spoke very moving things
+relating to the invincible obstacles which robbed him of all his hopes. I
+dare not so much as hope, said he, by my passion, to excite the least
+sensibility in a heart like yours, destined for the greatest prince in
+the world. Alas! it would be a comfort to me, if I could flatter myself
+that you have not looked upon the excess of my love with indifferency. My
+lord, answered Fetnah—Alas! madam, said Ganem, interrupting her at the
+word lord, this is a second time you have done me the honour to call me
+lord; the presence of the women-slaves hindered me the first time from
+taking notice of it to you: in the name of God, madam, do not give me
+that title of honour; it does not belong to me: treat me, I beseech you,
+as your slave: I am, and shall never cease to be so.
+
+No, no, replied Fetnah, interrupting him in her turn, I shall be cautious
+how I treat a man to whom I owe my life, after that manner. I should be
+ungrateful could I say or do any thing that did not become you. Leave me
+therefore to follow the dictates of my gratitude, and do not require it
+of me that I misbehave myself towards you, in return for the benefits I
+have received. I shall never be guilty of it; I am too sensible of your
+respectful behaviour, to abuse it; and I will not stick to own, that I do
+not look upon all your care with indifferency. You know the reason that
+condemns me to silence.
+
+Ganem was ravished at that declaration: he wept for joy; and not being
+able to find expressions significant enough, in his own conceit, to
+return Fetnah thanks, was satisfied with telling her, that, as she knew
+what she owed to the caliph, he, on his part, was not ignorant, ‘that
+what belongs to the master is forbidden to the servant.’
+
+Night drawing on, he went out to fetch some light, which he brought in
+himself, as also some collation, as is the custom in the city of Bagdad;
+where, having made a good meal at noon, they, at night, are satisfied
+with eating some fruit, and drinking a glass of wine; so diverting the
+time till they go to bed.
+
+They both sat down at table, and at first complimented each other,
+presenting the fruit reciprocally. The excellency of the wine insensibly
+drew them both on to drink; and having drunk two or three glasses, they
+agreed that neither should take another glass without singing some air
+first. Ganem sang verses he composed _extempore_, and which expressed the
+vehemency of his passion; and Fetnah, encouraged by his example, composed
+and sang verses relating to her adventure, and always containing
+something which Ganem might take in a sense that was favourable to him;
+bating, that she nicely observed the fidelity due to the caliph. The
+collation held till very late, and the night was far advanced, before
+they thought of parting. Ganem then withdrew to another apartment,
+leaving Fetnah where she was, and the women-slaves he had bought coming
+in to wait upon her.
+
+They lived together after this manner for several days. The young
+merchant went not abroad, unless upon business of the utmost consequence;
+and, even for that, took the time when his lady was at her rest; for he
+could not prevail upon himself to let slip a moment that might be spent
+in her company. All his thoughts were taken up with his dear Fetnah, who,
+on her side, giving way to her inclination, confessed she had no less
+affection for him than he had for her. However, as fond as they were of
+each other, their respect for the caliph kept them within those bounds
+that were due to him, which still heightened their passion.
+
+While Fetnah, thus snatched from the jaws of death, passed her time so
+agreeably with Ganem, Zobeide was not without some apprehensions in
+Haroun Alraschid’s palace.
+
+As soon as the three slaves intrusted with the execution of her revenge,
+had carried away the chest, without knowing what was in it, or so much as
+the least curiosity to inquire into it, as being used to pay a blind
+obedience to her commands, she was seized with a tormenting uneasiness: a
+thousand perplexing thoughts disturbed her rest; sleep fled from her
+eyes, and she spent the night in contriving how to conceal her crime. My
+consort, said she, loves Fetnah more than ever he did any of his
+favourites. What shall I say to him at his return, when he inquires of me
+after her? Many contrivances occurred to her, but none were satisfactory:
+she still met with difficulties, and knew not where to fix. There lived
+with her an ancient lady, who had bred her up from her infancy: as soon
+as it was day, she sent for her, and having intrusted her with the
+secret, said, Dear mother, you have always been assisting to me with your
+advice; if ever I stood in need of it, it is now; when the business
+before you is to still my thoughts, distracted by a mortal concern, and
+to show me some way to satisfy the caliph.
+
+Dear madam, replied the old lady, it had been much better not to have run
+yourself into the difficulties you labour under; but since the thing is
+done, the best way is to say no more of it: all that must now be thought
+of, is how to deceive the chief of believers; and I am of opinion that
+you must immediately cause a wooden image to be carved resembling a dead
+body; we will shroud it up in old linen; and, when shut up in a coffin,
+it shall be buried in some part of the palace; then shall you immediately
+cause a marble monument to be built, after the manner of a dome, over the
+burial-place; and erect a figure which shall be covered with black cloth,
+and set about with great candlesticks and large wax tapers. There is
+another thing, added the old lady, which ought not to be forgot: you must
+put on mourning, and cause the same to be done by all your own and
+Fetnah’s women, your eunuchs, and all that belong to the palace. When the
+caliph returns, and sees you and all the palace in mourning, he will be
+sure to ask the occasion of it; then will you have an opportunity of
+insinuating yourself into his favour, saying, it was in respect to him,
+that you paid the last honours to Fetnah, snatched away by sudden death.
+You may also tell him you have caused a mausoleum to be built; and, in
+short, that you have paid all the dues to his favourite which he would
+have done himself had he been present. His passion for her being
+extraordinary, he will certainly go and shed some tears upon her grave;
+and, perhaps, added the old woman, he will not believe she is really
+dead; and suspect you have turned her out of the palace through jealousy,
+and look upon all the mourning as an artifice to deceive him, and prevent
+his making search after her. It is likely he will cause the coffin to be
+taken up and opened, and it is certain he will be convinced of her death
+as soon as he shall see the figure of a dead body buried. He will be
+pleased with all you shall have done, and express his gratitude. As for
+the wooden image, I will undertake to have it cut myself by a carver in
+the city, who shall not know what use it is to be put to. As for your
+part, madam, order Fetnah’s woman, who yesterday gave her the lemonade,
+to give out that she had just found her mistress dead in her bed; and,
+that they may only think of lamenting, without offering to go into her
+chamber, let her add, she has already acquainted you with it, and that
+you have ordered Mesrour to cause her to be laid out and buried.
+
+As soon as the old lady had spoken these words, Zobeide took a rich
+diamond ring out of her casket, and putting it on her finger, and
+embracing her in a perfect transport of joy, said, How infinitely am I
+beholden to you, my dear mother! I should never have thought of so
+ingenious a contrivance. It cannot fail of success, and I perceive my
+peace of mind begins to be restored to me. I leave the care of the wooden
+figure to you, and I will go myself to order the rest.
+
+The wooden image was got ready with as much expedition as Zobeide could
+have wished, and then conveyed by the lady herself into Fetnah’s
+bed-chamber, where she dressed it like a dead body, and put it into a
+coffin. Then Mesrour, who was much deceived by it, caused the coffin, and
+the representation of Fetnah, to be carried away; and buried it with the
+usual ceremonies, in the place appointed by Zobeide, the favourite’s
+women weeping and lamenting, and she who had given her the lemonade
+setting them an example by her cries and howlings.
+
+That very day, Zobeide sent for the architect of the palace, and of the
+caliph’s other houses; and, according to the orders he received from her,
+the mausoleum was finished in a very short time. Such potent princesses,
+as was this consort of a monarch, whose power extended from east to west,
+are always punctually obeyed in whatsoever they command, by all the
+court; so that the news of Fetnah’s death was soon spread all over the
+town.
+
+Ganem was one of the last who had heard of it; for, as I have before
+observed, he scarce went abroad. Being at length informed of it, Madam,
+said he to the caliph’s fair favourite, you are thought to be dead in
+Bagdad, and I do not question but that Zobeide herself believes it; I
+bless Heaven that I am the cause, and the happy witness of your being
+alive; and would to God, that, taking the advantage of this false report,
+you would share my fortune, and go far from hence to reign in my heart!
+But whither does this pleasing notion carry me? I do not consider that
+you are born to make the greatest prince in the world happy, and that
+only Haroun Alraschid is worthy of you. Supposing you could resolve to
+give him up for me, and that you would follow me, ought I to consent to
+it? No, it is my part always to remember, that what belongs to the master
+is forbidden to the slave.
+
+The lovely Fetnah, though moved by the tenderness of the passion he
+expressed, yet prevailed with herself not to comply with it. My lord,
+said she to him, we cannot obstruct Zobeide’s triumphing. I am not at all
+surprised at the artifice she makes use of to conceal her guilt: but let
+her proceed; I flatter myself that sorrow will soon follow her triumph:
+the caliph will return, and we shall find means privately to inform him
+of all that has happened. In the mean time, let us be more cautious than
+ever, that she may not know I am alive. I have already told you the
+consequences.
+
+Three months after, the caliph returned to Bagdad with honour, having
+vanquished all his enemies: he entered the palace with impatience to see
+Fetnah, and to lay all his laurels at her feet; but was amazed to see all
+the servants he had left behind him in mourning. It struck him, without
+knowing the cause; and his concern was double, when, coming into the
+apartment of Zobeide, he spied that princess coming to meet him with all
+her women in mourning. He immediately asked her the cause of it, with
+much concern. Chief of the believers, answered Zobeide, I am in mourning
+for your slave Fetnah, who died so suddenly, that it was impossible to
+apply any medicine to her distemper. She would have proceeded, but the
+caliph did not give her time, being so surprised at the news, that he
+cried out, and then fell into a swoon in the arms of Giafar, his grand
+vizier, who attended him. Coming soon after to himself, he, with a weak
+voice, which sufficiently expressed his concern, asked where his dear
+Fetnah had been buried? Sir, said Zobeide, I took care myself of her
+funeral, and spared for no cost to make it magnificent. I have caused a
+marble mausoleum to be built over her grave, and will attend you thither,
+if you desire it.
+
+The caliph would not permit Zobeide to take that trouble, but was
+satisfied to have Mesrour to conduct him. He went thither just as he was,
+that is, in the camp dress. When he saw the figure covered with a black
+cloth, the lighted candles all about it, and the magnificence of the
+mausoleum, he was amazed that Zobeide should have performed the obsequies
+of her rival with so much magnificence; and, being naturally of a jealous
+temper, he suspected his wife’s generosity, and fancied his mistress
+might perhaps be yet alive; that Zobeide, taking the advantage of his
+long absence, might have turned her out of the palace, ordering those she
+had intrusted with it to convey her so far-off, that she might never more
+be heard of. This was all he suspected; for he did not think Zobeide
+wicked enough to have murdered his favourite.
+
+The better to discover the truth himself, that prince ordered the figure
+to be removed, and caused the grave and the coffin to be opened in his
+presence: but when he saw the linen which wrapped up the wooden image, he
+durst not proceed any farther. That religious caliph thought it would be
+an irreligious act to suffer the body of the dead lady to be touched; and
+this scruple prevailed above his love and curiosity. He caused the coffin
+to be shut up again, the grave to be filled, and the figure to be placed
+as it was before.
+
+The caliph, thinking himself obliged to pay some respect to the tomb of
+his favourite, sent for the ministers of his religion, the officers of
+the palace, and the readers of the Alcoran; and, whilst they were calling
+together, he remained in the mausoleum, moistening the earth that covered
+the phantom of his love with his tears. When all the persons he had sent
+for were come, he stood before the figure, and they about it recited long
+prayers; after which the readers of the Alcoran read several chapters.
+
+The same ceremony was performed every day during the whole month, morning
+and evening, the caliph being always present, with Giafar the grand
+vizier, and the prime officers of the court, all of them in mourning, as
+well as the caliph himself, who all that while failed not to honour the
+memory of Fetnah with tears, and would not talk the least of any
+business.
+
+The last day of the month, the prayers and reading of the Alcoran lasted
+from that morning till break of day the next morning; and at length, when
+all was done, every man returned home. Haroun Alraschid, being tired with
+sitting up all that time, went to take some rest in his apartment, and
+fell asleep on a sofa between two of the court ladies, one of them
+sitting at the bed’s head, and the other at the feet, who, whilst he
+slept, were working some embroidery, and observed a profound silence.
+
+She who sat at the bed’s head, and whose name was Nouron-Nihar, that is,
+Dawn of the Day, perceiving the caliph was asleep, whispered to the
+other, called Nagmatos-Sobi, signifying Morning-Star, There is great
+news! The chief of the believers, our master, will be overjoyed when he
+awakes and hears what I have to say to him: Fetnah is not dead; she is in
+perfect health. O Heavens! cried Morning-Star, in a transport of joy, is
+it possible that the beautiful, the charming, the incomparable Fetnah
+should be still among the living? Morning-Star uttered these words with
+such a sprightly air, and so loud, that the caliph awaked. He asked why
+they had disturbed his rest. Alas! my sovereign lord, answered
+Morning-Star, pardon me this indiscretion, I could not contain myself.
+What then is become of her, said the caliph, if she is not dead? Chief of
+the believers, replied Dawn of the Day, I this evening received a note,
+not signed, from a person unknown, but written with Fetnah’s own hand,
+which gives me an account of her melancholy adventures, and orders me to
+acquaint you with it. I thought fit, before I fulfilled my commission, to
+let you take some few moments’ rest, believing you must stand in need of
+it after your fatigue. Give me that note, said the caliph, interrupting
+her in a disorderly manner; you were in the wrong in deferring to deliver
+it to me.
+
+Dawn of the Day immediately delivered him the note, which he opened with
+much impatience; and in it Fetnah gave a brief account of all that had
+befallen her, but enlarged a little too much on the care Ganem took of
+her. The caliph, who was naturally jealous, instead of being provoked at
+the inhumanity of Zobeide, was only concerned for the infidelity he
+fancied Fetnah had been guilty of towards him. Is it so? said he, after
+reading the note; the perfidious wretch has been four months with a young
+merchant, and has the impudence to boast of the respect he pays her.
+Thirty days are passed since my return to Bagdad, and she now bethinks
+herself of sending me this news. Ungrateful creature! while I spend the
+days in bewailing her, she passes them away in betraying me. Go to, let
+us take revenge of the false woman, and that bold youth who affronts me.
+Having spoken these words, that prince got up, and went into a great
+hall, where he used to appear in public, and to give audience to the
+great men of his court. The first gate was opened, and immediately all
+the courtiers, who expected him, that moment entered. The grand vizier
+came in, and prostrated himself before the throne the caliph sat on. Then
+rising, he stood before his master, who, in a tone which denoted he would
+be instantly obeyed, said to him, Giafar, your presence is requisite for
+putting in execution an important affair I am about to commit to you.
+Take four hundred men out of my guards along with you, and first inquire
+where a merchant of Damascus lives, whose name is Ganem, the son of Abou
+Ayoub. When you have learned that, repair to his house, and cause it to
+be razed down to the foundation; but first secure Ganem, and bring him
+hither, with my slave Fetnah, who has lived with him these four months. I
+will punish her, and make an example of that insolent man, who has
+presumed to fail in respect to me.
+
+The grand vizier having received this positive command, made a low bow to
+the caliph, having his hand on his own head, as a token that he would
+rather lose it than disobey him, and departed. The first thing he did,
+was to send to the syndic, or head of the merchants, for some foreign
+stuffs and fine silks, of the new ones brought by Ganem; with strict
+orders, above all things, to inquire after the street and house he lived
+in. The officer he sent with these orders brought him back word, that he
+had scarce been seen for some months, and no man knew what could keep him
+at home, if he was there. The same officer told Giafar where Ganem lived,
+and the name of the widow who had let him the house.
+
+Upon this information, which could not fail, that minister, without
+losing any time, marched with the soldiers the caliph had ordered him to
+take, went to the mayor of the city, whom he also caused to bear him
+company; and being attended by a great number of carpenters and masons,
+with the necessary tools for razing of a house, came to that in which
+Ganem lived; and finding it stood alone, without being confined any way,
+he posted his soldiers quite round it, to prevent the young merchant
+making his escape.
+
+Fetnah and Ganem had just then dined: the lady was sitting at a window
+next the street; and hearing a noise, she looked out through the lattice,
+when, seeing the grand vizier draw near with all his attendants, she
+concluded his design was upon her as well as Ganem. She perceived her
+note had been received, but had not expected such an answer, having hoped
+that the caliph would have taken that business quite otherwise. She knew
+not how long that prince had been come home; and though she was
+acquainted with his jealous temper, yet she apprehended nothing on that
+account. However, the sight of the grand vizier and the soldiers made her
+quake in reality, not for herself, but for Ganem: she did not question
+clearing herself, provided the caliph would but hear her. As for Ganem,
+whom she was kind to rather out of gratitude than affection, she plainly
+foresaw that his rival, being incensed, would see, and might be apt to
+condemn him, upon account of his youth and mien. Being full of that
+thought, she turned to the young merchant, and said, Alas! Ganem, we are
+undone; it is you and I that are sought after. He presently looked
+through the lattice, and was seized with dread when he beheld the
+caliph’s guards with their naked scimitars, and the grand vizier with the
+civil magistrate at the head of them. At that sight he stood motionless,
+and had not power to utter one word. Ganem, said the favourite, there is
+no losing of time: if you love me, put on the habit of one of your slaves
+immediately, and daub your face and arms with soot; then lay some of
+these dishes on your head: you may be taken for a servant belonging to
+the eating-house, and they will let you pass. If they happen to ask you
+where the master of the house is, answer, without any hesitation, that he
+is within. Alas! madam, answered Ganem, less concerned for himself than
+for Fetnah, you only take care of me; what will become of you? Let not
+that trouble you, replied Fetnah, it is my part to look to that. As for
+what you leave in this house, I will take care of it; and I hope it will
+be one day justly restored to you, when the caliph’s anger is over: but
+do you avoid his fury; for the orders he gives in heat of passion are
+always fatal. The young merchant’s affliction was so great, that he knew
+not what course to fix upon, and would certainly have suffered himself to
+have been seized by the caliph’s soldiers, had not Fetnah pressed him to
+disguise himself. He was prevailed upon by her persuasions, to put on the
+habit of a slave, and daub himself with soot; and it was high time, for
+they were knocking at the door; and all they could do was to embrace each
+other lovingly: they were both so overwhelmed with sorrow that they could
+not utter one word; and it was thus they parted. Ganem went out with some
+dishes on his head: he was taken for the servant of an eating-house, and
+nobody offered to stop him. On the contrary, the grand vizier, who was
+the first that met him, gave him way to let him pass, being far from any
+thought that he was the man he looked for. Those who were behind the
+grand vizier made way as he had done, and thus favoured his escape. He
+got speedily to one of the city gates, and so got clear away.
+
+While he was making the best of his way from the grand vizier Giafar,
+that minister came into the room where Fetnah was sitting on a sofa, and
+where there were many chests full of Ganem’s equipage, and of the money
+he had made of his goods.
+
+As soon as Fetnah saw the grand vizier come into the room, she fell flat
+on her face, and continued in that posture, as it were, ready to receive
+her death. My lord, said she, I am ready to undergo the sentence passed
+against me by the chief of the believers; you need only make it known to
+me. Madam, answered Giafar, falling also down till she had raised
+herself, God forbid any man should presume to lay his profane hands on
+you. I do not design to offer you the least wrong. I have no farther
+orders than to entreat you will be pleased to go with me to the palace,
+and to conduct you thither with the merchant that lives in this house. My
+lord, replied the favourite, let us go; I am ready to follow you. As for
+the young merchant, to whom I am indebted for my life, he is not here; he
+has been gone about a month since to Damascus, whither his business
+called him, and he has left these chests you see under my care till he
+returns. I conjure you to cause them to be secured, that I may perform
+the promise I made to take all possible care of them.
+
+You shall be obeyed, said Giafar, and immediately sent for porters, whom
+he commanded to take up the chests, and carry them to Mesrour.
+
+As soon as the porters were gone, he whispered the civil magistrate,
+committing to him the care of seeing the house razed; but first to cause
+diligent search to be made for Ganem, who, he suspected, might be hid,
+whatever Fetnah had told of him. Then he went out, taking the young lady
+with him attended by the two slaves that waited on her. As for Ganem’s
+slaves, they were not regarded; they ran in among the crowd, and it was
+not known what became of them.
+
+No sooner was Giafar out of the house, than the masons and carpenters
+began to raze it; and did it so effectually, that in a few hours none of
+it remained. But the civil magistrate, not finding Ganem, after the
+strictest search, sent to acquaint the grand vizier with it, before that
+minister reached the palace. Well, said Haroun Alraschid, seeing him come
+into his closet, have you executed my orders? Yes, sir, answered Giafar,
+the house Ganem lived in is levelled with the ground, and I have brought
+you your favourite Fetnah; she is at your closet-door, and I will call
+her in if you command me. As for the young merchant, we could not find
+him, though all places have been searched; and Fetnah affirms that he has
+been gone this month to Damascus.
+
+Never was any man in such a passion as the caliph, when he heard that
+Ganem had made his escape. As for his favourite, being possessed that she
+had been false to him, he would neither see nor speak to her. Mesrour,
+said he to the chief of the eunuchs, who was there present, take the
+ungrateful, the perfidious Fetnah, and go shut her up in the dark tower.
+That tower was within the enclosure of the palace, and commonly served as
+a prison for the favourites who any way disgusted the caliph.
+
+Mesrour, being used to execute his sovereign’s orders, though ever so
+unjust, without making any objection, obeyed this with some reluctancy.
+He signified his concern to Fetnah, who was the more grieved at it,
+because she had reckoned that the caliph would not refuse to speak to
+her. There was no remedy but to submit to her hard fate, and to follow
+Mesrour, who conducted her to the dark tower, and there left her.
+
+In the mean time the caliph, being incensed, and only consulting his
+passion, wrote the following letter, with his own hand, to the king of
+Syria, his cousin and tributary, who resided at Damascus.
+
+
+  THE LETTER FROM THE CALIPH HAROUN ALRASCHID TO MOHAMMED ZINEBI, KING
+                               OF SYRIA.
+
+‘Cousin, this is to inform you, that a merchant of Damascus, whose name
+is Ganem, the son of Abou Ayoub, has seduced the most amiable of my women
+slaves, called Fetnah, and is fled. It is my will, that, when you have
+read my letter, you cause search to be made for Ganem, and secure him.
+When he is in your power, you shall cause him to be loaded with irons,
+and for three days successively he shall receive fifty strokes with a
+bull’s pizzle. Then let him be led through all parts of the city, with a
+crier, crying, This is the smallest punishment the chief of the believers
+inflicts on him that offends his lord, and debauches one of his slaves.
+After that, you shall send him to me under a strong guard. It is my will
+that you cause his house to be plundered; and when it shall be razed,
+order the materials to be carried out of the city into the middle of the
+plain. Besides, if he has father, mother, sister, wives, daughters, or
+other kindred, cause them to be stripped; and when they are naked, expose
+them as a spectacle during three days to the whole city, forbidding any
+one, on pain of death, to afford them any shelter. I expect you will no
+way delay what I enjoin.
+
+                                                      Haroun Alraschid.’
+
+
+The caliph having written this letter, sent it away by an express,
+ordering him to make all possible speed, and to take pigeons along with
+him, that he might the sooner hear what had been done by Mohammed Zinebi.
+
+The pigeons of Bagdad have this particular quality, that, though they be
+carried ever so far, they return to Bagdad as soon as they are turned
+loose, especially when they have young ones. A letter rolled up is made
+fast under their wing; and by that means, they have speedy advice from
+such places as they desire.
+
+The caliph’s express travelling night and day, as his master’s impatience
+required, and being come to Damascus, went directly to king Zinebi’s
+palace, who sat upon his throne to receive the caliph’s letter. The
+express having delivered it, Mohammed looking upon it, and knowing the
+hand, stood up to show his respect, kissed the letter, and laid it on his
+head, to denote he was ready submissively to obey the orders contained in
+it. He opened it, and having read it, immediately descended from his
+throne, and, without losing time, mounted on horseback, with the prime
+officers of his household. He also sent for the civil magistrate, who
+came to him; and then he went directly to Ganem’s house, attended by all
+his guards.
+
+That young merchant’s mother had never heard or received any letter from
+him since he left Damascus, but the other merchants with whom he went to
+Bagdad were returned, and all of them told her they had left her son in
+perfect health. However, as he did not return himself, and neglected to
+write, the tender mother could not be persuaded but that he was dead, and
+was so fully convinced of it in her imagination, that she went into
+mourning. She bewailed Ganem as if she had seen him die, and had herself
+closed his eyes: never mother expressed greater sorrow; and so far was
+she from seeking any comfort, that she delighted in indulging her sorrow.
+She caused a dome to be built in the middle of the court belonging to her
+house, in which she placed a figure representing her son, and covered it
+with black cloth. She spent the greatest part of the days and nights in
+weeping under that dome, in the same manner as if her son had been buried
+there. The beautiful Alcolomb, or Ravisher of Hearts, her daughter, bore
+her company, and mixed her tears with hers.
+
+It was now some time since they had thus devoted themselves to sorrow,
+and since the neighbourhood, hearing their cries and lamentations, pitied
+such loving relations, when king Mohammed Zinebi came to the door, which,
+being opened by a slave belonging to the family, he went into the house,
+inquiring for Ganem, the son of Abou Ayoub.
+
+Though the slave had never seen king Zinebi, she easily guessed, by his
+retinue, that this must be one of the prime men of Damascus. My lord,
+said she, that Ganem you inquire for is dead: my mistress, his mother, is
+in that monument you see there, actually lamenting the loss of him. The
+king, not regarding what was said by the slave, caused all the house to
+be diligently searched by his guards for Ganem. Then he advanced towards
+the monument, where he saw the mother and daughter sitting on nothing but
+a mat, by the figure which represented Ganem, and their faces appeared to
+him bathed in tears. Those poor women immediately veiled themselves, as
+soon as they beheld a man at the door of the dome; but the mother,
+knowing the king of Damascus, got up, and ran to cast herself at his
+feet. My good lady, said he, I was looking for your son Ganem; is he
+here? Alas, sir! cried the mother, it is a long time since he has ceased
+to be: would to God I had at least put him into his shroud with my own
+hands, and had the comfort of having his bones in this monument! O, my
+son, my dear son! She would have said more, but was oppressed with so
+violent sorrow that she was not able.
+
+Zinebi was moved; for he was a prince of a mild nature, and had much
+compassion for the sufferings of the unfortunate. If Ganem alone is
+guilty, thought he to himself, why should the mother and the daughters,
+who are innocent, be punished? Ah! cruel Haroun Alraschid, what a
+mortification do you put upon me, in making me the executioner of your
+vengeance, obliging me to persecute those persons who have not offended
+you!
+
+The guards that the king ordered to search for Ganem, came and told him
+they had lost their labour. He was fully convinced: the tears of these
+two women would not leave him any room to doubt. It distracted him to be
+obliged to execute the caliph’s order. My good lady, said he to Ganem’s
+mother, come out of this monument with your daughter; it is no place of
+safety for you. They went out; and he, to secure them against any insult,
+took off his own robe, which was very large, and covered them both with
+it, bidding them be sure to keep close to him. Then he ordered the
+multitude to be admitted to plunder, which was performed with the utmost
+rapaciousness, and many shouts, which terrified Ganem’s mother and sister
+the more, because they knew not the reason of it. The rabble carried off
+the richest goods, chests full of wealth, fine Persian and Indian
+carpets, cushions made of cloth of gold and silver, fine china ware. In
+short, all was taken away; nothing was left but the hard walls of the
+house: and it was certainly a dismal spectacle for the unhappy ladies, to
+see all their goods plundered, without knowing why they were so cruelly
+treated.
+
+When the house was plundered, Mohammed ordered the civil magistrates to
+raze the house and monument; and, whilst that was doing, he carried away
+Alcolomb and her mother to his palace. There it was he redoubled their
+affliction, acquainting them with the caliph’s will. He commands me, said
+he to them, to cause you to be stripped, and expose you naked for three
+days to the view of the people. It is with the utmost reluctance that I
+execute that cruel and ignominious sentence. The king delivered these
+words with such an air, as plainly made it appear his heart was really
+pierced with grief and compassion. Though the fear of being dethroned
+obstructed his following the dictates of his pity, yet he in some measure
+moderated the rigour of Haroun Alraschid’s orders, causing coarse sacks,
+like smocks with sleeves, to be made of horse-hair, for Ganem’s mother,
+and his sister Alcolomb, or Ravisher of Hearts.
+
+The next day, these two victims of the caliph’s rage were stripped of
+their clothes, and their horse-hair smocks put upon them; their
+head-dress was also taken away, so that their dishevelled hair hung upon
+their backs. Alcolomb had the finest hair in the world; and it hung down
+to the ground. In that condition, they were exposed to the people. The
+civil magistrate, attended by his officers, went along with them; and
+they were conducted throughout all the city. A crier went before them,
+who, every now and then, cried, This is the punishment due to those who
+have drawn on themselves the indignation of the chief of the believers.
+
+When they walked in this manner along the streets of Damascus, with their
+arms and feet naked, clad in such a strange garment, and endeavouring to
+hide their shame under their hair, with which they covered their faces,
+all the people were dissolved in tears; more especially the ladies,
+looking on them as innocent persons, through their lattice-windows, and
+being particularly moved by Alcolomb’s youth and beauty, made the air
+ring with their dreadful shrieks, as they passed before their houses. The
+very children, frightened at those shrieks, and at the spectacle that
+occasioned them, mixed their cries with that general lamentation, and
+added new horror to it. In short, had an enemy been at Damascus, and then
+putting all to fire and sword, the consternation could not have been
+greater.
+
+It was near night when that dismal scene concluded. The mother and
+daughter were both conducted back to king Mohammed’s palace. Not being
+used to walk barefoot, they were so spent, that they lay a long time in a
+swoon. The queen of Damascus, highly afflicted at their misfortunes,
+notwithstanding the caliph’s prohibition to relieve them, sent some of
+her women to comfort them with all sorts of refreshments, and wine to
+raise their spirits.
+
+The queen’s women found them still in a swoon, and almost past receiving
+any benefit by what they offered them. However, with much difficulty,
+they were brought to themselves. Ganem’s mother immediately returned them
+thanks for their courtesy. My good lady, said one of the queen’s ladies
+to her, we are highly concerned at your affliction; and the queen of
+Syria, our mistress, has done us a favour in employing us to assist you.
+We can assure you, that princess is much afflicted at your misfortunes,
+as well as the king her consort. Ganem’s mother entreated the queen’s
+women to return her majesty a thousand thanks from her and her daughter
+Alcolomb; and then, directing her discourse to the lady that spoke to
+her, she said, Madam, the king has not told me why the chief of the
+believers inflicts so many outrages on us; pray be pleased to tell us
+what crimes we have been guilty of. My good lady, answered the other, the
+origin of your misfortune proceeds from your son Ganem. He is not dead,
+as you imagine. He is accused of having stolen the beautiful Fetnah, the
+best beloved of all the king’s favourites; and he having, by timely
+flight, withdrawn himself from that prince’s indignation, the punishment
+is fallen on you. All mankind condemns the caliph’s resentment; but all
+mankind fears him: and you see king Zinebi himself dares not contradict
+his orders, for fear of incurring his displeasure. So that all we can do
+is to pity and exhort you to have patience.
+
+I know my son, answered Ganem’s mother; I have educated him very
+carefully, and in that respect which is due to the commander of the
+believers. He has not committed the crime he is accused of; I dare answer
+for his innocency. But I will give over muttering and complaining, since
+it is for him that I suffer, and he is not dead. O Ganem! added she, in a
+transport of love and joy, my dear son Ganem, is it possible that you are
+still alive? I no longer am concerned for the loss of my goods; and how
+extravagant soever the caliph’s orders may be, I forgive him all the
+severity of them, provided Heaven has saved my son. I am only concerned
+for my daughter; her sufferings only afflict me; yet I believe her to be
+so good a sister as to follow my example.
+
+At the hearing of these words, Alcolomb, who till then had appeared
+insensible, turned to her mother, and, clasping her arms about her neck,
+Yes, dear mother, said she, I will always follow your example, whatever
+extremity the love of my brother brings you to.
+
+The mother and daughter, thus interchanging their sighs and tears,
+continued a considerable time in such moving embraces. In the mean time,
+the queen’s women, who were much moved at that spectacle, omitted no
+persuasions to prevail with Ganem’s mother to take some sustenance. She
+ate a morsel out of complaisance, and Alcolomb did the like.
+
+The caliph having ordered that Ganem’s kindred should be exposed three
+days successively to the sight of the people, in the condition as has
+been said, Alcolomb and her mother afforded the same spectacle the second
+time next day, from morning till night. But that day and the following,
+things were not done after the same manner: the streets, which at first
+had been full of people, were left quite empty. All the traders, incensed
+at the ill usage of Abou Ayoub’s widow and daughter, shut up their shops,
+and kept themselves close within their houses. The ladies, instead of
+looking through their lattice-windows, withdrew into the back parts of
+their houses. There was not one soul to be seen in the public places
+those unfortunate women were carried through. It looked as if all the
+inhabitants of Damascus had abandoned their city.
+
+On the fourth day, king Mohammed Zinebi, who was resolved punctually to
+obey the caliph’s orders, though he did not approve of them, sent criers
+into all quarters of the city to make proclamation, strictly forbidding
+all the inhabitants of Damascus, and strangers, of what condition soever,
+upon pain of death, and having their bodies cast to the dogs to be
+devoured, to receive Ganem’s mother and sister into their houses, or to
+give them a morsel of bread or a drop of water; and, in a word, to afford
+them the least support, or hold the least correspondence with them.
+
+When the criers had performed what the king had enjoined them, that
+prince ordered the mother and the daughter to be turned out of the
+palace, and left to their choice to go where they thought fit. As soon as
+ever they appeared, all persons fled from them, so great an impression
+had the late prohibition made upon them all. They easily perceived that
+every body shunned them; but not knowing the reason of it, they were much
+surprised; and their amazement was the greater, when, coming into any
+street, or among several persons, they knew some of their best friends,
+who presently vanished with as much haste as the rest. What is the
+meaning of this? said Ganem’s mother: do we carry the plague about us?
+Must the unjust and barbarous usage we have received render us odious to
+our fellow-citizens? Come, my child, added she, let us depart from
+Damascus with all speed; let us not stay any longer in a city where we
+are become frightful to our very friends.
+
+The two wretched ladies, discoursing after this manner, came to one of
+the ends of the city, and retired to a ruined house, to pass the night.
+Thither some Mussulmen, or believers, out of charity and compassion,
+resorted to them after the day was shut in. They carried them provisions,
+but durst not stay to comfort them, for fear of being discovered, and
+punished for disobeying the caliph’s orders.
+
+In the mean time, king Zinebi had let fly a pigeon, to give Haroun
+Alraschid an account of his exact obedience. He informed him of all that
+had been done, and conjured him to direct what he would have done with
+Ganem’s mother and sister. He soon received the caliph’s answer the same
+way, which was, that he banished them from Damascus for ever. Immediately
+the king of Syria sent men to the old house, with orders to take the
+mother and the daughter, and to conduct them three days’ journey from
+Damascus, and there to leave them, forbidding them ever to return to the
+city.
+
+Zinebi’s men executed their commission; but being less precise than their
+master, in the strict performance of every tittle of Haroun Alraschid’s
+orders, they in pity gave Alcolomb and her mother some small pieces of
+money to buy them some subsistence, and each of them a bag, which they
+hung about their necks, to carry their provisions.
+
+In this miserable condition, they came to the first village. The peasants
+flocked about them; and as it appeared through their disguise that they
+were people of some fashion, they asked them what was the occasion of
+their travelling after that manner, in a habit that did not seem properly
+to belong to them. Instead of answering the question put to them, they
+fell a-weeping, which only served to heighten the curiosity of the
+peasants, and to move them to compassion. Ganem’s mother told them what
+she and her daughter had endured; at which the good countrywomen were
+sensibly afflicted, and endeavoured to comfort them. They treated them as
+well as their poverty would permit; they took off their horse-hair
+smocks, which were very uneasy, and put on others they gave them, with
+shoes, and something to cover their heads, and save their hair.
+
+Having expressed their gratitude to those charitable women, Alcolomb and
+her mother departed that village, taking short journeys towards Aleppo.
+They used at night to lie near the mosques, or in them, upon the mat, if
+there was any, or else on the bare pavement; and sometimes put up in the
+places appointed for the use of travellers. As for sustenance, they did
+not want; for they often came to places where bread, boiled rice, and
+other provisions, are distributed to all travellers who desire it.
+
+At length they came to Aleppo, but would not stay there, and holding on
+their journey towards the Euphrates, crossed that river, and entered into
+Mesopotamia, which they traversed as far as Moussoul. Thence,
+notwithstanding all they had endured, they proceeded to Bagdad. That was
+the place they had fixed their thoughts upon, hoping to find Ganem there,
+though they ought not to have fancied that he was in a city where the
+caliph resided: but they hoped, because they wished it; their affection
+rather increasing than diminishing, in spite of all their misfortunes.
+Their discourse was generally about him, and they inquired for him of all
+they met. But let us leave Alcolomb and her mother, to return to Fetnah.
+
+She was still confined close in the dark tower, ever since the day that
+had been so fatal to Ganem and her. However, disagreeable as her prison
+was to her, it was much less grievous than the thoughts of Ganem’s
+misfortune, the uncertainty of whose fate was a killing affliction to
+her. There was scarce a moment in which she did not lament him.
+
+One night when the caliph was walking by himself within the enclosure of
+his palace, as he frequently did; for he was the most prying prince in
+the world, and sometimes, by means of those night-walks, he came to the
+knowledge of things that happened in his palace, which would otherwise
+never have come to his ear: one of these nights, in his walk, he happened
+to pass by the dark tower, and fancying he heard somebody talk, he
+stopped, and drew near the door to listen, and distinctly heard these
+words, which Fetnah, whose thoughts were always on Ganem, uttered with a
+loud voice: O Ganem! too unfortunate Ganem! where are you at this time?
+whither has thy cruel fate led thee? Alas! it is I that have made you
+miserable! Why did you not let me perish unhappily, rather than afford me
+your generous relief? What a dismal reward have you received for your
+care and respect! The commander of the faithful, who ought to have
+requited, persecutes you; and in return for having always looked upon me
+as a person reserved for his bed, you lose all your goods, and are
+obliged to seek for safety in flight. O caliph! barbarous caliph! what
+will you say for yourself when you shall appear with Ganem before the
+tribunal of the Supreme Judge, and the angels shall testify the truth
+before your face! All the power you are now invested with, and which
+makes the best part of the world quake, will not prevent your being
+condemned and punished for your violent and unjust proceedings. Here
+Fetnah ceased her complaint, her sighs and tears putting a stop to her
+tongue.
+
+This was enough to bring the caliph to himself. He plainly perceived,
+that if what he had heard was true, his favourite must be innocent, and
+that he had been too rash in giving orders against Ganem and his family.
+Being resolved to be rightly informed in an affair which so nearly
+concerned him, in point of equity, on which he valued himself, he
+immediately returned to his apartment, and that moment ordered Mesrour to
+repair to the dark tower and bring Fetnah to him.
+
+By this command, and much more by the caliph’s way of delivery, the chief
+of the eunuchs guessed that his master designed to pardon his favourite,
+and take her to him again. He was overjoyed at it, for he loved Fetnah,
+and had been much concerned at her disgrace; and therefore flying to the
+tower, Madam, said he to the favourite, with such an air as expressed his
+satisfaction, be pleased to follow me: I hope you will never more return
+to this vile dark tower: the commander of the faithful has a mind to
+speak with you, and I have reason to hope for a happy issue.
+
+Fetnah followed Mesrour, who conducted her into the caliph’s closet. She
+prostrated herself before that prince, and so continued, letting fall a
+shower of tears. Fetnah, said the caliph, without bidding her rise, I
+think you charge me with violence and injustice. Who is he, who,
+notwithstanding the regard and respect he had for me, is in a miserable
+condition? Speak freely; you know how good-natured I am, and that I love
+to do justice.
+
+By these words the favourite conceived that the caliph had heard what she
+had said; and laying hold on so favourable an opportunity to clear her
+dear Ganem, she said, Commander of the true believers, if I have let fall
+any word that is not agreeable to your majesty, I most humbly beseech you
+to forgive me; but he whose innocence and misfortune you desire to be
+acquainted with, is Ganem, the unhappy son of Abou Ayoub, merchant in
+Damascus. He is the man that saved my life, and afforded me a safe
+sanctuary in his house. I must own, that, from the first moment he saw
+me, he perhaps designed to devote himself to me, and conceived hopes of
+engaging me to admit of his service. I guessed at this, by the eagerness
+he showed in entertaining, and giving me all the attendance which was
+requisite under the circumstances I was then in; but as soon as he heard
+that I had the honour to belong to you, Alas, madam, said he, ‘That which
+belongs to the master is forbidden to the slave.’ From that moment, I owe
+this justice to his virtue, his behaviour was always suitable to his
+words. However, you well know with what rigour you have treated him, and
+you will answer for it before the tribunal of God.
+
+The caliph was not displeased with Fetnah for the freedom of those words.
+But may I, answered he, rely on the assurances you give me of Ganem’s
+virtue? Yes, replied Fetnah, you may; I would not for the world conceal
+the truth from you: and to make out to you that I am sincere, I must own
+one thing to you, which perhaps may displease you; but I beg pardon of
+your majesty beforehand. Speak, child, said Haroun Alraschid; I forgive
+all, provided you conceal nothing from me. Well then, replied Fetnah, let
+me inform you, that Ganem’s respectful behaviour, together with all the
+good offices he did me, gained him my esteem. I went farther yet: you
+know the tyranny of love; I felt some tender inclination growing in my
+breast. He perceived it, but was still far from taking an advantage of my
+frailty: and notwithstanding the flame which consumed him, he still
+remained steady in his duty; and all his passion could force from him,
+were those words I have already told your majesty, ‘That which belongs to
+the master is forbidden to the slave.’
+
+This ingenuous confession might have provoked any other man than the
+caliph; but it was the very thing which quite appeased that prince. He
+commanded her to rise, and making her sit by him, Tell me your story,
+said he, from the beginning to the end. She did so with much art and wit,
+slightly passing over what regarded Zobeide, and dilating on the
+obligations she owed Ganem, the expense he had been at for her; and,
+above all, she highly extolled his discretion, endeavouring by that means
+to make the caliph sensible that she had been under the necessity of
+lying concealed in Ganem’s house, to deceive Zobeide. She concluded with
+the young merchant’s escape, which she plainly told the caliph she had
+compelled him to, that he might avoid his indignation.
+
+When she had done speaking, the caliph said to her, I believe all you
+have told me; but why was it so long before you let me hear from you? Was
+there any need of staying a whole month after my return, before you sent
+me word where you were? Commander of the true believers, answered Fetnah,
+Ganem went abroad so very seldom, that you need not wonder that we were
+none of the first that heard of your return. Besides that, Ganem, who
+took upon him to deliver the letter I wrote to Nouron Nihar, was a long
+time before he could find an opportunity of putting it into her own
+hands.
+
+It is enough, Fetnah, replied the caliph; I own my fault, and would
+willingly make amends for it by heaping favours on that young merchant of
+Damascus; therefore consider what I can do for him: ask what you think
+fit, and I will grant it. Hereupon the favourite fell down at the
+caliph’s feet, with her face flat on the ground; and then rising again,
+said, Commander of the true believers, after returning your majesty
+thanks for Ganem, I most humbly entreat you to cause it to be published
+throughout all your dominions, that you pardon the son of Abou Ayoub, and
+that he may safely come to you. I will do more, rejoined that prince, in
+requital for having saved your life, and the respect he has bore to me,
+and to make amends for the loss of his goods; and, in short, to repair
+the wrong I have done to his family, I give him to you for a husband.
+Fetnah had not words expressive enough to thank the caliph for his
+generosity. She then withdrew into the apartment she had before her
+dismal adventure. The same furniture was still in it; nothing had been
+removed; but that which pleased her most, was, to find there Ganem’s
+chests and packs, which Mesrour had taken care to convey thither.
+
+The next day Haroun Alraschid ordered the grand vizier to cause
+proclamation to be made throughout all his dominions, that he pardoned
+the son of Abou Ayoub; but this proved of no effect, for a long time
+elapsed without any news of that young merchant. Fetnah concluded for
+certain, that he had not been able to survive the pain of losing her. A
+dreadful uneasiness seized her; but as hope is the last thing which
+forsakes lovers, she entreated the caliph to give her leave to seek for
+Ganem herself; which being granted, she took a purse with a thousand
+pieces of gold out of her basket, and one morning went out of the palace,
+mounted on a mule she had out of the caliph’s stables, very richly
+accoutred. Black eunuchs attended her, with their hands on each side upon
+the mule’s buttocks.
+
+Thus she went from mosque to mosque, bestowing her alms among the
+devotees of the Mahometan religion, desiring their prayers for obtaining
+the accomplishment of an affair on which the happiness of two persons, as
+she told them, depended. She spent the whole day and the thousand pieces
+of gold, in giving alms at the mosques, and returned to the palace in the
+evening.
+
+The next day she took another purse of the same value, and, in the like
+equipage as the day before, went to the place where all the jewellers’
+shops were; and stopping at the door without alighting, sent one of her
+black eunuchs for the syndic, or chief of them. That syndic, who was an
+extraordinary charitable man, and spent above two-thirds of his income in
+relieving poor strangers, whether they happened to be sick or in
+distress, made not Fetnah stay, knowing by her dress that she was a lady
+belonging to the palace. I apply myself to you, said she, putting the
+purse into his hands, as a person whose piety is cried up throughout the
+city. I desire you to distribute that gold among the poor strangers you
+relieve, for I know you make it your business to assist poor strangers
+who have recourse to your charity. I am also satisfied that you prevent
+their wants, and that nothing is more agreeable to you than to have an
+opportunity of easing their misery. Madam, answered the syndic, I shall
+obey your commands with pleasure; but if you desire to exercise your
+charity in person, and will be pleased to step to my house, you will
+there see two women worthy of your compassion: I met them yesterday as
+they were coming into the city; they were in a deplorable condition, and
+it moved me the more, because I thought they were persons of some
+quality. Through all the rags that covered them, and notwithstanding the
+impression the sun has made on their faces, I discovered a noble air, not
+to be commonly found in those poor people I relieve. I carried them both
+to my house, and delivered them to my wife, who was of the same opinion
+with me. She caused her slaves to provide them good beds, whilst she
+herself washed their faces, and gave them clean linen. We know not as yet
+who they are, because we will let them take some rest before we trouble
+them with our questions.
+
+Fetnah, without being able to give any reason for it, had a curiosity to
+see them. The syndic would have conducted her to his house, but she would
+not give him the trouble, and was satisfied that a slave of his should go
+and show her the way. She alighted at the door, and followed the syndic’s
+slave, who was gone on before to give notice to his mistress, she being
+then in the chamber with Alcolomb and her mother, for they were the
+persons the syndic had been talking of to Fetnah.
+
+The syndic’s wife, being informed by the slave that a court-lady was in
+her house, was going out of the room to meet her; but Fetnah, who had
+followed close to the slave’s heels, did not give her so much time, and
+coming into the chamber, the syndic’s wife fell down before her, to
+express the respect she had for all that belonged to the caliph. Fetnah
+took her up, and said, My good lady, I desire you would let me speak with
+those two strangers that arrived at Bagdad last night. Madam, answered
+the syndic’s wife, they lie in those two little beds you see close by
+each other. The favourite immediately drew near the mother’s, and viewing
+her carefully, Good woman, said she, I come to offer you my assistance: I
+have a considerable interest in this city, and may be assisting to you
+and your companion. Madam, answered Ganem’s mother, I perceive by your
+obliging offers that Heaven has not quite forsaken us, though we have
+cause to believe it, after so many misfortunes as have befallen us.
+Having uttered these words, she wept so bitterly that Fetnah and the
+syndic’s wife could not forbear letting fall some tears.
+
+The caliph’s favourite, having dried up hers, said to Ganem’s mother, Be
+so kind as to tell us your misfortunes, and recount your story. You
+cannot give the relation to any persons better disposed than we are to
+use all possible means to comfort you. Madam, replied Abou Ayoub’s
+disconsolate widow, a favourite of the commander of the true believers, a
+lady whose name is Fetnah, is the occasion of all our misfortunes. These
+words were like a thunderbolt to the favourite: but suppressing her
+concern and uneasiness, she suffered Ganem’s mother to proceed, who did
+it after this manner: I am the widow of Abou Ayoub, a merchant of
+Damascus; I had a son, called Ganem, who, coming to trade at Bagdad, has
+been accused of having debauched that Fetnah. The caliph has caused
+search to be made for him every where, to put him to death; and not
+finding him, wrote to the king of Damascus, to cause our house to be
+plundered and razed, and to expose my daughter and me three days
+successively, stark naked, to be seen by the people, and then to banish
+us out of Syria for ever.
+
+But how unworthy soever our usage has been, I should still be comforted,
+were my son alive, and I could meet with him. What a pleasure would it be
+for his sister and me to see him again! Embracing him, we should forget
+the loss of our goods, and all the evils we have suffered for him. Alas!
+I am fully persuaded he is the innocent cause of them; and that he is no
+more guilty towards the caliph, than his sister and I.
+
+No doubt of it, said Fetnah, interrupting her there; he is no more guilty
+than you are; I can assure you of his innocence, for I am that very
+Fetnah you so much complain of, who, through some fatality in my stars,
+have occasioned so many misfortunes. To me you must impute the loss of
+your son, if he is no more; but if I have occasioned your misfortune, I
+can in some measure relieve it. I have already cleared Ganem to the
+caliph, who has caused it to be proclaimed throughout his dominions, that
+he pardons the son of Abou Ayoub; and I do not question but that he will
+do you as much good as he has done you harm. You are no longer his
+enemies: he expects Ganem to requite the service he has done me by
+uniting our fortunes: he gives me to him for his consort; therefore look
+on me as your daughter, and permit me to vow an eternal friendship to
+you. Having so said, she bowed down on Ganem’s mother, who was so
+astonished that she could return no answer. Fetnah held her a long time
+in her arms, and only left her to run to the other bed to Alcolomb, who,
+sitting up, held out her arms to receive her.
+
+When the caliph’s charming favourite had given the mother and daughter
+all the tokens of affection they could expect from Ganem’s wife, she said
+to them, Cease both of you to afflict yourselves: the wealth Ganem had in
+this city is not lost; it is in my apartment in the palace; but I know
+all the treasure in the world cannot comfort you without Ganem: I judge
+so of his mother and sister, if I may judge of them by myself; blood is
+no less powerful than love in great minds. But why should we despair of
+seeing him again? We shall find him: the good fortune of meeting with you
+makes me conceive fresh hopes: and perhaps this is the last day of your
+sufferings, and the beginning of a greater felicity than you enjoyed in
+Damascus when Ganem was with you.
+
+Fetnah would have gone on, when the syndic of the jewellers came in,
+saying, Madam, I am come from seeing a very moving object; it is a young
+man, a camel-driver, who was carrying to the hospital of Bagdad: he was
+bound with cords on a camel, because he had not strength enough to sit
+him. They had already unbound, and were carrying him into the hospital,
+when I happened to be passing by. I went close up to the young man,
+viewed him carefully, and fancied his countenance was not altogether
+unknown to me. I asked him some questions concerning his family and his
+country; but all the answer I could get, consisted only in sighs and
+tears. I took pity on him, and perceiving, by being so much used to sick
+people, that he had great need to have particular care taken of him, I
+would not permit him to be put into the hospital; for I am too well
+acquainted with their way of looking to the sick, and am sensible of the
+incapacity of the physicians. I have caused him to be brought home to my
+house by my slaves; and they are now, by my orders, putting on some of my
+own linen, and serving him as they would do me, in a chamber for that
+purpose.
+
+Fetnah’s heart leaped at these words of the jeweller, and she felt a
+sudden emotion, for which she could not account. Show me, said she to the
+syndic, into that sick man’s room; I would gladly see him. The syndic
+conducted her, and whilst she was going thither, Ganem’s mother said to
+Alcolomb, Alas! daughter, as wretched as that sick stranger is, your
+brother, if he be living, is not perhaps in a more happy condition.
+
+The caliph’s favourite, coming into the chamber where the sick man was,
+drew near the bed, into which the syndic’s slaves had already laid him.
+She saw a young man whose eyes were closed, his countenance pale,
+disfigured, and bathed in tears. She gazed earnestly on him, her heart
+beat, and she fancied she beheld Ganem; but yet she would not believe her
+eyes. Though she found something of Ganem in the object she beheld, yet,
+in other respects, he appeared so different, that she durst not imagine
+it was he that lay before her. However, not being able to withstand the
+earnest desire of being satisfied, Ganem, said she, with a quivering
+voice, is it you I behold? Having spoken these words, she stopped to give
+the young man time to answer; but observing that he seemed insensible,
+Alas! Ganem, added she, it is not you that I talk to! My imagination
+being overcharged with your image, has given this stranger a deceitful
+resemblance: the son of Abou Ayoub, though ever so sick, would know the
+voice of Fetnah. At the name of Fetnah, Ganem (for it was really he)
+opened his eyes, and turned his face towards the person that spoke to
+him, and knowing the caliph’s favourite, Ah! madam, said he, what
+miracle?——He could say no more; such a sudden transport of joy seized him
+that he fell into a swoon. Fetnah and the syndic did all they could to
+bring him to himself; but as soon as they perceived he began to revive,
+the syndic desired the lady to withdraw, for fear lest the sight of her
+should heighten Ganem’s distemper.
+
+The young man, having recovered his senses, looked all about, and not
+seeing what he looked for, cried out, What is become of you, charming
+Fetnah? did you really appear before mine eyes, or was it only an
+illusion? No, sir, said the syndic, it was no illusion. It was I that
+caused that lady to withdraw, but you shall see her again as soon as you
+are in a condition to bear her sight. You now stand in need of rest, and
+nothing ought to obstruct your taking it. The posture of your affairs is
+altered, since you are, as I suppose, that Ganem, in favour of whom the
+commander of the true believers has caused a proclamation to be made in
+Bagdad, declaring that he forgives him what is past. Be satisfied for the
+present, with knowing so much; the lady who just now spoke to you will
+acquaint you with the rest; therefore think of nothing but recovering
+your health: I will contribute all that shall be in my power towards it.
+Having spoken these words, he left Ganem to take his rest, and went
+himself to provide all such medicines for him as were proper to recover
+his strength, quite spent by want and toil.
+
+During that time Fetnah was in the room with Alcolomb and her mother,
+where almost the same scene was acted over again; for when Ganem’s mother
+understood that the sick man the syndic had then newly brought into his
+house was Ganem himself, she was so overjoyed, that she also swooned
+away; and when, with the assistance of Fetnah and the syndic’s wife, she
+was again come to herself, she would have got up to see her son: but the
+syndic coming in then, hindered her, giving her to understand that Ganem
+was so weak and feeble that it would endanger his life, to excite in him
+those commotions which must be the consequence of the unexpected sight of
+a beloved mother and sister. There was no occasion for the syndic’s
+making any long discourses to persuade Ganem’s mother: as soon as she was
+told that she could not discourse to her son without hazarding his life,
+she ceased insisting to go and see him. Then Fetnah, turning the
+discourse, said, Let us bless Heaven for having brought us all together
+into one place. I will return to the palace to give the caliph an account
+of all these adventures, and to-morrow morning I will return to you: this
+said, she embraced the mother and the daughter, and went away. As soon as
+she came to the palace, she sent Mesrour to desire to be admitted to the
+caliph in private, which was immediately granted; and being brought into
+that prince’s closet, where he was alone, she prostrated herself at his
+feet, with her face on the ground, according to custom. He commanded her
+to rise, and having made her sit down, asked whether she had heard any
+news of Ganem. Commander of the true believers, said she, I have been so
+successful, that I have found him, as also his mother and sister. The
+caliph was curious to know how she could find them in so short a time,
+and she satisfied his curiosity, saying so many things in commendation of
+Ganem’s mother and sister, that he desired to see them, as well as the
+young merchant.
+
+Though Haroun Alraschid was passionate, and in his heat sometimes guilty
+of cruel actions; yet, to make amends, he was just, and the most generous
+prince in the world, as soon as his anger was over, and he was made
+sensible of the wrong he had done. Therefore, having no longer cause to
+doubt but that he had unjustly persecuted Ganem and his family, and
+having publicly wronged them, he resolved to make them public
+satisfaction. I am overjoyed, said he to Fetnah, that your search has
+proved so successful; it is a mighty satisfaction to me, not so much for
+your sake as for my own. I will keep the promise I have made you. You
+shall marry Ganem, and I here declare you are no longer my slave. Go back
+to that young merchant; and, as soon as he has recovered his health, you
+shall bring him to me, with his mother and sister.
+
+The next morning early, Fetnah repaired to the syndic of the jewellers,
+being impatient to hear of Ganem’s health, and to tell the mother and
+daughter the good news she had for them. The first person she met was the
+syndic, who told her that Ganem had rested very well that night; and that
+his distemper altogether proceeded from melancholy, and the cause being
+removed, he would soon recover his health.
+
+Accordingly the son of Abou Ayoub was much mended. Rest, and the good
+medicines applied to him, but, above all, the easiness of his mind, had
+wrought so good an effect, that the syndic thought he might without
+danger see his mother, his sister, and his mistress, provided he was
+prepared to receive them; because there was ground to fear that, not
+knowing his mother and sister were at Bagdad, the sight of them might
+occasion too great joy and surprise. It was therefore resolved, that
+Fetnah should first go alone into Ganem’s chamber, and then make a sign
+to the two other ladies to appear, when she thought fit.
+
+Affairs being so ordered, the sick man was acquainted with Fetnah’s
+coming, by the syndic, which was so ravishing a sight to him, that he was
+again near falling into a swoon. Well, Ganem, said she, drawing near to
+his bed, you have again found your Fetnah, whom you thought you had lost
+for ever. Ah! madam, said he, interrupting her, what miracle has restored
+you to my sight? I thought you were in the caliph’s palace: that prince
+has doubtless given ear to you. You have dispelled his jealousy, and he
+has restored you to his favour. Yes, my dear Ganem, answered Fetnah, I
+have cleared myself before the commander of the true believers, who, to
+make amends for the wrong he has done you, bestows me on you for a wife.
+These last words occasioned such an excess of joy in Ganem, that he knew
+not for a while how to express himself, otherwise than by that passionate
+silence so well known to lovers. At length he broke out with these words:
+Ah, beautiful Fetnah, may I give credit to what you tell me? May I
+believe that the caliph really resigns you to Abou Ayoub’s son? Nothing
+is more certain, answered the lady. That prince, who before caused search
+to be made for you to take away your life, and who in his fury caused
+your mother and your sister to suffer a thousand indignities, desires now
+to see you, that he may reward the respect you had for him; and there is
+no question to be made, but that he will be profuse in his favours to
+your family.
+
+Ganem asked what the caliph had done to his mother and sister, which
+Fetnah told him; and he could not forbear letting fall some tears at that
+relation, notwithstanding his thoughts were so full of the news he had
+heard of being married to his mistress. But when Fetnah informed him that
+they were actually in Bagdad, and in the same house with him, he appeared
+so impatient to see them, that the favourite could no longer defer giving
+him that satisfaction; and accordingly called them in. They were then at
+the door, only waiting that moment. They came in, made up to Ganem, and
+embracing him in their turns, gave him a thousand kisses. How many tears
+were shed amidst those embraces! Ganem’s face was bathed with them, as
+well as his mother’s and sister’s; and Fetnah let fall in abundance. The
+syndic himself, and his wife, being moved at the spectacle, could not
+forbear weeping, nor sufficiently admire the secret workings of
+Providence, which brought together into their house four persons whom
+fortune had so cruelly parted.
+
+When they had all dried up their tears, Ganem drew a fresh supply, by the
+recital of all he had suffered from the day he left Fetnah, till the
+moment the syndic brought him to his house. He told them, that having
+reached a small village, he there fell sick; that some charitable
+peasants had taken care of him, but finding he did not recover, a
+camel-driver had undertaken to carry him to the hospital at Bagdad.
+Fetnah, also, told them all the uneasiness of her imprisonment; how the
+caliph, having heard her talk in the tower, had sent for her into his
+closet, and how she had cleared herself. In the conclusion, when they had
+all related what accidents had befallen them, Fetnah said, Let us bless
+Heaven, which has brought us all together again, and let us think of
+nothing but the happiness that attends us. As soon as Ganem has recovered
+his health, he must appear before the caliph with his mother and sister;
+but because they are not in a condition to be seen, I will go and make
+some provision for them; so I desire you to stay a moment for me.
+
+This said, she went away to the palace, and soon returned to the
+syndic’s, with a purse containing a thousand pieces of gold, which she
+delivered to the syndic, desiring him to buy clothes for the mother and
+daughter. The syndic, who was a man of a good fancy, chose such as were
+extraordinary fine, and had them made up with all speed. They were
+finished in three days, and Ganem, finding himself strong enough to go
+abroad, prepared for it; but on the day he had appointed to go and pay
+his respects to the caliph, when he was making ready with his mother and
+sister, the grand vizier Giafar came to the syndic’s house.
+
+That minister came on horseback, attended by a great number of officers.
+Sir, said he to Ganem, as soon as he came in, I am come from the
+commander of the true believers, my master and yours; the orders I have,
+differ very much from those which I do not care to revive in your memory.
+I am to bear you company, and to present you to the caliph, who is
+desirous to see you. Ganem returned no other answer to the vizier’s
+compliments than by profoundly bowing his head, and then mounted a horse
+brought from the caliph’s stables, which he managed very gracefully. The
+mother and daughter were mounted on mules belonging to the palace; and
+whilst Fetnah led them a by-way to the prince’s court, Giafar conducted
+Ganem another way, and brought him into the presence-chamber. The caliph
+was there sitting on his throne, encompassed with emirs, viziers, and
+other attendants and courtiers, Arabs, Persians, Egyptians, Africans, and
+Syrians, of his own dominions, not to mention strangers.
+
+When the vizier had conducted Ganem to the foot of the throne, that young
+merchant paid his obeisance, prostrating himself with his face on the
+ground; and then rising, made his compliment in verse, which, though
+_extempore_, met with the approbation of the whole court.
+
+After his compliment, the caliph caused him to draw near, and said to
+him, I am glad to see you, and desire to hear from your own mouth where
+you found my favourite, and all that you did for her. Ganem obeyed, and
+appeared so sincere, that the caliph was convinced of the reality of what
+he said. That prince ordered a very rich vest to be given him, according
+to the custom observed with those who are admitted to audience. After
+which, he said to him, Ganem, I will have you live in my court. Commander
+of the true believers, answered the young merchant, a slave has no will
+but his master’s, on whom his life and fortune depend. The caliph was
+highly pleased with Ganem’s answer, and assigned him a considerable
+pension. Then that prince came down from his throne, and causing only
+Ganem and the grand vizier to follow him, went into his own apartment.
+Not questioning but Fetnah was there, with Abou Ayoub’s widow and
+daughter, he caused them to be called in. They fell down before him: he
+made them rise, and was so taken with Alcolomb’s beauty, that, after
+viewing her very attentively, he said, I am so sorry for having treated
+your charms so unworthily, that I owe them such a satisfaction as may
+surpass the injury I have done them: I take you to wife; and by that
+means shall punish Zobeide, who shall become the first cause of your good
+fortune, as she was of your past sufferings. This is not all, added he,
+turning towards Ganem’s mother; you are still young; I believe you will
+not disdain to be allied to my grand vizier: I give you to Giafar. Let a
+cadi and witnesses be called, and the three contracts be drawn up and
+signed immediately. Ganem would have represented to the caliph, that it
+would be honour enough for his sister to be one of his favourites; but
+that prince was resolved to marry her.
+
+He thought this such an extraordinary story, that he ordered a famous
+historian to commit it to writing, with all its circumstances. It was
+afterwards laid up in his library; and many copies being transcribed from
+that original, it became public.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+            PRINCE ZEYN ALASNAM, AND THE KING OF THE GENII.
+
+
+A king of Balsora, who possessed great wealth and was well beloved by his
+subjects, had no children, which was a great affliction to him; and
+therefore he made presents to all the holy persons in his dominions to
+engage them to beg a son for him of Heaven: and their prayers being
+effectual, the queen proved with child, and was happily delivered of a
+prince who was named Zeyn Alasnam, which signifies Ornament of the
+Statues.
+
+The king caused all the astrologers in his kingdom to be assembled, and
+ordered them to calculate the infant’s nativity. They found by their
+observations, that he would live long and be very brave; but that all his
+courage would be little enough to bear him through the misfortunes that
+would threaten him. The king was not daunted at the prediction. My son,
+said he, is not to be pitied, since he will be brave: it is fit that
+princes should have a taste of misfortunes; for adversity tries virtue,
+and they are the fitter to reign.
+
+He rewarded the astrologers, and dismissed them; and caused Zeyn to be
+educated with the greatest care imaginable; appointing him able masters
+as soon as he was of age to receive their instructions. In short, he
+proposed to make him an accomplished prince; when, on a sudden, that good
+king fell sick of a distemper which all the skill of his physicians could
+not cure. Perceiving his disease was mortal, he sent for his son, and
+among other things advised him rather to endeavour to be beloved than to
+be feared by his people; not to give ear to flatterers; to be as slow in
+rewarding as in punishing; because it often happens that monarchs, misled
+by false appearances, load wicked men with favours, and oppress the
+innocent.
+
+As soon as king Zeyn was dead, prince Zeyn went into mourning, which he
+wore seven days, and the eighth he ascended the throne, taking his
+father’s seal off the royal treasure, and putting on his own. He began
+thus to taste the sweets of ruling, the pleasure of seeing all his
+courtiers bow down before him, and make it their whole business to show
+their zeal and obedience. In a word, the sovereign power was too
+agreeable to him. He only regarded what his subjects owed to him, without
+considering what his duty was towards them, and consequently took little
+care to govern them well. He wallowed in all sorts of debauchery among
+the voluptuous youth, on whom he conferred the prime employments in the
+kingdom; so that there was nothing regular. Being naturally prodigal, he
+set no bounds to his grants, so that his women and his favourites
+insensibly drained his treasure.
+
+The queen his mother was still living, a discreet wise princess. She had
+several times unsuccessfully tried to give some check to her son’s
+prodigality and debauchery; giving him to understand, that if he did not
+soon take another course, he would not only squander his wealth, but
+would also alienate the minds of his people, and occasion some
+revolution, which perhaps might cost him his crown and his life. What she
+had foretold was very near falling out; the people began to mutter
+against the government, and their muttering had certainly been followed
+by a general revolt, had not the queen by her dexterity prevented it. But
+that princess, being informed of the ill posture of affairs, gave notice
+to the king, who at last suffered himself to be prevailed upon. He
+committed the government to discreet ancient men, who knew how to keep
+the people within the bounds of duty.
+
+Zeyn, seeing all his wealth consumed, repented that he had made no better
+use of it. He fell into a dismal melancholy, and nothing could comfort
+him. One night he saw in a dream, a venerable old man, who came towards
+him, and with a smiling countenance said, Know, Zeyn, that there is no
+sorrow but what is followed by mirth, no misfortune but what in the end
+brings some happiness. If you desire to see the end of your affliction,
+get up, set out for Egypt, go to Grand Cairo: a greater fortune attends
+you there.
+
+The prince, when he awaked in the morning, reflected on his dream, and
+talked of it very seriously to his mother, who only laughed at it. My
+son, said she to him, would you now go into Egypt upon belief of that
+fine dream? Why not, madam? answered Zeyn: do you imagine all dreams are
+chimerical? No, no, some of them are mysterious. My masters have told me
+a thousand stories, which will not permit me to doubt of it. Besides,
+though I were not otherwise convinced, I could not forbear giving some
+credit to it. The old man that appeared to me had something supernatural.
+He was not one of those men whom nothing but age makes venerable; there
+appeared a sort of divine air about his person. In short, he was such a
+one as our great prophet is represented; and if you will have me tell you
+what I think, I believe it was he, who, pitying my affliction, designs to
+ease it: I rely on the confidence he has inspired me with. I am full of
+his promises, and have resolved to follow his advice. The queen
+endeavoured to dissuade him; but it was in vain. The prince committed to
+her the government of the kingdom, set out one night very privately from
+his palace, and took the road to Cairo, without suffering any person to
+attend him.
+
+After much trouble and fatigue, he arrived at that famous city, like
+which there are few in the world either for extent or beauty. He alighted
+at the gate of a mosque, where, being spent with weariness, he lay down.
+No sooner was he fallen asleep, than he saw the same old man, who said to
+him, I am pleased with you, my son; you have given credit to my words.
+You are come hither, without being deterred by the length or the
+difficulties of the way: but take notice, that I have not put you upon
+undertaking such a long journey upon any other design than to make trial
+of you. I find you have courage and resolution. You deserve I should make
+you the greatest and richest prince in the world. Return to Balsora, and
+you shall find immense wealth in your palace. No king ever possessed so
+much as is there.
+
+The prince was not pleased with that dream.—Alas! thought he to himself,
+when he awaked, how much was I mistaken! That old man, whom I took for
+our prophet, is no other than the product of my disturbed imagination. My
+fancy was so full of him, that it is no wonder I have seen him again. I
+had best return to Balsora; what should I do here any longer? It is very
+happy that I told none but my mother the occasion of my journey: I should
+become a jest to my people if they knew it.
+
+Accordingly he set out again for his kingdom; and as soon as he arrived
+there, the queen asked him, whether he returned well pleased. He told her
+all that had happened; and he was so much concerned for having been so
+credulous, that the queen, instead of adding to his vexation by reproving
+or laughing at him, comforted him. Forbear afflicting yourself, my son,
+said she; if God has appointed you riches, you will have them without any
+trouble. Be easy: all that I recommend to you is, to be virtuous.
+Renounce the delight of dancing, music, and high-coloured wine: shun all
+pleasures; they have already almost ruined you: apply yourself to the
+making of your subjects happy; and, securing their happiness, you will
+fix your own.
+
+Prince Zeyn swore he would for the future follow his mother’s advice, and
+be directed by the wise viziers she had made choice of to assist him in
+supporting the weight of the government. But the very first night after
+he returned to his palace, he the third time saw in a dream the old man,
+who said to him, Brave Zeyn, the time of your prosperity is come.
+To-morrow morning, as soon as you are up, take a little pick-axe, and go
+dig in your father’s closet; you will there find a mighty treasure.
+
+As soon as the prince awaked, he got up, ran to the queen’s apartment,
+and with much earnestness told her the new dream of that night. Really,
+my son, said his mother, that is a very positive man: he is not satisfied
+with having deceived you twice; have you a mind to believe him again? No,
+madam, answered Zeyn, I give no credit to what he has said; but I will,
+for my own satisfaction, search my father’s closet. I really fancied so,
+cried the queen, laughing very heartily: go, my son, please yourself; my
+comfort is, that work is not so toilsome as the journey to Egypt.
+
+Well, madam, answered the king, I must own that this third dream has
+restored my belief, for it agrees with the two others; and, in short, let
+us examine the old man’s words. He first directed me to go into Egypt;
+there he told me, he had put me upon taking that journey only to try me.
+Return to Balsora, said he; that is the place where you are to find
+treasures: this night he has exactly pointed out the place where they
+are. These three dreams, in my opinion, are connected. After all, they
+may be chimerical; but I would rather search in vain, than blame myself
+as long as I live for having perhaps missed of great riches, by being
+unseasonably too hard of belief.
+
+Having spoken these words, he left the queen’s apartment, caused a
+pick-axe to be brought him, and went alone into the late king’s closet.
+He fell to breaking up the ground, and took up above half the square
+stones it was paved with; and yet found not the least appearance of what
+he sought after. He ceased working to take a little rest, thinking within
+himself, I am much afraid my mother had cause enough to laugh at me.
+However, he took heart, and went on with his labour: nor had he cause to
+repent; for, on a sudden, he discovered a white stone, which he took up,
+and under it found a door made fast with a steel padlock, which he broke
+with the pick-axe, and opened the door, which covered a staircase of
+white marble. He immediately lighted a candle, and went down those stairs
+into a room, the floor whereof was laid with tiles of china-ware, and the
+roofs and walls were of crystal; but he particularly fixed his eyes on
+four places a little raised above the rest of the floor, on each of which
+there were ten urns of porphyry stone. He fancied they were full of wine:
+Well, said he, that wine must needs be very old; I do not question but it
+is excellent. He went up to one of the urns, took off the cover, and,
+with no less joy than surprise, perceived it was full of pieces of gold.
+He searched all the forty, one after another, and found them full of the
+same coin, took out a handful, and carried it to the queen.
+
+That princess was as much amazed as can be imagined, when the king gave
+her an account of what he had seen. Oh! my son, said she, take heed that
+you do not lavish away all that treasure foolishly, as you have already
+done the royal treasure: let not your enemies have so much occasion to
+rejoice. No, madam, answered Zeyn, I will from henceforward live after
+such a manner as shall be pleasing to you.
+
+The queen desired the king her son to conduct her to that wonderful
+subterraneous place, which the late king her husband had made with such
+secrecy, that she had never heard the least account of it. Zeyn led her
+to the closet, down the marble stairs, and into the chamber where the
+urns were. She observed every thing with singular curiosity, and in a
+corner spied a little urn of the same sort of stone as the others. The
+prince had not before taken notice of it, but opening, found in it a
+golden key. My son, said the queen, the key certainly belongs to some
+other treasure; let us look all about; perhaps we may discover the use it
+is designed for.
+
+They viewed all the chamber with the utmost exactness, and at length
+found a key-hole in one of the pannels of the wall, and guessed it to be
+that the key belonged to. The king immediately tried, and as readily
+opened the door, which led into a chamber, in the midst of which were
+nine pedestals of massy gold, on eight of which stood as many statues,
+each of them made of one single diamond, and from them came such a
+brightness that the whole room was perfectly light.
+
+O Heavens! cried Zeyn, in a wonderful surprise, where could my father
+find such rarities? The ninth pedestal redoubled their amazement, for it
+was covered with a piece of white satin, on which were written these
+words: ‘Dear son, it cost me much toil to get these statues: but though
+they are extraordinary beautiful, you must understand that there is a
+ninth in the world which surpasses them all: that alone is worth more
+than a thousand such as these. If you desire to be master of it, go to
+the city of Cairo in Egypt: one of my old slaves, whose name is Morabec,
+lives there; you will easily find him; the first person you shall meet
+will show you his house: go seek, and tell him all that has befallen you.
+He will know you to be my son, and he will conduct you to the place where
+that wonderful statue is, which you will get with safety.’
+
+The prince, having read those words, said to the queen, I will not be
+without that ninth statue; it must certainly be a very rare piece, since
+all these here are not of so great value together. I will set out
+speedily for Grand Cairo; nor do I believe, madam, that you will oppose
+my design. No, my son, answered the queen, I am not against it: you are
+certainly under the special protection of our great prophet; he will not
+suffer you to perish in this journey. Set out when you think fit; your
+viziers and I will take care of the government during your absence. The
+prince made ready his equipage, but would take only a small number of
+slaves with him.
+
+Nothing remarkable befell him by the way; but arriving at Cairo, he
+inquired for Morabec. The people told him he was one of the wealthiest
+inhabitants of the city; that he lived like a great lord, and that he
+kept open house, especially for strangers. Zeyn was conducted thither,
+knocked at the gate, which a slave opened, and said, What is your want?
+and who are you? I am a stranger, answered the prince; and, having heard
+much of lord Morabec’s generosity, am come to take up my lodging with
+him. The slave desired Zeyn to stay a while, and went to acquaint his
+master, who ordered him to desire the stranger to walk in. The slave
+returned to the gate, and told the prince he was welcome.
+
+Zeyn went in, crossed a large court, and entered into a hall
+magnificently furnished, where Morabec expected him, and received him
+very courteously, returning thanks for the honour he did him in accepting
+of a lodging in his house. The prince, having answered his compliments,
+said to Morabec, I am son to the late king of Balsora, and my name is
+Zeyn Alasnam. The king, said Morabec, was formerly my master; but, my
+lord, I never knew of any children he had. What age are you of? I am
+twenty years old, answered the prince. How long is it since you left my
+father’s court? Almost two and twenty years, replied Morabec. But how can
+you convince me that you are his son? My father, replied Zeyn, had a
+subterraneous place under his closet, in which I have found forty
+porphyry urns full of gold. And what more is there? said Morabec. There
+are, answered the prince, nine pedestals of massy gold, on eight whereof
+are eight diamond statues, and on the ninth is a piece of white satin, on
+which my father has written what I am to do to get another statue, more
+valuable than all those together. You know where the statue is; for it
+mentioned on the satin that you will conduct me to it.
+
+As soon as he had spoken these words, Morabec fell down at his feet, and
+kissing one of his hands several times, said, I bless God for having
+brought you hither: I know you to be the king of Balsora’s son. If you
+will go to the palace where the wonderful statue is, I will conduct you;
+but you must first rest here a few days. This day I treat the great men
+of the court: we were at table when word was brought me of your being at
+the door. Will you vouchsafe to come and be merry with us? I shall be
+very glad, replied Zeyn, to be admitted to your feast. Morabec
+immediately led him into a dome where the company was, seated him at
+table, and served him on his knee. The great men of Cairo were surprised,
+and whispered to one another, Who is this stranger to whom Morabec pays
+so much respect?
+
+When they had dined, Morabec, directing his discourse to the company,
+said, Great men of Cairo, do not think much to see me serve this young
+stranger after this manner: be it known to you, that he is the son of the
+king of Balsora, my master. His father purchased me with his money, and
+died without making me free; so that I am still a slave, and consequently
+all I have of right belongs to this young prince, his sole heir. Here
+Zeyn interrupted him, saying, Morabec, I declare before all these lords,
+that I make you free from this moment, and that I renounce all right to
+your person, and all you possess. Consider what you would have me do more
+for you. Morabec then kissed the ground, and returned the prince most
+hearty thanks. Wine was then brought in, which they drank all the day,
+and towards evening presents were distributed among the guests, who then
+went away.
+
+The next day, Zeyn said to Morabec, I have taken rest enough: I came not
+to Cairo to take my pleasure; my design is to get the ninth statue: it is
+time for us to set out in search of it. Sir, said Morabec, I am ready to
+comply with your desires; but you know not what dangers you must
+encounter to gain the precious conquest. Whatsoever the danger may be,
+answered the prince, I am resolved to undertake it; I will either perish
+or succeed. All that happens in this world is by God’s direction: do you
+but bear me company, and let your resolution be equal to mine.
+
+Morabec finding him resolved to set out, called his servants, and ordered
+them to make ready his equipage. Then the prince and he performed the
+ablution, or washing, and the prayer enjoined, which is called Farz; and,
+that done, they set out. By the way they took notice of abundance of
+strange and wonderful things, and travelled many days; at the end
+whereof, being come to a delicious place, they alighted from their
+horses. Then Morabec said to all the servants that attended them, Do you
+stay in this place, and take care of our equipage till we return. Next,
+he said to Zeyn, Now, sir, let us two go on by ourselves: we are near the
+dreadful place where the ninth statue is kept. You will stand in need of
+all your courage.
+
+They soon came to a lake; and Morabec sat down on the brink of it, saying
+to the prince, We must cross this sea. How can we cross it, answered
+Zeyn, when we have no boat? You will see one appear in a moment, replied
+Morabec: the enchanted boat of the king of the genii will come for us.
+But do not forget what I am going to say to you: you must observe a
+profound silence; do not speak to the waterman, though his figure seem
+ever so strange to you: whatsoever you observe, say nothing: for I tell
+you beforehand, that if you utter the least word when you are embarked,
+the boat will sink down. I shall take care to hold my peace, said the
+prince: you need only tell me what I am to do, and I will strictly
+observe it.
+
+Whilst they were talking, he spied on a sudden a boat in the lake, and it
+was made of red sanders. It had a mast of fine amber, and a blue satin
+flag. There was only one waterman in it, whose head was like an
+elephant’s, and his body like a tiger’s. When the boat was come up to the
+prince and Morabec, the monstrous waterman took them up one after another
+with his trunk, and put them into the boat, and then carried them over
+the lake in a moment. He then again took them up with his trunk, set them
+ashore, and immediately vanished with his boat.
+
+Now we may talk, said Morabec: the island we are on belongs to the king
+of the genii; there are no more such throughout the world. Look all about
+you, prince; can there be a more delightful place? It is certainly a
+lively representation of the charming place God has appointed for the
+faithful observers of our law. Behold the fields, adorned with all sorts
+of flowers and odoriferous plants: admire those fine trees, whose
+delicious fruit makes the branches hang down to the ground: enjoy the
+delight of those harmonious songs formed in the air by a thousand birds,
+of as many various sorts, unknown in other countries. Zeyn could never
+sufficiently admire the beauty of those things that were about him, and
+still found something new as he advanced farther into the island.
+
+At length they came before a palace all of fine emeralds, encompassed
+with a ditch, on the banks whereof, at certain distances, were planted
+such tall trees that they shaded the whole palace. Before the gate, which
+was of massy gold, was a bridge made of one single shell of a fish,
+though it was at least six fathoms long and three in breadth. At the head
+of the bridge stood a company of genii, of a prodigious height, who
+guarded the entrance into the castle with great clubs of china steel.
+
+Let us go no farther, said Morabec; these genii will beat our brains out;
+and if we would prevent their coming to us, we must perform a magical
+ceremony. He then drew out of a purse he had under his garment four long
+stripes of yellow taffety; one he put about his middle, and laid the
+other on his back, giving the other two to the prince, who did the like.
+Then Morabec laid on the ground two large table-cloths, on the edges
+whereof he scattered some precious stones, musk, and amber. Then he sat
+down on one of those cloths, and Zeyn on the other; and Morabec said to
+the prince, I will now, sir, conjure the king of the genii, who lives in
+the palace that is before us, that he may come peaceably to us. I confess
+I am somewhat uneasy about the reception he is like to give us. If our
+coming into this island is displeasing to him, he will appear in the
+shape of a dreadful monster; but if he approves of our design, he will
+come in the shape of a handsome man. As soon as he appears before us, you
+must rise and salute him, without going off your cloth; for you would
+certainly perish, should you stir off it. You may say to him, Sovereign
+lord of the genii, my father, who was your servant, has been taken away
+by the angel of death; I wish your majesty may protect me, as you always
+protected my father. If the king of the genii ask you what favour you
+desire of him, you must answer, Sir, I most humbly beg of you to give me
+the ninth statue.
+
+Morabec having thus instructed prince Zeyn, began his conjuration.
+Immediately their eyes were dazzled with a long flash of lightning, which
+was followed by a clap of thunder. The whole island was covered with a
+hideous darkness, a furious storm of wind blew, a dreadful cry was heard,
+the island felt a shock, and there was such an earthquake as that which
+Asrasyel is to cause on the day of judgment.
+
+Zeyn was somewhat startled, and began to look upon that noise as a very
+ill omen, when Morabec, who knew better than he what to think of it,
+began to smile, and said, Be not dismayed, my prince, all goes well. In
+short, that very moment the king of the genii appeared in the shape of a
+very handsome man; yet there was something of sternness in his air.
+
+As soon as prince Zeyn had made him the compliment he had been taught by
+Morabec, the king of the genii, smiling, answered, My son, I loved your
+father; and every time he came to pay me his respects, I presented him
+with a statue, which he carried away with him. I have no less kindness
+for you. I obliged your father, some days before he died, to write that
+which you read on the piece of white satin. I promised him to receive you
+under my protection, and to give you the ninth statue, which in beauty
+surpasses those you have already. I have begun to perform my promise to
+him. It was I whom you saw in a dream in the shape of an old man: I
+caused you to open the subterraneous place where the urns and the statues
+are: I have a great share in all that has befallen you, or rather am the
+occasion of it. I know the motive that brought you hither; and you shall
+obtain what you desire. Though I had not promised your father to give it,
+I would willingly grant it you; but you must first swear to me by all
+that is sacred, that you will return to this island, and that you will
+bring a maid that is in her fifteenth year, and who has never known man,
+nor desired to know any. She must also be perfectly beautiful, and you so
+much master of yourself, as not even to desire to enjoy her, as you are
+conducting her hither.
+
+Zeyn took the rash oath that was required of him. But, sir, said he, then
+suppose I should be so fortunate as to meet with such a maid as you
+require, how shall I know that I have found her? I own, answered the king
+of the genii smiling, that you might be mistaken in her mien: that
+knowledge is above the sons of Adam, and therefore I do not intend to
+depend upon your judgment in that particular; I will give you a
+looking-glass, which will be surer than your conjectures. When you shall
+have seen a maid fifteen years of age, perfectly beautiful, you shall
+only need to look into the glass, in which you shall see the maiden’s
+representation. If she be chaste, the glass will remain clear and
+unsullied; but if, on the contrary, it sullies, that will be a certain
+sign that she has not been always undefiled, or at least that she has
+desired to cease being so. Do not forget the oath you have taken; be sure
+to keep it, as becomes a man of honour, otherwise I will take away your
+life, as much kindness as I have for you. Prince Zeyn Alasnam protested
+over again that he would faithfully keep his word.
+
+Then the king of the genii delivered to him a looking-glass, saying, My
+son, you may return when you please: there is the glass you are to make
+use of. Zeyn and Morabec took leave of the king of the genii, and went
+towards the lake. The waterman with the elephant’s head brought his boat,
+and carried them over the lake as he had done before. They joined their
+servants, and returned with them again to Cairo.
+
+Prince Alasnam rested a few days at Morabec’s house, and then said to
+him, Let us go to Bagdad, to seek a maiden for the king of the genii.
+Why, are we not at Grand Cairo? said Morabec: shall we not there find
+beautiful maidens enough? You are in the right, answered the prince; but
+how shall we do to find where they are? Do not trouble yourself about
+that, sir, answered Morabec; I know a very cunning old woman, whom I will
+intrust with that affair, and she will acquit herself well of it.
+
+Accordingly the old woman found means to show the prince a considerable
+number of beautiful maidens of fifteen years of age; but when he had
+viewed them, and came to consult his looking-glass, the fatal touchstone
+of their virtue, the glass always appeared sullied. All the maidens in
+the court and city, that were in their fifteenth year, underwent the
+trial one after another, and the glass never remained bright and clear.
+
+When they saw there were no chaste maids to be found in Cairo, they went
+away to Bagdad, where they hired a magnificent palace in one of the chief
+corners of the city, and began to live splendidly. They kept open house;
+and, after all people had eaten in the palace, the fragments were carried
+to the dervises, who, by that means, had convenient subsistence.
+
+There lived in that quarter an iman, whose name was Boubekir Mouesm, a
+vain, haughty, and envious person: he hated the rich, only because he was
+poor, his misery incensing him against his neighbour’s prosperity. He
+heard talk of Zeyn Alasnam, and of the plenty his house afforded. This
+was enough for him to take an aversion to that prince; and it proceeded
+so far, that one day, after the evening prayer, in the mosque, he said to
+the people, Brethren, I have been told a stranger is come to live in our
+ward, who is at a prodigious expense every day. How can we tell but that
+this unknown person is some villain, who has committed a great robbery in
+his own country, and comes hither to make much of himself? Let us take
+heed, brethren; if the caliph should happen to be informed that such a
+man is in our ward, it is to be feared that he will punish us for not
+acquainting him with it: I declare, for my part, I wash my hands of it;
+and if any thing should happen amiss, it shall not lie at my door. The
+multitude, who were easily led away, unanimously cried to Boubekir, It is
+your business, doctor; do you acquaint the council with it. The iman went
+home well pleased, and drew up a memorial, resolving to present it to the
+caliph the next day.
+
+But Morabec, who had been at prayers, and heard all that was said by the
+doctor as well as the rest of the company, put five hundred pieces of
+gold into a handkerchief, made up with a parcel of several silks, and
+went away to Boubekir’s house. The doctor asked him in a harsh tone what
+he wanted. Doctor, answered Morabec, with an obliging air, and at the
+same time putting into his hand the gold and the silk, I am your
+neighbour and your servant; I come from prince Zeyn, who lives in this
+ward. He has heard of your worth, and has ordered me to come and tell
+you, that he desires to be acquainted with you; and, in the mean time,
+desires you to accept of this small present. Boubekir was transported
+with joy, and answered Morabec thus: Be pleased, sir, to beg the prince’s
+pardon for me: I am ashamed I have not yet been to see him, but I will
+atone for my fault, and wait on him to-morrow.
+
+Accordingly the next day, after morning prayer, he said to the people,
+You must understand, brethren, that no man is without some enemies. Envy
+pursues those chiefly who are very rich. The stranger I spoke to you
+about yesterday in the evening is no ill man, as some ill-designing
+persons would have persuaded me: he is a young prince, endued with all
+manner of virtues. It behoves us to take care how we go about to give any
+ill account of him to the caliph.
+
+Boubekir, having thus wiped off the ill impression he had the day before
+given the people concerning Zeyn, returned home, put on his best apparel,
+and went to visit that young prince, who gave him a courteous reception.
+After several compliments had passed on both sides, Boubekir said to the
+prince, Sir, do you design to stay long at Bagdad? I shall stay, answered
+Zeyn, till I can find a maid fifteen years of age, perfectly beautiful,
+and so chaste, that she has not only never known a man, but even never
+desired to know one. You seek after a rarity, replied the iman; and I
+should be apt to fear your search would prove unsuccessful, did I not
+know where there is a maid of that character. Her father was formerly
+vizier; but he has left the court, and lived a long time in a house out
+of the way, where he applies himself only to the education of his
+daughter. If you please, I will go ask her of him for you: I do not
+question but he will be overjoyed to have a son-in-law of your quality.
+Not so fast, said the prince; I shall not marry that maid before I know
+whether I like her. As for her beauty, I can depend on you: but what
+assurance can you give me in relation to her virtue? What assurance do
+you require? said Boubekir. I must see her face, answered Zeyn; that is
+enough for me to come to a resolution. You are skilful, then, in
+physiognomy? replied the iman, smiling. Well, come along with me to her
+father’s: I will desire him to let you see her one moment in his
+presence.
+
+Mouesm conducted the prince to the vizier’s, who, as soon as he was
+acquainted with the prince’s birth and design, called his daughter, and
+made her take off her veil. Never had the young king of Balsora beheld
+such a perfect and powerful beauty. He stood amazed; and, since he could
+then try whether the maid was as chaste as fair, he pulled out his glass,
+which remained bright and unsullied.
+
+When he perceived he had at length found such a person as he desired, he
+entreated the vizier to grant her to him. Immediately the lady was sent
+for, and came; the contract was signed, and the marriage-prayer said.
+After which ceremony, Zeyn carried the vizier to his house, where he
+treated him magnificently, and gave him considerable presents. Next, he
+sent a prodigious quantity of jewels to the bride by Morabec, who brought
+her to his house, where the wedding was kept with all the pomp that
+became Zeyn’s quality. When all the company was dismissed, Morabec said
+to his master, Let us be gone, sir; let us not stay any longer at Bagdad,
+but return to Cairo: remember the promise you made the king of the genii.
+Let us go, answered the prince; I must take care to perform it exactly:
+yet I must confess, my dear Morabec, that, if I obey the king of the
+genii, it is not without reluctancy. The person I have married is
+charming, and I am tempted to carry her to Balsora, and place her on the
+throne. Alas! sir, answered Morabec, take heed how you give way to your
+inclination. Make yourself master of your passions; and, whatsoever it
+costs you, be as good as your word to the king of the genii. Well then,
+Morabec, said the prince, do you take care to conceal that lovely maid
+from me: let her never appear in my sight. Perhaps I have already seen
+too much of her.
+
+Morabec having made all ready for their departure, they returned to
+Cairo, and thence set out for the island of the king of the genii. When
+they were there, the maid, who had performed the journey in a
+horse-litter, and whom the prince had never seen since his wedding-day,
+said to Morabec, Where are we? shall we be soon in the dominions of the
+prince my husband? Madam, answered Morabec, it is time to undeceive you.
+Prince Zeyn married you, only in order to get you from your father; he
+did not engage his faith to you to make you sovereign of Balsora, but to
+deliver you to the king of the genii, who has asked of him a virgin of
+your character. Hearing these words, she wept bitterly, which moved the
+prince and Morabec. Take pity on me, said she; I am a stranger: you will
+be accountable to God for your treachery towards me.
+
+Her tears and complaints were of no effect, for she was presented to the
+king of the genii, who, having gazed on her very earnestly, said to Zeyn,
+Prince, I am satisfied with your behaviour; the virgin you have brought
+me is beautiful and chaste, and I am pleased with the force you have put
+upon yourself to be as good as your word to me. Return to your dominions,
+and when you shall enter the subterraneous room where the eight statues
+are, you shall find the ninth which I promised you. I will go and make my
+genii carry it thither. Zeyn thanked the king, and returned to Cairo with
+Morabec, but did not stay long there; his impatience to see the ninth
+statue made him hasten his journey. However, he could not but often think
+of the young virgin he married; and, blaming himself for having deceived
+her, he looked upon himself as the cause and instrument of her
+misfortune. Alas! said he to himself, I have taken her from a tender
+father to sacrifice her to a genie. O incomparable beauty! you deserve a
+better fate.
+
+Prince Zeyn, disturbed with these thoughts, at length reached Balsora,
+where his subjects made extraordinary rejoicings for his return. He went
+directly to give his mother an account of his journey, who was in a
+rapture to hear he had obtained the ninth statue. Let us go, my son, said
+she, let us go and see it; for it is certainly in the chamber under
+ground, since the king of the genii told you you should find it there.
+The young king and his mother, being both impatient to see that wonderful
+statue, went down into the subterraneous place, and into the room of the
+statues: but how great was their surprise, when, instead of a statue of
+diamonds, they spied on the ninth pedestal a most beautiful virgin, whom
+the prince knew to be the same he had conducted into the island of the
+genii! Prince, said the young maid, you are amazed to see me here: you
+expected to have found something more precious than I; and I question not
+but that you now repent having taken so much trouble: you expected a
+better reward. Madam, answered Zeyn, Heaven is my witness, that I more
+than once thought to have broke my word with the king of the genii, to
+keep you to myself. Whatsoever the value of a diamond statue may be, is
+it worth the satisfaction of enjoying you? I love you above all the
+diamonds and wealth in the world.
+
+Just as he had done speaking these words, a clap of thunder was heard,
+which made that subterraneous place shake. Zeyn’s mother was frightened;
+but the king of the genii, immediately appearing, dispelled her dread.
+Madam, said he to her, I protect and love your son: I had a mind to try
+whether, at his age, he could subdue his passions. I know the charms of
+this young lady have wrought on him, and that he did not punctually keep
+the promise he had made me, not to desire to enjoy her; but I am too well
+acquainted with the frailty of the human race. This is the ninth statue I
+designed for him; it is more rare and precious than the others. Live,
+said he, (directing his discourse to the young prince,) live happy, Zeyn,
+with this young lady, who is your wife; and, if you would have her true
+and constant to you, love her always, and love her alone. Give her no
+rival, and I will answer for her fidelity. Having spoken these words, the
+king of the genii vanished; and Zeyn, ravished with that young lady,
+consummated the marriage the same day, and caused her to be proclaimed
+queen of Balsora. Those two ever faithful and loving consorts lived
+together many years.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+                       CODADAD AND HIS BROTHERS.
+
+
+Those who have written the history of the kingdom of Diarbekir inform us,
+that there formerly reigned a most magnificent king in the city of
+Harran, who loved his subjects, and was equally beloved by them. He was
+endued with all virtues, and wanted nothing to complete his happiness but
+an heir. Though he had the finest women in the world in his seraglio, yet
+he was destitute of children. He continually prayed to Heaven for them;
+and one night, in his sleep, a comely person, or rather a prophet,
+appeared to him, and said, Your prayers are heard; you have obtained what
+you desired: rise as soon as you awake, go to your prayers, and make two
+genuflections: then walk into the garden of your palace, call your
+gardener, and bid him bring you a pomegranate; eat as many of the seeds
+as you think fit, and your wishes shall be accomplished.
+
+The king, calling to mind his dream when he awaked, returned thanks to
+Heaven, got up, and fell to his prayers, made two genuflections, and then
+went down into his garden, where he took fifty pomegranate-seeds, which
+he counted, and ate them. He had fifty wives who shared in his bed; they
+all proved with child; but there was one called Pirouze, who did not
+appear to be big-bellied. He took an aversion to that lady, and would
+have her put to death. Her barrenness, said he, is a certain token that
+Heaven does not judge Pirouze worthy to bear a prince; it is my duty to
+deliver the world from an object that is odious to the Lord. He had taken
+this cruel resolution, but his vizier diverted him from putting it in
+execution; representing to him, that all women were not of the same
+constitution, and that it was not impossible but that Pirouze might be
+with child, though it did not appear. Well, answered the king, let her
+live; but let her depart my court, for I cannot endure her. Your majesty,
+replied the vizier, may send her to prince Samer, your cousin. The king
+approved of his advice: he sent Pirouze to Samaria with a letter, in
+which he ordered his cousin to treat her well; and, in case she proved
+with child, to give him notice of her being brought to bed.
+
+No sooner was Pirouze arrived in that country, than it appeared that she
+was with child; and at length she was delivered of a most beautiful
+prince. The prince of Samaria wrote immediately to the king of Harran, to
+acquaint him with the birth of that son, and to congratulate him on that
+occasion. The king was much rejoiced at it, and answered prince Samer as
+follows: ‘Cousin, all my other wives have also been delivered of each a
+prince; so that we have a great number of children here. I desire you to
+breed up that of Pirouze, to give him the name of Codadad, and to send
+him to me when I shall give you notice.’
+
+The prince of Samaria spared nothing that might improve the education of
+his nephew. He taught him to ride, shoot with a bow, and all the other
+things becoming the son of a king; so that Codadad, at eighteen years of
+age, was looked upon as a prodigy. This young prince, being inspired with
+a courage worthy his birth, said one day to his mother, Madam, I begin to
+grow weary of Samaria: I find myself inclined to gain renown; give me
+leave to go seek it amidst the perils of war. My father, the king of
+Harran, has many enemies. Some neighbouring princes make it their
+business to disturb him. Why does he not call me to his assistance? Why
+does he leave me here so long, like an infant? Must I spend my life here
+in sloth, when all my brothers have the good fortune to be fighting by
+his side? My son, answered Pirouze, I am no less impatient to have your
+name become famous; I could wish you had already signalized yourself
+against your father’s enemies; but we must wait till he requires it. No,
+madam, replied Codadad, I have already waited but too long. I long to see
+the king, and am tempted to go to offer him my service as a young
+gentleman unknown. No doubt but he will accept of it, and I will not
+discover myself till I have performed a thousand glorious actions: I
+design to merit his esteem before he knows who I am. Pirouze approved of
+his generous resolution; and Codadad one day departed from Samaria, as if
+he had been going a-hunting, without acquainting prince Samer, for fear
+he should thwart his design.
+
+He was mounted on a white horse, who had a gold bit and shoes; his
+housing was of blue satin, embroidered with pearls; the hilt of his
+scimitar was of one entire diamond; and the scabbard of sandal-wood, all
+adorned with emeralds and rubies; and on his shoulder hung his bow and
+quiver. In this equipage, which added much to his good mien, he arrived
+at the city of Harran, and soon found means to offer his service to the
+king; who, being charmed with his beauty and lovely presence, and perhaps
+inspired by natural sympathy, gave him a favourable reception, and asked
+his name and quality. Sir, answered Codadad, I am son to an emir of Grand
+Cairo: an inclination to travel has made me quit my country; and,
+understanding, in my passage through your dominions, that you were
+engaged in war with some of your neighbours, I am come to your court to
+offer your majesty my service. The king showed him extraordinary
+kindness, and employed him in his troops.
+
+That young prince soon signalized his bravery. He gained the esteem of
+the officers, and was admired by the soldiers; and, having no less wit
+than courage, he so far advanced himself in the king’s affection as to
+become his favourite. All the ministers and other courtiers daily
+resorted to Codadad, and were so eager to purchase his friendship that
+they neglected the king’s other sons. Those princes could not but resent
+it; and, imputing it to the stranger, they all conceived an implacable
+hatred against him; but the king’s affection daily increasing, he was
+never weary of giving him fresh testimonies of it. He always desired he
+should be near him: he admired his discourse, ever full of wit and
+discretion; and, to show how much he was satisfied with his wisdom, he
+gave him the tuition of the other princes, though he was of the same age
+as they. Thus Codadad was made governor of his brothers; which only
+served to heighten their hatred. Is it come to this, said they, that the
+king, not satisfied with loving a stranger more than us, will have him to
+be our tutor, and not allow us to do any thing without his leave? This is
+not to be endured: we must rid ourselves of this stranger. Let us go
+together, said one of them, and dispatch him. No, no, answered another;
+we had better be cautious how we sacrifice ourselves: his death would
+render us odious to the king, who, in return would declare us all unfit
+to reign. Let us destroy the stranger artfully. We will ask leave to go
+a-hunting; and, when far from the palace, we will proceed to some other
+city, and stay there some time. The king will wonder at our absence; and,
+perceiving we do not return, he may perhaps put the stranger to death, or
+at least will turn him out of the court, for suffering us to leave the
+palace.
+
+All the princes applauded this artifice, went together to Codadad, and
+desired him to give them leave to go and take the diversion of hunting,
+promising to return the same day. Pirouze’s son was taken in the snare,
+and granted the leave his brothers desired. They went, but returned not.
+They had been three days absent, when the king asked Codadad where the
+princes were, for it was long since he had seen them. Sir, answered
+Codadad, they have been gone a-hunting these three days; but they
+promised me they would return sooner. The king grew uneasy, and much more
+when he perceived the princes did not return the next day. This provoked
+his passion: Indiscreet stranger, said he to Codadad, why did you let my
+sons go without bearing them company? Is it thus you discharge the trust
+I have reposed in you? Go seek them immediately, or you are a dead man.
+
+These words pierced Pirouze’s unfortunate son to the heart. He armed
+himself, went out of the city, and, like a shepherd who had lost his
+flock, searched all the country for his brothers, inquiring at every
+village whether they had been seen; and, hearing no news of them, was
+grieved to the heart. Alas! my brothers, said he, what is become of you?
+Are you perhaps fallen into the hands of our enemies? Am I come to the
+court of Harran to be the occasion of giving the king so much trouble? He
+was altogether comfortless for having given the princes leave to go
+a-hunting, or for not having borne them company.
+
+After some days spent in a fruitless search, he arrived in a plain of
+prodigious extent, in the midst whereof was a palace all of black marble.
+He drew near, and at one of the windows spied a most beautiful lady, but
+set off with no other ornament than her own beauty; for her hair was
+dishevelled, her garments ragged, and on her countenance appeared all the
+tokens of the greatest affliction. As soon as she saw Codadad, and judged
+he might hear her, she directed her discourse to him, saying, Alas! young
+man, get away from this fatal place, or else you will soon fall into the
+hands of the monster that inhabits it. A black who feeds only on human
+blood, resides in this palace. He seizes all persons whom their ill fate
+conducts to this plain, and shuts them up in his dark dungeons, whence
+they are never released but to be devoured by him.
+
+Madam, answered Codadad, tell me who you are, and be not concerned for
+any more. I am a maid of quality, of Grand Cairo, replied the lady: I was
+passing by this castle yesterday, in my way to Bagdad, and met with the
+black, who killed all my servants, and brought me hither. I wish I had
+nothing but death to fear; but, to add to my calamity, this monster would
+persuade me to love him; and, in case I do not yield to-morrow to his
+brutality, I must expect the utmost violence. I tell you once more, added
+she, make your escape: the black will soon return: he is gone out to
+pursue some travellers he spied at a distance on the plain. Lose no time;
+nay, I know not whether a speedy flight will deliver you from him.
+
+She had scarce done speaking these words before the black appeared. He
+was a man of a monstrous bulk, and of a dreadful aspect, mounted on a
+mighty Tartar horse, and wore such a large and heavy scimitar, that none
+but he could make use of it. The prince, seeing him, was amazed at his
+monstrous mien, directed his prayers to Heaven to assist him, then drew
+his scimitar, and stood still to expect the black; who, despising so
+inconsiderable an enemy, called to him to yield himself with engaging
+words; but Codadad, by his behaviour, gave him to understand that he was
+resolved to defend his life; for he drew near, and gave him a great cut
+on the knee. The black, feeling himself wounded, gave such a dreadful
+shriek as made all the plain resound. He grew enraged, foamed at the
+mouth, and raising himself on his stirrups, made at Codadad with his
+dreadful scimitar. The stroke was so violent, that no more would have
+been required to put an end to the prince, had not he, by a sudden spring
+he made his horse take, avoided it. The scimitar made a mighty hissing in
+the air; but, before the black could have leisure to second the blow,
+Codadad let fall one on his right arm with such fury, that he cut it off.
+The dreadful scimitar fell, with the hand that held it; and the black,
+yielding under the violence of the stroke, lost his stirrups, and made
+the earth quake with his mighty fall. The prince alighted at the same
+time, and chopped off his enemy’s head. Just then the lady, who had been
+a spectator of the combat, and was still offering up her vows to Heaven
+for that young hero whom she admired, gave a shriek for joy, and said to
+Codadad, Prince, (for the mighty victory you have obtained convinces me
+that you are of no ordinary extraction,) finish the work you have begun:
+the black has the keys of this castle: take them, and deliver me out of
+prison. The prince searched the wretch’s pockets, as he lay stretched out
+on the ground, and found several keys.
+
+He opened the first door, and went into a court, where he met the lady
+coming to meet him. She would have cast herself at his feet, in token of
+her gratitude; but he would not permit her. She commended his valour, and
+extolled him above all the heroes in the world. He returned her
+compliments; and she appearing still more lovely to him near at hand than
+at a distance, I know not whether she was more joyful to be delivered
+from the desperate danger she had been in, than he for having done so
+considerable a service to so beautiful a person.
+
+Their discourse was interrupted by dismal cries and groans. What is this
+I hear? said Codadad: whence come those miserable cries which pierce our
+ears? Sir, said the lady to him, pointing to a little door there was in
+the court, they come from thence. There are I know not how many wretched
+persons, whom fate has made to fall into the hands of the black. They are
+all chained; and that monster drew out one every day to be devoured.
+
+It is an addition to my joy, answered the young prince, to understand
+that my victory will save the lives of those unfortunate persons. Come
+along with me, madam, to partake in the satisfaction of giving them their
+liberty. You may guess by yourself how welcome we shall be to them.
+Having so said, they advanced towards the door of the dungeon; and the
+nearer they drew, the more distinctly they heard the complaints of the
+prisoners. Codadad pitying them, and impatient to put an end to their
+sufferings, put one of the keys into the key-hole, which proved not to be
+the right one at first, and therefore he took another; at which noise all
+those unfortunate creatures, concluding it was the black, who came,
+according to custom, to bring them some meat, and at the same time to
+seize one of them to eat himself, redoubled their cries and groans.
+Lamentable voices were heard, which sounded as if they had come from the
+centre of the earth.
+
+In the mean time, the prince had opened the door, and went down a very
+steep stair-case into a large and deep vault, which received some small
+light from a little window, and in which there were above a hundred
+persons bound to stakes, and their hands tied. Unfortunate travellers,
+said he to them, wretched victims, who only expected the moment of an
+approaching cruel death, give thanks to Heaven, which has this day
+delivered you by my means. I have slain the black by whom you were to be
+devoured, and am come to knock off your irons. The prisoners hearing
+these words, all together gave a shout, occasioned by joy and surprise.
+Codadad and the lady began to unbind them; and, as soon as any of them
+were loose, they helped to take off the fetters from the rest; so that in
+a short time they were all at liberty.
+
+They then kneeled down, and, having returned thanks to Codadad for what
+he had done for them, went out of the dungeon; and when they were come
+into the court, how surprising it was for the prince to see among the
+prisoners those he was in search of, and almost out of hopes to find!
+Princes, cried he, am I not deceived? is it not you I behold? May I
+flatter myself that it will be in my power to restore you to the king
+your father, who is inconsolable for the loss of you? But will he not
+have some one to lament? Are you all here alive? Alas! the death of one
+of you will suffice to damp all the joy I conceive for having delivered
+you.
+
+The forty-nine princes all made themselves known to Codadad, who embraced
+them one after another, and told them how uneasy their father was on
+account of their absence. They gave their deliverer all the commendations
+he deserved, as did the other prisoners, who could not find words
+expressive enough to declare the gratitude they were sensible of. Next,
+Codadad, with them, took a view of the whole castle, where there was
+immense wealth; curious silks, gold brocades, Persian carpets, China
+satins, and an infinite quantity of other goods, which the black had
+taken from the caravans he had plundered, a considerable part whereof
+belonged to the prisoners Codadad had then set free. Every man knew and
+reclaimed what belonged to him. The prince restored them their own, and
+divided the rest of the merchandise among them. Then he said to them, How
+will you do to carry away your goods? we are here in a desert place, and
+there is no likelihood of getting your horses. Sir, answered one of the
+prisoners, the black robbed us of our camels as well as our goods, and
+perhaps they may be in the stables of this castle. That is not unlikely,
+replied Codadad; let us see after it. Accordingly they went to the
+stables, where they not only found the camels, but also the horses
+belonging to the king of Harran’s sons. There were some black slaves in
+the stables; who, seeing all the prisoners released, and guessing thereby
+that their master had been killed, fled through by-ways well known to
+them. Nobody minded to pursue them. All the merchants, overjoyed that
+they had recovered their goods and camels, together with their liberty,
+thought of nothing but prosecuting their journey; but first repeated
+their thanks to their deliverer.
+
+When they were gone, Codadad, directing his discourse to the lady, said,
+To what place, madam, do you desire to go? whither did you design when
+you were seized by the black? I intend to bear you company to the place
+you shall appoint, and I do not question but that all these princes will
+do the same. The king of Harran’s sons protested to the lady they would
+not leave her till she was restored to her friends.
+
+Princes, said she, I am of a country too remote from hence: and, besides
+that it would be an imposition on your generosity to oblige you to travel
+so far, I must own to you that I am come from my native country for ever.
+I told you a while ago that I was a lady of Grand Cairo; but since you
+have shown me so much favour, and I am so highly obliged to you, added
+she, looking upon Codadad, I should be much in the wrong in concealing
+the truth from you. I am a king’s daughter; an usurper has possessed
+himself of my father’s throne after having murdered him, and I have been
+forced to fly to save my life.
+
+Then Codadad and his brothers desired the princess to tell them her
+story, assuring her they were highly concerned at her misfortunes, and
+fully disposed to spare for nothing that might contribute towards
+rendering her more happy. After thanks returned for their fresh
+protestations of readiness to serve her, she could not refuse satisfying
+their curiosity, and began the recital of her adventures in the following
+manner.
+
+
+
+
+                   STORY OF THE PRINCESS OF DERYABAR.
+
+
+There is, in a certain island, a great city called Deryabar. It has been
+long governed by a potent, magnificent, and virtuous king. That prince
+had no children, which was the only thing wanting to make him happy. He
+continually addressed his prayers to Heaven; but Heaven granted his
+requests by halves; for the queen his wife, after a long expectation,
+brought forth a daughter.
+
+I am the unfortunate princess. My father was rather troubled than pleased
+at my birth; but he submitted to the will of God, and caused me to be
+educated with all possible care, being resolved, since he had no son, to
+teach me the art of ruling, that I might supply his place after his
+death.
+
+One day, when he was taking the diversion of hunting, he spied a wild
+ass, which he chased, lost his company, and was carried away so far in
+that heat, as to ride on till night, without reflecting that he was quite
+out of the way. He then alighted, and sat down at the edge of a wood,
+into which he had observed the ass had taken. No sooner was the day shut
+in, than he discovered a light among the trees, which made him conclude
+that he was not far from some village: he rejoiced at it, hoping that he
+might pass the night there, and find some person to send to his followers
+to acquaint them where he was; and accordingly he got up and walked
+towards the light, which served to guide him.
+
+He soon found he had been deceived, that light being no other than a fire
+lighted in a hut: however, he drew near, and with amazement beheld a
+great black, or rather a dreadful giant, sitting on a sofa. Before the
+monster was a great pitcher of wine, and he was roasting a bullock he had
+newly killed. Sometimes he drank out of the pitcher, and then cut slices
+off the bullock and ate them. But that which most drew the king my
+father’s attention was a beautiful woman he saw in the hut. She seemed to
+be overwhelmed with grief; her hands were bound, and at her feet was a
+small child, about two or three years old, who, as if he was sensible of
+his mother’s misfortunes, continually wept, and rent the air with cries.
+
+My father being moved with that object of pity, thought at first to have
+gone into the hut and attack the giant; but considering it would be an
+unequal combat, he stopped, and resolved, since he had not strength
+enough to prevail by open force, to use art.
+
+In the mean time the giant, having emptied the pitcher and devoured above
+half the bullock, turned to the woman, and said, Beautiful princess, why
+do you oblige me by your obstinacy to treat you with severity? It is in
+your own power to be happy. You need only to resolve to love and be true
+to me, and I shall express my affection to you. Thou hideous satyr,
+answered the lady, never expect that time should wear away the aversion I
+have for you. Thou wilt ever be a monster in my eyes. To these words she
+added so many reproaches, that the giant grew enraged. This is too much,
+cried he, in a furious tone; my love undervalued is turned into rage.
+Your hatred has at last caused mine; I find it prevails above my desires,
+and that I now wish your death rather than enjoyment. Having spoken these
+words, he took that wretched lady by the hair, held her up with one hand
+in the air, and drawing his scimitar with the other, was just going to
+strike off her head, when the king my father let fly an arrow, which
+pierced the giant’s breast, so that he staggered and dropped down dead.
+
+My father entered the hut, unbound the lady’s hands, asked her who she
+was, and how she came thither. Sir, said she, there are some families of
+Saracens along the sea-coast, who live under a prince who is my husband;
+this giant you have killed was one of his principal officers. The wretch
+fell desperately in love with me, but took special care to conceal it,
+till he could put in execution the designs he had laid of stealing me
+away. Fortune oftener favours wicked designs than the virtuous. The giant
+one day surprised me and my child in a by-place. He seized us both; and,
+to disappoint the search he well knew my husband would cause to be made
+on account of this rape, he removed far from the country inhabited by
+those Saracens, and brought us into this wood, where he has kept me some
+days. As deplorable as my condition is, it is still a great satisfaction
+to me to think that the giant, though so brutal and amorous, never used
+force to obtain that which I always refused to his entreaties: not but
+that he has threatened me a hundred times that he would have recourse to
+the worst of extremities, in case he could not otherwise prevail upon me;
+and, I must confess to you, that a while ago, when I provoked his anger
+by my words, I was less concerned for my life than for my honour.
+
+This, sir, said the prince of the Saracens’ wife, is the faithful account
+of my misfortunes, and I do not question but that you will think me
+worthy enough of your compassion, not to repent your having so generously
+relieved me. Madam, answered my father, be assured your troubles have
+moved me, and I will do all that shall be in my power to make you happy
+again. To-morrow, as soon as the day appears, we will go out of this
+wood, and endeavour to fall into the road which leads to the great city
+of Deryabar, of which I am sovereign; and, if you think fit, you shall be
+entertained in my palace, till the prince your husband shall come to
+reclaim you.
+
+The Saracen lady accepted the offer, and the next day followed the king
+my father, who found all his retinue upon the skirts of the wood, they
+having spent the night in searching after, and being very uneasy for that
+they could not find him. They were no less joyful to meet their king,
+than amazed to see him with a lady whose beauty surprised them. He told
+them how he had found her, and the danger he had run in drawing near to
+the hut, where he must certainly have lost his life had the giant espied
+him. One of his servants took up the lady behind him, and another carried
+the child.
+
+Thus they arrived at the king my father’s palace, who assigned the
+beautiful Saracen lady an apartment, and caused the child to be carefully
+educated. The lady was sensible of the king’s goodness to her, and
+expressed as much gratitude as he could desire. She had at first appeared
+very uneasy and impatient, on account that her husband did not reclaim
+her; but by degrees she shook off that uneasiness: the respect my father
+paid her dispelled her impatience; and I am of opinion she would at last
+have blamed fortune more for restoring her to her kindred than she did
+for removing her from them.
+
+In the mean time, the lady’s son grew up; he was very handsome; and not
+wanting wit, found the way to please the king my father, who had a great
+kindness for him. All the courtiers perceived it, and guessed that young
+man might in the end be my husband. Upon this conceit, and looking on him
+already as heir to the crown, they made their court to him, and every man
+endeavoured to gain his favour. He soon saw into their designs, grew
+conceited of himself, and, forgetting the distance there was between our
+conditions, flattered himself with the hopes that my father was fond
+enough of him to prefer him before all the princes in the world. Nay, he
+went farther; for the king not answering his expectation, in offering me
+to him as soon as he could have wished, he had the boldness to ask me of
+him. Whatsoever punishment his insolence deserved, my father was
+satisfied with telling him that he had other thoughts in relation to me,
+and showed him no farther dislike. The youth was incensed at this
+refusal; the vain fellow resented the contempt, as if he had asked some
+maid of indifferent extraction, or as if his birth had been equal to
+mine. Nor was he so satisfied; but resolved to be revenged on the king;
+and, with unparalleled ingratitude, conspired against him. In short, he
+murdered him, and caused himself to be proclaimed king of Deryabar, by a
+great number of malcontents whom he supported. The first thing he did,
+after ridding himself of my father, was to come into my apartment with a
+great train of the conspirators. His design was, either to take my life
+or oblige me to marry him. While he was busy murdering my father, the
+grand vizier, who had been always loyal to his master, came to carry me
+away from the palace, and secured me in a friend’s house, till a vessel
+he had provided was ready to sail. I then left the island, attended only
+by a governess and that generous minister, who chose rather to follow his
+master’s daughter, and to partake of her misfortunes, than to submit to a
+tyrant.
+
+The grand vizier designed to carry me to the courts of the neighbouring
+kings, to implore their assistance, and excite them to revenge my
+father’s death; but Heaven did not give me a blessing to that resolution
+we thought so just. When we had been but a few days at sea, there arose
+such a furious storm, that, in spite of all the mariners’ art, our
+vessel, carried away by the violence of the winds and waves, was dashed
+in pieces against a rock. I will not spend time in describing our
+shipwreck. I can but faintly represent to you how my governess, the grand
+vizier, and all that attended me, were swallowed up by the sea. The dread
+I was seized with did not permit me to observe the horror of our
+condition. In fine, I lost my senses; and whether I was thrown upon the
+coast upon any part of the wreck of our ship, or whether Heaven, which
+reserved me for other misfortunes, wrought a miracle in my deliverance, I
+found myself on shore when my senses returned to me.
+
+Misfortunes very often make us forget our duty: instead of returning
+thanks to God for so singular a mercy shown me, I only lifted up my eyes
+to heaven, to complain because I had been saved. I was so far from
+bewailing the vizier and my governess, that I envied their fate; and, my
+dreadful imaginations by degrees prevailing above my reason, I resolved
+to cast myself into the sea. I was upon the point of doing so, when I
+heard behind me a great noise of men and horses. I looked about to see
+what it might be, and spied several armed horsemen, among whom was one
+mounted on an Arabian horse. He had on a garment embroidered with silver,
+a girdle set with precious stones, and a crown of gold on his head.
+Though his habit had not convinced me that he was the chief of the
+company, I should have judged it by the air of grandeur which appeared in
+his person. He was a young man extraordinarily finely shaped, and
+perfectly beautiful. Being surprised to see a young lady alone in that
+place, he sent some of his officers to ask who I was. All my answer was
+weeping. The shore being covered with the wreck of our ship, they
+concluded some vessel had been cast away there, and that I was certainly
+some person that had saved my life. This conjecture, and my inconsolable
+condition, excited the curiosity of those officers, who began to ask me a
+thousand questions, with assurances that their king was a generous
+prince, and that I should receive all comfort in his court.
+
+The king, impatient to know who I was, grew weary of expecting the return
+of his officers, and drew near to me. He gazed on me very earnestly, and,
+observing that I did not give over weeping and afflicting myself, without
+being able to return an answer to their questions, he forbade them
+troubling me any more; and, directing his discourse to me, said, Madam, I
+conjure you to moderate your excessive affliction. Though Heaven in its
+wrath has laid this calamity upon you, yet it does not behove you to
+despair. I beseech you, show more courage: fortune, which has hitherto
+persecuted you, is inconstant, and may soon change. I dare assure you,
+that, if your misfortunes are capable of receiving any comfort, you shall
+find it in my dominions. My palace is at your service: you shall live
+with the queen my mother, who will endeavour by her kindness to ease your
+affliction. I know not as yet who you are; but I find I am already
+concerned for you.
+
+I thanked the young king for his great goodness towards me, accepted of
+the obliging offers he made me; and, to convince him that I was not
+unworthy of him, told him my condition. I described to him the insolence
+of the young Saracen, and found it needless to do any more than barely to
+recount my misfortunes, to excite compassion in him, and all his officers
+who heard me. When I had done speaking, the prince began again, assuring
+me that he was highly concerned at my misfortune. Then he conducted me to
+his palace, and presented me to the queen his mother, to whom I was
+obliged again to repeat my misfortunes, and to renew my tears. The queen
+seemed very sensible of my troubles, and took an extraordinary liking to
+me. On the other hand the king her son fell desperately in love with me,
+and soon offered me his person and his crown. I was still so entirely
+taken up with the thoughts of my calamities, that the prince, though so
+lovely a person, did not make so great an impression on me as he might
+have done at another time. However, gratitude prevailing on me, I did not
+refuse to make him happy; and our wedding was kept with all imaginable
+grandeur.
+
+At the time when all the people were taken up with the celebration of
+their sovereign’s nuptials, a neighbouring prince, who was his enemy,
+made a descent by night on the island with a great number of troops. That
+formidable enemy was the king Zanguebar: he surprised those people, and
+cut to pieces all the king my husband’s subjects. We two escaped very
+narrowly, for he had already entered the palace with some of his
+followers; but we found means to slip away, and got to the sea-coast,
+where we entered a fishing-boat we had the good fortune to meet with. Two
+days we were driven about by the winds, without knowing what would become
+of us. The third day, we spied a vessel making towards us with all her
+sails aboard. We rejoiced at first, believing it had been a merchant-ship
+which might take us aboard; but were more astonished than I can express,
+when, as it drew near, we saw ten or twelve armed pirates appear on the
+deck. Being come up to us, five or six of them leaped into our boat,
+seized us, bound the prince, and conveyed us into their ship, where they
+immediately took off my veil. Instead of casting lots, every one of them
+claimed the preference, and me as his right. The controversy grew hot,
+and they came to blows about me, and fought like so many madmen. The deck
+was soon covered with dead bodies; and, in short, they were all killed
+but one, who, being left sole possessor of me, said, You are mine; I will
+carry you to Grand Cairo, to deliver you to a friend of mine, to whom I
+have promised a beautiful slave. But who, added he, looking upon the king
+my husband, is that man? What relation is he to you? Are you allied by
+blood or love? Sir, answered I, he is my husband. If so, replied the
+pirate, in pity I must rid myself of him; it would be too great an
+affliction to him to see you in my friend’s arms. Having spoken these
+words, he took up the unhappy prince, who was bound, and threw him into
+the sea, notwithstanding all my endeavours to hinder him.
+
+I shrieked in a dreadful manner at the sight of that cruel action, and
+had certainly cast myself headlong into the sea, had not the pirate held
+me. He plainly saw that was my design, and therefore bound me fast to the
+main-mast, and then hoisting sail, made towards the land, and there got
+ashore. He unbound and led me to a little town, where he bought camels,
+tents, and slaves, and then set out for Grand Cairo; designing, as he
+still said, to present me to his friend, according to his promise.
+
+We had been several days upon the road, when, as we were crossing this
+plain yesterday, we spied the black who inhabited this castle. At a
+distance, we took him for a tower; and, when near us, could scarce
+believe him to be a man. He drew his vast scimitar, and summoned the
+pirate to yield himself up a prisoner, with all his slaves, and the lady
+he was conducting. The pirate was daring; and, being seconded by all his
+slaves, who promised to stand by him, he attacked the black. The fight
+lasted a considerable time; but at length the pirate fell under the
+enemy’s deadly blows, as did all his slaves, who chose rather to die than
+forsake him. The black then conducted me to the castle, whither he also
+brought the pirate’s body, which he did eat that night for his supper.
+After that inhuman meal, perceiving that I ceased not weeping, he said to
+me, Young lady, prepare to satisfy my desires, rather than continue thus
+to afflict yourself. Make a virtue of necessity, and comply: I give you
+till to-morrow to consider. Let me then find you comforted for all your
+misfortunes, and overjoyed for having been reserved for my bed. Having
+spoken these words, he conducted me to a chamber, and went to bed in his
+own, after locking up all the castle-doors. He opened them this morning,
+and presently locked them again, to pursue some travellers he perceived
+at a distance; but it is likely they made their escape, since he was
+coming alone, and without any booty, when you attacked him.
+
+As soon as the princess had put an end to the recital of her adventures,
+Codadad declared to her that he was highly concerned at her misfortunes.
+But, madam, added he, it shall be your own fault if you do not live at
+ease for the future: the king of Harran’s sons offer you a safe retreat
+in the court of the king their father; be pleased to accept of it. You
+will be there cherished by that prince, and respected by all other
+persons; and, if you do not disdain the person of your deliverer, permit
+me to make you a present of it, and to marry you before all these
+princes: let them be witnesses to our contract. The princess consented to
+it, and the marriage was concluded that very day in the castle, where
+they found all sorts of provisions. The kitchens were full of flesh and
+other eatables, which the black used to feed on when he was weary of
+feeding on human bodies. There was also a variety of fruits, very
+excellent in their kinds, and, to complete their satisfaction, abundance
+of delicious wine and other liquors.
+
+They all sat down to table; and, after having eaten and drunk
+plentifully, they took along with them the rest of the provisions, and
+set out for the king of Harran’s court. They travelled several days,
+encamping in the pleasantest places they could find; and they were within
+one day’s journey of Harran, when, having halted, and drunk all their
+wine, as being under no longer concern to make it hold out, Codadad
+directed his discourse to all his company thus: Princes, I have too long
+concealed from you who I am. Behold your brother Codadad! I have received
+my being, as well as you, of the king of Harran. The prince of Samaria
+has bred me, and the princess Pirouze is my mother. Madam, added he,
+applying himself to the princess of Deryabar, do you also forgive me, for
+having concealed my birth from you. Perhaps, by discovering it sooner, I
+might have prevented some disagreeable reflections which may have been
+occasioned by a match you may have thought unequal. No, sir, answered the
+princess; the opinion I at first conceived of you heightened every
+moment, and you did not stand in need of the extraction you now discover,
+to make me happy.
+
+The princes congratulated Codadad on his birth, and expressed much
+satisfaction at the knowledge of it: but, in reality, instead of
+rejoicing, their hatred for so amiable a brother was redoubled. They met
+together at night in a by-place, whilst Codadad and the princess his wife
+lay fast asleep in their tent. Those ungrateful, envious brothers,
+forgetting that, had it not been for the brave son of Pirouze, they must
+have been devoured by the black, agreed among themselves to murder him.
+We have no other course to choose, said one of those wicked brethren; for
+the moment our father shall come to understand that this stranger he is
+already so fond of is our brother, and that he alone has been able to
+destroy a giant whom we could not all of us together conquer, he will
+bestow all his favour and a thousand praises on him, and declare him his
+heir, in spite of all his brothers, who will be obliged to obey and fall
+down before him. Besides these, he added many other words, which made
+such an impression on their jealous minds, that they immediately repaired
+to Codadad, then fast asleep, stabbed him in a thousand places, and
+leaving him for dead in the arms of the princess of Deryabar, proceeded
+on their journey for the city of Harran, where they arrived the next day.
+
+The king their father conceived the greater joy at their return, because
+he had despaired of ever seeing them. He asked what had been the occasion
+of their stay; but they took care not to acquaint him with it, making no
+mention either of the black or of Codadad; and only said, that, being
+curious to see the country, they had spent some time in the neighbouring
+cities.
+
+In the mean time Codadad lay in his tent, drowned in his own blood, and
+little differing from a dead man, with the princess his wife, who seemed
+to be in no much better condition than he. She rent the air with her
+dismal shrieks, tore her hair, and, bathing her husband’s body with her
+tears, Alas! Codadad, my dear Codadad, cried she, is it you whom I behold
+just departing this life? What cruel hands have put you into this
+condition? May I believe these are your brothers who have treated you so
+unmercifully? No, they are rather devils, who have taken those shapes to
+murder you. O barbarous wretches! whosoever you are, how could you make
+so ungrateful a return for the service he has done you? But why should I
+complain of your brothers, unfortunate Codadad! I alone am to blame for
+your death. You would tack your fate upon mine; and all the ill fortune
+that attends me since I left my father’s palace has fallen upon you. O
+Heaven! which has condemned me to lead a wandering life and full of
+calamities, if you will not permit me to have a consort, why do you
+permit me to find any? Behold, you have now robbed me of two, just as I
+began to be endeared to them.
+
+By these, and other moving expressions, the unhappy princess of Deryabar
+vented her sorrow, fixing her eyes on the deplorable Codadad, who could
+not hear her. But Codadad was not dead; and his consort, observing that
+he still breathed, ran to a large open town she spied in the plain, to
+inquire for a surgeon. She was showed one, who went immediately with her:
+but when they came to the tent, they could not find Codadad, which made
+them conclude he had been dragged away by some wild beast to devour him.
+The princess renewed her complaints and lamentations in a most dismal
+manner. The surgeon took compassion; and, being unwilling to leave her in
+that miserable condition, proposed to her to return to the town, offering
+her his house and service.
+
+She suffered herself to be prevailed on. The surgeon conducted her to his
+house, and, without knowing as yet who she was, treated her with all
+imaginable courtesy and respect. He used all his rhetoric to comfort her;
+but it was in vain to think of removing her sorrow, which was rather
+heightened than diminished. Madam, said he to her one day, be pleased to
+recount to me your misfortunes; tell your country and your condition:
+perhaps I may give you some advice, when I am acquainted with all the
+circumstances of your calamity. You do nothing but afflict yourself,
+without considering that remedies may be found for the most desperate
+diseases.
+
+The surgeon’s words were so efficacious, that they wrought on the
+princess, who recounted to him all her adventures; and when she had done,
+the surgeon directed his discourse to her, saying, Madam, since this is
+the posture of affairs, give me leave to tell you, that you ought not
+thus to give way to your sorrow; you ought rather to arm yourself with
+resolution, and to perform what the name and the duty of a wife require
+of you. You are obliged to revenge your husband: if you please I will
+wait on you as your squire: let us go to the king of Harran’s court; he
+is a good and just prince: you need only represent to him, in a lively
+manner, how prince Codadad has been treated by his brothers: I am fully
+persuaded he will do you justice. I submit to your reasons, answered the
+princess: it is my duty to endeavour to revenge Codadad; and since you
+are so obliging and generous as to offer to bear me company, I am ready
+to set out. No sooner had she fixed this resolution, than the surgeon
+ordered two camels to be made ready, on which the princess and he
+mounted, and repaired to Harran.
+
+They alighted at the first caravansary they found; and inquiring of the
+host what news at court, It is, said he, in very great confusion. The
+king had a son, who lived a long time with him as a stranger, and none
+can tell what is become of that young prince. One of the king’s wives,
+called Pirouze, is his mother; she has made all possible inquiry, but to
+no purpose. All men are concerned at the loss of that prince, because he
+was very deserving. The king has forty-nine other sons, all of them born
+of several mothers; but not one of them has worth enough to comfort the
+king for the death of Codadad: I say his death, because it is impossible
+he should be alive, since no news have been heard of him, notwithstanding
+so much search has been made after him.
+
+The surgeon, having heard this account from the host, concluded that the
+best course the princess of Deryabar could take, was to wait upon
+Pirouze: but that method was not without some danger, and required much
+precaution; for it was to be feared, that if the king of Harran’s sons
+should happen to hear of the arrival of their sister-in-law, and her
+design, they might cause her to be conveyed away before she could speak
+to Codadad’s mother. The surgeon weighed all these particulars, and
+considered what risk he might run himself; and therefore, that he might
+manage the affair with discretion, he desired the princess to stay in the
+caravansary, whilst he went to the palace to observe which might be the
+safest way to conduct her to Pirouze.
+
+He went accordingly into the city, and was walking towards the palace,
+like one led only by curiosity to see the court, when he spied a lady
+mounted on a mule richly accoutred. She was followed by several ladies
+mounted on mules, with a great number of guards and black slaves. All the
+people made a lane to see her pass along, and saluted her, prostrating
+themselves on the ground. The surgeon paid her the same respect, and then
+asked a calendar, who happened to stand by him, whether that lady was one
+of the king’s wives. Yes, brother, answered the calendar, she is one of
+the king’s wives, and the most honoured and beloved by the people,
+because she is mother to prince Codadad, of whom I suppose you have
+heard.
+
+The surgeon asked no more questions, but followed Pirouze to a mosque,
+into which she went to distribute alms, and assist at the public prayers
+the king had ordered to be made for the safe return of Codadad. The
+people, who were highly concerned for that young prince, ran in crowds to
+join their vows to the prayers of the priests, so that the mosque was
+quite full. The surgeon broke through the throng, and advanced as far as
+Pirouze’s guards. He staid out the prayers; and when that princess went
+out, he stepped up to one of her slaves, and whispered him in his ear,
+saying, Brother, I have a secret of moment to impart to the princess
+Pirouze; may not I, by your means, be brought into her apartment? If that
+secret, answered the slave, be relating to prince Codadad, I dare promise
+you shall have audience of her this very day; but if it concerns not him,
+it is needless for you to endeavour to be introduced to her; for her
+thoughts are all upon her son, and she will not hear talk of any other
+subject. It is only about that dear son, replied the surgeon, that I
+would discourse to her. If so, said the slave, you need only follow us to
+the palace, and you shall soon speak to her.
+
+Accordingly, as soon as Pirouze was returned to her apartment, that slave
+acquainted her that a person unknown had some important affair to
+communicate to her, and that it related to prince Codadad. No sooner had
+he uttered these words, than Pirouze expressed her impatience to see that
+stranger. The slave immediately conducted him into the princess’s closet,
+who ordered all her women to withdraw, except two, from whom she
+concealed nothing. As soon as she saw the surgeon, she asked him abruptly
+what news he had to tell her of Codadad. Madam, answered the surgeon,
+after having prostrated himself on the ground, I have a long account to
+give you, and such as will be very surprising. Then he told her all the
+particulars of what had passed between Codadad and his brothers, which
+she listened to with an eager attention; but when he came to speak of the
+murder, that tender mother swooned away on her sofa, as if she had been
+herself stabbed like her son. Her two women used proper means, and soon
+brought her to herself. The surgeon continued his relation; and when he
+had ended it, Pirouze said to him, Go back to the princess of Deryabar,
+and assure her from me that the king shall soon own her for his
+daughter-in-law; and as for yourself, be assured that your service shall
+be well rewarded.
+
+When the surgeon was gone, Pirouze remained on the sofa in such a state
+of affliction as is not easy to imagine; and, relenting at the thoughts
+of Codadad, O! my son, said she, I must never then expect to see you
+more! Alas! when I gave you leave to depart from Samaria, and you took
+leave of me, I did not imagine that so unfortunate a death had awaited
+you at such a distance from me. Unfortunate Codadad! why did you leave
+me? It is true, you would not have acquired so much renown; but you had
+been still alive, and had not cost your mother so many tears. Whilst she
+uttered these words, she wept bitterly, and her two confidants, moved by
+her sorrow, mixed their tears with hers.
+
+Whilst they were all three in that affliction, the king came into the
+closet, and seeing them in that condition, asked Pirouze whether she had
+received any bad news concerning Codadad. Alas! sir, said she, all is
+over; my son has lost his life; and, to add to my sorrow, I cannot pay
+him the funeral rites; for, in all appearance, the wild beasts have
+devoured him. Then she told him all that she had heard from the surgeon,
+and did not fail to express herself fully at the inhuman manner in which
+Codadad had been murdered by his brothers.
+
+The king did not give Pirouze time to finish her relation; but, being
+transported with anger, and giving way to his passion, Madam, said he to
+the princess, those perfidious wretches who cause you to shed these
+tears, and are the occasion of the mortal grief which oppresses their
+father, shall soon feel the punishment due to their guilt. The king
+having spoken these words, with indignation appearing in his countenance,
+went directly to the presence-chamber, where all his courtiers attended,
+and such of the people as had any petitions to present to him. They were
+all astonished to see him in that passion, and thought his anger had been
+kindled against his people.
+
+Their hearts failed them for fear. He ascended the throne, and causing
+the grand vizier to draw near, said, Hassan, I have some orders for you:
+go immediately, take a thousand of my guards, and seize all the princes
+my sons; shut them up in the tower appointed for a prison for murderers;
+and let this be done in a moment. All that were present quaked at the
+hearing of this surprising command; and the grand vizier, without
+answering one word, laid his hand on his head, to express his obedience,
+and went out of the presence to execute his orders, which were very
+surprising to him. In the mean time, the king dismissed those who
+attended to desire audience, and declared he would not despatch any
+business for a month to come. He was still in the presence-chamber, when
+the vizier returned. Are all my sons, said that prince, in the tower?
+They are, sir, answered the vizier; I have obeyed your orders. This is
+not all, replied the king, I have farther commands for you; and so
+saying, he went out of the presence-chamber, and returned to Pirouze’s
+apartment, with the vizier following him. He asked that princess where
+Codadad’s widow had taken up her lodging. Pirouze’s women told him; for
+the surgeon had not forgot that in his relation. Then the king, turning
+to his minister, Go, said he, to that caravansary, and bring a young
+princess, who lodges there; but treat her with all the respect due to her
+quality.
+
+The vizier was not backward in performing what he was ordered. He mounted
+on horseback, with all the emirs and courtiers, and repaired to the
+caravansary where the princess of Deryabar was, whom he acquainted with
+his orders, and presented her, from the king, a fine white mule, whose
+saddle and bridle were adorned with gold, rubies, and diamonds. She
+mounted it, and went to the palace, attended by all those great men. The
+surgeon bore her company, mounted on a sprightly Tartar horse which the
+vizier had provided for him. All the people were at their windows, or in
+the streets, to see that noble cavalcade; and it being given out that the
+princess, whom they conducted in such state to court, was Codadad’s wife,
+the city resounded with acclamations, the air rang with shouts of joy,
+which would certainly have been turned into lamentations, had that
+prince’s fatal adventure been known; so much was he beloved by all men.
+
+The princess of Deryabar found the king at the palace gate, waiting to
+receive her. He took her by the hand, and led her to Pirouze’s apartment,
+where a very moving scene was acted among them. Codadad’s wife found her
+affliction redouble upon her at the sight of her husband’s father and
+mother; as, on the other side, those parents could not look on their
+son’s wife without being much concerned. She cast herself at the king’s
+feet, and having bathed them with tears, was so overcome with grief, that
+she was not able to speak one word. Pirouze was in no better condition;
+she seemed to be stunned with her sorrows; and the king, moved by those
+dismal objects, gave way to his passion: those three persons, mixing
+their tears and sighs, for some time observed a silence, which appeared
+extraordinary moving and pitiful. At length the princess of Deryabar,
+being somewhat recovered, recounted the adventure of the castle and
+Codadad’s disaster. Then she required justice for the treachery of the
+princes. Yes, madam, said the king to her, those ungrateful wretches
+shall perish, but Codadad’s death must first be made public, that the
+punishment of his brothers may not cause my subjects to rebel; and,
+though we have not my son’s body, we will not omit paying him the last
+duties. This said, he directed his discourse to the vizier, and ordered
+him to build a dome of white marble in a delightful plain, in the midst
+of which the city of Harran stands; then he appointed the princess of
+Deryabar a fine apartment in his palace, acknowledging her for his
+daughter-in-law.
+
+Hassan caused the work to be carried on with such diligence, and employed
+so many workmen, that the dome was soon finished. Within it was erected a
+monument, and on it was placed a figure representing Codadad. As soon as
+all was perfected, the king ordered prayers to be said, and appointed a
+day for the obsequies of his son.
+
+On that day, all the inhabitants of the city went out upon the plain to
+see that ceremony performed; which was after this manner. The king,
+attended by his vizier and the prime persons of the court, proceeded
+towards the dome; and being come to it, went in, and sat down with them
+on carpets laid on the ground, made of black satin, with gold flowers. A
+great body of horse guards, hanging their heads, and looking down, drew
+up close about the dome, and marched round it twice, observing a profound
+silence; but at the third round, they halted before the door, and all of
+them with a loud voice pronounced these words: ‘O prince, son to the
+king, could we by dint of sword and human valour any way retrieve your
+misfortune, we would bring you back to life; but the King of kings has
+commanded, and the angel of death has obeyed.’ Having uttered these
+words, they drew off, to make way for a hundred old men, all of them
+mounted on black mules, and wearing long gray beards.
+
+These were anchorites, who lived all their days concealed in caves. They
+never appeared in the sight of the world, but when they were to assist at
+the obsequies of the kings of Harran, and of the princes of their family.
+Each of these venerable persons carried a book on his head, which he held
+with one hand. They took three turns round the dome without uttering one
+word; then stopping before the door, one of them said, ‘O prince, what
+can we do for you? If you could be restored to life by prayers or
+learning, we would rub our gray beards at thy feet, and recite prayers;
+but the King of the universe has taken you away for ever.’
+
+This said, the old men removed at a distance from the dome, and
+immediately fifty young beautiful maids drew near to it: each of them was
+mounted on a little white horse: they wore no veils, and carried gold
+baskets full of all sorts of precious stones. Thus they did also ride
+thrice round the dome; and, halting at the same place as the others had
+done, the youngest of them spoke in the name of all as follows: ‘O
+prince, once so beautiful, what relief can you expect from us? If we
+could restore you to life by our charms, we would become your slaves. But
+you are no longer sensible to beauty, and have no more occasion for us.’
+
+When the young maids were withdrawn, the king and his courtiers arose,
+and, having walked thrice round the figure representing Codadad, the king
+spoke as follows: ‘O my dear son, light of my eyes, I have then lost thee
+for ever.’ These words were attended with sighs, and he watered the tomb
+with his tears, his courtiers weeping with him. Then the gate of the dome
+was shut, and all the people returned to the city. The next day, there
+were public prayers in all the mosques; and the same was continued for
+eight days successively. On the ninth, the king resolved to cause the
+princes his sons to be beheaded. All the people, being incensed at their
+cruelty towards Codadad, impatiently expected to see them executed. The
+scaffolds were erecting; but the execution was respited, on account that,
+on a sudden, news was brought, that the neighbouring princes, who had
+before made war on the king of Harran, were advancing with more numerous
+forces than the first time, and were not then far from the city. It had
+been long known that they were preparing for war, but no great notice had
+been taken of it. This advice occasioned a general consternation, and
+gave new cause to lament the loss of Codadad, by reason that prince had
+signalized himself in the former war against those enemies. Alas! said
+they, were the brave Codadad alive, we should little value those princes
+who are coming to surprise us. The king, nothing dismayed, raised men
+with all possible speed, formed a considerable army, and, being too brave
+to expect the enemy to come and attack him within his walls, marched out
+to meet them. They, on their side, being informed by their advanced
+parties that the king of Harran was marching to engage them, halted in
+the plain, and formed their army.
+
+As soon as the king discovered them, he also drew up his forces, and
+ranged them in order of battle. The signal was given, and he attacked
+them with extraordinary vigour. Nor was the opposition inferior: much
+blood was shed on both sides, and the victory remained long dubious; but
+at length it seemed to incline to the king of Harran’s enemies, who,
+being more numerous, were about hemming him in, when a good body of horse
+appeared on the plain, and drew near the two armies in good order. The
+sight of that fresh party daunted both sides, as not knowing what to
+think of them. But their doubts were soon cleared; for those horsemen
+fell upon the flank of the king of Harran’s enemies, giving such a
+furious charge, that they soon broke and put them to the rout; and, not
+so satisfied, they pursued them, and cut most of them in pieces.
+
+The king of Harran, who had nicely observed all the action, admired the
+bravery of those horsemen, whose unexpected arrival had given the victory
+to his side. But, above all, he was charmed with their chief, whom he had
+seen fighting with a more than ordinary valour. He longed to know the
+name of that generous hero. Being impatient to see and thank him, he
+advanced towards him, but perceived he was coming to prevent him. The two
+princes drew near, and the king of Harran finding Codadad in that brave
+warrior who had just then succoured him, or rather defeated his enemies,
+became motionless with joy and surprise. Sir, said Codadad to him, you
+have sufficient cause to be astonished, seeing a man appear on a sudden
+before your majesty whom perhaps you concluded to be dead. I should have
+been so, had not Heaven preserved me still against your enemies. O my
+son! cried the king, is it possible that you are restored to me? Alas! I
+despaired of seeing you any more. Having so said, he stretched out his
+arms to the young prince, who flew to his loving embraces.
+
+I know all, my son, said the king again, after having long held him in
+his arms; I know what return my sons have made you for the service you
+did in delivering them out of the hands of the black; but you shall be
+revenged to-morrow. Let us now go to the palace; your mother, who has
+wept sufficiently for you, expects me, to rejoice with us for the defeat
+of our enemies. What a joy will it be to her to be informed that my
+victory is your handy-work! Sir, said Codadad, give me leave to ask you,
+how could you come to know the adventure of the castle? Has any of my
+brothers, repenting, owned the thing to you? No, answered the king, the
+princess of Deryabar has given us an account of all things; for she is in
+my palace, and came thither to demand justice against your brothers.
+Codadad was in a transport of joy to understand that the princess his
+wife was at the court. Let us go, sir, cried he to his father in a
+rapture, let us go to see my mother, who waits for us. I have an ardent
+desire to dry up her tears, as well as those of the princess of Deryabar.
+
+The king immediately returned to the city, with his army, which he
+dismissed; entering his palace victorious, amidst the acclamations of his
+people, who followed him in crowds, praying to Heaven to prolong his
+life, and extolling Codadad to the skies. These two princes found Pirouze
+and her daughter-in-law waiting for the king to congratulate him; but
+there is no expressing the transport of joy they felt when they saw the
+young prince come with him: they dissolved in embraces, mixed with tears,
+but of a different sort from those they had before shed for him. When
+these four persons had performed all that the ties of blood and love
+demanded of them, the question was asked of Pirouze’s son, by what
+miracle he came to be still alive. He answered, that a peasant, mounted
+on a mule, happening accidentally to come into the tent where he lay
+senseless, and perceiving him alone, and stabbed in several places, had
+made him fast on his mule, and carried him to his house, where he applied
+to his wounds certain herbs chewed, which had recovered him in a few
+days. When I found myself well, added he, I returned thanks to the
+peasant, and gave him all the diamonds I had. Then I drew near the city
+of Harran; but being informed by the way that some neighbouring princes
+had gathered forces, and were coming to fall upon the king’s subjects, I
+made myself known unto the villagers, and stirred up those people to
+stand upon their guard. I armed a good number of young men; and heading
+them, happened to come in at that time when the two armies were engaged.
+
+When he had done speaking, the king said, Let us return thanks to God for
+having preserved Codadad; but it is requisite that the traitors, who
+would have destroyed him, should perish this day. Sir, answered the
+generous son of Pirouze, though they are wicked and ungrateful, consider
+they are your own flesh and blood: they are my brothers; I forgive them
+the offence, and beg pardon of you for them. This generosity drew tears
+from the king, who caused the people to be assembled, and declared
+Codadad his heir. Then he ordered the princes, who were prisoners, to be
+brought, loaded with irons. Pirouze’s son knocked off their chains, and
+embraced them all successively, with as much sincerity as he had done in
+the court of the black’s castle. The people were charmed with Codadad’s
+good nature, and highly applauded him. Next he nobly rewarded the
+surgeon, to requite the service he had done the princess of Deryabar.
+
+The sultaness Scheherazade, having told the story of Ganem with so much
+address, and in so agreeable a manner, that the sultan of the Indies
+could not forbear showing the pleasure that relation gave him, said to
+that monarch, I doubt not but your majesty is very well satisfied to find
+the caliph Haroun Alraschid change his sentiments in favour of Ganem, his
+mother, and sister; and I believe you may be sensibly affected with their
+misfortunes, and the ill treatment they received; but am persuaded, if
+your majesty would hear the story of the Sleeper Awakened, it would,
+instead of exciting all those emotions of indignation and compassion in
+your breast, on the contrary, afford you all the mirth and diversion
+imaginable. The sultan, who promised himself some new adventures from the
+title of that story, would have heard it that morning; but perceiving day
+approached, deferred it till next, when Dinarzade called upon her sister,
+who began her story as follows.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+                         THE SLEEPER AWAKENED.
+
+
+In the reign of caliph Haroun Alraschid, there lived at Bagdad a very
+rich merchant, who, having married a woman pretty well in years, had but
+one son, whom he named Abon Hassan, and educated with great restraint.
+When this son was thirty years old, the merchant died, and left him his
+sole heir, and master of great riches, which his father had amassed
+together by his industry, frugality, and great application to business.
+
+Abon Hassan, whose views and inclinations were very much different from
+those of his father, was resolved to make another use of his wealth; for,
+as his father had never allowed him any money but what was just necessary
+for subsistence, and he had always envied those young persons of his age
+who wanted none, and who debarred themselves from none of those pleasures
+to which youth are too much addicted, he resolved, in his turn, to
+signalize himself by extravagances proportionable to his fortune. To this
+end, he divided his riches in two parts; with one half he bought houses
+in town and land in the country, with a promise to himself never to touch
+the income of his estate, which was considerable enough to live upon very
+handsomely, but lay it all by; with the other half, which he kept by him
+in ready money, he designed to make himself amends for the time he had
+lost in the severe restraint with which his father had always kept him.
+
+With this intent, Abon Hassan associated himself in a few days with
+people of his age and condition, and thought of nothing more than how to
+spend their time agreeably. Every day he gave them splendid
+entertainments, at which the most exquisite and delicate wines flowed in
+plenty, while concerts of the best vocal and instrumental music
+heightened their pleasures; and then this young band of debauchees, with
+glasses in their hands, sang and joined with the music; and these feasts
+generally ended with balls at night, to which the best dancers in Bagdad,
+of both sexes, were invited. These entertainments, renewed every day,
+were so expensive to Abon Hassan, that he could not support the
+extravagance above one year; and, in short, the great sum which he had
+consecrated to this prodigality and the year ended together. As soon as
+he left off keeping this table, his friends forsook him: whenever they
+saw him, they avoided him; and if by chance he met any of them, and would
+stop them, they always excused themselves on some pretence or other.
+
+Abon Hassan, touched more to the quick at this strange behaviour of his
+friends, who had forsaken him so basely and ungratefully, after all the
+protestations of friendship they had made him, and their inviolable
+attachment to his service, than all the money he had foolishly squandered
+away, went, melancholy and thoughtful, into his mother’s apartment, and
+sat down on a sofa a good distance from her. What is the matter with you,
+son? said his mother, reading his grief in his countenance: why are you
+so altered, so dejected, and so much different from yourself? You could
+not certainly be more concerned if you had lost all you had in the world.
+I know you have lived very profusely, and believe all your money is
+spent; yet you have a good estate; and the reason I did not so very much
+oppose your irregular way of living, was, I knew the wise precaution you
+had taken to preserve half your substance; therefore I do not see why you
+should plunge yourself into this deep melancholy.
+
+At these words, Abon Hassan melted into tears, and in the midst of his
+sighs cried out, Ah! mother, I see at last, by sad experience, how
+insupportable poverty is: I am sensible that it deprives us of joy, as
+much as the setting sun does of light. In poverty, we have no
+commendations and fine things said unto us: we endeavour to conceal all
+our actions, and spend our nights in tears and sorrow. In short, a poor
+man is looked upon, both by friends and relations, as a stranger. You
+know, mother, how I have used my friends for this year past: I have
+entertained them with all imaginable generosity, till I have spent all my
+money; and now they have left me, when I can treat them no longer. For my
+estate, I thank Heaven for having given me the grace to keep the oath I
+have made not to enter upon that; and now I shall know how to make a good
+use of it. But first, I will try the gratitude of friends, who deserve
+not that I should call them so: I will go to them one after another, and
+when I have represented to them what I have done for their sakes, I will
+ask them to make me up a sum of money among them, to relieve me out of
+the miserable condition I am reduced to: these are the steps I intend to
+take to try their gratitude.
+
+I do not pretend, son, said Abon Hassan’s mother, to dissuade you from
+executing your design; but I can tell you before-hand, that you have no
+ground for any hope: believe me, you will find no relief, but from the
+estate you have reserved. I see you do not, but will soon know those
+people, whom we generally call friends; and I wish to Heaven you may, in
+the manner I desire; that is to say, for your own good. Mother, replied
+Abon Hassan, I am persuaded of the truth of what you say; but shall be
+certain of a fact which concerns me so nearly, when I shall inform myself
+better of their baseness. Upon this, Abon Hassan went immediately to his
+friends, whom he found at home, represented to them the great need he was
+in, and begged of them to loose their purse-strings to assist him. He
+promised to give every one bonds to pay them the money they lent him, as
+soon as his affairs were made up; giving them to understand, at the same
+time, that it was, in a great measure, upon their accounts that he was
+undone; and forgetting not to allure them with the hopes of being once
+again entertained in the same manner as before.
+
+Not one of his bottle companions was affected with the arguments which
+the afflicted Abon Hassan made use of to persuade them; and he had the
+mortification to find, that many of them told him plainly they scarce
+knew him.
+
+He returned home again full of grief and rage; and, going into his
+mother’s apartment, said, Ah! madam, you was in the right of it; instead
+of friends, I have found none but ungrateful, perfidious wretches, who
+deserve not my friendship; whom I renounce, and promise never to see them
+more. He resolved to be as good as his word; and, to that end, took all
+possible precautions to avoid falling into the same inconvenience, taking
+an oath never to give an inhabitant of Bagdad any entertainment again.
+Afterwards he opened a strong chest, in which he had put the rents he had
+received from his estate, and resolved to take every day a sum that was
+sufficient to defray the expense of a single person to sup with him; who,
+according to the oath he had taken, must be a stranger that came into
+Bagdad the same day, and must take his leave of him the next morning.
+
+According to this project, Abon Hassan took care every morning to provide
+whatever he designed for night, and towards the close of the evening went
+and sat on Bagdad bridge; and, as soon as ever he saw a stranger, of
+whatever condition he was, he accosted him civilly, and invited him to
+sup and lodge with him that night; and, after having informed him of the
+law he had imposed upon himself, took him home with him. The repast with
+which Abon Hassan regaled his guests was not costly, but always plain and
+neat, with plenty of good wine, and generally lasted till the night was
+pretty well advanced; when, instead of entertaining his guest with the
+affairs of state, his family or business, as is too frequent, he affected
+to talk of indifferent subjects, and was naturally of so gay and pleasant
+a temper, that he could give the most agreeable turns in conversation,
+and make the most reserved and melancholy persons merry. When he saw his
+guest again the next morning, he always said to him, God preserve you
+from all sorrow wherever you go: when I invited you yesterday to come and
+sup with me, I informed you of the law I have made; therefore do not take
+it ill if I tell you that we must never see one another again, nor drink
+together, for reasons best known to myself: so God conduct you.
+
+Abon Hassan was very exact in the observation of this oath, and never
+looked upon, or spoke to, any stranger he had once entertained, wherever
+he met them; and had lived for a long time after this manner, when one
+afternoon, a little before sunset, as he was sitting upon the bridge,
+according to custom, the caliph Haroun Alraschid came by so disguised
+that nobody could know him: for that monarch, though his chief ministers
+and officers of justice acquitted themselves of their duty very
+punctually, yet would take notice of every thing himself; and, to that
+purpose, often disguised himself, and walked through the city and suburbs
+of Bagdad; and that day was dressed like a merchant of Moussel, who had
+but just disembarked, and was followed by a slave.
+
+As the caliph had in his disguise a grave and awful air, Abon Hassan, who
+thought him to be a Moussel merchant, went directly to him; and, after
+having saluted him with a smiling countenance, and kissed his hand, said,
+Sir, I congratulate you on your happy arrival, and beg of you to do me
+the honour to go and sup with me, and repose yourself at my home this
+night, after the fatigue of your voyage; and, to oblige him not to deny
+him that favour, he told him his custom of entertaining the first
+stranger he met with. The caliph found something so odd and singular in
+Abon Hassan’s taste, that he was very desirous to know the bottom,
+without quitting the character of a merchant; and told him, that he could
+not better answer that great civility, which he did not expect at his
+arrival at Bagdad, than by accepting the obliging offer that he made him.
+
+Abon Hassan, who knew not that the guest which fortune presented to him
+was so very much above him, treated him as his equal, carried him home,
+and led him into a room very neatly furnished, where he set him on a
+sofa, at the upper end of a table that was ready laid for supper, which
+was soon after sent up by Abon Hassan’s mother, who took upon herself the
+care of the kitchen, and consisted of three dishes. The first was a capon
+and four large pullets, which were set in the middle; and the second and
+third, placed on each side, were a fat roasted goose and boiled pigeons,
+all dressed very neatly, and with proper sauces.
+
+Abon Hassan sat down over against his guest, and he and the caliph began
+to eat heartily of what they liked best, without speaking or drinking,
+according to the custom of the country. When they had done eating, the
+caliph’s slave brought them water to wash their hands; and, in the mean
+time, Abon Hassan’s mother sent up a dessert of all sorts of dried
+sweetmeats, and all the fruits then in season, as grapes, peaches,
+apples, pears, &c. As soon as it grew dark, wax-candles were lighted, and
+Abon Hassan, after charging his mother to take care of the caliph’s
+slave, brought bottles and glasses.
+
+Then Abon Hassan, sitting down with the pretended Moussel merchant again,
+filled out a glass of wine, before he touched the dessert; and holding it
+out in his hand, said to the caliph, You know, sir, that the cock never
+drinks before he calls to his hens to come and drink with him; so I
+invite you to follow my example. I do not know what you may think; for my
+part, I cannot reckon him a wise man who does not love wine: come, let us
+leave those sort of people to their dull melancholy humours, and seek for
+mirth, which is only to be found in a brimmer.
+
+While Abon Hassan was drinking, the caliph, taking the glass that was set
+by him, said, Now I like you, you are an honest fellow; I am mightily
+taken with your pleasant temper, and expect you should fill me as much.
+Abon Hassan, as soon as he had drunk, filled the caliph’s glass, and
+giving it to him, Here, sir, said he, taste this wine; I will warrant it
+good. I am very well persuaded, replied the caliph, laughing, that you
+know how to make choice of the best. O, replied Abon Hassan, while the
+caliph was taking off his glass, one may easily find that you know what
+good living is, and have seen the world. Alas! how happy is my house in
+your presence, and how overjoyed am I for meeting with a man of so much
+merit.
+
+The caliph, who was naturally a merry man, was mightily diverted with
+these sallies of Abon Hassan, and took great pleasure in promoting
+drinking, often asking for wine, thinking that when that began to work,
+he might penetrate so far into his discourse as to satisfy his curiosity.
+Therefore, to enter into conversation, he asked him his name, his
+business, and how he spent his life. My name, sir, replied he, is Abon
+Hassan: my father, whom I buried, was a merchant of Bagdad; and though he
+was not the richest, yet he lived very well. When he died, he left me
+enough in my station to live free from ambition; but as he always kept a
+very strict hand over me in his life-time, I was willing, when he was
+gone, to make up the time I thought I had lost.
+
+But notwithstanding, continued Abon Hassan, in this I was more prudent
+than most young people are, who give themselves unto debauchery without
+any thought, and who reduce themselves to the utmost poverty, and are
+forced to do penance all the rest of their lives after. Now I, to avoid
+this misfortune, divided what I had left me in two parts, and with one
+bought an estate, with a resolution not to finger my rents at that time;
+and kept the other in ready money to pursue my extravagances with. I
+associated myself with young people of my age, and with my ready money,
+which I spent profusely, treated them every day; and, in short, spared
+for no sort of pleasure. But these feastings did not last long; for by
+that time the year was out, I had got to the bottom of my cash, and then
+all my friends vanished. I made a visit to every one of them, and
+represented to them the miserable condition I was in, but none of them
+would relieve me. Upon this, I renounced their friendship, and retrenched
+so far as to live within the compass of my income, and obliged myself to
+keep company with none but the first stranger I could meet with, coming
+that day into Bagdad, and to entertain him but one night. I have told you
+the rest before; and I thank my good fortune this day for meeting with a
+stranger of so much worth.
+
+The caliph was very well satisfied with this information, and said to
+Abon Hassan, I cannot enough commend the measures you have taken, and the
+prudence with which you have acted, by forsaking your debauchery; a
+conduct rarely to be met with in young persons; and I esteem you the more
+for being so just to yourself as you have been. It was a slippery path
+you trode in; and I cannot enough admire, how, after having seen the end
+of your ready money, you had so great a command over yourself not to
+enter upon your estate. In short, I must own I envy your happiness: you
+are the only happy man in the world, to enjoy every day the company of
+some one honest man, with whom you can discourse freely and agreeably,
+and to whom you give an opportunity to declare, wherever he goes, how
+handsomely he was received by you. But we talk too long without drinking;
+come drink, and pour out to me.
+
+In this manner the caliph and Abon Hassan entertained each other,
+drinking and talking of indifferent matters till the night was pretty far
+advanced; when the caliph, pretending to be fatigued after his voyage,
+told his host he stood in need of a little rest; but, added he, that I
+may not deprive you of yours, before we part, because to-morrow I may be
+gone before you are stirring, I would be glad to show you how sensible I
+am of your civility, and the kind and obliging hospitality you have shown
+me. The only thing that troubles me is, that I know not which way to pay
+my acknowledgment; therefore I beg of you to let me understand how I may,
+and you shall see I will not be ungrateful; for certainly you must have
+some business in which you may be served, or must want something which
+you could wish for. Speak freely, and declare your mind; for, though I am
+but a merchant, it may be in mine or some friend’s power to oblige you.
+
+To these offers of the caliph, Abon Hassan, taking him still for a
+Moussel merchant, replied, I am very well persuaded, good sir, that it is
+not out of a compliment that you make me these generous tenders; but,
+upon the word of an honest man, I have nothing that troubles me, no
+business nor desires, and want not any thing. I have not the least
+ambition, as I told you before, but am very well satisfied with my
+condition. Therefore, I can only thank you for your obliging proffers,
+and the honour you have done me to come and take a slight repast with me.
+Yet I must tell you, pursued Abon Hassan, there is one thing gives me
+great uneasiness. You know the town of Bagdad is divided into several
+parts and divisions, to each of which there belongs a mosque, and an iman
+to read prayers at certain hours. The iman of the division I live in is
+an old man, of an austere countenance, and the greatest hypocrite in the
+world. This man, and four old men of this neighbourhood, who are people
+of the same stamp, meet every day at the iman’s house; there they vent
+their slander, calumny, and malice against me and the whole division, to
+the disturbance of the public peace of the neighbourhood, and the
+promotion of dissension. Some they threaten, others they rail against;
+and, in short, would be lords paramount, and have every one govern
+himself according to their caprice; and, at the same time, know not how
+to govern themselves. Indeed, I would have them meddle with nothing but
+their Alcoran, and let the world live quietly.
+
+Well, I suppose, said the caliph, you would willingly put a stop to this
+disorder. You have guessed it, answered Abon Hassan; and the only thing I
+should desire, would be to be caliph only for one day, in the stead of
+our sovereign lord and master Haroun Alraschid, the commander of the
+faithful. What would you do if you were? said the caliph. I would make
+them examples, answered Abon Hassan, to the satisfaction of all honest
+men. I would punish the four old men with each a hundred bastinadoes on
+the soles of their feet, and the iman with four hundred, to learn them
+not to disturb and abuse their neighbours any more.
+
+The caliph was extremely well pleased with this thought of Abon Hassan’s;
+and, as he was a prince who loved adventures, he fancied to make this a
+very singular one. Indeed, said he, I approve very much of your wish,
+which I see proceeds from an upright mind, that cannot bear to see the
+malice of wicked people go unpunished. I could like to see it take
+effect, and that is not so impossible a thing as you imagine. I am
+persuaded that the caliph would willingly put his authority for
+twenty-four hours into your hands, if he knew your good intentions, and
+the just use you would make of it. I see, said Abon Hassan, you laugh at
+my foolish fancy; and the caliph himself would laugh at my extravagance
+too if he knew it; but yet it would be a means of informing him of the
+iman’s and his companions’ behaviour, and he might chastise them.
+
+Heaven forbid, replied the caliph, that I, who have been so handsomely
+entertained by you, should laugh at you; neither do I believe, as much a
+stranger as I am, that the caliph would be displeased. But let us lay
+this discourse aside; it is almost midnight, and time to go to bed. With
+all my heart, said Abon Hassan, I would not be any hindrance to your
+going to rest; but there is still some wine in the bottle, and, if you
+please, we will drink it off first. The only thing that I have to
+recommend to you is, that, when you go out in the morning, if I am not
+up, you will give yourself the trouble of shutting the door after you,
+which the caliph promised; and while Abon Hassan was talking, took the
+bottle and two glasses, and filled his own first, saying, Here is a cup
+of thanks to you; and then filling the other, put artfully a little
+powder, which he had about him, into it, and giving it to Abon Hassan,
+said, you have taken the pains to fill for me all this night, and it is
+the least I can do to save you the trouble once; come, drink to our good
+repose.
+
+Abon Hassan took the glass, and, to show his guest with how much pleasure
+he received the honour he did him, whipped it off at once; but had
+scarcely set the glass upon the table before the powder began to work,
+and he fell into so sound a sleep, that his head knocked against his
+knees. The caliph ordered the slave that he had brought along with him,
+and who came again into the room as soon as he had supped, to take him
+upon his back, and follow him; but to be sure to observe the house, that
+he might know it again when he should bring him back; and in this manner
+the caliph, followed by the slave with Abon Hassan on his back, went out
+of the house, but without shutting the door after him, as Abon Hassan
+desired, and went directly to his palace, and, by a backdoor, into his
+own apartment, where all the officers of his apartment were waiting for
+him, whom he ordered to undress him, and put him in his bed, which they
+immediately performed.
+
+Then the caliph sent for all the officers and ladies of the palace, and
+said to them, I would have all those whose business it is to attend my
+levee wait to-morrow morning upon this man who lies in my bed, and pay
+the same respect to him as to myself, and obey him in whatever he
+commands; let him be refused in nothing that he asks for, and be spoken
+to and answered in every thing he says or does, as if he was the
+commander of the faithful. In short, I expect you to look upon him as the
+true caliph, and neglect not the least circumstance.
+
+The officers and ladies presently understood that the caliph had a mind
+to divert himself, and made low bows to show their obedience, and then
+withdrew, every one full of the part they were to act.
+
+Then he sent for the grand vizier: Giafar, said he, I have sent for you
+to instruct you, and to prevent your being surprised to-morrow when you
+come to an audience, to see this man, that is laid here in my bed, seated
+on my throne in my royal robes: accost him with the same reverence and
+respect you pay to myself; observe, and punctually execute, whatever he
+bids you do, the same as if I commanded you, even if his liberality
+should extend so far as to empty all the coffers in my treasury; and
+remember to acquaint all my emirs and huissirs, all the officers without
+the palace, to pay him the same honour at audience as the commander of
+the believers himself; and to carry on the matter so well, that he might
+not perceive the least thing that may interrupt this joke which I am
+diverting myself with.
+
+Afterwards the grand vizier retired, and the caliph went to bed in
+another apartment; and ordered Mesrour, the chief of his eunuchs, to take
+care to manage things so well, that he might see how Abon Hassan would
+use the power and authority of the caliph for the time he desired to have
+it; and, above all, charged him to awake him at the usual hour, before he
+awakened Abon Hassan, because he had a mind to be present when he rose.
+
+Mesrour failed not to do as the caliph had commanded; and, as soon as the
+caliph went into the room where Abon Hassan lay, he placed himself in a
+little closet, from whence he could see all that passed. All the officers
+and ladies who were to attend Abon Hassan’s levee, took their posts
+according to their rank, with great silence, and discharged themselves as
+punctually of their offices as if the caliph had been to rise.
+
+As it was just day-break, and time to rise to morning prayer before
+sun-rise, the officer that stood nearest to the head of the bed, put a
+sponge steeped in vinegar to Abon Hassan’s nose; who, presently turning
+his head about without opening his eyes, sneezed heartily, which was
+generally the effect of the caliph’s powder, and which lasted longer or
+shorter in proportion to the dose. Then opening his eyes, he found
+himself, by the small light that appeared, in a stately room
+magnificently furnished, the ceiling of which was finely painted, and the
+floor covered with a rich silk tapestry, and surrounded by a great many
+young and handsome ladies, with all sorts of instruments of music in
+their hands, and black eunuchs richly clothed, all standing with great
+modesty and respect. After casting his eyes on the quilt of the bed, he
+perceived it was cloth of gold, richly embossed with pearls and diamonds;
+and that there was laid by the bed a habit of the same stuff and
+trimmings, with a caliph’s turban.
+
+At the sight of these glittering objects, Abon Hassan was in the most
+inexpressible confusion and amazement, and looked upon all he saw as a
+dream. So, said he to himself, I am caliph; but, added he a little after,
+it is only a dream, the effect of the wish I entertained my guest with
+last night; and then he turned himself about to sleep again. At the same
+time, the eunuch said very respectfully, Commander of the Faithful, it is
+time for your majesty to rise to prayers; the morning begins to advance.
+
+These words very much surprised Abon Hassan. Am I awake, or do I sleep?
+said he to himself. Ah! certainly I am asleep! continued he, keeping his
+eyes shut; there is no reason to doubt of it.
+
+Immediately the eunuch, who saw he had no inclination to get up, and that
+he gave him no answer, said again, Your majesty, I hope, will not be
+angry, if I tell you once more that it is time to rise to morning prayer,
+which you never neglect, and the sun is just upon rising. I am mistaken,
+said Abon Hassan presently; I am not asleep, but awake: for those that
+sleep do not hear, and I hear very distinctly. Then opening his eyes, he
+saw plainly by broad daylight, what appeared but uncertain before, and
+rising upon his breech, with a smiling countenance, like a man overjoyed
+at a sudden promotion, pleased the caliph, who penetrated into the bottom
+of his thoughts.
+
+Then the ladies of the palace prostrated themselves with their faces to
+the ground before Abon Hassan, and those who had the instruments of music
+in their hands, wished him a good-morrow, by a concert of soft flutes,
+hautboys, theorboes, and other harmonious instruments, with which he was
+ravished, and was in such an ecstasy, that he knew not himself, nor where
+he was; but, recovering at last his first idea, he doubted whether what
+he saw was a dream or matter of fact. He clapped his hands before his
+eyes, and lowering his head, said to himself, What means all this? where
+am I? and whom does this palace belong to? What can these eunuchs,
+officers, beautiful ladies, and musicians signify? How is it possible for
+me to distinguish whether I am in my right senses or in a dream? When he
+took his hands from his eyes, the sun shone full in at the
+chamber-window; and at that instant, Mesrour, the chief of the eunuchs,
+came in, prostrated himself before Abon Hassan, and said, Commander of
+the Faithful, your majesty will excuse me for representing to you, that
+you used not to lie so long, and that the time of prayer is over; I am
+afraid your majesty has had an ill night, and has been indisposed, and
+may not be able to ascend your throne in council as usual: all your
+generals, governors, and other officers of state, wait your presence in
+the council-hall.
+
+At this discourse of Mesrour’s, Abon Hassan was verily persuaded that he
+was neither asleep nor in a dream; but, at the same time, was very much
+embarrassed and confused. At last, looking earnestly at Mesrour, he said
+to him in a serious tone, Who is it you speak to, and call the commander
+of the faithful? For my part, I do not know you, and you mistake me for
+somebody else.
+
+Any person but Mesrour would have been dashed at these questions of Abon
+Hassan’s; but he had been so well instructed by the caliph, that he
+played his part to a wonder. My worthy lord and master, said he, your
+majesty only speaks thus to try me: is not your majesty the commander of
+the faithful, monarch of the world, and the prophet’s vicar on earth?
+Mesrour, your slave, has not forgot you, after so many years that he has
+had the honour and happiness to serve and pay his respects to your
+majesty; and should think himself the most unhappy of all men if he has
+incurred your displeasure, and begs of you most humbly to remove his
+fears; but is apt to believe that you have been disturbed by some
+troublesome dream last night.
+
+Abon Hassan burst out a-laughing at these words of Mesrour’s, and fell
+backwards upon the bolster, which pleased the caliph so much, that he
+would have laughed as loud himself, if he had not been afraid of putting
+a stop to the pleasant scene he promised himself.
+
+Abon Hassan, when he had tired himself with laughing, sat up again on his
+breech, and, speaking to a little black eunuch that stood by him, said,
+Hark ye, tell me who I am. Sir, answered the little boy modestly, your
+majesty is the commander of the believers, and God’s vicar on earth. You
+are a liar, sooty face, said Abon Hassan. Then he called the lady that
+stood the nearest to him: Come hither, fair one, said he, holding out his
+hand, bite the end of my finger, that I may feel whether I am asleep or
+awake.
+
+The lady, who knew the caliph saw all that passed, was overjoyed to show
+how capable she was of diverting him, and went with a grave countenance,
+and putting his finger between her teeth, she bit so hard that he cried
+out; and, snatching his hand quickly back again, said, I find I am awake,
+and not asleep. But by what miracle am I become caliph in a night’s time?
+This is certainly the most strange and surprising thing in the world!
+Then addressing himself to the same lady, he said, I conjure you, for
+Heaven’s sake, not to hide the truth from me; am I really the commander
+of the faithful? It is so true, answered the lady, that we, who are your
+slaves, are amazed to find that you will not believe yourself to be so.
+Ah! you are a deceiver, replied Abon Hassan; I know very well who I am.
+
+As the chief of the eunuchs perceived that Abon Hassan had a mind to
+rise, he lent him his hand, and helped him to get out of bed. No sooner
+were his feet set on the floor, than the chamber rang again with repeated
+acclamations of the officers and ladies, who cried out, God preserve your
+majesty, and give you a good day. O Heaven! cried Abon Hassan, what a
+strange thing is this! Last night I was Abon Hassan, and this morning I
+am the commander of the believers! I cannot comprehend this sudden and
+surprising change. Presently some of the officers began to dress him; and
+when they had done, Mesrour led him through all the eunuchs and ladies,
+who were ranged on both sides quite to the council-chamber door, which
+was opened by one of the huissirs. Mesrour walked before him to the foot
+of the throne, where he stopped, and putting one hand under one arm,
+while another officer did the same by the other, they helped him to
+ascend the throne.
+
+The caliph, in the mean time, came out of the closet where he was hid,
+and went into another which looked into the council-hall, from whence he
+could hear all that passed, and see Abon Hassan, who filled his throne
+with all the gravity imaginable.
+
+As soon as Abon Hassan had seated himself, the grand vizier Giafar
+prostrated himself at the foot of the throne, and addressing himself to
+him, said, God shower down blessings on your majesty in this life,
+receive you into his paradise in the other world, and confound your
+enemies!
+
+Abon Hassan, after all that had happened that morning, and these words of
+the grand vizier, never doubted but he was caliph, as he wished to be;
+and so, without examining any farther, how, or by what adventure or
+sudden change of fortune, he immediately began to exercise his power, and
+looking very gravely upon the vizier, asked him what he had to say.
+Commander of the Faithful, replied the grand vizier, the emirs, viziers,
+and other officers who are of your majesty’s council, wait at the door,
+until your majesty give them leave to come in, and pay their usual
+respects to you. Abon Hassan presently bade that the door be opened, and
+the grand vizier gave the sign to the huissir that waited for it.
+
+When the door was opened, the viziers, emirs, and principal officers of
+the court, all dressed magnificently in their habits of ceremony, went in
+their order to the foot of the throne, and paid their respects to Abon
+Hassan; and bowing their heads down to the carpet, kneeling on one knee,
+saluted him with the title of Commander of the Faithful, according to the
+instruction of the grand vizier, and afterwards took their seats.
+
+When this ceremony was over, the grand vizier, standing before the
+throne, began with papers in his hand to make his report of affairs,
+which at that time were of very little consequence. Nevertheless, Abon
+Hassan acquitted himself in his great post without the least
+embarrassment; and gave judgment so well in all matters, that the caliph
+could not help wondering at his address. But before the grand vizier had
+finished his report, Abon Hassan called the judge of the police, whom he
+knew by sight, as he sat in his place: Hold, said he to the grand vizier,
+I have something to order the judge of the police. The judge of the
+police perceiving that Abon Hassan looked at him, and hearing his name
+mentioned, arose from his seat, and went gravely to the foot of the
+throne, where he prostrated himself with his face to the ground. Judge of
+the police, said Abon Hassan, go immediately to such a division, and
+seize the iman of the mosque, and four old men, (whom he described,) and
+give each of the old men a hundred bastinadoes with a bull’s pizzle, and
+the iman four hundred: after that, mount them all five on camels, with
+their faces to the tails; and lead them through the whole city, with a
+crier before them, who shall proclaim, This is the punishment of all
+those who trouble their heads with other people’s affairs, and make it
+their business to create disturbances and misunderstandings in families
+in their neighbourhood. My intention is also, that you enjoin them to
+leave that division, and never to set a foot more in it; and while your
+lieutenant is conducting them through the town, return, and give me an
+account of the execution of my orders. The judge of the police laid his
+hand upon his head, to show his obedience, and, prostrating himself a
+second time, went away.
+
+The caliph was extremely well pleased at this order; and perceived by
+Abon Hassan’s strictness and expedition, that he was resolved not to lose
+the opportunity of punishing the iman and the other four old hypocrites.
+In the mean time, the grand vizier went on with his report, and had just
+done when the judge of the police came back from executing his
+commission. He went to the throne with the usual ceremony, and said,
+Commander of the Faithful, I found the iman and his four companions; and
+for a proof that I have punctually obeyed your commands, I have brought
+an instrument signed by the principal inhabitants of that division: at
+the same time, he pulled out a paper, and presented it to the pretended
+caliph.
+
+Abon Hassan took the paper, and reading over the names of the witnesses,
+who were all people that he knew very well, said to the judge of the
+police, It is very well; return to your seat. These old hypocrites, said
+he to himself, with a great deal of satisfaction in his looks, who must
+be censuring my actions, and finding fault with my entertaining honest
+people, deserved this punishment. The caliph all the time penetrated into
+his thoughts, and conceived a sensible joy in this expedition.
+
+Then Abon Hassan, addressing himself afterwards to the grand vizier,
+said, Go to the high treasurer for a purse of a thousand pieces of gold,
+and carry it to the mother of Abon Hassan, who is known by the name of
+the Debauchee; she lives in the same division into which I sent the judge
+of the police: return immediately.
+
+The grand vizier, after laying his hand upon his head, and prostrating
+himself before the throne, went to the high treasurer, who gave him the
+money, which he ordered a slave to take, and follow him to Abon Hassan’s
+mother, to whom he gave it, saying only, The caliph makes you this
+present. She received it with the greatest surprise imaginable, and could
+not tell what to think of this liberality of the caliph.
+
+During the grand vizier’s absence, the judge of the police acted for him,
+in making the report, which lasted till the vizier returned. As soon as
+he came into the council-chamber, and had assured Abon Hassan he had done
+as he had bade him, Mesrour, the chief of the eunuchs, who returned to
+the palace after he had conducted Abon Hassan to the council, came again,
+and made a sign to the viziers, emirs, and other officers, that the
+council was done, and that they might all retire; which they all did, by
+making the same reverence and obedience as when they entered.
+
+Abon Hassan sat not long after them, but came down from the throne,
+supported in the same manner as he went up to it, by Mesrour and another
+eunuch, who attended him back again to the apartment from whence he came,
+preceded all the way by the grand vizier: but before he reached the
+apartment, he was taken with a pressing occasion; upon which they showed
+him into a convenient closet, paved with white marble; and while Abon
+Hassan was there, the grand vizier went to acquaint the caliph with what
+had passed, though he had been an eye-witness all the time.
+
+When Abon Hassan came out of the closet, Mesrour went before him, to show
+him the way into an inner apartment, where there was a table spread.
+Several eunuchs ran before, to tell the musicians that the sham caliph
+was coming, who immediately began a concert of vocal and instrumental
+music, with which Abon Hassan was so charmed and transported, that he
+could not tell what to think at all he saw and heard. If this is a dream,
+said he, it is a long one: but certainly, continued he, it is no dream;
+for I can see and feel, walk, hear, and argue reasonably. Whatever it is,
+I trust in God: yet I cannot believe but I am the commander of the
+faithful; for no other person could live in this splendour. The honour
+and respect that is given me, and the obedience paid to my commands, are
+sufficient proofs.
+
+In short, Abon Hassan took it for granted that he was caliph, and the
+commander of the faithful; and was fully convinced of it, when he entered
+that magnificent and spacious hall, which was finely painted. Seven bands
+of musicians were placed round the hall, and as many gold branches hung
+down from the ceiling, which was painted with blue and gold. In the
+middle of the hall there was spread a table, which was served up with all
+manner of rarities, in massy gold plates and dishes; and seven young
+beautiful ladies, dressed in the richest habits, of the most lively
+colours, stood round this table, each with a fan in her hand, to fan Abon
+Hassan when at dinner.
+
+If ever mortal was charmed, Abon Hassan was: at every step he took in
+that stately hall, he could not help stopping to contemplate on all the
+wonders that regaled his eyes, and turned his head first on one side and
+then again on the other, which made the caliph almost split his sides
+with laughing. At last he went and sat down at the table, and presently
+all the ladies that stood about it began to fan him. He looked first at
+one and then at another, and admired the grace with which they acquitted
+themselves; and told them, with a smile, that he believed one fan was
+enough to cool him, and would have six of the ladies sit at table with
+him, three on his right hand and three on his left; that, as the table
+was round, which way soever he turned, his eyes might be saluted with
+agreeable objects.
+
+The six ladies obeyed; and Abon Hassan taking notice that, out of
+respect, they did not eat, helped them himself, and invited them to eat
+in the most pressing and obliging terms. Afterwards, he asked their
+names; which they told him were, White neck, Coral Lips, Fair Face, Sun
+Shine, Heart’s Delight, Sweet Looks, and she who fanned him was Sugar
+Cane. The many soft things he said upon their names, showed him to be a
+man of a sprightly wit, and very much increased the esteem which the
+caliph (who saw every thing) had for him.
+
+When the ladies saw that Abon Hassan had done eating, one of them said to
+the eunuch who waited, the commander of the faithful will go into the
+next hall to the desert: bring some water. Upon which they all rose from
+the table, and taking from the eunuchs, one a gold basin, another an
+ewer, and a third a towel, kneeled down before Abon Hassan, and presented
+them to him to wash his hands; who, as soon as he had done, got up, and
+after an eunuch had opened the door, went, preceded by Mesrour, who never
+left him, into another hall, as large as the former, adorned with the
+best paintings, gold vessels, silk tapestry, and other rich furniture.
+There seven other bands of music began a new concert, as soon as Abon
+Hassan appeared. In this hall there were seven gold branches, and a table
+full of dried sweetmeats, and the most choice and exquisite fruits,
+raised in pyramids, in seven gold basins, and seven ladies, more
+beautiful than the others, standing round it, with fans in their hands.
+
+These new objects put Abon Hassan into a greater admiration than ever;
+who, after he had made a full stop, and given the most sensible marks of
+his surprise and astonishment, went directly to the table; where, sitting
+down, he gazed a considerable time at the seven ladies, with an
+embarrassment that plainly showed he knew not which to give the
+preference to. At last he ordered them all to sit and eat with him,
+telling them that it was not so hot but he could spare them that trouble.
+
+When the ladies were all placed about him, the first thing he did was to
+ask their names, which were different from the other seven, and expressed
+some perfection of either mind or body, which distinguished them from one
+another; and upon which he took an opportunity, when he presented them
+with fruit, &c. to say somewhat that was handsome. Take this fig, said he
+to Chain of Hearts, who sat on his right hand, and render the fetters
+with which you loaded me at first sight more supportable; and so went on
+to the rest. By these ways, Abon Hassan pleased and diverted the caliph
+more and more, who was resolved to carry on this scene which entertained
+him so agreeably.
+
+After Abon Hassan had tasted of all the fruits, &c. he got up and
+followed Mesrour into a third hall, much more magnificently furnished
+than the other two; where he was received by the same number of musicians
+and ladies, who stood about a table covered over with all manner of
+sweetmeats. After he had looked about him with new admiration, he
+advanced to the table, the music playing all the time, which ceased when
+he sat down. The seven ladies sat down with him, by his order, and helped
+themselves, as he desired them, to what they liked best; and afterwards
+he informed himself of their names, which pleased him as much as the
+others had done.
+
+By this time the day began to close, and Abon Hassan was conducted into
+the fourth hall, much more stately and magnificently furnished, lighted
+with wax-candles, in seven gold branches and sconces, which were placed
+all around it, all which made a glorious light. Abon Hassan found the
+same number of musicians here as he had done in the other halls, and saw
+also as many ladies standing round a table, furnished with such things as
+were proper to promote drinking. There he saw a beaufet, which he had not
+observed in any of the other halls, which was set out with seven large
+silver flagons full of the choicest wines, and seven crystal glasses by
+them.
+
+All the day long, Abon Hassan had drunk nothing but water, according to a
+custom observed at Bagdad, from the highest to the lowest; who never
+drink wine till the evening, it being accounted the most scandalous thing
+in the world to be seen drunk in the streets in the day-time.
+
+As soon as Abon Hassan entered the fourth hall, he went directly to the
+table and sat down, and was a long time in a kind of ecstasy at the sight
+of those seven ladies, who were much more beautiful than all he beheld in
+the other halls. He was very desirous to know all their names; but the
+music playing then so very loud that he could not hear them speak, he
+made a sign for them to leave off playing: then taking one of the ladies
+who sat next to him by the hand, he made her sit down by him, and
+presenting her with some of those relishing viands before him, asked her
+name. Commander of the Faithful, said the lady, I am called Cluster of
+Pearls. No name, replied Abon Hassan, could have more properly expressed
+your worth; and indeed your teeth exceed the finest pearls. Cluster of
+Pearls, added he, since that is your name, oblige me with a glass of wine
+from your fair hand. The lady went presently to the beaufet, and brought
+him a glass with a pleasant air. Abon Hassan took the glass with a smile,
+and looking passionately upon her; said, Cluster of Pearls, your health;
+I desire you to fill out as much for yourself, and pledge me. Accordingly
+she went to the beaufet, and returned with a glass in her hand; but
+before she drank, she sang a song, and by the sweetness of her voice
+ravished his senses.
+
+After Abon Hassan had drunk, he made another lady sit, and presenting her
+with some of the viands, asked her name, which she told him was Morning
+Star. Your bright eyes, said he, shine with greater lustre than that star
+you bear the name of. Do me the pleasure to bring me some wine; which she
+did, with an extraordinary grace. Then turning to the third lady, whose
+name was Daylight, he ordered her to do the same; and so on to the
+seventh, to the extreme satisfaction of the caliph.
+
+When they had all filled him round, Cluster of Pearls went to the
+beaufet, poured out a glass of wine, and putting in a pinch of the same
+powder the caliph had used the night before, presented it to Abon Hassan.
+Commander of the Faithful, said she, I beg of your majesty to take this
+glass of wine; and, before you drink it off, do me the favour to hear a
+song I have made to-day, and which may not displease you. With all my
+heart, said Abon Hassan, taking the glass; and, as commander of the
+faithful, I command you to sing it: for I am persuaded that so beautiful
+a lady as yourself must abound with wit and humour. The lady took a lute,
+and tuning it to her voice, sang with so much justness and grace, and
+with such delicate turns of thought and expression, that Abon Hassan was
+in perfect ecstasy all the time, and was so much delighted, that he
+ordered her to sing it again.
+
+When the lady had done, Abon Hassan drank off his glass, and, turning his
+head towards her, to give her those praises which he thought due to her,
+fell fast asleep with his mouth open gaping, and his eyes close shut,
+just in the same condition as when the caliph brought him from home; who
+took a greater satisfaction in this scene, than he could have promised
+himself. One of the ladies stood ready to catch the glass, which fell out
+of his hand; and then the caliph, who was all along a spectator of what
+had passed, came into the hall to them, and ordered Abon Hassan to be
+dressed again in his own clothes, and to be carried back again to his own
+house by the same slave that brought him, charging him to lay him on a
+sofa in the same room, and to leave the door open.
+
+The slave took Abon Hassan upon his shoulders, and carried him home by a
+back-door of the palace, and returned with speed to acquaint the caliph
+he had executed his commands. Well, said the caliph, Abon Hassan wished
+only to be caliph for one day, to punish the iman of the mosque, and the
+four scheiks or old men of his division, who had displeased him: I have
+procured him the means, and he ought to be content.
+
+In the mean time, Abon Hassan, who was laid upon a sofa by the slave,
+slept very late the next morning. When the powder was worked off, Abon
+Hassan opened his eyes, and finding himself at home, was in the utmost
+surprise. Cluster of Pearls! Morning Star! Coral Lips! Fair Face! cried
+he, calling the ladies of the palace by their names, as he remembered
+them: Where are you? Come hither.
+
+Abon Hassan called so loud, that his mother, who was in her own
+apartment, heard, and running to him upon the noise he made, said, What
+do you mean, son? What is the matter? At these words, Abon Hassan lifted
+up his head, and looking haughtily at his mother, said, Good woman, who
+is it you call son? Why, you, answered his mother, very calmly; are not
+you Abon Hassan, my son? It is a strange thing that you have forgot
+yourself. I your son, old trull! replied Abon Hassan; thou art mad, and
+knowest not what thou sayest: I am not Abon Hassan, I tell you, but the
+commander of the faithful.
+
+Hold your tongue, son, answered the mother; one would think you were a
+fool, to hear you talk thus. You are an old fool yourself, replied Abon
+Hassan: I tell you once more, I am the commander of the faithful, and
+God’s vicar on earth. Ah! child, cried the mother, is it possible that I
+should hear you utter such words, that show you are distracted? What evil
+genius possesses you, to make you talk at this rate? God bless you, and
+preserve you from the power of Satan. You are my son Abon Hassan, and I
+am your mother.
+
+After she had made use of all the arguments she could think of to bring
+him to himself, and to show how great an error he was in, she said, Do
+not you see that the room you are now in is your own, and is not like a
+chamber fit for the commander of the believers? Think seriously of what I
+have said to you, and do not fancy things that are not, nor ever can be.
+
+Abon Hassan heard all these remonstrances of his mother very patiently,
+holding down his eyes, and clapping his hands before his face, like one
+who was looking into himself to examine the truth of what he saw and
+heard. At last, said he to his mother, just as if he was come out of a
+deep sleep, and with his hands in the same posture, Methinks I am Abon
+Hassan, you are my mother, and I am in my own room. Then looking about
+him again, he added, I am Abon Hassan, there is no doubt of it; and I
+cannot comprehend how this fancy came into my head.
+
+The mother really believed that her son was cured of that disorder of
+mind, and began to laugh, and ask him questions about his dream; when,
+all on a sudden, he started up on his breech, and looking crossly at his
+mother, said, Old sorceress, thou knowest not what thou sayest. I am not
+thy son, nor thou my mother, but the commander of the faithful; and thou
+shalt never persuade me to the contrary. For heaven’s sake, son, said the
+mother, let us leave off this discourse, and talk of something else, for
+fear some misfortune should happen to us. I will tell you what fell out
+yesterday in our division to the iman of the mosque, and the four scheiks
+our neighbours: the judge of the police came and seized them, and gave
+each of them I do not know how many strokes with a bull’s pizzle; and
+afterwards led them through all the streets, with a crier before them,
+who proclaimed, that that was the punishment of all those who troubled
+themselves about other folks’ business, and set their neighbours at
+variance; and ordered them never to come into our division again. Abon
+Hassan’s mother could not imagine that her son had any share in this
+adventure, and therefore turned the discourse this way to put him out of
+the conceit of being the commander of the faithful; but instead of
+effacing that idea, she rather strengthened it.
+
+Abon Hassan no sooner heard this relation, than he cried out, I am
+neither thy son, nor Abon Hassan, but certainly the commander of the
+believers: I cannot doubt of it, after what you have told me. Know then,
+that it was by my order that the iman and the four scheiks were punished;
+and I tell you, I am certainly the commander of the faithful; therefore
+do not tell me any more of its being a dream. I was not asleep, but as
+much awake as I am now. You do me a pleasure to confirm what the judge of
+the police told me he had executed according to my order; and I am
+overjoyed that the iman and the four scheiks, those great hypocrites,
+were so chastised, and would be glad to know how I came here. God be
+praised for all things! I am certainly commander of the faithful, and all
+thy arguments shall not convince me to the contrary.
+
+The mother, who could not divine or imagine why her son supported and
+maintained himself so strenuously to be caliph, never disputed but that
+he had lost his senses, when she found he insisted so much upon a thing
+that was so incredible; and in this thought said, I pray God to have
+mercy upon you, son! pray do not talk so madly. Beseech God to forgive
+you, and give you grace to talk more reasonably. What would the world say
+to hear you rave in this manner? Do not you know, they say walls have
+ears?
+
+These remonstrances only enraged Abon Hassan the more; and he was so
+provoked at his mother, that he said, Old woman, I have bid you once
+already hold your tongue; if you do not, I shall rise and give you cause
+to repent it all your life-time. I am the caliph, and the commander of
+the believers; and you ought to believe me when I say so.
+
+Then the good woman perceiving that he was more lunatic than ever,
+abandoned herself to tears; and beating her face and breast, expressed
+the utmost grief and astonishment to see her son in that distraction.
+Abon Hassan, instead of appeasing and being moved by his mother’s tears,
+on the contrary, lost all the respect due from a son to his mother; and
+getting up hastily, and laying hold of a cane, ran to his mother in great
+fury, and in a threatening manner said, Tell me presently, wicked woman,
+who I am. I do not believe, son, replied she, looking at him tenderly,
+and void of fear, that you are so abandoned by God as not to know your
+mother, who brought you into the world. Indeed you are my son Abon
+Hassan; and are very much in the wrong to arrogate to yourself the title
+of our sovereign lord the caliph Haroun Alraschid, after the noble and
+generous present that monarch made us yesterday. In short, I forgot to
+tell you, that the grand vizier Giafar came to me yesterday, and putting
+a purse of a thousand pieces of gold into my hands, bade me pray for the
+commander of the faithful, who made me that present.
+
+At these words, Abon Hassan grew quite mad. The circumstance of the
+caliph’s liberality his mother told him of, persuaded him more than ever
+that he was caliph, remembering how he had sent the vizier. Well, old
+hag, cried he, will you be convinced when I tell you that I sent you
+those thousand pieces of gold by my grand vizier Giafar, who obeyed my
+commands, as I was commander of the faithful? But, instead of believing
+me, thou endeavourest to distract me by thy contradictions, and
+maintainest with obstinacy that I am thy son; but thou shalt not go long
+unpunished. After these words, he was so unnatural, in the height of his
+frenzy, as to beat her cruelly with his cane.
+
+The poor mother, who could not have thought that her son would have come
+so soon from words to blows, called out for help so loud, that the
+neighbours ran in to her assistance. But in the mean time, Abon Hassan,
+at every stroke, asked her if he was the commander of the faithful. To
+which she always answered tenderly, that he was her son.
+
+By the time the neighbours came in, Abon Hassan’s rage began to abate.
+The first who entered the room got between him and his mother; and taking
+the cane out of his hand, said to him, What are you doing, Abon Hassan?
+Have you no fear of God, nor reason? Did ever a son, so well brought up
+as you, ever dare to strike his mother? Are you not ashamed to treat
+yours so, who loves you so tenderly? Abon Hassan looked at him that
+spoke, without returning an answer; and then staring on all that followed
+him, said, Who is that Abon Hassan you speak of? Is it me you call by
+that name?
+
+This question put the neighbours a little to a stand. How! said he that
+spoke first, do not you know your mother, who brought you up, and with
+whom you have always lived? Be gone, you are impertinent people, replied
+Abon Hassan; I neither know her nor you, and will not know you; I am not
+Abon Hassan; but will make you know, to your cost, I am the commander of
+the faithful.
+
+At this discourse, the neighbours no longer doubted but that he was mad;
+and to prevent his being guilty of the like actions, seized him,
+notwithstanding his resistance, and bound him hand and foot, while one in
+the mean time ran for the keeper of the hospital for mad folks, who came
+presently with a bull’s pizzle, chains, and handcuffs, and a great many
+attendants. When they entered the room, Abon Hassan, who little expected
+such treatment, endeavoured all he could to unloose himself; but after
+the keeper had given him two or three smart strokes upon his shoulders
+with the bull’s pizzle, he lay so quiet, that the keeper and his people
+might do what they would with him; who as soon as they had bound and
+manacled him, took him with them to the hospital; where, before the
+keeper put him into a room, he regaled him with fifty strokes of the
+bull’s pizzle on his shoulders, which he repeated every day without pity
+for three weeks, bidding him to remember that he was not the commander of
+the faithful.
+
+Abon Hassan’s mother went every day to see her son, and could not forbear
+crying to see him fall away daily, and to hear him sigh and complain at
+the hardships he endured. In short, his shoulders, back, and sides were
+so black and blue and bruized, that he could not turn himself. His mother
+would willingly have talked with him, to comfort him, and to sound him
+whether he still retained the notion of being caliph; but whenever she
+opened her mouth, he rebuked her with so much fury, that she was forced
+to leave him, and return home disconsolate at his obstinacy.
+
+At last those strong and lively ideas which Abon Hassan entertained of
+being clothed in the caliph’s habit, and having used all his authority,
+and being obeyed very punctually, and treated like the true caliph, and
+which persuaded him when he waked that he was so, all began to be
+insensibly effaced. Sometimes he would say to himself, If I was the
+caliph, and commander of the believers, how came I home dressed in my own
+apparel? Why should I not have been attended by eunuchs and ladies? Why
+should my grand Vizier Giafar, and all those emirs and governors of
+provinces, who prostrated themselves at my feet, forsake me? Undoubtedly
+if I had any authority over them, they would have delivered me all this
+time out of this miserable condition I am in: certainly I ought to look
+upon all this as a dream. It is true, I commanded the judge of the police
+to punish the iman and four old men his companions: I ordered Giafar the
+grand vizier to carry my mother a thousand pieces of gold: and all my
+commands were executed. All these things are obstacles to my believing it
+a dream; but yet there are so many things that I cannot comprehend, nor
+ever shall, that I will put my trust in God, who knows all things.
+
+Abon Hassan was taken up with these thoughts and sentiments, when his
+mother came to see him, who found him so much altered and changed from
+what he had been, that she let fall a torrent of tears; in the midst of
+which she saluted him as she used to do, and he returned her salute,
+which he had never done before while he had been in the hospital. This
+civility she looked upon to be a good sign. Well, son, said she, how do
+you do, and how do you find yourself? Have you renounced all those whims
+and fancies which some cursed demon had put into your head? Indeed,
+mother, replied Abon Hassan, very rationally and calmly, I acknowledge my
+error, and beg of you to forgive the execrable crime which I have been
+guilty of towards you, and which I detest. I ask pardon also of my
+neighbours whom I have abused. I have been deceived by a dream; but by so
+extraordinary a one, and so like to truth, that any other person, to whom
+such a thing might have happened, would have been guilty of as great
+extravagances: and I am at this instant so much perplexed about it, that
+I can hardly persuade myself but that it was matter of fact. But whatever
+it was, I do and always will look upon it as a dream and illusion. I am
+convinced that I am not that shadow of a caliph and commander of the
+faithful, but Abon Hassan, your son; and shall never forget that fatal
+day which covered me with shame and confusion; but honour and respect you
+all my life as I ought.
+
+At these sensible words, the mother of Abon Hassan changed the tears of
+her sorrow and affliction into those of joy, to find her son so well
+recovered. My dear child, said she, transported with pleasure, my
+satisfaction and comfort is inexpressible, to hear you talk so
+reasonably, and gives me as much joy as if I had brought you into the
+world a second time. But I must observe one thing in this adventure,
+which you may not have taken notice of: the stranger that you brought
+home one night to sup with you, went away without shutting the
+chamber-door after him as you desired him; which I believe gave some
+demon an opportunity to enter, and put you into that horrible illusion
+you were in: and therefore, my son, you ought to return God thanks for
+your deliverance, and beseech him to keep you out of the snares of the
+evil spirit.
+
+You have found out the source of my misfortunes, answered Abon Hassan; it
+was that very night I had this dream, which turned my brain. I bade the
+merchant expressly to shut the door after him; and now I find he did not
+do it. I am persuaded, as well as you, some devil came in, and filled my
+head full of these fancies. For they at Moussel are not so well convinced
+that the devil is the cause of troublesome dreams, as we are at Bagdad.
+But since, mother, you see I am so well recovered, for God’s sake get me
+out of this hellish place. The mother, glad to find her son so well cured
+of his foolish imagination of being caliph, went immediately to the
+keeper, and assuring him that he was very sensible and well, he came and
+examined him, and afterwards gave him his liberty.
+
+When Abon Hassan came home, he staid within doors some days, to comfort
+himself by better food and nourishment than what he had at the hospital.
+But when he had recovered his strength, and refreshed himself after his
+harsh treatment, he began to be weary with spending his evenings alone,
+and so entered again upon the same way of living as before; which was to
+provide enough every day to regale a stranger at night.
+
+The day on which Abon Hassan renewed this custom, happened to be the
+first day of the month, which was the day that the caliph always sets
+apart to go disguised through the town, to observe what irregularities
+were committed in the government of the city. Towards the evening he went
+to the bridge, and set himself on a bench which was fixed to the parapet;
+where, looking about him, he perceived the caliph disguised again like a
+Moussel merchant, and followed by the same slave: and, persuaded that all
+his misfortunes were owing to the caliph’s leaving his door open, whom he
+took for a merchant, he swooned at the sight of him. God preserve me,
+said he to himself; if I am not deceived, there is the magician again
+that enchanted me! and thereupon got up, and looked over the parapet into
+the river, that he might not see him.
+
+The caliph, who had a mind to carry on his joke farther, had taken a
+great deal of care to inform himself of all that had happened when Abon
+Hassan waked at home, and conceived a great pleasure at the relation
+given him, especially at his being sent to a mad-house. But that monarch
+was both just and generous, and had taken a great liking to Abon Hassan:
+he designed, after he had carried on this scene, to take him into his
+palace; and to pursue this project, he had dressed himself again like a
+merchant of Moussel. He perceived Abon Hassan at the same time that he
+saw him, and presently guessed by his actions that he was angry with him,
+and wanted to shun him. This made him walk close to the parapet Abon
+Hassan leaned over; and when he came nigh him, he put his head over to
+look him in the face. Ah, brother Abon Hassan, said he, is it you? give
+me leave to embrace you. Not I, replied Abon Hassan roughly, without
+looking at the pretended Moussel merchant: I will not embrace you; I have
+nothing to say to you; go along.
+
+What! answered the caliph, do you not know me? Do you not remember the
+evening we spent together at your house this day month, where you did me
+the honour to treat me very generously? No, replied Abon Hassan, I do not
+know you, nor what you talk about: go, I say again, about your business.
+
+The caliph was not to be dashed with this rude behaviour of Abon Hassan.
+He knew very well the law he had imposed on himself, never to have any
+commerce again with a stranger he had once entertained; but though Abon
+Hassan had declared so much to him, he pretended to be ignorant of it. I
+cannot believe, said he, but you must know me again; it is not possible
+that you should have forgot me in so short a time. Certainly some
+misfortune has befallen you, which gives you this aversion. However, you
+ought to remember that I show my acknowledgment by my good wishes; and
+that I have offered you my interest, which is not despicable, in an
+affair which you had very much at heart.
+
+I do not know, replied Abon Hassan, what your interest may be, and I have
+no desire to make use of it; but I am sensible the utmost of your wishes
+was to make me mad. In God’s name, I say once more, go your way, and
+trouble me no more.
+
+Ah! brother Abon Hassan, replied the caliph, embracing him, I do not
+intend to part with you in this manner, since I have had the good fortune
+to meet with you a second time: you must exercise the same hospitality
+towards me again that you showed me a month ago, when I had the honour to
+drink with you.
+
+I have protested against it, said Abon Hassan, and have so much power
+over myself as not to receive such a man as you. You know the proverb,
+Take up your drum and be gone: make the application to yourself. God be
+with you; you have been the cause of my misfortune, and I will not
+venture myself with you again. My good friend Abon Hassan, said the
+caliph, embracing him again, I beg of you not to treat me after this
+injurious manner, but be better persuaded of my friendship. Do me the
+favour to tell me what has happened to you; for I assure you, I wish you
+well, and would be glad of an opportunity to make you amends for the
+trouble I have caused you, if it has been actually my fault. Abon Hassan
+yielded to the pressing instances of the caliph, and bade him sit down by
+him. Your incredulity and importunity have tired my patience; and what I
+am going to tell you, will show you that I do not accuse you wrongfully.
+
+The caliph sat down by Abon Hassan, while he told him all that happened
+to him, from his waking in the palace to his waking again in his own
+house, all as a mere dream, with all the circumstances, which the caliph
+knew as well as himself, and which renewed his pleasure. He exaggerated
+afterwards upon the impression that dream of being caliph made upon him,
+which, he said, threw him into such extravagances, that he was carried to
+the mad-house, and used very barbarously. But, said he, what will
+surprise you, and what you little think of, is, that it was altogether
+your fault that these things fell out: for, if you remember, I desired
+you to shut the door after you, which you neglected; and some devil
+finding it open, put this dream into my head, which, though it was very
+agreeable, was the cause of the misfortune I complain of; therefore you,
+for your negligence, are answerable for the horrid and detestable crime I
+was guilty of, in lifting my hand against my mother, whom I might have
+killed, and committed parricide, because she said I was her son, and she
+would not acknowledge me for the commander of the faithful: besides, I
+blush when I think of it, and that all my neighbours were witnesses of my
+folly. In short, Abon Hassan complained of his misfortunes with great
+heat and vehemence, and did not forget the least circumstance; which
+pleased the caliph to find he had succeeded so well, who could not help
+bursting out a-laughing at the simplicity wherewith he related them.
+
+Abon Hassan, who thought that his story should rather move compassion,
+and that every one ought to be as much concerned at it as himself, very
+much resented the pretended Moussel merchant’s laughter. What! said he,
+do you make a jest of me, to laugh in my face, or do you believe that I
+do not speak seriously? If you want proofs of what I advance, look and
+see whether or no I tell you the truth: with that, stooping down, and
+baring his shoulders, he showed the caliph the strokes and weals the
+bull’s pizzle had made.
+
+The caliph could not behold these objects of horror without pitying poor
+Abon Hassan, and being sorry for carrying the jest so far. Come, rise,
+dear brother, said he, hugging Abon Hassan friendly in his arms; let me
+go and enjoy the happiness of being merry with you to-night; and
+to-morrow, if it please God, all things will go well.
+
+Abon Hassan, notwithstanding his resolution and oath, could not resist
+the caliph’s caresses. I will consent, said he to the pretended merchant,
+if you will swear to shut my door after you, that no demon may come in to
+distract my brain again. The caliph promised that he would; upon which
+they both got up, and, followed by the caliph’s slave, reached Abon
+Hassan’s house by the time it was dark.
+
+As soon as Abon Hassan entered the doors, he called for candles, and
+desired his guest to sit down upon a sofa, and then placed himself by
+him. A little time after, supper was brought up, and they both fell to
+without ceremony: afterwards there came up a small dessert of fruit,
+wine, and glasses. Abon Hassan first filled out his glass, and then the
+caliph’s; and after they had drunk some time, and talked of indifferent
+matters, the caliph perceiving that his host grew warm with liquor, began
+to talk of love, and asked him if he had never been sensible of that
+passion.
+
+Brother, replied Abon Hassan familiarly, I never looked upon love or
+marriage but as bondage or slavery, to which I was always unwilling to
+submit; and must own to you that I never loved any thing but good cheer
+and good wine; in short, to divert and entertain myself agreeably with my
+friends. But yet I do not tell you that I am so indifferent for marriage,
+or incapable of an inclination, if I could meet with a woman of such
+beauty and sweetness of temper as those I saw in my dream that fatal
+night I first saw you, and received you into my house, and you, to my
+misfortune, left my door open, who would pass the whole night with me,
+drinking, and singing, and playing on some instrument, and who would
+study to please and divert me: I believe, on the contrary, I should
+change all my indifference to a perfect attachment to such a person, and
+I believe should live very happily with her. But where is such a woman to
+be found, but in the caliph’s palace, or in those of the grand vizier, or
+some other great lords of the court, who want no money? I choose rather
+to stick close to my bottle, which is a pleasure much cheaper, and which
+I can enjoy as well as they. In saying, these words, he filled out his
+own and the caliph’s glass, and said, Come, take your glass, and let us
+pursue this charming pleasure.
+
+When they had drunk off their wine, It is a great pity, said the caliph,
+that so gallant a man as you, who owns himself not insensible of love,
+should lead so solitary a life. I prefer the easy quiet life I live,
+replied Abon Hassan, before the company of a wife, whose beauty might not
+please, and who, besides, might create me a great deal of trouble by her
+imperfections, and perhaps ill humour. This subject lasted a long time;
+and the caliph, seeing Abon Hassan had drunk up to the pitch he wanted to
+have him, said, Let me alone; since you have so good a taste, I warrant
+you I will find you one that shall please you: and then taking Abon
+Hassan’s glass, and putting a pinch of the same powder into it again,
+filled him up a bumper, and presenting it to him, said, Come, let us
+drink first the fair lady’s health who is to make you happy.
+
+Abon Hassan took the glass laughing, and shaking his head, said, Come, I
+will drink the lady’s health you promised me, though I am very well
+contented as I am, and do not rely on your promise; but cannot be guilty
+of so great a piece of incivility, as to disoblige a guest of so much
+merit, in such a trifling matter. But as soon as he had drunk off his
+liquor, he was seized with as deep a sleep as before; and the caliph
+ordered the same slave to take him and carry him to the palace, and in
+the mean time shut the door after him, as he had promised, and followed
+him.
+
+When they arrived at the palace, the caliph ordered Abon Hassan to be
+laid on a sofa, in the fourth hall, from whence he was carried home: but
+first he bade them put him in the same habit which he acted the caliph
+in. After that, he charged all the eunuchs; officers, ladies, and
+musicians, who were in the hall when he drank the last glass of wine, to
+be there by daybreak, and to take care to act their parts well; and then
+went to bed, charging Mesrour to wake him before they went into the hall,
+that he might hide himself in the closet as before.
+
+Mesrour wakened the caliph at the hour appointed; who immediately rose,
+and went to the hall where Abon Hassan was laid fast asleep; and when he
+had placed himself in his closet, Mesrour and the other officers and
+ladies placed themselves about the sofa, so that the caliph might see
+what passed.
+
+Things being thus disposed, and the caliph’s powder having had its
+effect, Abon Hassan began to stir, and the music to play a very agreeable
+concert. Abon Hassan was in a great surprise to hear that charming
+harmony; but when he opened his eyes, and saw the ladies and officers
+about him, and which he thought he knew again, his amazement was
+redoubled. The hall that he was in seemed to be the same he dreamed of;
+and he observed the same branches, and the same furniture and ornaments.
+
+When the concert was ended, he bit his finger and cried loud enough for
+the caliph to hear him, Alas! I am fallen again into the same dream and
+illusion that happened to me a month ago, and must expect again the
+bull’s pizzle and mad-house. Almighty God, added he, I commit myself into
+the hands of thy divine providence. He was a wicked man that I
+entertained at my house last night, who has been the cause of this
+illusion, and the miserable hardships I must undergo. The base wretch
+swore to shut the door after him, and he did not do it; and the devil
+came in, and filled my head full of this wicked dream of being commander
+of the faithful, and other phantoms, which bewitch my eyes. May thou be
+confounded, Satan, and crushed under some mountain!
+
+After these words, Abon Hassan closed his eyes, and remained some time
+thoughtful, and very much perplexed; then opening them again, and looking
+about him, cried out a second time, Great God! I commit myself into the
+hands of thy providence; preserve me from the temptation of Satan. Then
+shutting them again, he said, All that I know is, I will go and sleep
+till Satan leaves me, and returns as he came; when one of the ladies
+approached, and sitting down on a sofa by him, said to him, Commander of
+the Faithful, I beg of your majesty to forgive me for taking the liberty
+to tell you not to go to sleep; day appears, and it is time to rise. Be
+gone, Satan! answered Abon Hassan, raising his voice: but looking upon
+the lady, he said, Is it I you call the commander of the faithful?
+Certainly you take me for somebody else. It is to your majesty I give
+that title, replied the lady, to whom it belongs, as you are sovereign of
+the world and the Mussulmans, and I am your most humble slave.
+Undoubtedly your majesty, added she, pretends to have forgot yourself, or
+this is the effect of some troublesome dream; but if you would but open
+your eyes, the mists which may disturb your imagination will soon be
+dispelled, and you will find yourself in your own palace, surrounded by
+your officers and slaves, who all wait your commands: and that your
+majesty may not be surprised to find yourself in this hall, and not in
+bed, I beg leave to tell you, that you fell so suddenly asleep last
+night, that we were unwilling to wake you, to conduct you to your own
+chamber, but laid you carefully upon this sofa. In short, she urged so
+many things to him that were so very probable, that at last he sat upon
+his breech, and knew all the ladies again. Then she who spoke first,
+assuming the discourse, said, Commander of the Faithful, and the
+prophet’s vicar on earth, be not displeased if I acquaint your majesty
+once more, that it is time to rise, for day appears.
+
+You are very troublesome and importunate, replied Abon Hassan, rubbing
+his eyes: I am not the commander of the faithful, but Abon Hassan; and
+you shall not persuade me otherwise. We do not know that Abon Hassan your
+majesty speaks of, answered the lady; but know you to be the commander of
+the believers.
+
+Abon Hassan looking about, and finding himself in the same hall,
+attributed all he saw and heard to be such a dream as he had before, and
+feared very much the dreadful consequences. Heaven have mercy on me! said
+he, lifting up his hands and eyes, like a man who knew not where he was;
+after what I have seen, there is no dispute but that devil who came into
+my chamber possesses me, and fills my imagination full of all these
+visions.
+
+The caliph, who saw him all the time, and heard these exclamations,
+almost killed himself with laughing; and had much ado to forbear bursting
+out into so loud a laughter, that the false caliph must have heard him.
+
+Afterwards Abon Hassan laid himself down again, and shutting his eyes,
+the same lady said again, Since your majesty does not rise, after we
+have, according to our duty, told you it was day, and the dispatch of
+business requires your presence, we shall use the liberty you give us in
+such like cases. Then taking him by one arm, and calling to one of the
+other ladies to do the same by the other, they lifted him up, and carried
+him into the middle of the hall, where they set him on his breech, and
+all taking hands, danced round him while the music played.
+
+Abon Hassan was in an inexpressible perplexity of mind, and said, What!
+am I indeed caliph, and commander of the faithful? and in the uncertainty
+he was in, would have said something more, but the music was so loud that
+he could not be heard. At last he made a sign to two of the ladies who
+were dancing, that he wanted to speak with them; upon which they forbore,
+and went to him. Do not lie, now, said he, but tell me truly who I am.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied one of the ladies, your majesty would
+either surprise us by asking this question, or else you must have had
+some very extraordinary dream to-night; which may very well be,
+considering that your majesty has slept longer to-night than ordinary:
+however, if you will give me leave, I will refresh your memory with what
+passed yesterday. Then she told him how he went to the council, punished
+the iman and the four old men, and sent a present by his grand vizier, of
+a thousand pieces of gold, to the mother of one Abon Hassan: after that,
+continued she, your majesty dined in the three halls, and, in the fourth,
+did us the honour to make us sit down by you, to hear our songs, and
+receive wine from our hands, till your majesty fell so fast asleep, that
+you never awaked, contrary to custom, before day. All your slaves and
+officers can confirm what I say; and it is now time you should go to
+prayers.
+
+Very well, replied Abon Hassan, shaking his head, you would have me
+believe all this but I can tell you, you are all fools or mad; and that
+is a great pity, for you are very handsome: for I can tell you, that
+since I saw you, I have been at home, where I used my mother so ill, that
+they sent me to a mad-house, and kept me three weeks, and beat me every
+day with a bull’s pizzle; and yet you would make me believe all this to
+be a dream. Commander of the Faithful answered the lady, we are all ready
+to swear by what your majesty holds most dear, that all you tell is a
+dream; for you never stirred out of this hall since yesterday, but slept
+here all night long.
+
+The confidence with which the lady assured Abon Hassan that all she said
+was truth, and that he had never been out of the hall since that time,
+made him not to know what to believe, but bewildered his senses. O
+Heaven! said he to himself, am I Abon Hassan, or the commander of the
+faithful? Almighty God, enlighten my understanding, and inform me of the
+truth. Then he bared his shoulders, and showed the ladies the livid
+weals. Look, and judge, said he, whether these strokes could come to me
+in a dream, or when I was asleep. For my part, I can affirm that they
+were real blows; for I feel the smart of them yet, and that is a
+testimonial there is no room to doubt of. Now, if I received these
+strokes in my sleep, it is the most surprising and extraordinary thing in
+the world, and what I cannot understand.
+
+In this uncertainty, Abon Hassan called to one of the officers that stood
+round him: Come hither, said he, and bite the tip of my ear, that I may
+know whether I am asleep or awake. The officer obeyed him, and bit so
+hard that he made him cry out horridly: the music struck up at the same
+time, and the officers and ladies all began to dance, and skip about Abon
+Hassan, and made such a noise, that he was in a perfect enthusiasm, and
+played a thousand merry tricks. He tore off his caliph’s habit, threw off
+his turban, and jumped up in his shirt and drawers, and taking hold of
+two of the ladies’ hands, fell a-dancing and singing, and jumping and
+cutting capers, that the caliph could not contain himself, but burst into
+so violent a laughter at this sudden pleasantry of Abon Hassan’s, that he
+fell backwards, and made a greater noise than the musicians and all of
+them together, and lay in that condition for some time. At last he got up
+again, and putting out his head, cried out, Abon Hassan, Abon Hassan,
+what! have you a mind to kill me with laughing?
+
+As soon as the caliph’s voice was heard, every body was silent, and Abon
+Hassan among the rest; who, turning his head to see from whence the voice
+came, knew the caliph and the Moussel merchant, but was not in the least
+dashed; but, on the contrary, found that he was awake, and all that had
+happened to him was matter of fact, and not a dream. He entered into the
+caliph’s pleasantry and intentions: Ha! ha! said he, looking at him with
+a good assurance, you are a merchant of Moussel, and complain that I
+would kill you, who have been the occasion of my using my mother so ill,
+and being sent to a mad-house. It was you who treated the iman and the
+four scheiks in the manner they were used, and not I; I wash my hands of
+it. It was you who have been the cause of all my disorders: in short, you
+are the aggressor, and I the injured person.
+
+Indeed you are in the right of it, Abon Hassan, answered the caliph,
+laughing all the while; but to comfort thee, and make thee amends for all
+thy troubles, I call Heaven to witness, I am ready and willing to make
+thee what reparation thou pleasest to ask. After these words, he came out
+of the closet into the hall, and ordered one of his most magnificent
+habits to be brought, and commanded the ladies to dress Abon Hassan in
+it; and when they had done so, he said, embracing him, Thou art my
+brother; ask what thou wilt, and thou shalt have it.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan, I beg of your majesty to
+do me the favour to tell me what you did to disturb my brain in that
+manner, and what was your design; for that is a thing of the greatest
+importance for me to know, that I may perfectly recover my senses.
+
+The caliph promised to give him that satisfaction, and said, First you
+ought to know, that I often disguise myself, and particularly at night,
+to observe what irregularities are committed in Bagdad; besides, I set
+apart the first day of every month to make a tour about it, sometimes on
+one side and sometimes on another, but always return by the bridge. That
+evening that you invited me to supper, I had been taking my rounds; and
+in our discourse you told me, that the only thing you wished for was to
+be caliph for four and twenty hours, to punish the iman of your mosque
+and his four counsellors. I fancied that this desire of thine would
+afford me a great deal of diversion, and thought immediately how I might
+procure thee that satisfaction. I had about me a certain powder, which
+throws immediately the person that takes it into a sound sleep for such a
+time. I put a dose of it, without being perceived by thee, into the last
+glass I presented to thee; upon which you fell fast asleep, and I ordered
+my slave to carry you to my palace, and came away without shutting the
+door. I have no occasion to repeat what happened at my palace when you
+waked: but after you had been regaled all day, one of the slaves, by my
+order, put another dose of the same powder at night into a glass she gave
+you; you fell asleep as before, and the same slave carried you home, and
+left the door open. You told me all that happened to you afterwards. I
+never imagined that you could have suffered so much as you have done. But
+as I have a great regard for you, I will make you amends; and that you
+may have no cause to remember your ill treatment, think of what would
+please you, and ask me boldly for it.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan, how great soever my
+tortures may have been, they were all blotted out of my remembrance, as
+soon as I understood my sovereign lord had any share in them, and doubt
+not in the least of your majesty’s bounty; but as interest had never any
+sway over me, and I have the liberty to ask a favour, I beg that it may
+be that of having access to your person, to have the happiness of
+admiring, all my life-time, your grandeur.
+
+This last proof of Abon Hassan’s generosity completed the esteem the
+caliph had entertained for him. I am mightily pleased with thy request,
+said the caliph, and grant thee free access to my person at all times and
+all hours. In short, he assigned him an apartment in the palace; and, in
+regard to his pension, told him, that he would not have him to have any
+thing to do with his treasurer, but to come always to him for an order
+upon him. Abon Hassan made a low bow, and the caliph left him to go to
+council.
+
+Abon Hassan made use of this time to go and inform his mother of his good
+fortune, and what had happened, which, he told her, was not a dream; for
+that he had actually been caliph, and had acted as such, and received all
+the honours; and that she had no reason to doubt of it, since he had it
+confirmed, by the caliph himself.
+
+It was not long before this new story of Abon Hassan was spread all about
+Bagdad, and was carried into all the provinces both far and near, and not
+one single circumstance scarce omitted.
+
+The new favourite Abon Hassan was always with the caliph; for as he was a
+man of a pleasant temper, and created mirth by all his words and actions,
+the caliph could not live without him, and often carried him along with
+him to see his spouse Zobeide, to whom he told his story, and who was
+mightily pleased with him, and observed that every time he came with the
+caliph he had his eyes always fixed upon one of her slaves, called
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, (which is to say, Renewed Pleasure,) and resolved to
+tell the caliph of it. Commander of the Faithful, said that princess one
+day, you do not observe so well as I, that every time Abon Hassan attends
+you in your visits to me, he never keeps his eyes off
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, and makes her blush, which is almost a certain sign
+that she entertains no aversion for him. If you approve of it, we will
+make a match between them.
+
+Madam, replied the caliph, you put me in mind of a thing which I ought to
+have done before now. I know Abon Hassan’s taste of marriage from
+himself, and have always promised him a wife that should please him. I am
+glad you mentioned it, for I know not how I came to forget it. But it is
+better that Abon Hassan has followed his own inclination, and chose for
+himself; and if Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is not averse to it, we ought not to
+hesitate upon their marriage; and since they are both present, let them
+declare that they give consent.
+
+Abon Hassan threw himself at the caliph’s and Zobeide’s feet, to show the
+sense he had of their bounty; and, rising up, said, I cannot receive a
+wife from better hands, but dare not hope that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat will
+give me hers. After these words, he looked upon the princess’s slave, who
+showed, by her respectful silence, and the sudden blush that rose in her
+cheeks, that she was disposed to obey the caliph and her mistress
+Zobeide.
+
+The marriage was solemnized, and the nuptials celebrated in the palace,
+with great rejoicings, which lasted several days. Zobeide, in respect to
+the caliph, made her slave considerable presents, and the caliph did the
+same to Abon Hassan. The bride was conducted to the apartment the caliph
+had assigned Abon Hassan, who waited for her with all the impatience of a
+bridegroom, and received her with the sounding of trumpets and all sorts
+of instruments, which played in concert, and made the air echo again
+their sweet and harmonious notes.
+
+After these feasts and rejoicings, which lasted several days, the
+new-married couple were left to pursue their loves peaceably. Abon Hassan
+and his spouse were charmed with each other, and lived together in
+perfect union, and seldom were asunder, but when either he paid his
+respects to the caliph, or she to Zobeide. Indeed Nouz-hatoul-aonadat was
+endued with all the qualifications capable of gaining Abon Hassan’s love
+and attachment, and was just such a wife as he desired; therefore they
+could want nothing to render their lives agreeable. They always ate the
+nicest and choicest rarities in season, and had the best meats tossed up
+in fricasees and ragouts, &c. by an excellent cook, who took upon him to
+provide every thing. Their beaufet was always stored with exquisite
+wines. At dinner they enjoyed themselves in this manner, and afterwards
+entertained each other with some pleasantry or other: and in the
+evenings, which they consecrated to mirth, they had generally some slight
+repast of dried sweetmeats, choice fruits, and other light meats, and
+invited each other by songs and catches to drink, and sometimes played to
+their voices on a lute, or other instruments which they could touch.
+
+Abon Hassan and Nouz-hatoul-aonadat lived a long time in this manner,
+when the caterer, who disbursed the money for these expenses, put them in
+mind that he had gone his length, and parted with all his money; which
+they found, but too late, to be so considerable a sum, that all the
+presents that the caliph and the princess Zobeide had given them at their
+marriage, were but just enough to pay him. This made them reflect on what
+was past, and which at that time they could not remedy. However, they
+agreed to pay the cook; and sent for him, and paid him all they owed him,
+without showing the least trouble.
+
+The caterer went away very well pleased to receive so large a sum of
+money, though Abon Hassan and his wife were not so over-well satisfied
+with seeing the bottom of their purse, but remained a long time silent
+and very much embarrassed, to find themselves reduced to that condition
+the first year of their marriage. Abon Hassan remembered very well that
+the caliph, when he took him into the palace, promised never to let him
+want any thing. But when he considered how prodigal he had been of his
+money in so short a time, he was unwilling to expose himself to the shame
+of telling the caliph the ill use he had made of what he had given him,
+and that he wanted more. Besides, he had made over his patrimony to his
+mother, as soon as the caliph had received him nigh his person; and was
+afraid to go to her, lest she should find that he had returned to the
+same extravagance he had been guilty of after his father’s death. His
+wife, on the other hand, looked upon Zobeide’s generosity, and the
+liberty she had given her to marry, as more than a sufficient recompense
+for her service, and thought she could not ask any more.
+
+Abon Hassan at last broke silence, and looking upon his wife, said, I see
+you are in the same embarrassment as myself, and am thinking what we must
+do in this unhappy juncture. I do not know what your sentiments may be;
+but mine are, let what will happen, not to retrench our expenses in the
+least; and, I believe you will come into my opinion: the point is, how to
+support them without asking the caliph or Zobeide; and I fancy I have
+thought on the means: but we must both assist each other.
+
+This discourse of Abon Hassan’s very much pleased his wife, and gave her
+great hopes. I was thinking so as well as you, said she; but durst not
+explain my thoughts, because I did not know how to help ourselves; and
+must confess, that what you tell me gives me a great deal of pleasure.
+But since you say you have found out a way, and my assistance is
+necessary, you need but to tell me, and I will do all that lies in my
+power.
+
+I believe, replied Abon Hassan, that you will not fail in this affair,
+which concerns us both; and therefore I must tell you this want of money
+has made me think of a trick we will put upon the caliph and Zobeide, and
+at which, I am sure, they will both be pleased, and be diverted with the
+cheat; which is, you and I will both die. Not I indeed, interrupted
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat; you may die by yourself, if you will. I am not so
+weary of this life; and whether you are pleased or not, will not die so
+soon. If you have nothing else to propose than that, you may do it by
+yourself; for I shall not meddle with it.
+
+You are so quick and hasty, replied Abon Hassan, that you will not give
+me time to explain my meaning: have but a little patience, and you shall
+find that you will be ready enough; for sure you did not think I meant a
+real death. Well, said his wife, if it is but sham death you design, I am
+at your service, and you may depend on my zeal: but I must tell you
+truly, I am very unwilling to die as I apprehended you meant at first.
+
+Be but easy a little, said Abon Hassan, and I will tell you what I
+propose. I will feign myself dead, and you shall lay me out on a white
+sheet, in the middle of my chamber, with my feet towards Mecca, and my
+turban upon my face, just ready to be buried. When you have done so, you
+must cry and take on, as is usual in such cases, and tear your clothes,
+and with your hair loose about your ears, go to Zobeide. The princess
+will ask you the cause of your grief; and when you have told her, with
+words intermixed with sighs, she will pity you, and give you some money
+to defray the expense of my funeral, and a piece of gold brocade, to
+cover my body with, that my interment may be the more magnificent, and to
+make you a habit in the room of that you had torn; and as soon as you
+return with the money and the brocade, I will get up and lay you in my
+place, and go and act the same part with the caliph as you have done with
+Zobeide; and I dare say the caliph will be as generous to me as Zobeide
+will be to you.
+
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat liked this project very well, and said to Abon
+Hassan, Come, lose no time; strip to your shirt and breeches, while I
+prepare a sheet. Abon Hassan did as his wife bade him, and laid himself
+all along on his back, with his feet towards Mecca, on the sheet which
+his wife spread on the carpet, just in the middle of the room. As soon as
+he had crossed his arms, his wife wrapped him up, and put a fine piece of
+muslin and his turban upon his face. After this, she pulled her hair over
+her face, and with a dismal crying and lamentation, ran across the court
+of Zobeide’s apartment; who, hearing the voice of a person crying very
+loud, commanded some of her women to see who it was, who returned, and
+told her that it was Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, who was coming in a deplorable
+condition.
+
+The princess, impatient to know what had happened to her, rose up
+immediately, and went to meet her at the door of the antechamber.
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat played her part excellently well. As soon as she saw
+Zobeide, she redoubled her cries, tore her hair off by handfuls, beat her
+face and breast, and threw herself at her feet, bathing them with her
+tears.
+
+Zobeide, amazed to see her slave in so extraordinary an affliction, asked
+her, what misfortune had happened to her. But, instead of answering, she
+continued sighing and sobbing; and at last, feigning to strive to check
+herself, said, with words intermixed with sighs, Alas! my most honoured
+lady and mistress, what greater misfortune could have befallen me than
+this, which obliges me to throw myself at your highness’s feet? May God
+prolong your days, my most respectable princess, in perfect health, and
+grant you many happy years. Abon Hassan! poor Abon Hassan! whom you
+honoured with your esteem, and gave me for a husband, is no more!
+
+Then Nouz-hatoul-aonadat redoubled her tears and sighs, and threw herself
+again at the princess’s feet. Zobeide was extremely surprised at this
+news. Abon Hassan dead! cried she, that agreeable pleasant man! indeed I
+did not in the least expect his death so soon; he seemed to promise a
+long life, and well deserved one. Then she burst out also into tears, as
+did all her women, who had been often witnesses of Abon Hassan’s
+pleasantries, when the caliph brought him to see the princess Zobeide,
+and continued a long time bewailing the loss of him. At last Zobeide
+broke silence, and ordered one of her slaves to go to her treasure, and
+fetch a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of rich brocade.
+
+The slave returned soon with a purse and piece of brocade, which, by
+Zobeide’s order, she put into Nouz-hatoul-aonadat’s hand; who threw
+herself again at the princess’s feet, and thanked her with a great deal
+of satisfaction, to think she had succeeded so well. Go, said Zobeide,
+make use of that brocade to cover the corpse of thy husband, and with
+that money bury him handsomely, and as he ought to be. Moderate the
+transports of thy affliction: I will take care of thee.
+
+As soon as Nouz-hatoul-aonadat got out of the princess’s presence, she
+dried up her tears, and returned with joy to Abon Hassan, to give him an
+account of her good success. When she came into her own apartment, and
+saw her husband still stretched out in the middle of the floor, she ran
+to him laughing, and bade him rise, and see the fruits of his project.
+Upon which he arose, and rejoiced with his wife at the sight of the purse
+and brocade, who, for her part, could, not contain herself. Come,
+husband, said she laughing, let me act the dead part, and see if you can
+manage the caliph as well as I have done Zobeide.
+
+This is the temper of all women, replied Abon Hassan, who, we may well
+say, have always the vanity to believe they can do things better than
+men, though, at the same time, what they do is by their advice. It would
+be odd indeed, if I, who laid this plot myself, could not carry it on
+likewise. But let us lose no time in idle discourse: lie down in my
+place, and see if I do not come off with as much applause.
+
+Abon Hassan wrapped up his wife as she had done him; and with his turban
+undone, and set awry on his head, and like a man in the greatest
+affliction imaginable, he ran to the caliph, who was holding a private
+council with the grand vizier Giafar and some other viziers, and he
+having free access wheresoever he was, went with his handkerchief before
+his eyes, to hide the feigned tears which trickled down his cheeks, and
+striking his breast with the other, expressed an extraordinary grief.
+
+The caliph, who was ever used to see Abon Hassan gay and merry, was very
+much surprised to behold him in that sorrowful state, and asked him the
+cause of his grief. Commander of the Faithful, answered Abon Hassan, with
+repeated sighings and sobbings, may God preserve your majesty on the
+throne, which you fill so gloriously! Alas! Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, whom you
+in your bounty gave me for a wife, is ——. At this exclamation, Abon
+Hassan pretended to have his heart so full that he could not utter one
+syllable more, but poured forth a flood of tears.
+
+The caliph, who presently understood that Abon Hassan came to tell him of
+the death of his wife, seemed very much concerned, and said to him, God
+comfort thee; she was a good slave, and we gave her to thee with an
+intention to make thee happy: she deserved a longer life. Then the tears
+ran down his face, so that he was obliged to pull out his handkerchief to
+wipe them off. In short, Abon Hassan dissembled so well, that the caliph,
+who did not in the least doubt of his sincerity, ordered his treasurer,
+who was then present, to give Abon Hassan a purse of a hundred pieces of
+gold, and a piece of brocade. Abon Hassan immediately cast himself at the
+caliph’s feet, and thanked him for his present. Follow the treasurer,
+said that monarch; throw the brocade over the corpse, and with the money
+show the last testimony of thy love for thy wife.
+
+Abon Hassan made no reply to these obliging words of the caliph, but
+retired with a low bow, and followed the treasurer; and as soon as he had
+got the purse and piece of brocade, went home, very well pleased with
+having found out so quick and ready a way of supplying his necessity,
+which had given him some trouble.
+
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, weary with lying so long in that posture, never
+waited till Abon Hassan bade her rise; but as soon as she heard the door
+open, got up and ran to her husband, and asked him if he had cheated the
+caliph as well as she did Zobeide? You see, said he, showing her the
+stuff, and shaking the purse, that I can act a sorrowful husband as well
+as you can an afflicted wife. But for fear this trick of theirs should be
+attended with some ill consequences, he thought it would not be amiss to
+instruct his wife with what might happen, that they might act in concert.
+For, added he, the better we succeed in embarrassing the caliph and
+Zobeide, the more they will be pleased at last, and perhaps may show
+their satisfaction by a greater liberality. And this last consideration
+induced them to carry on this scene further.
+
+The caliph, though he had a great deal of business to transact in
+council, was nevertheless so impatient to go and condole with the
+princess upon the death of her slave, that he rose up as soon as Abon
+Hassan was gone, and put off the council to another day. Follow me, said
+he to Mesrour, who always attended him wherever he went, and let us go
+and share with the princess the grief which the death of her slave
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat causes her.
+
+Accordingly, they went to Zobeide’s apartment, whom the caliph found
+seated on a sofa, very much afflicted, and all in tears. Madam, said the
+caliph, going up to her, it is necessary to tell you how much I partake
+with you in your affliction; since you are not insensible that what gives
+you pleasure or trouble, has the same effect on me. But we are all
+mortals, and must surrender up to God that life he gives us, when he
+requires it. Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, your faithful slave, was endued with
+qualifications that deserved all your esteem, and I do not disapprove
+your expressing it after her death; but consider, all your grief will not
+bring her to life again. Therefore, madam, if you love me, and would take
+my advice, be comforted for this loss, and take care of a life which you
+know is precious to me.
+
+If the princess was charmed with these tender sentiments which the caliph
+expressed in his compliments, she was much more amazed to hear of
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat’s death. This news put her into so great a surprise,
+that she was not able to return an answer for some time. At last,
+recovering, she said, Commander of the Faithful, I am very sensible of
+all your tender sentiments; but cannot comprehend the news you tell me of
+the death of my slave, who is in perfect health. My affliction is for the
+death of Abon Hassan, her husband, your favourite, whom you was so kind
+to let me know, who often diverted me very agreeably, and for whom I have
+as great a value as you yourself. But, sir, the little concern you show
+for his death, and your so soon forgetting a man in whom you have often
+told me you took a great deal of pleasure, amazes and surprises me very
+much; and this insensibility seems the greater, by your changing his
+death for that of my slave.
+
+The caliph, who thought that he was perfectly well informed of the death
+of the slave, and had just reason to believe so, because he had both seen
+and heard Abon Hassan, fell a-laughing and shrugging up his shoulders, to
+hear Zobeide talk after this manner. Mesrour, said he, turning himself
+about to that eunuch, what dost thou think of the princess’s discourse?
+Do not women sometimes lose their senses? for, in short, thou hast heard
+and seen all as well as myself. Then turning about to Zobeide, Madam,
+said he, do not shed any more tears for Abon Hassan, for I can assure you
+he is well; but rather bewail the death of your dear slave. It is not
+many moments since her husband came all in tears, and the most
+inexpressible affliction, to tell me of the death of his wife. I gave him
+a purse of a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of brocade, to comfort
+him, and bury her with; and Mesrour here, who was by, can tell you the
+same.
+
+The princess took this discourse of the caliph to be all a jest, and that
+he had a mind to impose upon her credulity. Commander of the Faithful,
+replied she, though you are used to banter, I must tell you this is not a
+proper time. What I tell you is very serious: I do not talk of my slave’s
+death, but of Abon Hassan her husband’s, whose fate I bewail, and so
+ought you too. Madam, said the caliph, putting on a grave countenance, I
+tell you, without raillery, that you are deceived; Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is
+dead, and Abon Hassan is alive, and in perfect health.
+
+Zobeide was very much piqued at this answer of the caliph. Commander of
+the Faithful, replied she smartly, surely you would make me think that
+you were mad; give me leave to repeat to you once more that it is Abon
+Hassan who is dead, and that my slave Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is living; it
+is not an hour ago since she went from hence; she came here in so
+disconsolate a state, that the sight of her was enough to have drawn
+tears from my eyes, if she had not told me her affliction. All my women,
+who cried with me, can bear me witness, and tell you also, that I made
+her a present of a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of brocade; and
+the grief which you found me in was upon the death of her husband; and
+just that instant that you came in, I was going to send you a compliment
+of condolence.
+
+At these words of Zobeide, the caliph cried out, in a fit of laughter,
+This, madam, is a strange piece of obstinacy; but, continued he
+seriously, you may depend upon Nouz-hatoul-aonadat’s being dead. I tell
+you not, sir, replied Zobeide instantly; it is Abon Hassan that is dead,
+and you shall never make me believe otherwise.
+
+Upon this the caliph began to be angry, and set himself upon a sofa, some
+distance from the princess, and, speaking to Mesrour, said, Go
+immediately, and see which it is, and bring me word; for though I am
+certain that it is Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, I would rather take this way,
+than be any longer obstinately positive. For my part, replied Zobeide, I
+know very well that I am in the right, and you will find it to be Abon
+Hassan. And for mine, replied the caliph, I am so sure that it is
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, that I will lay you what wager you will that Abon
+Hassan is well.
+
+Do not think to come off there, said Zobeide: I accept of your wager, and
+I am so well persuaded of his death, that I would willingly lay the
+dearest thing in the world to me. You know what I have in my disposal,
+and what I value most; propose the bet, and I will stand to it.
+
+Since it is come to that, said the caliph, I will lay my garden of
+pleasures against your palace of paintings, though the one is worth much
+more than the other. It is no matter for that, replied Zobeide; if your
+garden is more valuable, you have made choice of what you thought fit,
+and what belonged to me, as an equivalent against what you lay; and I say
+done to the wager, and will not turn back. The caliph said the same, and
+both waited until Mesrour returned.
+
+While the caliph and Zobeide were disputing so earnestly, and with so
+much heat, Abon Hassan, who foresaw their difference, was very attentive
+to whatever might happen. As soon as he perceived Mesrour through a
+window, over against which he sat, talking with his wife, and observed
+that he was coming directly to their apartment, he presently guessed what
+he was coming about, and bade his wife make haste to act the dead part
+once more, as they had agreed on; and, in short, they were so pinched for
+time, that Abon Hassan had much ado to wrap up his wife, and lay the
+piece of brocade upon her, before Mesrour came. As soon as he had done
+that, he opened the door of his apartment, and with a melancholy dejected
+countenance, and his handkerchief before his eyes, went and sat down at
+the head of the pretended deceased.
+
+By that time he was seated Mesrour came into the room. The dismal sight
+that saluted his eyes gave him a secret joy, on account of the errand the
+caliph sent him on. As soon as Abon Hassan perceived him, he rose up to
+meet him, and kissing his hand out of respect, said, sighing and
+groaning, You see me, sir, in the greatest affliction that ever could
+befall me; the death of my wife Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, whom you honoured
+with your favours.
+
+Mesrour, softened by this discourse, could not refuse some tears to the
+memory of the deceased. He lifted up the pall a little at the head, which
+was uncovered, and peeping under it, let it down again, and said, with a
+deep sigh, There is no other god but God; we must all submit to his will,
+and return to him. Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, my good sister, added he, thy
+days have been very few: God have mercy on thee. Then turning to Abon
+Hassan, who was all the time in tears, We may well say, said he, that
+women sometimes have whims, and lose their senses; for Zobeide will
+maintain to the caliph, that you are dead, and not your wife; and
+whatever the caliph can say to the contrary, he cannot persuade her
+otherwise. He called me to witness the truth of what he affirms; for you
+know I was by when you came and told him the sorrowful news: but all
+signifies nothing; they are both positive; and the caliph, to convince
+Zobeide, has sent me to know the truth; but I fear I shall not be
+believed; for when women once take a thing, they are not to be beat out
+of it.
+
+God keep the commander of the faithful in the right use of his senses,
+replied Abon Hassan, still sighing and crying; you see how it is, and
+that I have not imposed upon his majesty; and I wish to heaven, continued
+he, to dissemble the better, that I had no occasion to tell him the
+melancholy and afflicting news. Alas! I cannot enough express my
+irreparable loss. That is true, replied Mesrour; and I can assure you, I
+have a great share in your affliction; but you must comfort, and not
+abandon yourself to your grief. I leave you against my will, to return to
+the caliph; but I beg the favour of you not to bury the corpse until I
+come again, for I will assist at the interment.
+
+Abon Hassan waited on him to the door, and told him that he did not
+deserve the honour that he did him; and for fear Mesrour should return to
+say something else to him, he followed him with his eyes for some time,
+and then returned to his wife, and unloosed her. This is already, said
+he, a new scene of mirth; but I fancy it will not be the last; for
+certainly the princess Zobeide will not believe Mesrour, but laugh at
+him, since she has too substantial a reason to the contrary; therefore we
+must expect some new event. Whilst Abon Hassan and Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+were talking thus, she had time enough to put on her clothes again; and
+both went and sat down on a sofa, opposite to the window, where they
+could see all that passed.
+
+In the mean time, Mesrour reached Zobeide’s apartment, and going into her
+closet laughing, clapped his hands, like one who had something very
+agreeable to tell.
+
+The caliph, who was naturally impatient, would presently be informed of
+the truth of the matter; for he was piqued a little at the princess’s
+diffidence: therefore, as soon as he saw Mesrour, Vile slave, said he, is
+this a time to laugh? Why do you not tell me which is dead, the wife or
+the husband?
+
+Commander of the Faithful, answered Mesrour, putting on a serious
+countenance, it is Nouz-hatoul-aonadat who is dead; for the loss of whom
+Abon Hassan is as much afflicted as when he appeared before your majesty.
+The caliph, not giving him time to pursue his story, interrupted him, and
+cried out, laughing heartily, Good news; Zobeide was a moment ago
+mistress of the palace of paintings, which she staked against my garden
+of pleasures, since you went, and now it is mine; therefore thou couldst
+not have done me a greater pleasure: but give me a true account of what
+thou sawest.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, said Mesrour, when I came to Abon Hassan’s
+apartments, I found the door open, and he bewailing the death of his wife
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat. He was seated at the head of the deceased, who was
+laid out in the middle of the room, with her feet towards Mecca, and was
+covered with that piece of brocade which your majesty made a present of
+to Abon Hassan. After I had expressed the share I had in his grief, I
+went and lifted up the pall at the head, and knew Nouz-hatoul-aonadat,
+though her face was very much swelled. I exhorted Abon Hassan the best I
+could to comfort himself; and when I came away, I told him I would attend
+at his wife’s funeral, and desired him not to stir the corpse till I
+came. This is all I can tell your majesty. I ask no more, said the
+caliph, laughing heartily; and I am very well satisfied with thy
+exactness. Then addressing himself to Zobeide, Well, madam, said he, have
+you yet any thing to say against so certain a truth? Will you always
+believe that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is alive, and that Abon Hassan is dead?
+And will you not own that you have lost your wager?
+
+How, sir, replied Zobeide, who would not believe one word Mesrour said,
+do you think that I regard that impertinent slave, who knows not what he
+says? I am not so blind or mad. With these eyes I saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+in the greatest affliction: I spoke to her myself, and she told me that
+her husband was dead.
+
+Madam, replied Mesrour, I swear to you by your own life, and that of the
+commander of the faithful, which are both dear to me, that
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is dead, and Abon Hassan is living.
+
+Thou art a base despicable slave, said Zobeide, in a rage, and I will
+confound thee immediately; and thereupon she called her women, by
+clapping her hands together, who all came in. Come hither, said the
+princess to them, and speak the truth: Who was that who came and spoke
+with me a little before the caliph came here? The women all answered,
+that it was poor afflicted Nouz-hatoul-aonadat. And what, added she,
+addressing herself to her that was treasurer, did I order you to give
+her? Madam, answered the treasurer, I gave Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, by your
+orders, a purse of a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of brocade,
+which she carried along with her. Well then, sorry slave, said Zobeide to
+Mesrour, in a great passion, what hast thou to say to all this? What dost
+thou think now, that I ought to believe thee, or my treasurer, my other
+women, or myself?
+
+Mesrour did not want for arguments to contradict the princess; but, as he
+was afraid of provoking her too much, he chose rather to be silent,
+though he was satisfied within himself that the wife was dead, and not
+the husband.
+
+All the time of this dispute between Zobeide and Mesrour, the caliph, who
+heard what was said on both sides, and was against the princess, because
+he had seen and spoke to Abon Hassan himself, laughed heartily to see
+Zobeide so exasperated against Mesrour. Madam, said he to Zobeide, I know
+not indeed who was the author of that saying, That women sometimes lose
+their wits; but I am sure you make it good. Mesrour came just now from
+Abon Hassan’s, and tells you that he saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat lying dead
+in the middle of the room, Abon Hassan alive, and sitting by her; and yet
+you will not believe this evidence, which nobody can reasonably refuse: I
+think it is very strange.
+
+Zobeide would not hear what the caliph represented. Pardon me, Commander
+of the Faithful, replied she, if I suspect you: I see very well that you
+have contrived with Mesrour to chagrin me, and try my patience. And as I
+perceive that this report was concerted between you, I beg leave to send
+a person to Abon Hassan’s, to know whether or no I am in the wrong.
+
+The caliph consented, and the princess charged an old nurse, who had
+lived a long time with her, with that important commission. Hark ye,
+nurse, said she, you see the dispute between the caliph and me; therefore
+go to Abon Hassan’s, or rather Nouz-hatoul-aonadat’s, for he is dead, and
+clear up this matter. If thou bringest me good news, a handsome present
+is thy reward. Make haste and return quickly.
+
+The caliph was overjoyed to see Zobeide in this embarrassment; but
+Mesrour, extremely mortified to find the princess so angry with him, did
+all he could to appease her, insomuch that she and the caliph were both
+satisfied with him. He was overjoyed when Zobeide sent the nurse; because
+he was persuaded that the report she would make would agree with his, and
+would justify him, and restore him to her favour.
+
+In the mean time, Abon Hassan, who watched the window, perceived the
+nurse at a distance, and guessing that she was sent by Zobeide, called
+his wife, and told her that the princess’s nurse was coming to know the
+truth; therefore, said he, make haste and lay me out. Accordingly
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat did so, and covered him with the piece of brocade
+Zobeide had given her, and put his turban upon his face. The nurse, eager
+to acquit herself of her commission, came a good round pace, and entering
+the room, perceived Nouz-hatoul-aonadat all in tears, her hair
+dishevelled, and seated at the head of her husband, beating her breast,
+and expressing a violent grief.
+
+The good old nurse went directly to the false widow. My dear
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, said she, with a sorrowful face, I come not to
+interrupt your grief and tears for a husband who loved you so tenderly.
+Ah! good mother, replied the counterfeit widow, you see my misfortune,
+and how unhappy I am by the loss of my beloved Abon Hassan. Abon Hassan,
+my dear husband! cried she, what have I done that you should leave me so
+soon? Have I not always rather obeyed your will than my own? Alas! what
+will become of poor Nouz-hatoul-aonadat?
+
+The nurse was in a great surprise to see every thing quite the reverse of
+what the chief of the eunuchs had told the caliph. This black-faced
+Mesrour, said she, lifting up her hands, deserves to be impaled for
+having made so great a difference between my good mistress and the
+commander of the faithful, by the notorious lie he told them. I will tell
+you daughter, said she, the wickedness of that villain Mesrour, who has
+asserted, with an inconceivable impudence, before my mistress’s face,
+that you were dead, and Abon Hassan was alive.
+
+Alas! my good mother, cried Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, I wish to heaven that it
+was true! I should not be in this sorrowful state, nor bewail a husband
+so dear to me. At these words she burst out into tears, and feigned a
+most desperate trouble.
+
+The nurse was so much concerned for her tears, that she sat down by her,
+and cried too: then gently lifting up the turban and cloth, looked on the
+face of the corpse. Ah! poor Abon Hassan, cried she, covering the face
+again, God have mercy upon thee. Adieu, child, said she to
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat; if I could stay longer with you, I would, with all
+my heart: but I am obliged to return immediately, to free my mistress
+from the uneasiness that black villain has given her by his impudent lie,
+assuring her with an oath that you was dead.
+
+As soon as the nurse was gone, and had pulled the door after her, and
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat thought she would not come back again, she wiped her
+eyes, and went and unloosed Abon Hassan, and then both went and sat down
+on a sofa against the window, expecting what would be the end of this
+cheat, and to be ready to act according as things should offer.
+
+The nurse, in the mean time, made all the haste she could to Zobeide. The
+pleasure of carrying the princess good news, and hopes of a good reward,
+added wings to her feet; and running into the princess’s closet, quite
+out of breath, there gave her a true account of all she had seen. Zobeide
+hearkened to the old woman’s relation with a most sensible pleasure; and
+when she had done, she said, Repeat it once more before the caliph, who
+looked upon us all to be fools, and would make us believe we have no
+sense of religion, nor fear of God; and tell your story to that wicked
+black slave, who had the insolence to assert a falsity, and which I know
+to be one.
+
+Mesrour, who expected the nurse’s report would prove favourable on his
+side, was very much mortified to find it so much the contrary. He was so
+vexed at the rage Zobeide expressed against him, for a thing he believed
+to be very true, that he was glad of having an opportunity of speaking
+his mind freely to the nurse, which he durst not do to the princess. Old
+toothless, said he to the nurse, thou tellest lies, and there is no truth
+in what thou sayest; for I saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, with these eyes, laid
+out in the midst of the room.
+
+Thou art a notorious liar thyself, replied the nurse, with an insulting
+air, to dare to maintain before my face so great a falsity, since I saw
+Abon Hassan dead, and laid out, and left his wife alive. Thou art an
+impostor, replied Mesrour, and endeavourest to put us all into confusion.
+
+There is impudence for you, said the nurse, to dare to tell me I lie, in
+the presence of their majesties, when I saw just now, with my own eyes,
+what I have had the honour to tell them. Indeed, nurse, answered Mesrour
+again, you had better hold your tongue, for you certainly dote.
+
+Zobeide, who could not support this want of respect in Mesrour, who,
+without any regard to her, treated her nurse injuriously, without giving
+the nurse time to reply to so gross an affront, said to the caliph,
+Commander of the Faithful, I demand justice for this insolence in our
+presence; and could say no more, she was so enraged, and burst out into
+tears.
+
+The caliph, who had heard all this dispute, thought it very intricate,
+and mused some time, and could not tell what to think of so many
+contradictions. The princess, for her part, as well as Mesrour, the
+nurse, and all the women slaves who were present, were as much puzzled,
+and remained silent. At last the caliph taking up the cudgels, and
+addressing himself to Zobeide, said, I see very well we are all liars;
+myself first, and then you, Mesrour, and your nurse; or at least it seems
+not one can be believed before the other: therefore, let us go ourselves
+to know the truth; for I can see no other way to clear up these doubts.
+
+After these words the caliph got up, the princess followed him, and
+Mesrour went before to open the doors. Commander of the Faithful, said
+he, I am overjoyed that your majesty has taken this course, and much
+more, when I shall make it plainly appear that the nurse dotes, though
+the expression is displeasing to my good mistress.
+
+The nurse, who wanted not to reply, said, Hold thy tongue, black face;
+thou dotest thyself.
+
+Zobeide, who was very much provoked at Mesrour, could not bear to hear
+him attack her nurse again without taking her part. Vile slave, said she,
+say what thou wilt, I maintain my nurse is in the right, and look upon
+thee as a liar. Madam, replied Mesrour, if the nurse is so very certain
+that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is alive, and Abon Hassan is dead, I will lay
+her what she dare of it. The nurse was as ready as he; and, in short,
+they laid a piece of gold and silver stuff.
+
+The apartment the caliph and Zobeide came out of, though it was a great
+way from Abon Hassan’s, was nevertheless just over against it, and Abon
+Hassan could perceive them coming, and told his wife, that the caliph and
+Zobeide, preceded by Mesrour, and followed by a great number of women,
+were coming to do them the honour of a visit. At this news she seemed
+frightened, and cried out, What shall we do? we are ruined! Fear nothing,
+replied Abon Hassan: What! have you forgot what we agreed on? We will
+both be dead, and you shall see all will go well. At the slow rate they
+come, we shall be ready before that time they get to the door.
+Accordingly Abon Hassan and his wife wrapped up and covered themselves
+with the piece of brocade, and waited patiently for their visitors.
+
+Mesrour, who came first, opened the door, and the caliph and Zobeide,
+followed by their attendants, entered the room; but were extremely
+surprised, and stood motionless, at the dismal sight which saluted their
+eyes. At last, Zobeide breaking silence, said to the caliph, Alas! they
+are both dead! You have done finely, continued she, looking at the caliph
+and Mesrour, to endeavour to make me believe that my slave was dead; and
+I find it true at last: it is dangerous jesting with edge-tools: the
+grief of losing her husband has certainly killed her. Say rather, madam,
+answered the caliph, prepossessed to the contrary, that
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat died first, and the afflicted Abon Hassan could not
+survive his dear wife: therefore you ought to agree that you have lost
+your wager, and your palace of paintings is mine.
+
+Hold there, answered Zobeide, animated with the same spirit of
+contradiction; I will maintain it, you have lost your garden of pleasures
+to me. Abon Hassan died first; since my nurse told you, as well as me,
+that she saw her alive, and crying for the death of her husband.
+
+The dispute of the caliph and Zobeide brought on another between Mesrour
+and the nurse, who had wagered as well as they; and each pretended to
+win, and came at last to abuse each other very grossly.
+
+After all, the caliph reflecting on what had passed, began to think that
+Zobeide had as much reason as himself to maintain that she had won. In
+the embarrassment he was, of not being able to find out the truth, he
+advanced towards the two corpses, and sat himself down at the head,
+searching after something that might gain him the victory over Zobeide.
+Well, cried he, presently after, I swear, by the holy name of God, that I
+will give a thousand pieces of gold to him that can tell me which of
+these two died first.
+
+No sooner were these words out of the caliph’s mouth, but he heard a
+voice under Abon Hassan’s pall, say, Commander of the Faithful, I died
+first, give me the thousand pieces of gold. At the same time he saw Abon
+Hassan throw off the piece of brocade, and come and prostrate himself at
+his feet, while his wife did the same to Zobeide, keeping on her pall of
+brocade, out of decency. The princess at first shrieked out, and
+frightened all about her; but recovering herself at last, expressed a
+great joy to see her slave rise again alive. Ah! wicked
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, cried she, what affliction have I been in for thy
+sake! However, I forgive thee from my heart, and am glad to see thee
+well.
+
+The caliph, for his part, was not so much surprised when he heard Abon
+Hassan’s voice; but thought he should have died away with laughing at
+this unravelling of the mystery, and to hear Abon Hassan ask so seriously
+for the thousand pieces of gold. What, Abon Hassan, said he, hast thou
+conspired against my life, to kill me a second time with laughing? How
+came this thought into your head, to surprise Zobeide and me thus, when
+we least thought on such a trick?
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan, I will declare to your
+majesty the whole truth, without the least reserve. Your majesty knows
+very well, that I always loved to eat and drink well; and the wife you
+gave me rather increased than restrained that inclination. With these
+dispositions, your majesty may easily suppose we might spend a good
+estate; and, to make short of my story, we were not the least sparing of
+what your majesty so generously gave us. This morning, accounting with
+our caterer, who took care to provide every thing for us, and paying what
+we owed him, we found we had nothing left. Then reflections of what was
+past, and resolutions to manage better for the future, crowded into our
+thoughts apace, and after them a thousand projects, all which we refused.
+At last, the shame of being reduced to so low a condition, and not daring
+to tell your majesty, made us contrive this trick to relieve our
+necessities, and to divert your majesty, hoping that you would be pleased
+to pardon us.
+
+The caliph and Zobeide were very well satisfied with Abon Hassan’s
+sincerity; and then Zobeide, who had all along been very serious, began
+to laugh, and could not help thinking of Abon Hassan’s scheme; when the
+caliph, who had laughed his sides sore at the singularity of this
+adventure, rising up, said, Follow me both of you, and I will give you
+the thousand pieces of gold I promised you. Zobeide desired him to let
+her make her slave a present of that sum. By this means Abon Hassan and
+his dear wife Nouz-hatoul-aonadat preserved the favour of the caliph
+Haroun Alraschid and the princess Zobeide; and by their liberalities were
+made capable of pursuing their pleasures.
+
+
+
+
+                               Footnotes
+
+
+[1]A famous player on the lute, that lived at Bagdad at that time.
+
+[2]Giauhara, in Arabic, signifies a Precious Stone.
+
+
+                        END OF THE THIRD VOLUME.
+
+                                LONDON:
+                PRINTED BY THOMAS DAVISON, WHITEFRIARS.
+
+
+
+
+                          Transcriber’s notes
+
+
+--Silently corrected several palpable typos.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4), by Anonymous
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+<pre>
+
+Project Gutenberg's The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4), by Anonymous
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4)
+
+Author: Anonymous
+
+Illustrator: Richard Westall
+
+Release Date: November 5, 2013 [EBook #44105]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ARABIAN NIGHTS, VOL III ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Delphine Lettau, Stephen Hutcheson and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Canada Team at
+http://www.pgdpcanada.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+<div class="img" id="cover">
+<img id="coverpage" src="images/cover-v3.jpg" alt="ARABIAN NIGHTS. VOL. III." width="500" height="670" />
+</div>
+<div class="img" id="front">
+<img src="images/front.jpg" alt="Page 96" width="500" height="649" />
+<p class="center"><span class="small">Drawn by R. Westall R.A. <span class="hst">Engraved by Cha<sup>s</sup>. Heath.</span></span>
+<br /><a href="#Page_96">Page 96.</a></p>
+</div>
+<div class="box">
+<h1><span class="smaller">THE</span>
+<br />ARABIAN NIGHTS.</h1>
+<p class="tbcenter"><span class="smaller">ILLUSTRATED</span>
+<br />WITH ENGRAVINGS,
+<br /><span class="smaller">FROM DESIGNS</span>
+<br />BY R. WESTALL, R.A.</p>
+<hr />
+<p class="center"><span class="smaller">IN FOUR VOLUMES.</span>
+<br /><span class="small">VOL. III.</span></p>
+<hr />
+<p class="center"><span class="small">LONDON;
+<br />Printed for Rodwell &amp; Martin; and the other Proprietors.
+<br />1819.</span></p>
+<p class="center"><span class="smaller">PRINTED FOR C. AND J. RIVINGTON; J. BOOKER; LONGMAN, HURST, REES,
+ORME, AND CO.; BALDWIN, CRADOCK, AND JOY; RODWELL AND MARTIN;
+G. B. WHITTAKER; SIMPKIN AND MARSHALL; AND HURST, ROBINSON, AND CO.</span></p>
+<p class="center"><span class="small">1825.</span></p>
+<p class="center"><span class="smaller">PRINTED BY THOMAS DAVIDSON, WHITEFRIARS.</span></p>
+</div>
+<h2><br />CONTENTS.</h2>
+<hr />
+<p class="center">VOL. III.</p>
+<hr />
+<dl class="toc">
+<dt class="jr"><span class="small">PAGE</span></dt>
+<dt><a href="#c1">The Story of Noureddin and the Fair Persian</a> 1</dt>
+<dt><a href="#c2">The Story of Beder, prince of Persia, and Giahaure, princess of Samarcand</a> 70</dt>
+<dt><a href="#c3">The Story of Ganem, son to Abou Ayoub, and known by the surname of Love&rsquo;s Slave</a> 155</dt>
+<dt><a href="#c4">The Story of Prince Zeyn Alasnam, and the king of the Genii</a> 212</dt>
+<dt><a href="#c5">The Story of Codadad and his Brothers</a> 233</dt>
+<dt><a href="#c6">The Story of the princess of Deryabar</a> 243</dt>
+<dt><a href="#c7">The Story of the Sleeper awakened</a> 269</dt>
+</dl>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_1">[1]</div>
+<h1 title=""><span class="small">ARABIAN NIGHTS&rsquo;</span>
+<br />ENTERTAINMENTS.</h1>
+<hr />
+<h2 id="c1"><br />THE STORY OF
+<br />NOUREDDIN AND THE FAIR PERSIAN.</h2>
+<p>Balsora was for many years the capital of a kingdom
+tributary to the caliphs of Arabia. The king
+who governed it in the days of caliph Haroun Alraschid
+was named Zinchi. They were both cousins,
+the sons of two brothers. Zinchi not thinking it
+proper to commit the administration of his affairs to
+one single vizier, made choice of two, Khacan and
+Saouy.</p>
+<p>Khacan was of a sweet, generous, and affable
+temper, and took a wonderful pride in obliging those
+with whom he had any concern, to the utmost of his
+power, without the least hinderance or prejudice to
+justice, whenever it was demanded of him; so that
+he was universally respected both at court, in the
+city, and throughout the whole kingdom; and every
+body&rsquo;s mouth was full of the praises he so highly deserved.</p>
+<p>Saouy was of a quite different character: he was
+always sullen and morose, and treated every body
+after a disrespectful manner, without any regard to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_2">[2]</span>
+their rank or quality; instead of making himself beloved
+and admired for his riches, he was so perfect a
+miser, as to deny himself the necessaries of life. In
+short, nobody could endure him; and if ever any thing
+was said of him, to be sure it was something of ill.
+But what increased the people&rsquo;s hatred against him
+the more was his implacable aversion for Khacan;
+always interpreting in the worst sense the actions of
+that worthy minister, and endeavouring to do him all
+the ill offices imaginable with the king.</p>
+<p>One day, after council, the king of Balsora diverted
+himself with his two viziers, and some other members
+of the council: they fell into discourse about
+the women slaves, that with us are daily bought and
+sold, and are almost reckoned in the same rank with
+our wives. Some were of opinion, that it was
+enough if the slave that one bought was beautiful
+and well shaped, to make us amends for the wives,
+which, very often, upon the account of alliance or
+interest in families, we are forced to marry, who are
+not always the greatest beauties, nor mistresses of
+any perfection, either of mind or body. Others
+maintained, and amongst the rest Khacan, that neither
+beauty, nor a thousand other charming perfections
+of the body, were the only things to be coveted
+in a mistress; but they ought to be accompanied with
+a great deal of wit, prudence, modesty, and agreeableness;
+and, if possible, abundance of sense and
+penetration. The reason they gave for it was, that
+nothing in the world could be more agreeable to
+persons on whom the management of important
+affairs depend, than, after having spent the day
+in that fatiguing employment, to have a companion
+in their retirement whose conversation is not only
+agreeable, but useful and diverting; for, in short,
+continued they, there is but little difference between
+<span class="pb" id="Page_3">[3]</span>
+brutes and those men who keep a mistress only to
+look upon her, and gratify a passion that we have in
+common with them.</p>
+<p>The king was entirely of their opinion who spoke
+last, and he quickly gave some demonstration of it,
+by ordering Khacan to buy him a slave, one that was
+a perfect beauty, mistress of all those qualifications
+they had just mentioned, and especially very ingenious.</p>
+<p>Saouy, jealous of the honour the king had done
+Khacan, and vexed at his being of a contrary opinion,
+Sir, says he, it will be very difficult to find a
+slave so accomplished as to answer your majesty&rsquo;s
+demand; and, should they light upon such a one,
+(as I scarce believe they will,) she will be a cheap
+bargain at ten thousand pieces of gold. Saouy, replied
+the king, I perceive plainly you think it too
+great a sum: it may be so for you, though not for
+me. Then turning to the chief treasurer, he ordered
+him to send the ten thousand pieces of gold to the
+vizier&rsquo;s house.</p>
+<p>Khacan, as soon as he came home, sent for all the
+courtiers who used to deal in women slaves, and
+strictly charged them, that, if ever they met with a
+slave that answered the description he gave them,
+they should come and acquaint him with it. The
+courtiers, partly to oblige the vizier, and partly for
+their own interest, promised to use their utmost endeavours
+to find out one to his liking. Accordingly
+there was scarce a day past but they brought him
+one, yet he always found some fault or other with
+them.</p>
+<p>One day as Khacan was getting on horseback
+very early in the morning to go to court, a courtier
+came to him, and, with a great deal of eagerness,
+catching hold of the stirrup, told him there was a
+<span class="pb" id="Page_4">[4]</span>
+Persian merchant arrived very late the day before,
+who had a slave to sell so surprisingly beautiful, that
+she excelled all women that his eyes ever beheld;
+and, as for her parts and learning, the merchant engaged
+she could cope with the finest wits and the
+most knowing persons of the age.</p>
+<p>Khacan, overjoyed at this news, which made him
+hope for a favourable reception at court, ordered him
+to bring the slave to his palace against his coming
+back, and so continued his journey.</p>
+<p>The courtier failed not of being at the vizier&rsquo;s at
+the appointed hour; and Khacan, finding the lovely
+slave so much beyond his expectation, immediately
+gave her the name of the Fair Persian. As she had
+an infinite deal of wit and learning, he soon perceived
+by her conversation that it was in vain to search any
+farther for a slave that surpassed her in any of those
+qualifications required by the king, and therefore he
+asked the courtier at what rate the Persian merchant
+valued her.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the courtier, he is a man of few words
+in bargaining, and he tells me, that the very lowest
+rate he can part with her at, is ten thousand pieces
+of gold: he has also sworn to me, that without
+reckoning his pains and trouble from the time of his
+first taking care of her, he has laid out pretty near
+the sum upon her education, on masters to instruct
+and teach her, besides clothes and maintenance;
+and, as he always thought her fit for a king, so from
+her very infancy, in which he bought her, he has not
+been sparing in any thing that might contribute towards
+advancing her to that high honour. She plays
+on all sorts of instruments to perfection, she dances,
+sings, writes better than the most celebrated authors,
+understands poetry; and, in short, there is
+scarce any book but what she has read; so that
+<span class="pb" id="Page_5">[5]</span>
+there never was a slave of so vast a capacity heard of
+before.</p>
+<p>The vizier Khacan, who understood the merit of
+the Fair Persian better than the courtier, that only
+reported what he had heard from the merchant, was
+unwilling to drive off the bargain to another time;
+and therefore he sent one of his servants to look after
+the merchant, where the courtier told him he was to
+be found.</p>
+<p>As soon as the Persian merchant came, It is not
+for myself, but the king, says the vizier Khacan, that
+I buy your slave; but, however, you must let him
+have her at a more reasonable price than what you
+have already set upon her.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the merchant, I should do myself an
+unspeakable honour in offering her as a present to
+his majesty, were I able to make him one of so inestimable
+a value. I barely ask no more than what
+her education and breeding up has cost me; and all
+I have to say is, that I believe his majesty will be
+extremely pleased with the purchase.</p>
+<p>The vizier Khacan would stand no longer bargaining
+with the merchant, but paid him the money down
+immediately. Sir, says he to the vizier, upon taking
+his leave of him, since the slave is designed for
+the king&rsquo;s use, give me leave to tell you, that being
+extremely fatigued with our long journey together,
+you see her at a great disadvantage; and though she
+has not her equal in the world for beauty, yet if you
+please to keep her at your own house but for a fortnight,
+and strive a little to please and humour her,
+she will appear quite another creature: after that,
+you may present her to the king with abundance of
+honour and credit; for which, I doubt not but you
+will think yourself much obliged to me. The sun,
+you see, has a little tarnished her complexion; but
+<span class="pb" id="Page_6">[6]</span>
+after two or three times bathing, and when you have
+dressed her according to the fashion of your country,
+she will appear to your eyes infinitely more charming
+than now.</p>
+<p>Khacan was mightily pleased with the advice the
+merchant gave him, and was resolved to follow it.
+Accordingly the Fair Persian was lodged in a particular
+apartment near his lady&rsquo;s, whom he desired to
+invite her to an entertainment, and henceforth to
+treat her as a mistress designed for the king: he
+also entreated his lady to get the richest clothes for
+her that possibly could be had, and especially those
+that became her best. Before he took his leave of
+the Fair Persian, he says, Your happiness, madam,
+cannot be greater than what I am about to procure
+for you, since it is for the king himself I have bought
+you; and I hope he will be better pleased with the
+enjoyment of you, than I am in discharging the trust
+his majesty has laid upon me: however, I think it
+my duty to warn you of my son, who, though he has
+a tolerable share of wit, yet is a young, wanton, forward
+youth; and therefore have a care how you suffer
+him to come near you. The Fair Persian thanked
+him for his good advice; and after she had given him
+an assurance of her intention to follow it, he withdrew.</p>
+<p>Noureddin, for so the vizier&rsquo;s son was named,
+had all the liberty imaginable in his mother&rsquo;s apartment,
+with whom he usually ate: he was very genteel,
+young, agreeable, and bold; and being master
+of abundance of wit and readiness of expression, he
+had the art of persuading people to whatever he
+pleased. He saw the Fair Persian; and from their
+first interview, though he knew his father had bought
+her purposely for the king, and he himself had declared
+the same, yet he never used the least endeavour
+<span class="pb" id="Page_7">[7]</span>
+to put a stop to the violence of his passion. In
+short, he resigned himself wholly to the power of her
+charms, by which his heart was at first conquered:
+and being ravished with her conversation, he was
+resolved to employ his utmost endeavours to get her
+from the king.</p>
+<p>On the other hand, the Fair Persian had no dislike
+to Noureddin. The vizier, says she to herself,
+has done me a particular honour in buying me for
+the king of Balsora; but I should have thought myself
+very happy if he had designed me only for his
+son.</p>
+<p>Noureddin was not backward in making use of the
+advantage of seeing, entertaining, and conversing
+with a beauty he was so passionately in love with;
+for he would never leave her until his mother forced
+him to do it. My son, she would say, it is not proper
+for a young man, as you are, to be always
+amongst the ladies; go mind your studies, that in
+time you may be worthy to succeed your father in
+his high posts and honours.</p>
+<p>It being a great while since the Fair Persian had
+bathed, on account of her late fatiguing journey, the
+vizier&rsquo;s lady, five or six days after she was bought,
+ordered a private bath in her own house to be got
+ready purposely for her. She had a great many
+women slaves to wait upon her, who were charged
+by the vizier&rsquo;s lady, to be as careful of her as of her
+own person, and, after bathing, to put on her a very
+rich suit of clothes that she had provided for her;
+and all this pains and care was taken purely to ingratiate
+herself the more into her husband&rsquo;s affection, by
+letting him see how much she concerned herself in
+every thing that contributed to his pleasure.</p>
+<p>As soon as she came out of the bath, the Fair Persian,
+a thousand times more beautiful than ever she
+<span class="pb" id="Page_8">[8]</span>
+appeared to Khacan when he bought her, went to
+make a visit to his lady, who at first sight hardly
+knew her. After having saluted her in a very graceful
+manner, Madam, says she, I know not how you
+like me in this dress you have been pleased to order
+for me; but your women, who tell me it becomes me
+so extremely well they should scarce know me, are
+such gross flatterers, that it is from you alone I expect
+to hear the truth: but, however, if what they
+say be really so, it is to you entirely, madam, that I
+owe the advantage it has given me.</p>
+<p>Oh! my daughter, cries the vizier&rsquo;s lady, quite
+transported with joy, you have no reason in the
+world to believe my women have flattered you: I
+am better skilled in beauty than they are; and, setting
+aside your dress, which becomes you admirably
+well, you appear so much handsomer than you did
+before your bathing, that I hardly knew you myself:
+if I thought the bath was yet hot enough, I would
+willingly take my turn, for I am now of an age that
+requires frequent use of it. Madam, replies the Fair
+Persian, I have nothing to say to the undeserved
+civilities you have been pleased to show me; but, as
+for the bath, it is wonderfully fine; and if you design
+to go in, you must be quick, for there is no time to
+be lost, as your women can inform you as well as I.</p>
+<p>The vizier&rsquo;s lady, considering that she had not
+bathed for some days past, was willing to make use
+of that opportunity; and accordingly she acquainted
+her women with her intention, who immediately
+prepared all things necessary on such an occasion.
+The Fair Persian withdrew to her apartment; and
+the vizier&rsquo;s lady, before she went to bathe, ordered
+two little slaves to stay with her, with a strict charge,
+that if Noureddin came they should not give him admittance.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_9">[9]</div>
+<p>While the vizier&rsquo;s lady was bathing, and the fair
+slave alone in her apartment, in came Noureddin,
+and not finding his mother in her chamber, went
+directly to the Fair Persian&rsquo;s, where he found the
+two little slaves in the antechamber: he asked them
+where his mother was. They told him, in the bath.
+Where is the Fair Persian, then? replied Noureddin.
+In her chamber, answered the slaves; but we have
+positive orders from your mother not to let you go in.</p>
+<p>The entrance into the Fair Persian&rsquo;s chamber being
+only covered with a piece of tapestry, Noureddin
+went to lift it up in order to go in, but was opposed
+by the two slaves, who clapped themselves just before
+it on purpose to stop his passage: he presently
+caught hold of both their arms, and thrusting them
+out of the antechamber, locked the door upon them.
+Away they immediately ran with a great outcry to
+the bath, and with weeping eyes told their lady that
+Noureddin, having driven them away by force, had
+got into the Fair Persian&rsquo;s chamber.</p>
+<p>The vizier&rsquo;s lady received the astonishing news of
+her son&rsquo;s presumption with the greatest concern that
+could be: she immediately left off bathing, and
+dressing herself with all possible speed, came directly
+to the Fair Persian&rsquo;s chamber; but before she
+could get thither, Noureddin was fairly marched off.</p>
+<p>The Fair Persian was extremely surprised to see
+the vizier&rsquo;s lady enter her chamber all in tears, and
+in the utmost confusion imaginable: Madam, says
+she to her, may I presume to ask you the occasion of
+your concern; and what accident has happened in the
+bath, that makes you leave it so soon?</p>
+<p>What! cries the vizier&rsquo;s lady, can you so calmly
+ask that question, after your entertaining my son
+Noureddin alone in your chamber? or can there happen
+a greater misfortune either to him or me?</p>
+<p>I beseech you, madam, says the fair slave, what
+<span class="pb" id="Page_10">[10]</span>
+injury can this action of Noureddin&rsquo;s do either to you
+or him?</p>
+<p>How! replied the vizier&rsquo;s lady, did not my husband
+tell you that you were designed for the king,
+and sufficiently caution you to have a care of Noureddin?</p>
+<p>I have not forgot it, madam, replied the Fair Persian;
+but your son came to tell me the vizier his
+father had changed his mind, and, instead of reserving
+me for the king, as he first designed, has
+made him a present of my person. I easily believed
+him, madam; for oh! think how a slave as I am,
+accustomed from my infant years to the bonds of servitude,
+could have the heart and power to resist
+him! I must own I did it with the less unwillingness
+on account of a violent passion for him, which the
+freedom of conversation, and seeing one another
+daily, has raised in my soul. I could freely lose the
+hopes of ever being the king&rsquo;s, and think myself the
+happiest of creatures in spending my whole life with
+Noureddin.</p>
+<p>At this discourse of the Fair Persian&rsquo;s, Would to
+God, cries the vizier&rsquo;s lady, that what you say were
+true! for then I should have no reason to be concerned:
+but, believe me, Noureddin is an impostor,
+and you are deceived; for it is impossible his father
+should ever make him the present you spoke of. Ah!
+wretched youth, how miserable hast thou made me,
+but more thy father, by the dismal consequences we
+must all expect to share with him! Neither my
+prayers nor tears will be able to prevail, or obtain a
+pardon for him; but, as soon as his father hears
+of his violence to you, he will inevitably sacrifice him
+to his just resentment. At the end of these words
+she fell a-weeping bitterly; and the slaves, who had
+as tender a regard for Noureddin as herself, bore her
+company.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_11">[11]</div>
+<p>A little after this, in came the vizier Khacan;
+and being mightily surprised to find his lady and her
+slaves all in tears, and the Fair Persian very melancholy,
+asked the reason of it; but they, instead of
+answering him, kept on weeping and making hideous
+lamentations. He was more astonished at this than
+he was before; at last, addressing himself to his
+wife, I command you, says he, to let me know the
+occasion of your tears, and to tell me the whole truth
+of the matter.</p>
+<p>The poor disconsolate lady being forced to satisfy
+her husband, Sir, says she, you shall first promise
+not to use me unkindly upon the discovery of what
+you are desirous to know, since I tell you beforehand
+that what has happened has not been occasioned by
+any fault of mine. While I was bathing with my
+women, continued she, your son, laying hold of that
+fatal opportunity to ruin us both, came hither, and
+made the Fair Persian believe that, instead of reserving
+her for the king, as you once designed, you
+had given her to him as a present: I do not say he
+has done this out of any ill design, but shall leave
+you to judge of it yourself. It is upon your account,
+and his, for whom I want confidence to implore your
+pardon, that I am so extremely concerned.</p>
+<p>It is impossible to express the vizier Khacan&rsquo;s
+distraction upon the hearing of the insolence of
+his son Noureddin: Ah! cried he, beating his
+breast, and tearing his beard, Miserable son! unworthy
+of life! hast thou at last thrown thy father
+from the highest pinnacle of happiness into a misfortune
+that must inevitably involve thee also in its
+ruin? Neither will the king be satisfied with thy
+blood nor mine, but will revenge himself after a more
+severe manner for the affront offered to his royal
+person.</p>
+<p>His lady used her utmost endeavours to comfort
+<span class="pb" id="Page_12">[12]</span>
+and assuage his sorrow. Concern yourself no more
+about the matter, my dear, said she; I will sell part
+of my jewels for ten thousand pieces of gold, with
+which you may buy another slave, handsomer, and
+more agreeable to the king&rsquo;s fancy than this.</p>
+<p>Ah! replied the vizier, could you think me of so
+mean a spirit, as to be so extremely afflicted at the
+losing ten thousand pieces of gold? It is not that,
+nor the loss of all my goods, which I can easily part
+with; but the forfeiting of my honour, more precious
+than all the riches in the world, that torments and
+touches me so nearly. However, methinks, replied
+the lady, this can be no very considerable damage,
+since it is in the power of money to repair it.</p>
+<p>How! cried the vizier, you know Saouy is my
+mortal enemy; and as soon as this affair comes to
+his knowledge, do you think he will not insult over
+me, and mock my misfortunes before the king? Your
+majesty, he will say to him, is always talking of
+Khacan&rsquo;s zeal and affection for your service: but see
+what a proof he has lately given of his being worthy
+the respect you have hitherto shown him. He has
+received ten thousand pieces of gold to buy a slave
+with; and, to do him justice, he has honourably performed
+that commission, in buying the most beautiful
+that ever eyes beheld; but, instead of bringing her
+to your majesty, he has thought it better to make a
+present of her to his son: Here, my son, said he,
+take this slave, since thou art more worthy of her
+than the king. Then, with his usual malice, will he
+go on: His son has her now entirely in his possession,
+and every day revels in her arms, without the
+least disturbance: this, sir, is the whole truth of the
+matter, that I have done myself the honour of acquainting
+you with; and if your majesty questions
+the truth of it, you may easily satisfy yourself. Do
+you not plainly see, my dear, continued the vizier,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_13">[13]</span>
+how, upon such a malicious insinuation as this, I am
+every moment liable to have my house forced open by
+the king&rsquo;s guards, and the Fair Persian taken from
+me, besides a thousand other misfortunes that will
+unavoidably follow? Sir, said the vizier&rsquo;s lady to her
+husband, after he had finished his discourse, I am
+sensible the malice of Saouy is very great, and that,
+if he has had but the least intimation of this affair,
+he will certainly give it a turn very disadvantageous
+to your interest: but how is it possible that he or any
+body else should come to the knowledge of what has
+been privately transacted in your family? Suppose it
+comes to the king&rsquo;s ear, and he should ask you about
+it, cannot you say, that upon strict examination, you
+did not think the slave so fit for his majesty&rsquo;s use as
+you did at the first view; that the merchant has
+cheated you; that, indeed, she has a great deal of
+beauty, but is nothing near so witty or agreeable as
+she was reported to be? The king will certainly believe
+what you say, and Saouy be vexed to the soul
+to see all his malicious designs of ruining you eternally
+disappointed. Take courage, then, and, if you
+will follow my advice, send for all the courtiers, tell
+them you do not like the Fair Persian, and order them
+to be as expeditious as possible in getting another
+slave.</p>
+<p>The vizier Khacan, highly approving of this advice,
+was resolved to make use of it; and though his
+passion began to cool a little, yet his indignation
+against his son Noureddin was not in the least
+abated.</p>
+<p>Noureddin came not in sight all that day; and,
+not daring to hide himself among his companions,
+lest his father should search their houses for him, he
+went a little way out of town, and took sanctuary in
+a garden where he had never been before, and where
+his person was utterly unknown. It was very late
+<span class="pb" id="Page_14">[14]</span>
+when he came back, being willing to stay till his
+father was a-bed, and then his mother&rsquo;s women opening
+the door very softly, let him in without any manner
+of noise. The next morning he went out before
+his father was stirring; and thus for a whole month
+was he put to his shifts, which was a terrible mortification
+to him. Indeed the women never flattered
+him, but told him plainly his father&rsquo;s anger was as
+great as ever, and if he came in his sight he would
+certainly kill him.</p>
+<p>Though the vizier&rsquo;s lady was informed by her women
+of Noureddin&rsquo;s lying every night in the house,
+yet she durst not presume to entreat her husband to
+pardon him. At last, one day, says she to him; I
+have hitherto been silent, not daring to take the
+liberty of talking to you about your son; but now
+give me leave to ask you what you design to do with
+him. Indeed it is impossible for a son to be more
+criminal towards a father than Noureddin has been
+towards you; he has robbed you of the honour and
+satisfaction of presenting the king with a slave so
+accomplished as the Fair Persian: but, after all, are
+you absolutely resolved to destroy him; and, instead
+of a light evil, draw upon yourself a far greater than
+perhaps you imagine at present? Are you not afraid
+that the world, which spitefully inquires after the
+reason of your son&rsquo;s absconding, should find out the
+true cause which you are so desirous of keeping secret?
+and if that should happen, you would justly fall
+into a misfortune which it is so much your interest
+to avoid.</p>
+<p>Madam, said the vizier, there is abundance of
+sound reasoning in what you have urged: however,
+I cannot think of pardoning Noureddin till I have
+humbled him a little more. He shall be sufficiently
+mortified, replied the lady, if you will put in execution
+what is just come into my mind. You must know,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_15">[15]</span>
+then, your son comes hither every night after you are
+a-bed; he lies here, and steals out every morning before
+you are stirring: you shall wait for his coming in
+to-night; make as if you designed to kill him; upon
+which I will run to his assistance, and when he finds
+his life entirely owing to my prayers and entreaties,
+you may oblige him to take the Fair Persian on
+what condition soever you please. He loves her,
+and I am sensible the fair slave has no aversion for
+him.</p>
+<p>Khacan was very willing to make use of this stratagem:
+so, when Noureddin came at the usual hour,
+before the door was opened, he placed himself behind
+it: as soon as ever he entered, he rushed suddenly
+upon him, and got him down under his feet. Noureddin,
+lifting up his head, saw his father with a dagger
+in his hand, ready prepared to stab him.</p>
+<p>At that very instant, in came his mother, and,
+catching hold of the vizier&rsquo;s arm, Sir, cried she, what
+are you a-doing? Let me alone, replied the vizier,
+that I may kill this base unworthy son. You shall
+kill me first, cried the mother; nor will I suffer you
+to imbrue your hands in your own blood: speak to
+him, Noureddin, speak to him, and improve this tender
+moment. My father, cried he, with tears in his
+eyes, I implore your clemency and compassion; nor
+must you deny me pardon, since I ask it in His
+name before whom we must all appear at the last
+day.</p>
+<p>Khacan suffered the poniard to be taken out of his
+hand; and as soon as Noureddin was released, he
+threw himself at his father&rsquo;s feet, and kissed them,
+to show how sincerely he repented of his having ever
+offended him. Noureddin, said he, return your mother
+thanks, since it is purely for her sake I pardon
+you. I design also to give you the Fair Persian, on
+condition that you will oblige yourself by an oath not
+<span class="pb" id="Page_16">[16]</span>
+to look upon her any longer as a slave, but as your
+wife, that you will not sell her, nor ever be divorced
+from her; for, having abundance of wit and prudence,
+besides much better conduct than you, I am
+persuaded she will be able to moderate those rash
+sallies of youth which are enough to ruin you.</p>
+<p>Noureddin, who little expected to be treated after
+so kind and indulgent a manner, returned his father
+a thousand thanks, with all the gratitude and sincerity
+imaginable; and, in the conclusion, the vizier,
+the Fair Persian, and he, were well pleased and satisfied
+with the match.</p>
+<p>The vizier Khacan would not stay in expectation
+of the king&rsquo;s asking him about the order he had
+given him, but took particular care to mention it
+often, in representing to his majesty the many difficulties
+he met with in that affair, and how fearful he
+was of not acquitting himself to his majesty&rsquo;s satisfaction.
+In short, he managed the business with so
+much cunning and address, that the king insensibly
+forgot it; and, though Saouy had got some small information
+of the matter, yet Khacan was so much
+in the king&rsquo;s favour, that he was afraid to speak of
+it.</p>
+<p>It was now above a year that this nice affair had
+been kept with greater secrecy than at first the vizier
+expected; when, being one day in the bath, and
+some important business obliging him to leave it all
+in a sweat, the air, which was then a little moist,
+struck a damp to his breast, caused a defluxion of
+rheum to fall upon his lungs, which threw him into a
+violent fever, and confined him to his bed. His illness
+growing every day worse, and perceiving he
+had but a few moments to live, he thus addressed
+himself to his son Noureddin, who never stirred from
+him during his whole sickness: My son, I know not
+whether I have made a good use of the riches Heaven
+<span class="pb" id="Page_17">[17]</span>
+has blessed me with, but you see they are not
+able to save me from the hands of death: the last
+thing I desire of you, with my dying breath, is, that
+you would be mindful of the promise you made concerning
+the Fair Persian; and, with a certainty of
+that, I shall die pleased and well contented.</p>
+<p>These were the vizier&rsquo;s last words; who, dying a
+few moments after, left his family, the court, and
+the whole city in great affliction for his death. The
+king lamented him, as having lost a wise, zealous,
+and faithful minister; and the whole city wept for
+him as their protector and benefactor. Never was
+there a funeral at Balsora solemnized with greater
+pomp and magnificence; the viziers and emirs, and,
+in general, all the grandees of the court, strove for
+the honour of bearing his coffin, one after another,
+upon their shoulders to the place of burial; and
+both rich and poor accompanied him thither with
+tears.</p>
+<p>Noureddin gave all the demonstration of a sorrow
+equal to the loss he had lately sustained, and lived
+a great while without ever seeing any company. At
+last, he admitted of a visit from an intimate friend of
+his. His friend endeavoured to comfort him all he
+could; and, finding him a little inclinable to hear
+reason, he told him, that, having paid what was due
+to the memory of his father, and fully satisfied all
+that custom and decency required of him, it was now
+high time to appear again in the world to converse
+with his friends, and maintain a character suitable
+to his birth and merit: For, continued he, we should
+sin both against the laws of nature and civility, and
+be thought insensible, if, upon the death of our fathers,
+we neglected to pay them what filial love and
+tenderness require at our hands; but having once
+performed that duty, and put it out of the power of
+any man to reproach us upon that account, we are
+<span class="pb" id="Page_18">[18]</span>
+obliged to return to our usual method of living. Dry
+up your tears then, and re-assume that wonted air of
+gaiety which always inspires with joy those that have
+the honour of your conversation.</p>
+<p>This advice seeming very reasonable to Noureddin,
+he was easily persuaded to follow it; and, if he
+had been ruled by his friend in every thing, he would
+certainly have avoided all the misfortunes that afterwards
+befell him. He treated him very nobly; and,
+when he took his leave, Noureddin desired him to
+come the next day, and bring three or four friends
+of their acquaintance. By this means he insensibly
+fell into the society of about ten young gentlemen,
+pretty near his own age, with whom he spent his
+time in continual feasting and entertainments; and
+scarce a day came over his head but he made every
+one of them some considerable present.</p>
+<p>Sometimes, to oblige his friends after a more particular
+manner, Noureddin would send for the Fair
+Persian to entertain them; who, notwithstanding her
+obedience to his command, never approved of his
+extravagant way of living, and often took the liberty
+of speaking her mind freely. Sir, said she, I question
+not but your father has left you abundance of
+riches; but, how great soever they are, be not angry
+with your slave for telling you that, at this rate of
+living, you will quickly see an end of them. We
+may indeed sometimes afford to treat our friends, and
+be merry with them; but, to make a daily practice of
+it, is certainly the high road to ruin and destruction.
+Therefore, for your own honour and reputation, you
+would do much better to follow the footsteps of your
+deceased father, that, in time, you may rise to that
+dignity by which he acquired so much glory and
+renown.</p>
+<p>Noureddin hearkened to the fair Persian&rsquo;s discourse
+with a smiling countenance; and, when she had
+<span class="pb" id="Page_19">[19]</span>
+done, My charmer, said he, with the same air of
+mirth, say no more of that; let us talk of nothing but
+mirth and pleasure. In my father&rsquo;s lifetime I was always
+under restraint, and I am now resolved to enjoy
+the liberty I so much sighed for before his death. It
+is time enough for me to think of leading a sober regular
+life; and a man of my age ought to taste the
+pleasures of youth.</p>
+<p>What contributed very much towards ruining Noureddin&rsquo;s
+fortune, was his unwillingness to reckon with
+his steward; for, whenever he brought in his accounts,
+he still sent him away without examining
+them. Go, go, said he, I trust wholly to your honesty;
+therefore only take care to let me have wherewith
+to make merry.</p>
+<p>You are the master, sir, replied he, and I but the
+steward; however, you would do well to think upon
+the proverb, He that spends much and has but little,
+must at last insensibly be reduced to poverty. You
+are not contented with keeping an extravagant table,
+but you must lavish away your estate with both
+hands: and were your coffers as large as mountains,
+they would not be sufficient to maintain you. Begone,
+replied Noureddin; your grave lessons are needless;
+only take care to provide good eating and drinking,
+and trouble your head no farther about the rest.</p>
+<p>In the mean time Noureddin&rsquo;s friends were constant
+guests at his table, and never failed making
+some advantage of the easiness of his temper. They
+praised and flattered him, extolling his most indifferent
+actions to the very skies. But, above all, they
+took particular care to commend whatever belonged
+to him and his; and this, they found, turned to some
+account. Sir, says one of them, I came the other day
+by your estate that lies in such a place: certainly
+there is nothing so magnificent, or so handsomely
+furnished, as your house; and the garden belonging
+<span class="pb" id="Page_20">[20]</span>
+to it is a paradise upon earth. I am very glad it
+pleases you, says Noureddin. Here, bring me pen,
+ink, and paper: but, without more words, it is at
+your service, and I make you a present of it. No
+sooner had others commended his house, baths, and
+some public buildings erected for the use of strangers,
+the yearly revenue of which was very considerable,
+than he immediately gave them away. The Fair Persian
+could not forbear letting him know how much
+injury he did himself; but, instead of taking any
+notice of it, he continued his extravagances, and, upon
+the first opportunity, squandered away the little he
+had left.</p>
+<p>In short, Noureddin did nothing for a whole year
+together, but feasted and made himself merry, wasting
+and consuming, after a prodigal manner, the
+riches that his predecessors, and the good vizier his
+father, had, with so much pains and care, heaped together
+and preserved.</p>
+<p>The year was but just expired, when somebody
+one day knocked at the hall door, where he and his
+friends were at dinner together by themselves, having
+sent away their slaves, that they might enjoy a greater
+liberty and freedom of conversation.</p>
+<p>One of his friends offered to rise, but Noureddin
+stepped before him, and opened the door himself. It
+seems it was the steward; and Noureddin going a
+little out of the hall to know his business, left the
+door half open.</p>
+<p>The friend that offered to rise from his seat, seeing
+it was the steward, and being somewhat curious to
+know what he had to say to Noureddin, placed himself
+between the hangings and the door, where he
+plainly overheard the steward&rsquo;s discourse to his master.
+Sir, said the steward, I ask a thousand pardons
+for my coming to disturb you in the height of your joys;
+but this affair is of such importance, that I thought
+<span class="pb" id="Page_21">[21]</span>
+myself bound in duty to acquaint you with it. I come,
+sir, to make up my last accounts, and to tell you that
+what I all along foresaw, and have often warned you of,
+is at last come to pass. Behold, sir, says he, (showing
+him a small piece of money,) the remainder of all the
+sums I have received from you during my stewardship;
+the other funds you were pleased to assign me
+are all exhausted. The farmers, and those that owe
+you rent, have made it so plainly appear to me that
+you have assigned over to others whatever remains
+in their hands due to you, that it is impossible for me
+to get any more from them upon your account. Here
+are my books; if you please, examine them: and if
+you think fit to continue me in the place I am now in,
+order me some other funds, or else give me leave to
+quit your service. Noureddin was so astonished at this
+discourse, that he gave him no manner of answer.</p>
+<p>The friend who had been listening all this while,
+and had heard every syllable of what the steward
+said, immediately came in and told the company what
+he had lately overheard. It is your business, gentlemen,
+says he, to make use of this caution; for my
+part, I declare it openly to you, this is the last visit I
+design to make Noureddin. Nay, replied they, if
+matters go thus, we have as little business here as
+you; and, for the future, shall take care not to trouble
+him with our company.</p>
+<p>Noureddin returned presently after; yet, notwithstanding
+his carrying it pleasantly to his guests, by
+putting them into a merry humour again, he could not
+so handsomely dissemble the matter but they plainly
+perceived the truth of what they had been informed
+of. He was scarce sat down in his place, when one
+of his friends rose up, saying, Sir, I am sorry I cannot
+have the honour of your company any longer; and,
+therefore, I hope you will excuse my rudeness of
+leaving you so soon. What urgent affair have you,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_22">[22]</span>
+replied Noureddin, that obliges you to be going? My
+wife, sir, said he, was brought to bed to-day, and upon
+such an occasion, you know a husband&rsquo;s company is
+very acceptable; so, making a very low bow, away
+he went. A minute afterwards, a second took his
+leave upon another sham excuse; and so one after
+another, till at last not one of those ten friends that
+had hitherto kept Noureddin company, was left in
+the room.</p>
+<p>As soon as they were gone, Noureddin, little suspecting
+the resolution they had made of never visiting
+him, went directly to the Fair Persian&rsquo;s apartment,
+to whom, in private, he related all the steward had
+told him, and seemed extremely concerned at the ill
+posture of his affairs. Sir, said the Fair Persian to
+him, you would never take my advice, but always
+managed your concerns after your own way, and now
+you see the fatal consequences of it. I find I was not
+mistaken, when I presaged to what a miserable condition
+you would bring yourself at last; but what afflicts
+me the more, is, that at present you do not see
+the worst of your misfortunes. Whenever I presumed
+freely to impart my thoughts to you, Let us be merry,
+said you, and in pleasures improve the time that fortune
+has kindly given us; perhaps she will not always
+be so prodigal of her favours. But was I now to blame
+in telling you that we are the makers or undoers of
+our own fortunes, by a prudent or foolish management
+of them? You indeed would never hearken to
+me; so, at last, much against my will, I was forced
+to desist, and let you alone.</p>
+<p>I must own, replied Noureddin, I was extremely
+in the wrong in not following the advice that you,
+out of your abundance of prudence and discretion,
+was pleased to give me. It is true I have spent my
+estate; but do you not consider it is among friends of
+a long acquaintance, who, I am persuaded, have more
+<span class="pb" id="Page_23">[23]</span>
+generosity and gratitude in them than to abandon and
+forsake me in distress? Sir, replied the Fair Persian,
+if you have nothing but the gratitude of your friends
+to depend on, you are in a desperate condition; for,
+believe me, that hope is vain and ill-grounded, and
+you will tell me so yourself in a very little time.</p>
+<p>To this Noureddin replied, Charming Persian, I
+have a much better opinion of my friends&rsquo; generosity
+than you. To-morrow I design to make a visit to
+them all, before the usual time of their coming hither,
+and you shall see me return with a vast sum, that
+they will raise among them to support me. I am resolved
+to change my way of living, and, with the money
+they lend me, set up for a merchant.</p>
+<p>The next morning, Noureddin failed not to visit his
+ten friends, who lived in the very same street. He
+knocked at the first door he came at, where one of
+the richest of them lived. A slave came to the door;
+but, before he would open it, he asked who was
+there? Go to your master, says he to the slave, and
+tell him it is Noureddin, the late vizier&rsquo;s son. Upon
+this the slave opens the door, and shows him into a
+hall, where he left him to go and tell his master, who
+was in an inner room, that Noureddin was come to
+wait on him. Noureddin! cried he, in a disdainful
+tone, loud enough for Noureddin to hear it with surprise.
+Go, tell him I am not at home; and whenever
+he comes hither, be sure you give him the same answer.
+The slave came back, and told Noureddin he
+thought his master was within, but he was mistaken.</p>
+<p>Noureddin came away in the greatest confusion in
+the world. Ah! base, ungrateful wretch! said he to
+himself, to treat me so basely to-day, after the vows
+and protestations of love and friendship that you
+made me yesterday! From thence he went to another
+door, but that friend ordered his slaves also to say
+he was gone out. He had the same answer at the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_24">[24]</span>
+third; and, in short, all the rest denied themselves,
+though every one of them was at home at the
+same time.</p>
+<p>It was now that Noureddin began in earnest to reflect
+with himself, and be convinced of the folly of his
+too credulous temper, in relying so much upon the
+vows and protestations of amity, that his false friends
+in the time of his prosperity had solemnly made him.
+It is very true, said he to himself, that a fortunate
+man, as I was, may be compared to a tree laden with
+fruit, which, as long as there is any remaining on its
+boughs, people will be crowding round; but, as soon
+as it is stripped of all, they immediately leave it, and
+go to another. He smothered his passions as much
+as possible while he was abroad; but, no sooner was
+he got home, than he gave loose to his sorrow, and resigned
+himself wholly to it.</p>
+<p>The Fair Persian, seeing him so extremely concerned,
+fancied he had not found his friends so ready to
+assist him as he expected. Well, sir, said she, are you
+now convinced of the truth of what I told you? Ah!
+cried he, my dear, thou hast been too true a prophetess;
+for not one of them would so much as know
+me, see me, or speak to me. Oh! who could ever
+have believed that persons so highly obliged to me as
+they are, and on whom I have spent my estate, could
+ever have used me so barbarously? I am distracted,
+and I fear committing some dishonourable action, below
+myself, in the deplorable condition I am reduced
+to, without the aid and assistance of your prudent advice.
+Sir, replied the Fair Persian, I see no other
+way of supporting yourself in your misfortunes, but
+selling off your slaves and moveables, and living upon
+the money, till Heaven shall find out some other
+means to deliver you from your present misery.</p>
+<p>Noureddin was very loath to make use of this expedient;
+but what could he do in the necessitous circumstance
+<span class="pb" id="Page_25">[25]</span>
+he was in? He first sold off his slaves;
+those unprofitable mouths, which were a greater expense
+to him than what his present condition could
+bear. He lived on the money for some time; and
+when all of it was spent, he ordered his goods to be
+carried into the market-place, where they were sold
+for half their worth; among which were several valuable
+things that cost immense sums. Upon this he
+lived for a considerable time: but that supply failing
+at last, he had nothing at all left by which he could
+raise any more money; of which he complained to
+the Fair Persian in the most tender expressions that
+sorrow could inspire.</p>
+<p>Noureddin only waited to hear what answer this
+prudent creature would make. Sir, said she, at last,
+I am your slave, and you know that the late vizier
+your father gave ten thousand pieces of gold for me:
+perhaps I am a little sunk in value since that time, but
+I believe I shall sell for pretty near that sum yet. Let
+me entreat you then instantly to carry me to the market,
+and expose me to sale; and with the money that
+you get for me, which will be very considerable, you
+may turn merchant in some city where you are unknown,
+and by that means find a way of living, if not
+in splendour, yet with happiness and content.</p>
+<h3 title="">THE STORY OF NOUREDDIN AND THE FAIR PERSIAN CONTINUED.</h3>
+<p>Ah! lovely and adorable Persian, cried Noureddin,
+is it possible you can entertain such a thought
+of me? Have I given you such slender proofs of my
+love, that you should think me capable of so base an
+action? But suppose me so vile a wretch, could I do
+it without being guilty of perjury, after the oath I
+have taken never to sell you? No, I could sooner die
+<span class="pb" id="Page_26">[26]</span>
+than part with you, whom I love infinitely beyond
+myself; though by the unreasonable proposition you
+have made me, it is plain your love is not so tender
+as mine.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the Fair Persian, I am sufficiently convinced
+that your passion for me is as violent as you
+say it is; and Heaven, who knows with what reluctance
+I have made this proposition that you dislike,
+is my witness, that mine is as great as yours; but, to
+silence reason at once, I need only bid you remember
+that necessity has no law. I love you to that degree,
+it is impossible for you to love me more: and be assured,
+that to what master soever I shall belong, my
+passion shall always continue the same: and if you
+are ever able to redeem me, as I hope you may, it
+will be the greatest pleasure in the world to be in
+your possession again. Alas! to what a fatal and
+cruel necessity are we driven! But I see no other
+way of freeing ourselves from the misery that involves
+us both.</p>
+<p>Noureddin, who very well knew the truth of what
+the Fair Persian had spoken, and that there was no
+other way of avoiding a shameful poverty, was in the
+end forced to yield to her first request. Accordingly
+he led her to the market, where the women-slaves are
+exposed to sale, with a regret that cannot be easily
+expressed. He applied himself to a courtier named
+Hagi Hassan: Hagi Hassan, said he, here is a slave
+that I have a mind to sell; I pray thee to see what
+they will give for her. Hagi Hassan desired Noureddin
+and the Fair Persian to walk into a room; and
+when she had pulled off the veil that covered her
+face, Sir, said Hagi Hassan to Noureddin, in a great
+surprise, if I am not mistaken, this is the slave your
+father, the late vizier, gave ten thousand pieces of
+gold for? Noureddin assured him it was the same;
+and Hagi Hassan gave him some hopes of selling her
+<span class="pb" id="Page_27">[27]</span>
+at a good rate, and promised to use all his art and
+cunning to raise her price as high as it would bear.</p>
+<p>Hagi Hassan and Noureddin went out of the room,
+and locked the Fair Persian in; after which Hagi
+Hassan went to look after the merchants; but they
+being busy in buying slaves that came from different
+countries, he was forced to stay till the market was
+done. When their sale was over, and the greatest
+part of them got together, My masters, said he to
+them, with an air of gaiety in his looks and actions,
+every thing that is round is not a nut; every thing
+that is long is not a fig; all that is red is not flesh;
+and all eggs are not fresh. It is true you have seen
+and bought a great many slaves in your lives, but you
+never yet saw one comparable to her I am going to
+tell you of; in short, she is the very pearl of slaves.
+Come, follow me, and you shall see her yourselves,
+and by that judge at what rate I shall cry her.</p>
+<p>The merchants followed Hagi Hassan into the
+chamber where the Fair Persian was; and, as soon as
+they beheld her, they were so surprised at her beauty,
+that at the first word they unanimously agreed that
+four thousand pieces of gold was the very lowest price
+that they could set upon her. The merchants then
+left the room, and Hagi Hassan, who came out with
+them, without going any farther, proclaimed with a
+loud voice, Four thousand pieces of gold for the Persian
+slave.</p>
+<p>None of the merchants had yet offered any thing,
+and they were but just consulting together about
+what they might afford to give for her, when the vizier
+Saouy, perceiving Noureddin in the market, appeared.
+Said he to himself, Noureddin has certainly
+made some more money of his goods, (for he knew of
+his exposing them to sale,) and is come hither to buy
+a slave with it. Upon this he advanced forward just as
+<span class="pb" id="Page_28">[28]</span>
+Hagi Hassan began to proclaim a second time, Four
+thousand pieces of gold for the Persian slave.</p>
+<p>The vizier Saouy, concluding by the extravagance
+of the price, that she must be some extraordinary
+piece of beauty, had a longing desire to see her; so
+spurring his horse forward, he rode directly up to
+Hagi Hassan, who was in the very middle of the merchants.
+Open the door, said he, and let me see this
+slave. It was never the custom to show their slaves
+to any particular person, till after the merchants had
+seen her, and had the refusal: but Saouy being a
+person of so great authority, none of them durst dispute
+their right with him; and Hagi Hassan being
+forced to open the door, beckoned the fair slave to
+come forward, that Saouy might have a sight of her
+without the trouble of alighting from his horse.</p>
+<p>The vizier was astonished at the sight of so beautiful
+a slave; and knowing the courtier&rsquo;s name, (having
+formerly dealt with him,) Hagi Hassan, said he,
+is it not at four thousand pieces of gold that you cry
+her? Yes, sir, answered he, it is but a moment since
+I cried her at that price, and the merchants you see
+gathered together here are come to bid money for her;
+and I question not but they will give a great deal
+more than that.</p>
+<p>If nobody offers any higher, I will give that sum,
+replied Saouy, looking upon the merchants at the
+same time with a countenance that forbade them to
+advance any more. In short, he was so universally
+dreaded, that nobody durst speak a word, not so
+much as to complain of his encroaching upon their
+privilege.</p>
+<p>The vizier Saouy having staid some time, and finding
+none of the merchants outbid him, What do you
+stay for? said he to Hagi Hassan: go, look after the
+seller, and strike a bargain with him at four thousand
+<span class="pb" id="Page_29">[29]</span>
+pieces of gold, or more if he demands it; not knowing
+yet the slave belonged to Noureddin.</p>
+<p>Hagi Hassan having locked the chamber-door,
+went to confer notes with Noureddin: Sir, said he to
+him, I am very sorry to bring you the ill news of your
+slave&rsquo;s being just going to be sold for nothing. How
+so? replied Noureddin. Why sir, said Hagi Hassan,
+you must know that the business at first went on
+rarely; for, as soon as the merchants had seen your
+slave, they ordered me to cry her at four thousand
+pieces of gold. Accordingly I cried her at the price;
+upon which the vizier Saouy came, and his presence
+has stopped the mouths of all the merchants, who
+seemed inclinable to raise her, at least to the same
+price your deceased father gave for her. Saouy will
+give no more than four thousand pieces, and it is
+much against my inclination that I am come to tell
+you the despicable price he offers. The slave indeed
+is your own; but I will not advise you to part with
+her upon those terms, since you and every body else
+are sensible of her being worth infinitely more: besides,
+he is base enough to contrive a way to trick
+you out of the money.</p>
+<p>Hagi Hassan, replied Noureddin, I am highly
+obliged to thee for thy advice; but do not think I
+will ever sell my slave to an enemy of our family.
+My necessities indeed are at present very great, but I
+would sooner die in the most shameful poverty, than
+ever consent to the delivering her up to his arms. I
+have only one thing to beg of thee, who art skilful in
+all the turns and shifts of life, that thou wouldst put
+me in a way to prevent the sale of her.</p>
+<p>Sir, said Hagi Hassan, there is nothing more easy:
+you must pretend, that, being in a violent passion
+with your slave, you swore to expose her in the market,
+and for the sake of your oath you have now
+brought her hither, without any manner of intention
+<span class="pb" id="Page_30">[30]</span>
+of selling her. This will satisfy every body, and
+Saouy will have nothing to say against it. Come
+along with me then; and just as I am presenting her
+to Saouy, as if it were by your own consent, pull her
+to you, give her two or three blows, and send her
+home. I thank thee for thy counsel, said Noureddin,
+and thou shalt see I will make use of it.</p>
+<p>Hagi Hassan went back to the chamber, and having
+in two words acquainted the Fair Persian with
+their design, that she might not be surprised at it, he
+took her by the hand, and led her to the vizier Saouy,
+who was still, on horseback at the door: Sir, said he,
+here is the slave: she is yours; pray take her.</p>
+<p>These words were scarce out of Hagi Hassan&rsquo;s
+mouth, when Noureddin, catching hold of the Fair
+Persian, pulled her to him, and giving her a box on
+the ear, Come hither, impertinence, said he, and get
+you home again; for though your ill humour obliged
+me to swear I would bring you hither, yet I never
+intended to sell you; I have business for you to do
+yet, and it will be time enough to part with you when
+I have nothing else left.</p>
+<p>This action of Noureddin&rsquo;s put the vizier Saouy
+into a violent passion. Miserable debauchee, cried
+he, wouldst thou have me believe thou hast any thing
+else left to make money of but thy slave? And at the
+same instant, spurring his horse directly against him,
+endeavoured to have carried off the Fair Persian.
+Noureddin, nettled to the quick at the affront the
+vizier had put upon him, quits the Fair Persian, and,
+laying hold of his horse&rsquo;s bridle, made him run two
+or three paces backwards. Vile dotard, said he to
+the vizier, I would tear thy soul out of thy body this
+very moment, were it not for the crowd of people
+here present.</p>
+<p>The vizier Saouy being loved by nobody, but, on
+the contrary, hated by all, there was not one among
+<span class="pb" id="Page_31">[31]</span>
+them but was now pleased to see Noureddin mortifying
+him a little; and, by shrewd signs, they let him
+understand he might revenge himself upon him as
+much as he pleased, for nobody would meddle with
+their quarrel.</p>
+<p>Saouy endeavoured all he could to make Noureddin
+quit the bridle; but he being a lusty vigorous man,
+and encouraged by those that stood by, pulled him off
+his horse, in the middle of a brook, gave him a thousand
+blows, and dashed his head against the stones
+till it was all of a gore of blood. The slaves that
+waited upon the vizier would fain have drawn their
+scimitars and fallen upon Noureddin, but the merchants
+interposing prevented them from doing it.
+What do you mean? said they to them; do not you
+see the one is a vizier, and the other a vizier&rsquo;s son?
+Let them dispute their quarrel themselves; perhaps
+they will be reconciled one time or other; whereas, if
+you had killed Noureddin, your master, with all his
+greatness, could not have been able to protect you
+against the law.</p>
+<p>Noureddin having given over beating the vizier
+Saouy, left him in the middle of the brook, and taking
+the Fair Persian, marched home with her, being attended
+by the people with shouts and acclamations
+for the action he had performed.</p>
+<p>The vizier Saouy, cruelly bruised with the strokes
+he had received, by the assistance of his slaves made
+shift to get up, and had the mortification to see himself
+besmeared all over with blood and dirt. He
+leaned upon the shoulders of two slaves, and in that
+condition went straight to the palace, in the sight of
+all the people, with so much greater confusion because
+nobody pitied him. As soon as he reached the
+king&rsquo;s apartment, he began to cry out, and call for
+justice, after a lamentable manner. The king ordered
+him to be admitted; and as soon as he came, he asked
+<span class="pb" id="Page_32">[32]</span>
+him who it was that had abused and put him into
+that miserable pickle. Sir, cried Saouy, your majesty
+ought to afford me a large share of your favour, and
+to take into your royal consideration my late abuse,
+since it was chiefly upon your account that I have
+been so barbarously treated. Say no more of that,
+replied the king, but let me hear the whole story,
+simply as it is, and who the offender is; and if he is
+in the wrong, you may depend upon it he shall be
+severely punished.</p>
+<p>Sir, said Saouy then, telling the whole matter to
+his own advantage, having an occasion for a cook-maid,
+I went to the market of women-slaves to buy
+me one. When I came thither, there was a slave
+just cried at four thousand pieces of gold: I ordered
+them to bring the slave before me, and I think my
+eyes never did, nor ever will, behold a more glorious
+creature than she is. I had not time to examine
+her beauty thoroughly: but, however, I immediately
+asked to whom she belonged; and upon inquiry I
+found that Noureddin, son to the late vizier Khacan,
+had the disposing of her.</p>
+<p>Sir, you may remember that, about two or three
+years ago, you gave that vizier ten thousand pieces of
+gold, strictly charging him to buy you a slave with it.
+The money indeed was laid out upon this very slave;
+but instead of bringing her to your majesty, thinking
+his son deserved her better, he made him a present of
+her. Noureddin, since his father&rsquo;s death, having wasted
+his whole fortune in riot and feasting, has nothing
+left but this slave, which he intended to part with,
+and therefore she was to be sold in his name. I sent
+for him, and without mentioning any thing of his father&rsquo;s
+baseness, or rather treachery, to your majesty,
+I very civilly said to him, Noureddin, the merchants,
+I perceive, have put your slave up at four thousand
+pieces of gold; and I question not but, in emulation
+<span class="pb" id="Page_33">[33]</span>
+of each other, they will raise the price considerably:
+let me have her for the four thousand pieces; I am
+going to buy her for the king, our lord and master:
+this will be a handsome opportunity of making your
+court to him, and his favour will be worth a great deal
+more than the merchants can propose to give you.</p>
+<p>Instead of returning me a civil answer, as in good
+manners he ought to have done, the insolent wretch
+beholding me with an air of fierceness, Decrepit villain,
+said he, I would rather sell my slave to a Jew for
+nothing than to thee for money. Noureddin, replied
+I, without any manner of passion, though I had some
+reason to be a little warm, you do not consider that
+in talking at this rate you affront the king, who has
+raised your father and me to the honours we have
+enjoyed.</p>
+<p>This admonition, instead of moving him to a compliance,
+provoked him to a higher degree; so that,
+falling upon me like a madman, he pulled me off my
+horse, beat me as long as he could stand over me, and
+has put me into this miserable plight your majesty
+sees me in; and therefore I beseech you, sir, to consider
+me, since it is upon your account I have been so
+openly affronted. At the end of these words, he
+bowed his head, and turning about, wept a plentiful
+shower of tears.</p>
+<p>The abused king, highly incensed against Noureddin
+by this relation, full of malice and artifice, discovered
+by his countenance the violence of his anger;
+and, turning to the captain of his guards that stood
+near him, Take forty of your soldiers, said he, and
+immediately go plunder Noureddin&rsquo;s house; and,
+having ordered it to be razed to the ground, bring
+him and his slave along with you.</p>
+<p>The captain of the guards was not gone out of the
+king&rsquo;s presence, when a gentleman-usher belonging to
+the court, who overheard the order that had been
+<span class="pb" id="Page_34">[34]</span>
+given, got before him. His name was Sangiar, and
+he had been formerly the vizier Khacan&rsquo;s slave, by
+whose favour he was brought into the court service,
+where by degrees he was advanced higher.</p>
+<p>Sangiar, full of gratitude to his old master, and
+affection for Noureddin, with whom in his infancy he
+had often played, and being no stranger to Saouy&rsquo;s
+hatred to Khacan&rsquo;s family, could not hear the orders
+without concern and trembling. May be, said he to
+himself, this action of Noureddin&rsquo;s is not altogether
+so black as Saouy has represented it; but, however,
+the king is prejudiced against him, and will certainly
+put him to death without allowing him time to justify
+himself.</p>
+<p>Sangiar made so much haste to Noureddin&rsquo;s house,
+as to get thither time enough to acquaint him with
+what had passed at court, and to desire him to provide
+for his own and the Fair Persian&rsquo;s safety. He knocked
+so violently loud at the door, that Noureddin, who had
+been a great while without any servant, ran immediately
+to open it: My dear lord, said Sangiar, here is
+no more staying for you in Balsora: if you design to
+save yourself, you must lose no time, but depart hence
+this very moment.</p>
+<p>Why so? replied Noureddin; what is the reason I
+must be gone so soon? Ah! sir, said Sangiar, make
+haste away, and take your slave with you; for, in
+short, Saouy has been just now acquainting the king,
+after his own way of telling it, all that happened between
+you and him; and the captain of the guards
+will be here in an instant, with forty soldiers, and
+seize you and the Fair Persian. Here, sir, take these
+forty pieces of gold; it is all I have about me, to assist
+you in finding out some other place of safety.
+Excuse my not staying any longer with you: I leave
+you with a great deal of unwillingness; but I do it
+for the good of us both. I have so much interest with
+<span class="pb" id="Page_35">[35]</span>
+the captain of the guards, that he will take no notice
+of me. Sangiar gave Noureddin but just time to
+thank him, and away he went.</p>
+<p>Noureddin presently acquainted the Fair Persian
+with the absolute necessity of their going that moment.
+She only staid to put on her veil, and then they both
+stole out of the house together, and were so very lucky,
+as not only to get clear of the city, without the least
+notice being taken of their escape, but also safely to
+arrive at the mouth of the Euphrates, where they embarked
+in a vessel that lay ready to weigh anchor.</p>
+<p>They were no sooner on ship-board than the captain
+came upon deck amongst his passengers: My children,
+said he to them, are you all here? have any of you
+any more business to do in the city? or have you left
+any thing behind you? They answered him they were
+all there, and ready prepared; so that he might set
+sail as soon as he pleased. When Noureddin came
+aboard, the first question he asked was, whither the
+ship was bound? and being told for Bagdad, he greatly
+rejoiced at it. And now the captain having weighed
+anchor, set sail, and the vessel with a very favourable
+wind lost sight of Balsora.</p>
+<p>But now let us see how matters went at Balsora,
+in the mean time, while Noureddin and the Fair Persian
+made their escape from the fury of the enraged
+king.</p>
+<p>The captain of the guards came to Noureddin&rsquo;s
+house and knocked at the door, but nobody coming
+to open it, he ordered his soldiers to break it down,
+who immediately obeyed him, and in they rushed in
+a full body. They searched every hole and corner of
+the house, but neither he nor the Fair Persian were to
+be found. The captain of the guards made them inquire
+of the neighbours, and he asked himself if they
+had seen them lately: it was all in vain; for, though
+they had seen him go out of his house, so universally
+<span class="pb" id="Page_36">[36]</span>
+beloved was Noureddin, that not one of them would
+have said the least word that might be injurious to
+him. As soon as they had rifled the house and levelled
+it to the ground, they went to acquaint the king
+with the news. Look for them, said he, in some other
+places, for I am resolved to have them found.</p>
+<p>The captain of the guards made a second search
+after them; and the king dismissed the vizier Saouy
+with a great deal of honour. Go home, said he to him;
+trouble yourself no farther with Noureddin&rsquo;s punishment;
+for with my own hand I will revenge the insolence
+he has offered your person.</p>
+<p>Without any farther delay, the king ordered the
+public criers to proclaim throughout the whole city a
+reward of a thousand pieces of gold for any person
+that should apprehend Noureddin and the Fair Persian,
+with a severe punishment upon whomsoever
+should conceal them. But after all this pains and
+trouble, there was no news to be heard of them; and
+the vizier Saouy had only the comfort of seeing the
+king espouse his quarrel.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, Noureddin and the Fair Persian,
+after a prosperous voyage, landed safe at Bagdad. As
+soon as the captain came within sight of that city,
+pleased that his voyage was at an end, Children, cried
+he to the passengers, cheer up, and be merry! look,
+yonder is that great and wonderful city, where there
+is perpetual concourse of people from all parts of the
+world: there you shall meet with innumerable crowds
+every day, and never feel the extremity of cold in
+winter, nor the excess of heat in summer; but enjoy
+an eternal spring, always crowned with flowers, and
+the delicious fruits of autumn.</p>
+<p>When the vessel came to anchor a little below the
+city, the passengers got ashore, and every body went
+to the place they designed to lie at that night. Noureddin
+gave the captain five pieces of gold for his passage,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_37">[37]</span>
+and went ashore also with the Fair Persian;
+but being a perfect stranger in Bagdad, he was at a
+loss for a lodging. They rambled a considerable time
+about the gardens that bordered on the Tigris; and,
+keeping close to one of them that was enclosed with a
+very high wall, at the end of it they turned into a
+street finely paved, where they perceived a garden
+door, and a charming fountain near it.</p>
+<p>The door, which was very magnificent, happened to
+be shut, but the porch was open, in which there stood
+a sofa on each side. This is a very convenient place
+for us, said Noureddin to the Fair Persian: night comes
+on apace; and though we have eaten nothing since
+our landing, yet I believe we must even lie here to-night,
+and to-morrow we shall have time enough to
+get a lodging; what say ye to it, my dear? Sir, replied
+the Fair Persian, you know very well I am never
+against what you propose; therefore let us go no farther,
+since you are willing to stay here. Each of them
+having drunk a draught of water at the fountain, they
+laid themselves down upon one of the sofas; and, after
+a little chat, being invited by the agreeable murmur
+of the water, they fell fast asleep.</p>
+<p>The garden, it seems, belonged to the caliph; and
+in the middle of it there was a pavilion, called the Pavilion
+of Pictures, because its chief ornament was
+pictures, after the Persian manner, drawn by the most
+celebrated limners in Persia, whom the caliph sent for
+on purpose. The stately hall beneath this pavilion
+was adorned with fourscore windows, and in every
+window a branched candlestick. The candles were
+never lighted but when the caliph came thither to
+spend the evening, which was never but when the
+weather was so very calm that not a breath of air was
+stirring. Then, indeed, they made a glorious illumination,
+and could be plainly discerned at a vast distance
+<span class="pb" id="Page_38">[38]</span>
+in the country on that side, and by the greatest
+part of the city.</p>
+<p>There was but one person that had the charge of
+this fine garden, and the place was at this time enjoyed
+by a very ancient officer, named Scheich Ibrahim,
+whom the caliph himself, for some important
+service, put into that employment, with a strict charge
+not to let all sorts of people in, but especially to suffer
+nobody either to sit or lie down on the sofas that
+stood at the outward door, that they might always be
+clean and handsome; and whenever he found any
+body there, to punish them severely.</p>
+<p>Some business had obliged this officer to go abroad,
+and he was not as yet returned. When he came back,
+there was just daylight enough for him to discern two
+persons asleep upon one of the sofas, with both their
+heads under a piece of linen cloth, to secure them from
+the gnats. Very well, said Scheich Ibrahim to himself,
+here are brave people, to disobey the caliph&rsquo;s
+orders; but I shall take care to pay them handsomely
+what they deserve. Upon this, he opens the door
+very softly, and a moment after returns with a swinging
+cane in his hand, and his sleeve tucked up to the
+elbow. He was just going to lay on them with all his
+force; but, withholding his arm, he began to reason
+with himself after this manner: Thou wast going to
+strike, without any consideration that these perhaps
+are strangers, destitute of a lodging, and utterly ignorant
+of the caliph&rsquo;s order; for that reason, it would
+be advisable in thee to know first who they are. Upon
+this, he gently lifts up the linen that covered their
+heads, and being wonderfully astonished to see two
+persons so mightily beautiful and well-shaped, waked
+Noureddin, with pulling him softly by the feet.</p>
+<div class="img">
+<img src="images/p45.jpg" alt="Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chad Heath." width="500" height="639" />
+<p class="center"><span class="smaller">Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chad Heath.</span></p>
+</div>
+<p>Noureddin presently lifting up his head, and seeing
+an old man with a long white beard standing at his
+<span class="pb" id="Page_39">[39]</span>
+feet, got up, and throwing himself upon his knees,
+Good father, said he, Heaven preserve you! What do
+you want, my son? replied Scheich Ibrahim: who are
+you, and from whence came you? We are strangers
+newly arrived, answered Noureddin, and we would
+fain tarry here till to-morrow. This is not a proper
+place for you, said Scheich Ibrahim: but come in with
+me, and I will find one fitter for you to sleep in than
+this; and I fancy the sight of the garden, which is
+very fine, will please you, when you see it to-morrow
+by daylight. Is this garden your own? said Noureddin.
+Yes, replied Scheich Ibrahim; it is an inheritance
+left me by my father: pray walk in, for I
+am sure you will not repent your seeing it.</p>
+<p>Noureddin rose up to thank Scheich Ibrahim for
+the civility he had shown them, and afterwards the
+Fair Persian and he went into the garden. Scheich
+Ibrahim locked the door, and going before, led them
+to an eminence, from whence at one look they might
+almost take a view of the grandeur, order, and beauty
+of the whole garden.</p>
+<p>Noureddin had seen very fine gardens in Balsora,
+but never any comparable to this. Having satisfied
+his curiosity in looking upon every thing worth taking
+notice of, as he was walking in one of the alleys, he
+turned about to the officer that was with him, and
+asked what his name was. As soon as he told him
+it was Scheich Ibrahim; Scheich Ibrahim, said he to
+him, I must confess this is a charming garden indeed.
+Heaven send you long to enjoy the pleasures of it;
+and we cannot sufficiently thank you for the favour of
+showing us a place so worthy our seeing. However, it
+is but just that we should make you some amends for
+your kindness: therefore, here are two pieces of gold;
+take them, and get us something to eat, that we may
+be merry together before we part.</p>
+<p>At the sight of the two pieces of gold, Scheich
+<span class="pb" id="Page_40">[40]</span>
+Ibrahim, who was a great admirer of that metal,
+laughed in his sleeve: he took them, and leaving
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian by themselves, went
+to provide what he was sent about. As soon as he
+was alone, said he to himself with abundance of joy,
+These are generous people; I should highly have injured
+myself, if, through imprudence or rashness, I
+had abused or driven them hence: the tenth part of
+the money will treat them like princes, and the rest
+I will keep for my pains and trouble.</p>
+<p>While Scheich Ibrahim was gone to fetch something
+for his own supper, as well as for his guests, Noureddin
+and the Fair Persian took a walk in the garden,
+sometimes in one place and sometimes in another,
+till at last they came to the pavilion of pictures that
+was in the middle of it. They stood a pretty while to
+admire its wonderful structure, beauty, and loftiness;
+and, after taking a full view of it on every side, they
+went up a great many steps of fine white marble, to
+the hall door, which they found locked.</p>
+<p>They were but just got to the bottom of the steps
+as Scheich Ibrahim returned, loaded with provisions.
+Scheich Ibrahim, said Noureddin in a great surprise,
+did you not tell us that this was your garden? I did,
+replied Scheich Ibrahim, and do so still. And does
+this magnificent pavilion also belong to you? said
+Noureddin. Scheich Ibrahim was put to a nonplus,
+and would not hearken to any more questions: For,
+said he to himself, if I should say it is none of mine,
+he will presently ask me how I can be the master of
+the garden and not the pavilion? So, being willing
+to make them believe the garden was his, he said the
+same of the pavilion. My son, said he, the pavilion
+is not distinct from the garden, but they both belong
+to me. If so, said Noureddin, since you are willing to
+let us be your guests to-night, do us the favour to show
+us the inside of it; for, if we may judge by the outward
+<span class="pb" id="Page_41">[41]</span>
+appearance, it must certainly be very splendid and
+magnificent.</p>
+<p>It would have been a great piece of incivility in
+Scheich Ibrahim to have refused Noureddin that favour,
+after the returns he had made him: moreover,
+he considered that the caliph not having given any
+notice, according to the usual custom, it was likely he
+would not be there that night, and therefore resolved
+to treat his guests, and sup with them in that room.
+He laid the provisions upon the first step, while he
+went to his chamber to fetch the key. He soon returned
+with a light, and opened the door.</p>
+<p>Noureddin and the Fair Persian entered the hall;
+and finding it so extravagantly surprising, could not
+forbear admiring the beauty and richness of the place.
+Indeed, without saying anything of the pictures, which
+were admirably well drawn, the sofas were very noble
+and costly; and, besides the branched candlesticks
+that were fixed to every window, there was a silver
+spring between each cross bar, with a wax candle in
+it. Noureddin could not behold those glorious objects,
+which put him in mind of his former greatness,
+without sighing.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, Scheich Ibrahim was getting supper
+ready; and the cloth being laid upon a sofa, and
+every thing in order, Noureddin and the Fair Persian
+and he sat down and ate together. When supper was
+done, and they had washed their hands, Noureddin
+opened the casement, and calling the Fair Persian to
+him, Come hither, my dear, said he, and with me admire
+the charming prospect and beauty of the garden
+by moonlight; for certainly nothing can be more
+agreeable. She came to him, and they both together
+diverted themselves with that lovely object, while
+Scheich Ibrahim was busy in taking away the cloth.</p>
+<p>When Scheich Ibrahim came to his guests again,
+Noureddin asked him whether he had any good liquor
+<span class="pb" id="Page_42">[42]</span>
+in his lodgings to treat them with. What liquor would
+you have? replied Scheich Ibrahim. Sherbet, I have
+the best in the world; but sherbet, you know, my
+son, is never drunk after supper.</p>
+<p>I know that very well, said Noureddin; it is not
+sherbet, but another sort of liquor that we ask you
+for; and I am surprised at your not understanding
+me. It is wine that I perceive you speak of, said
+Scheich Ibrahim. You have hit right, replied Noureddin;
+and if you have any, pray let us have a bottle:
+you know a bottle after supper is a very proper
+companion to spend the hours with till bed-time.</p>
+<p>Heaven defend me from keeping wine in my house,
+cried Scheich Ibrahim, and from ever coming to a
+place where any is to be sold! A man as I am, who
+has been a pilgrimage four times to Mecca, has renounced
+wine for ever.</p>
+<p>However, said Noureddin, you would do us a singular
+kindness in getting us a little for our own drinking:
+and if it be not too much trouble, I will put you
+in a way how you may do it, without ever going into
+the inn, or so much as laying your hand upon the vessel
+that contains it. Upon that condition, I will do
+it, replied Scheich Ibrahim; therefore pray let me
+know how I am to manage it.</p>
+<p>Why then, said Noureddin to him, we just now saw
+an ass tied at the entrance of the garden, which certainly
+must be yours, and which you may make use
+of in this extremity. Here are two pieces of gold
+more; take them, and lead your ass with the panniers
+towards the next inn: you may stand at as great a
+distance as you please; only give something to the
+next passenger that comes by, and desire him to go
+with your ass to the inn, there load him with two pitchers
+of wine, one in one pannier and another in another,
+which he must pay for out of the money we have given
+you; and so let him bring the ass back to you: you will
+<span class="pb" id="Page_43">[43]</span>
+have nothing to do but drive the beast hither before
+you; for we will take the wine out of the panniers;
+and by this means you will act nothing but what you
+may do without any scruple at all.</p>
+<p>The two last pieces of gold that Scheich Ibrahim
+was going to receive, wrought wonderfully upon his
+temper. Ah! my son, cried he, after Noureddin had
+done speaking, you have contrived the matter rarely;
+and had it not been for your invention, I should never
+have found out a way of getting you some wine, without
+a little scruple of conscience. Away he went to
+execute the orders he had received; and upon his return,
+which was in a little time, Noureddin went down
+stairs, and taking the wine out of the panniers, carried
+it into the hall.</p>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim having led the ass back to the
+place from whence he took him, came back again.
+Scheich Ibrahim, said Noureddin to him, we cannot
+enough thank you for the trouble we have already
+given you; but, my friend, we want something yet.
+What is that? replied Scheich Ibrahim; is it anything
+that I can be farther serviceable to you in?
+Why, said Noureddin, we have no cups to drink out
+of; and a little choice fruit, if you have any, would
+be very acceptable to us. Do but say what you have
+a mind to, replied Scheich Ibrahim, and you shall have
+every thing to your heart&rsquo;s content.</p>
+<p>Down went Scheich Ibrahim, and in a short time
+spread a table for them with porcelain dishes, full of
+all sorts of delicious fruits, besides a great number of
+gold and silver cups to drink out of; and having asked
+them if they wanted any thing else, he withdrew,
+though they pressed him earnestly to stay.</p>
+<p>Noureddin and the Fair Persian sat down again,
+and after a cup a-piece, they were mightily pleased
+with the wine. Well, my dear, said Noureddin to the
+Fair Persian, are we not the most fortunate persons
+<span class="pb" id="Page_44">[44]</span>
+in the world, after so many dangers, to meet with so
+charming and agreeable a place? come, let us be
+merry, and think no more on the hardships of our
+voyage. Can my happiness be greater in this world,
+than to have you on one side of me, and my bottle on
+the other? They took off their cups pretty heartily,
+and diverted themselves very agreeably, in singing
+each of them a song.</p>
+<p>Both of them having very fine voices, but especially
+the Fair Persian, Scheich Ibrahim, who had stood
+hearkening a great while on the steps without discovering
+himself, was perfectly charmed with their songs.
+He could contain himself no longer; but, thrusting
+his head in at the door, Courage, sir, said he to Noureddin,
+whom he took to be quite drunk; I am overjoyed
+to see you so merry.</p>
+<p>Ah! Scheich Ibrahim, cried Noureddin, turning to
+him, you are a glorious man, and we are extremely
+obliged to you. We dare not ask you to drink a cup;
+but pray walk in, and let us have the honour at least
+of your company. Excuse me, sir, said Scheich Ibrahim;
+the pleasure of hearing your songs is sufficient
+for me. Upon this, he immediately retired.</p>
+<p>The Fair Persian perceiving Scheich Ibrahim,
+through one of the windows, standing upon the steps
+without the door, told Noureddin of it. Sir, said she,
+you see what an aversion he has for wine; yet I question
+not in the least to make him drink some, if you
+would do as I would have you. Noureddin asked her
+what it was. Do but say the word, replied he, and
+I am ready to do what you please. Prevail with him,
+then, only to come in and bear us company: some
+time after, fill up a bumper, and give it him; if he
+refuses it, drink it off, feign yourself to be asleep, and
+leave the rest to me.</p>
+<p>Noureddin quickly finding out the drift of the Fair
+Persian&rsquo;s design, called to Scheich Ibrahim, who came
+<span class="pb" id="Page_45">[45]</span>
+again to the door: Scheich Ibrahim, said he, we are
+your guests; you have entertained us after the most
+obliging manner in the world; and will you now refuse
+us the honour of bearing us company? We do not
+ask you to drink, but only the favour of seeing you.</p>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim being at last prevailed upon, came
+into the hall, and sat down upon the edge of a sofa
+that stood the nearest to the door. You do not sit well
+there, said Noureddin; besides, you are too far off for
+us to converse with you: pray come nearer, and sit
+down by the lady, since she will have it so. I will
+obey you, replied Scheich Ibrahim; so, coming forward
+with a simpering countenance, to think he should
+be seated near so beautiful a creature, he placed himself
+at some distance from the Fair Persian. Noureddin
+desired a song of her, upon the account of the
+honour that Scheich Ibrahim had done them; and
+she sang one that charmed him to an ecstasy.</p>
+<p>When the Fair Persian had ended her song, Noureddin
+poured out a cup of wine, and presented it to
+Scheich Ibrahim; Scheich Ibrahim, said he, here,
+drink this to our healths. Sir, replied he, starting
+back, as if the very sight of the wine had put him into
+a horror and confusion, I beseech you to excuse me;
+I have already told you, that I have forsworn the use
+of wine these many years. Then positively you will
+not drink our healths, said Noureddin; however, give
+me leave to drink yours.</p>
+<p>While Noureddin was drinking, the Fair Persian
+cut a piece of apple, and presented it to Scheich
+Ibrahim. Though you refused drinking, said she, yet
+I believe you will not refuse eating this piece of apple,
+since it is a very good one. Scheich Ibrahim had no
+power to refuse it from so fair a hand; but taking it
+with a very low bow, kissed it, and put it in his mouth.
+She said a great many amorous things upon that occasion;
+and Noureddin tumbling back upon a sofa,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_46">[46]</span>
+pretended to fall fast asleep. The Fair Persian presently
+advanced towards Scheich Ibrahim; and speaking
+in a very low voice, See, said she, the sleepy sot!
+thus, in all our merry bouts, he constantly serves me;
+and no sooner has he drunk a cup or two, than he falls
+asleep, and leaves me alone; but I hope you will have
+the goodness to keep me company till he awakes.</p>
+<p>At this, the Fair Persian took a cup, and filling it
+to the brim with wine, offered it to Scheich Ibrahim:
+Here, said she, drink off this to my health: I am going
+to pledge you. Scheich Ibrahim made a great
+many difficulties of the matter at first, and begged her
+to excuse him from drinking; but, at last, overcome
+by her charms and entreaties, he took the cup, and
+drank every drop of the wine off.</p>
+<p>The good old man loved a cheruping cup to his
+heart, but was ashamed to drink among strangers.
+He often went to the tavern in private, as abundance
+of people do; and now his hand being once in, without
+any more ceremony, or round-about ways, as Noureddin
+had instructed him, he goes directly to the next
+inn, where he was very well known, and fetches some
+more wine (the night serving him instead of a cloak)
+with the money that Noureddin had ordered him to
+give the messenger that went for the first.</p>
+<p>As soon as Scheich Ibrahim had taken off his cup,
+and made an end of the piece of apple, the Fair Persian
+filled him out another, which he received with
+less difficulty than the former, but made none at all
+at the third. In short, he drank four times before
+ever Noureddin discovered his pretended sleeping;
+but then bursting out into a violent fit of laughter, he
+rose up, and looking upon him, Ha! ha! said he,
+Scheich Ibrahim, are you caught at last? did you not
+tell me you had forsworn wine? and now you have
+drank it all up from me.</p>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim, not expecting to be surprised after
+<span class="pb" id="Page_47">[47]</span>
+that manner, blushed a little: however, that did not
+spoil his draught: but when he had done, Sir, said he
+to Noureddin, laughing, if there is any crime in what
+I have done, it lies at this fair lady&rsquo;s door, not mine;
+for who could possibly resist so many charms?</p>
+<p>The Fair Persian, who knew well enough what
+Noureddin would be at, took Scheich Ibrahim&rsquo;s part:
+Let him talk, said she; Scheich Ibrahim, take no notice
+of him; but let us drink on, and be merry. A
+while after, Noureddin fills out a cup for himself and
+the Fair Persian; but when Scheich Ibrahim saw that
+Noureddin had forgot him in his turn, he took his cup,
+and presenting it to the Fair Persian, Madam, said
+he, do I pretend I cannot drink now?</p>
+<p>At these words of Scheich Ibrahim&rsquo;s, Noureddin
+and the Fair Persian were ready to split their sides
+with laughing. Noureddin poured him out some wine;
+and there they sat laughing, chatting, and drinking,
+till pretty near midnight. About that hour, the Fair
+Persian began to take notice of there being but one
+candle upon the table. Scheich Ibrahim, said she to
+the good old officer, methinks you might have afforded
+us another candle, since there are so many wax-lights
+yonder: pray do us the favour to light some of them,
+that we may see a little better what we are doing
+here.</p>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim making use of the liberty that
+wine gives a man, when it gets up into the crown-office,
+and not caring to be interrupted in his discourse
+with Noureddin, bid the Fair Persian light them herself:
+It is fitter for you to do it than me, said he: but,
+hark ye, be sure not to light above five or six; for
+this is enough. Up rose the Fair Persian immediately,
+and taking a wax-candle in her hand, lights it with
+that which stood upon the table; and, without any
+regard to Scheich Ibrahim&rsquo;s orders, set fire to the
+whole fourscore.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_48">[48]</div>
+<p>By and by, while Scheich Ibrahim was entertaining
+the Fair Persian with some other discourse, Noureddin
+took his turn to desire him to light up some of the
+candles in the branched candlesticks, not taking notice
+that all the wax-lights were already in a blaze:
+Certainly, replied Scheich Ibrahim, you are lazier, or
+less vigorous, than I am, that you are not able to light
+them yourself: get you gone; but be sure you light
+no more than three. To work he went; but, instead
+of that number, he lighted them all, and opened the
+shutters of the fourscore windows, before Scheich
+Ibrahim, who was deeply engaged with the Fair Persian,
+knew any thing of the matter.</p>
+<p>The caliph Haroun Alraschid being not yet gone
+to bed, was in a parlour at his palace by the river
+Tigris, from whence he could take a side-view both
+of the garden and pavilion. By chance, he opened
+the casement, and seeing the pavilion was illuminated,
+was mightily surprised at it; and at first, by the greatness
+of the light, thought the city was on fire. The
+grand vizier Giafar was still with him, who only waited
+for his going to rest, and then designed to go home
+too. The caliph, in a great rage, called the vizier to
+him: Careless vizier, said he, come hither, look upon
+the pavilion of pictures, and tell me the reason of its
+being illuminated, now I am not there.</p>
+<p>The grand vizier Giafar, upon this news, fell into a
+violent trembling, fearing something else was the matter;
+but, when he came nearer, and with his own
+eyes saw the truth of what the caliph had told him,
+he was more astonished than before. However, being
+obliged to make some excuse to appease the caliph&rsquo;s
+anger, he said, Commander of the true believers, all
+that I can say to your majesty about this matter is,
+that about five or six days ago, Scheich Ibrahim came
+to acquaint me, that he had a design to call an assembly
+of the ministers of his mosque, to assist at a
+<span class="pb" id="Page_49">[49]</span>
+ceremony he was ambitious of performing in your
+majesty&rsquo;s auspicious reign. I asked him if I could be
+any way serviceable to him in this affair; upon which
+he entreated me to get leave of your majesty to perform
+the ceremony in the pavilion. When he left me,
+I told him he might do it, and I would take care to
+acquaint your majesty with it; but indeed I had
+quite forgot it, and I heartily ask pardon. Scheich
+Ibrahim, continued he, has certainly made choice of
+this day for the ceremony; and, after treating the ministers
+of his mosque, he was willing to divert them
+with the sight of this illumination.</p>
+<p>Giafar, said the caliph, with a tone that plainly
+showed his anger was a little mollified, according to
+thy own words, thou hast committed three faults that
+are unpardonable: the first, in giving Scheich Ibrahim
+leave to perform his ceremony in my pavilion; for a
+person in so mean an office as his, is not worthy of so
+great an honour: the second, in not acquainting me
+with it: and the third, in not diving into the bottom
+of the good old man&rsquo;s intention. For my part, I am
+persuaded he only did it to try if he could get any
+money towards bearing the charge of it; but perhaps
+that never came into thy head: and sure I shall not
+wrong him, in forgiving him the expense of the night&rsquo;s
+illumination, which will be some amends for thy presenting
+him with nothing.</p>
+<p>The grand vizier Giafar, overjoyed to hear the caliph
+put the matter upon that foot, very willingly owned
+the faults he reproached him with, and freely confessed
+he was to blame in not giving Scheich Ibrahim
+a few pieces of gold. Since the case is so, added the
+caliph, it is just that thou shouldst be punished for
+thy mistakes; but thy punishment shall be light: thou
+shalt spend the remainder of the night as I do, with
+these honest souls, whose company I am very well
+pleased with; and while I am putting on a citizen&rsquo;s
+<span class="pb" id="Page_50">[50]</span>
+habit, go thou and disguise thyself, with Mesrour, and
+come both of you along with me. The vizier Giafar
+told him it was late, and that all the company would
+be gone before he could get thither; but the caliph
+said he would positively go. The vizier, who knew
+that not a syllable of what he said before was true,
+began to be in great consternation; but there was no
+reply to be made, and go he must.</p>
+<p>The caliph then, disguised like a citizen, with the
+grand vizier Giafar, and Mesrour, chief of the eunuchs,
+stole out of the palace together. They rambled through
+the streets of Bagdad, till at last they came to the garden:
+the door, through the carelessness of Scheich
+Ibrahim, was open, having forgot to shut it when he
+came back from buying the wine. The caliph was
+very angry at it: Giafar, said he to the grand vizier,
+what excuse have you for the door&rsquo;s being open at this
+unseasonable hour? Is it possible that Scheich Ibrahim
+makes a custom of leaving it thus all night? No;
+I rather believe the hurry of the feast has been the
+occasion of this neglect.</p>
+<p>The caliph went into the garden; and when he
+came to the pavilion, resolving not to go into the hall
+till he knew what they were doing there, he consulted
+with the grand vizier, whether it was not his best way
+to climb up into one of the trees that was near it, to
+make a discovery. The grand vizier at last casting
+his eye upon the door, perceived it stood half open,
+and told the caliph of it. It seems Scheich Ibrahim
+had left it so, when he was prevailed upon to come in
+and bear Noureddin and the Fair Persian company.</p>
+<p>The caliph laying aside his first design, stole softly
+up to the hall-door, which standing half-open, he had
+the conveniency of seeing all the company that were
+within, without being discovered himself.</p>
+<p>Never was any person so surprised as he, when he
+saw a lady of an incomparable beauty, and a young,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_51">[51]</span>
+handsome, fine-shaped man, sitting at the table, with
+Scheich Ibrahim by them. Scheich Ibrahim had just
+then got a cup in his hand: My dear creature, said
+he to the Fair Persian, a right toper never drinks
+without singing a brisk tune first. If you please to
+hear, I will give you one of my best songs.</p>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim sang; and the caliph wondered
+at it more, because till that very moment he never
+knew any thing of his drinking wine, but always took
+him for a grave solid man, as he seemed to be to
+outward appearance. The caliph retired from the
+door with the same caution as he made his approach
+to it; and coming to the grand vizier Giafar, who was
+standing upon the steps a little lower, Come up, said
+he to him, and see if those within yonder are the ministers
+of the mosque, as you would fain have me believe.</p>
+<p>By the tone of the voice in which the caliph spoke
+these last words, the vizier understood that things
+went ill on his side: however, he went up the steps;
+but when he had peeped in at the door, and saw
+them all three sitting, and in that condition, he fell
+a-trembling for fear of his life. He went back to
+the caliph, but in so great a confusion, that he had
+not a word to say to him. What riotous doings are
+here? said the caliph to him: who are those people
+that have presumed to take the liberty of diverting
+themselves in my garden and pavilion? and how
+durst Scheich Ibrahim give them admittance, and
+partake of the diversion with them? However, I
+must confess, I never saw two persons more beautiful,
+or better paired, in my life; and therefore, before
+I discover my anger, I will inform myself a little
+better, and inquire who they are, and the reason of
+their being here. He went to the door again, to observe
+them more narrowly; and the vizier who followed,
+stood behind him, and fixed his eyes upon
+<span class="pb" id="Page_52">[52]</span>
+them. They both of them plainly heard every word
+that Scheich Ibrahim spoke to the Fair Persian. Is
+there any thing, my charming lady, wanting to render
+the pleasures of this night complete? Nothing
+but a lute, replied the Fair Persian; and methinks, if
+you could get me one, all things would be very well.
+Can you play upon it? said Scheich Ibrahim. Fetch
+me one, replied the Fair Persian, and you shall hear
+whether I can or not.</p>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim, without stirring very far from his
+place, pulled a lute out of a cupboard, and presented
+it to the Fair Persian, who began to put it in tune.
+The caliph, in the mean time, turning to the grand
+vizier; Giafar, said he, the young lady is going to
+play upon the lute; and if she performs well, I will
+forgive her, and the young man for her sake; but,
+as for thee, thou mayest go hang thyself. Commander
+of the true believers, replied the grand vizier,
+if that is your intention I wish she may play ill.
+Why so? said the caliph. Because, replied the
+grand vizier, the longer we live in this world, the
+more time we shall have to comfort ourselves with
+the hopes of dying in good social company. The
+caliph, who loved a jest dearly, began to laugh at
+this repartee; and putting his ear to the open side
+of the door, he listened to hear the Fair Persian
+play.</p>
+<p>The Fair Persian made such artful flourishes upon
+the lute, that from the first moment of her touching
+it, the caliph perceived that she did it with a masterly
+hand. Afterwards, she began to sing; and
+suiting her voice, which was admirably fine, to the
+lute, she sang and played with so much skill and
+sweetness, that the caliph was quite ravished to hear
+her.</p>
+<p>As soon as the Fair Persian had finished her song,
+the caliph went down the steps, and the vizier Giafar
+<span class="pb" id="Page_53">[53]</span>
+after him. When he came to the bottom, By my
+soul, said he to the vizier, I never heard a more
+charming voice, or a lute better touched in my life.
+Isaac<a class="fn" id="fr_1" href="#fn_1">[1]</a>,
+that hitherto I thought the most skilful
+player in the world, does not come up to her. In
+short, I am so charmed with her music, that I must
+hear her play before me; and therefore contrive
+some way how to bring it about.</p>
+<p>Commander of the true believers, said the grand
+vizier, if you should go in, and Scheich Ibrahim
+chance to know you, he would infallibly die with the
+fright. I should be extremely concerned at that, replied
+the caliph, and should be loath to be the occasion
+of his death, after so many years&rsquo; service. But
+there is a thought just come into my head, how to
+compass my design: stay here with Mesrour, and
+wait for me in the next alley till I come.</p>
+<p>The neighbourhood of the Tigris had given the
+caliph the conveniency of turning a sufficient quantity
+of water under a stately bridge, well terraced,
+into his garden, to make a fine canal, whither the
+choicest fish of the whole river used to retire. The
+fishermen knew it very well, and would have given
+the world to fish there; but the caliph had expressly
+charged Scheich Ibrahim not to suffer any of them
+to come near it. However, that very night, a fisherman
+passing by the garden door, which the caliph
+had left open as he found it, made use of this opportunity,
+and going in, went directly to the canal.</p>
+<p>The fisherman immediately fell to work with his
+casting-nets, and was just ready to draw them, when
+the caliph, fearing what would be the effect of
+Scheich Ibrahim&rsquo;s negligence, but willing to make
+use of it, to bring his design about, came to the same
+<span class="pb" id="Page_54">[54]</span>
+place. The fisherman, in spite of his disguise, knew
+him, and throwing himself at his feet, humbly implored
+his pardon, and excused himself upon account
+of his poverty. Rise, saith the caliph, and be not
+afraid; only draw your nets, that I may see what fish
+you have got.</p>
+<p>The fisherman, recovered of his fright, quickly
+obeyed the caliph&rsquo;s orders. He drew out five or six
+very large fishes; and the caliph, choosing the two
+largest, tied them together by the head with a sprig
+of a tree. After this, said he to the fisherman, Give
+me thy clothes, and here take mine. The exchange
+was soon made; and the caliph being dressed like a
+fisherman, even to his boots and turban, Take thy
+nets, said he to the fisherman, and get thee about
+thy business.</p>
+<p>When the fisherman, very well pleased with his
+good fortune, was gone, the caliph, taking the two
+fishes in his hand, went to look after the grand vizier
+Giafar and Mesrour. He made a full stop at the
+grand vizier, who, not knowing him, asked him what
+he wanted, and bade him go about his business.
+Upon this, the caliph fell a-laughing; by which the
+vizier finding it to be him, Commander of the true
+believers, said he, is it possible it can be you? I
+knew you not; and I ask a thousand pardons for my
+rudeness: you are so strangely disguised now, that
+without any fear of being discovered by Scheich
+Ibrahim, you may venture into the hall. Stay you
+here with Mesrour, said the caliph, while I go yonder
+and play my part.</p>
+<p>The caliph went up to the hall, and knocked at
+the door. Noureddin hearing him first, told Scheich
+Ibrahim of it, who asked who was there. The caliph
+opened the door, and stepping a little way into
+the hall to show himself, Scheich Ibrahim, said he, I
+am the fisherman Kerim, who being informed of your
+<span class="pb" id="Page_55">[55]</span>
+design to treat some of your friends, have brought
+two very large fishes, fresh caught, to see if you have
+any occasion for them.</p>
+<p>Noureddin and the Fair Persian, mightily pleased
+to hear him name fish, Pray, said she to Scheich
+Ibrahim, let him come in, that we may look upon
+them. Scheich Ibrahim, by this time, was incapable
+of asking this counterfeit fisherman how or what
+way he came thither; but his whole design being
+only to oblige the Fair Persian, with much ado he
+turns his head towards the door, being quite drunk,
+and in a stammering tone, calling to the caliph,
+whom he took to be a fisherman, Come hither, thou
+nightly thief, said he, and let us see what thou hast
+got.</p>
+<p>The caliph went forwards, and counterfeiting all
+the humours and actions of a fisherman to a nicety,
+presented them with the two fishes. These are very
+fine ones indeed, said the Fair Persian; and if they
+were well ordered, and delicately dressed, I should
+be glad to eat some of them. The lady is in the
+right, answered Scheich Ibrahim; but what the
+plague can we do with your fish, unless it was dressed?
+Go, dress it thyself, and bring it to us; thou
+wilt find every thing necessary for thee in my
+kitchen.</p>
+<p>The caliph went back to the grand vizier: Giafar,
+said he, I have been very well received; but they
+want the fish to be dressed. I will take care to dress
+it myself, said the grand vizier, and they shall have
+it in a moment. Nay, replied the caliph, so eager
+am I to accomplish my design, that I will take
+abundance of pains about it too; for since I have
+personated the fisherman so well, sure I can play the
+cook for once: besides, in my younger days, I dealt
+a little in cookery, and always came off with flying
+colours. In saying these words, he went directly towards
+<span class="pb" id="Page_56">[56]</span>
+Scheich Ibrahim&rsquo;s lodgings, and the grand
+vizier and Mesrour followed him.</p>
+<p>All three of them presently fell to work, and
+though Scheich Ibrahim&rsquo;s kitchen was not very large,
+yet there was every thing in it that they wanted.
+The fish was quickly cooked, and the caliph served
+it up, putting to every one&rsquo;s plate a lemon to squeeze,
+if they thought it proper, into the sauce. They all
+ate very heartily, but especially Noureddin and the
+Fair Persian; and the caliph sat down with them at
+the lower end of the table.</p>
+<p>As soon as the repast was over, Noureddin looking
+upon the caliph, Fisherman, said he, never were
+better fish eaten, and you have done us the greatest
+favour in the world. At the same time putting his
+hand into his bosom, and pulling out a purse of
+thirty pieces of gold, the remainder of the forty that
+Sangiar, gentleman-usher to the king of Balsora, had
+given him just upon his departure; Here, said he to
+him, take that, and if I had any more, thou shouldst
+have it: had I known thee in my prosperity, I would
+have taken care of securing thee from ever wanting:
+do not refuse the small present I make thee, but accept
+of it as kindly as if it was much greater.</p>
+<p>The caliph took the purse, and perceiving by the
+weightiness that it was all gold, Sir, said he, I cannot
+enough thank you for your liberality, and I think
+myself very fortunate in having to do with a person
+of your generosity; but before I take my leave, I
+have a favour to ask, which I beg you not to deny
+me. Yonder is a lute, which makes me believe that
+the lady understands playing upon it; and if you can
+prevail with her to play but one tune, I shall go away
+the best satisfied in the world: a lute, sir, is an instrument
+I greatly admire.</p>
+<p>Fair Persian, said Noureddin, immediately addressing
+himself to her, I ask that favour of you,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_57">[57]</span>
+and I hope you will not refuse me. She took up the
+lute without more entreaties, and putting it presently
+in tune, played and sang with such an air as charmed
+the very soul of the caliph with its harmony. Afterwards
+she played upon the lute without singing, but
+with so much skill and softness that it transported
+him into an ecstasy of joy.</p>
+<p>When the Fair Persian had given over playing, the
+caliph cried out, What a voice! What a hand! What
+skill is here! Was there ever finer singing, or better
+playing upon the lute? Never was there any heard
+or seen like it.</p>
+<p>Noureddin, who was a person of breeding, and
+always returned the compliment that was made him;
+Fisherman, said he, I find thou hast some taste for
+music, since thou art delighted with her performance;
+and if thou likest her she is thine; I make
+thee a present of her. At the same time he rose up,
+and taking his robe, which he had laid by, was for
+going away and leaving the pretended fisherman in
+possession of the Fair Persian.</p>
+<p>The Fair Persian was extremely surprised at Noureddin&rsquo;s
+liberality; she took hold of him, and looking
+very wishfully at him, Whither, sir, are you
+going? said she; sit down in your place, I entreat
+you, and hearken to the song I am going to sing and
+play. He did as she desired him, and then the Fair
+Persian touching her lute, and looking upon him with
+tears, sang some verses that she had made <i>extempore</i>
+to reproach him with his indifference, and the
+easiness as well as cruelty of resigning her to Kerim.
+She only hinted, without explaining herself any farther
+to the fisherman, for she was ignorant of his
+being the caliph, as well as Noureddin. When she
+had done playing, she put the lute down by her, and
+clapped a handkerchief to her face to hide the tears
+she could not help shedding.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_58">[58]</div>
+<p>Noureddin made no answer to all these reproaches,
+but by his silence seemed to declare he did not repent
+of what he had done. The caliph surprised at
+what he had newly heard, Sir, said he, as far as I
+see, this beautiful lady, that so generously you have
+made me a present of just now, is your slave, and
+you are her master. It is very true, Kerim, replied
+Noureddin, and thou wouldst be more surprised than
+thou art now, should I tell thee all the misfortunes
+that have happened to me on her account. Ah! I
+beseech you, sir, replied the caliph, still behaving
+himself like a fisherman, oblige me so far as to let me
+hear part of your story.</p>
+<p>Noureddin, who had already obliged him in several
+things of a higher nature than this, was so complaisant
+as to relate the whole story to him. He began with
+his father&rsquo;s buying the Fair Persian for the king of
+Balsora, and omitted nothing of what he had done,
+or what had happened to him, from that time to
+their arrival at Bagdad, and since, to that very moment
+he was talking to him.</p>
+<p>When Noureddin had ended his story, Whither
+are you going now? said the caliph. Even where
+Heaven shall direct me, answered Noureddin. Believe
+me, replied the caliph, you shall go no farther,
+but on the contrary, return to Balsora: I will go and
+write a short letter, which you shall give the king in
+my name; and you shall see upon the reading of it,
+he will give you a very handsome reception, and nobody
+will dare to speak against you.</p>
+<p>Kerim, said Noureddin, what thou hast told me is
+very unaccountable and singular: didst thou ever hear
+that a poor fisherman, as thou art, had any correspondence
+with a king? Be not astonished at that,
+replied the caliph; you must know then, that we
+both studied together under the same masters, and
+were always the best friends in the world. It is
+<span class="pb" id="Page_59">[59]</span>
+true, fortune has not been equally favourable to us
+both; she has made him a king, and me but a fisherman.
+However, this inequality has not at all lessened
+our friendship: he has often expressed a readiness
+and desire to advance my fortune, but I
+always refused it; and am better pleased with the
+satisfaction of knowing that he never will deny me
+whatever I ask for the service and advantage of my
+friends. Let me do it then, and you shall see the
+success.</p>
+<p>Noureddin consented to what the caliph had proposed;
+and there being every thing necessary for
+writing in the hall, the caliph wrote a letter to the
+king of Balsora; at the top of which, pretty near the
+edge of the paper, he placed this set form, in three
+small characters: &lsquo;In the name of the most merciful
+God,&rsquo; to show he would be absolutely obeyed.</p>
+<h3 title="">THE LETTER OF CALIPH HAROUN ALRASCHID TO THE KING OF BALSORA</h3>
+<p>&lsquo;Haroun Alraschid, son of Mandi, sends this
+letter to Mohammed Zinchi, his cousin, greeting.
+As soon as Noureddin, son to the late vizier Khacan,
+the bearer, has delivered you this letter and
+you have read it, pull off the royal mantle, put it on
+his shoulders, and place him in thy seat: fail not.
+So farewell.&rsquo;</p>
+<p class="tb">The caliph folded up the letter, and sealed it, and
+giving it to Noureddin, without saying any thing of
+what was in it, Go, said he, and embark immediately
+in a vessel that is ready to go off, (as there did constantly
+every day at the same hour), and you may
+sleep when you are aboard.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_60">[60]</div>
+<p>Noureddin took the letter, and away he went with
+the little money he had about him when Sangiar
+gave him his purse; and the Fair Persian, distracted
+with grief at his departure, retired by herself to one
+of the sofas, and fell a-weeping bitterly.</p>
+<p>Noureddin was scarce gone out of the hall, when
+Scheich Ibrahim, who had been silent during the
+transaction of this affair, looking steadfastly upon
+the caliph, whom he still believed to be a fisherman:
+Hark you, said he, Kerim, thou hast brought us two
+fishes that are worth twenty pieces of leather or
+more, and thou hast got a purse and a slave: but
+dost thou think to have it all for thyself? I here declare
+that I will go halves with thee in the slave; and
+as for the purse, show me what is in the inside: if
+it is silver, thou shalt have one piece for thyself;
+but if it is gold, I will have it all, and in exchange,
+give thee some pieces of leather I have in my
+pocket.</p>
+<p>(For the better understanding of what follows,
+said Scheherazade, interrupting herself here, we
+must observe to you, that the caliph, before his serving
+up the fish, had despatched the grand vizier
+Giafar to his palace, with orders to get four slaves
+with a rich habit, and to wait on the other side of
+the pavilion till he gave a signal with his finger
+against the window. The grand vizier receiving his
+commission, he, Mesrour, and the four slaves, waited
+at the appointed place, expecting the sign).</p>
+<p>The caliph, still personating the fisherman, answered
+Scheich Ibrahim very boldly, I know not
+what there is in the purse, gold or silver: whatever
+it is, you shall freely go my halves; but, as to the
+slave, I will have her all to myself; and if you will
+not accept of these conditions, you shall have nothing
+at all.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_61">[61]</div>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim, enraged to the last degree at
+this insolence, considering him only as a fisherman,
+snatched up one of the china dishes, and flung it at
+the caliph&rsquo;s head. The caliph easily avoided the
+blow, being thrown by a person in drink; but the
+dish striking against the wall, was dashed into a
+thousand pieces. Scheich Ibrahim having missed
+his aim, grew more enraged, and catching up the
+candle that stood upon the table, rose from his seat,
+and staggering along, went down a back pair of stairs
+to look for a cane.</p>
+<p>The caliph made use of this opportunity, and
+striking his hands against the window, the grand
+vizier, Mesrour, and the four slaves were with him
+in a trice, who quickly pulled off the fisherman&rsquo;s
+clothes, and put on him the habit they had brought.
+They had not quite dressed the caliph, (who had
+seated himself upon the throne that was in the hall),
+but they were very busy about him, when Scheich
+Ibrahim, spurred on by interest, came back, with a
+swinging cane in his hand, with which he designed to
+pay the pretended fisherman soundly; but, instead
+of finding him, he saw his clothes in the middle of
+the hall, and the caliph upon his throne, with the
+grand vizier and Mesrour on each side of him. He
+stood a while gazing upon this unexpected sight,
+doubting whether he was awake or asleep. The caliph
+fell a-laughing at his astonishment; and, calling
+to him, Scheich Ibrahim, said he, what dost thou
+want? whom dost thou look after?</p>
+<p>Scheich Ibrahim, no longer doubting that it was
+the caliph, immediately threw himself at his feet,
+with his face to the ground: Commander of the true
+believers, cried he, your vile slave has offended you;
+but he implores your clemency, and asks a thousand
+pardons for his offence. As soon as the slaves had
+made an end of dressing him, he came down from his
+<span class="pb" id="Page_62">[62]</span>
+throne, and advancing towards him, Rise, said he; I
+forgive thee.</p>
+<p>Afterwards the caliph addressed himself to the
+Fair Persian, who had suspended her sorrow, as soon
+as she understood that the garden and pavilion belonged
+to that prince, and not to Scheich Ibrahim, as
+he had all along made her believe, and that it was he
+himself disguised in the fisherman&rsquo;s clothes. Fair
+Persian, said he, rise and follow me: by what you
+have lately seen, you ought to know who I am, and
+to believe that I am above taking any advantage of
+Noureddin&rsquo;s humour, who, with a generosity not to
+be paralleled, has made me a present of your person.
+I have sent him to Balsora to be king there; and
+when I have despatched some business necessary for
+his establishment, you shall also go thither and be a
+queen. In the mean time, I am going to order an
+apartment for you in my palace, where you shall be
+treated according to your desert.</p>
+<p>This discourse put the Fair Persian in heart again,
+and comforted her after a very sensible manner. The
+joy of Noureddin&rsquo;s advancement, whom she passionately
+loved, to so high an honour, made her sufficient
+amends for her affliction. The caliph kept his promise,
+and recommended her to the care of his lady
+Zobeide, whom he acquainted with the esteem he had
+lately entertained for Noureddin.</p>
+<p>Noureddin&rsquo;s return to Balsora was more fortunate
+and speedier by some days than he could have expected.
+Upon his arrival, without visiting any of
+his friends or relations, he went directly to the palace,
+where the king at that time was giving public
+audience. He pressed through the crowd with the
+letter held up in his hand, who presently made way
+for him to come forward and deliver it. The king
+took and opened it; and his colour changed in reading
+it: he kissed it thrice, and was just about to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_63">[63]</span>
+obey the caliph&rsquo;s orders, when he bethought himself
+of showing it to the vizier Saouy, Noureddin&rsquo;s irreconcileable
+enemy.</p>
+<p>Saouy, who had discovered Noureddin, and began
+to think with himself, with a great deal of uneasiness,
+what might be the design of his coming, was
+no less surprised than the king, at the order contained
+in the letter; and being as much concerned in
+it, he thought upon a way that very moment how to
+evade it. He pretended not to have read the letter
+quite through, and therefore desired a second view of
+it; he turned himself a little on one side, as if he
+wanted a better sight, and without being perceived
+by any body, dexterously tore off the set form that
+showed the caliph would be absolutely obeyed, from
+the top of it, and putting it into his mouth, swallowed
+it down.</p>
+<p>After this notorious piece of villany, Saouy turned
+to the king, and giving him the letter, Sir, said he
+to him, in a low voice, what does your majesty intend
+to do? What the caliph has commanded me, replied
+the king. Have a care, sir, said the wicked vizier,
+what you do: it is true, this is the caliph&rsquo;s hand;
+but the set form is not to it. The king had observed
+that very well, but in the confusion he was in, he
+thought his eyes deceived him, when he saw it was
+gone.</p>
+<p>Sir, continued the vizier, we have no reason to
+doubt, but that the caliph upon the complaints he
+has made against your majesty and me, has granted
+him this letter purely to get rid of him, not with any
+intention of having the order contained in it executed.
+Besides, we must consider, he has sent no
+express with a patent: and without that, the order is
+of no force: and since a king of your majesty&rsquo;s grandeur
+was never deposed without that formality, let
+who will bring such a letter as this, it ought not to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_64">[64]</span>
+be put in execution. Your majesty may depend upon
+what I have said; and how dangerous soever the consequence
+of disobeying this order may be, I will take
+it all upon myself.</p>
+<p>King Zinchi, easily persuaded by this pernicious
+counsel, left Noureddin entirely to the discretion of
+the vizier Saouy, who led him to his house after a
+very insulting manner; where, after causing him to
+be bastinadoed till he was almost dead, he ordered
+him to a prison, where he commanded him to be put
+in the darkest dungeon, with a strict charge to the
+gaoler to give him nothing but bread and water.</p>
+<p>When Noureddin, sadly bruised with the strokes,
+came to himself, and found what a nasty dungeon he
+was in, he bewailed his misfortunes after the most
+pathetic manner imaginable. Ah! fisherman, cried
+he, how hast thou cheated me; and how easy have I
+been in believing thee! Could I, after the civility
+I showed thee, expect so inhuman and barbarous
+usage! However, may Heaven reward thee: for I
+cannot persuade myself, that thy intention was so
+base, and I will with patience wait the end of my
+afflictions.</p>
+<p>The poor disconsolate Noureddin remained six
+whole days in this miserable condition, and Saouy
+did not forget that he had confined him there, but
+being resolved to put him to a shameful death, and
+not daring to do it by his own authority, to accomplish
+his villanous design, he ordered some of his
+slaves to prepare some very rich presents, which he,
+at the head of them, went and presented to the king,
+saying, Behold, sir, what the new king hath sent you
+upon his accession to the crown, and begs your majesty
+to accept of it.</p>
+<p>The king taking the matter just as Saouy intended
+it, What! replied he, is the wretch still living? I
+thought you had put him to death already. Sir, I
+<span class="pb" id="Page_65">[65]</span>
+have no power, answered the vizier, to take any person&rsquo;s
+life away; that only belongs to your majesty.
+Go, said the king, behead him instantly; I give you
+full authority. Sir, replied the vizier Saouy, I am
+infinitely obliged to your majesty for the justice you
+do me; but, since Noureddin has publicly affronted
+me, I humbly beg the favour that his execution may
+be performed before the palace, and, that the criers
+may publish it in every quarter of the city, that every
+body may be satisfied that he has made sufficient
+reparation for the affront. The king granted the
+request, and the criers, in performing their office,
+diffused a universal sorrow through the whole city.
+The memory of his father&rsquo;s virtues being yet fresh
+among them, there was no one could hear of the ignominious
+death the son was going to suffer, through
+the villany and instigation of the vizier Saouy, without
+horror and indignation.</p>
+<p>Saouy went in person to the prison, accompanied
+with twenty slaves, his ministers of cruelty, who took
+Noureddin out of his dungeon, and put him on a
+shabby horse without a saddle. When Noureddin
+saw himself in the hands of his enemy, Thou triumphest
+now, said he, but thou abusest thy power.
+Yet, I have still some confidence in the truth of what
+is written in one of our books: &lsquo;You judge unjustly,
+and in a little time you shall be judged yourself.&rsquo; The
+vizier Saouy, who really triumphed in his heart,
+What! insolent, said he, darest thou insult me yet?
+but go, I pardon thee, and care not whatever happens
+to me, so I have the pleasure of seeing thee lose thy
+head in the public view of all Balsora. Thou oughtest
+also to remember what another of our books says:
+&lsquo;What signifies dying the next day the death of his
+enemy?&rsquo;</p>
+<p>The vizier, still implacable and full of malice, surrounded
+by one part of his slaves in arms, ordered
+<span class="pb" id="Page_66">[66]</span>
+Noureddin to be conducted by the other towards the
+palace. The people were ready to fall upon him as
+they went along; and, if any body had set them the
+example, they would certainly have stoned him to
+death. When he had brought him to the place of
+suffering, which was in sight of the king&rsquo;s apartment,
+he left him in the executioner&rsquo;s hands, and went
+straight to the king, who was in his closet ready to
+glut his eyes with the bloody spectacle he had prepared.</p>
+<p>The king&rsquo;s guard and the vizier&rsquo;s slaves, who made
+a circle round Noureddin, had much ado to withstand
+the people, who made all the efforts possible,
+but in vain, to break through them and carry him off
+by force. The executioner coming up to him, Sir,
+said he, I hope you will forgive me; I am but a slave,
+and cannot help doing my duty. If you have no occasion
+for any thing, I beseech you prepare yourself,
+for the king is just going to give me orders to strike
+the blow.</p>
+<p>The poor unfortunate Noureddin, at that cruel moment,
+looked round upon the people: Will no charitable
+body, cried he, bring me a little water to quench
+my thirst? which immediately they did, and handed
+it up to him upon the scaffold. The vizier Saouy, perceiving
+this delay, called out to the executioner from
+the king&rsquo;s closet window, where he had planted himself,
+Strike, what dost thou stay for? At these barbarous
+and inhuman words the whole palace echoed
+with loud imprecations against him; and the king,
+jealous of his authority, made it appear, by ordering
+him to stay a while, that he was angry at his presumption.
+But there was another reason; for the
+king that very moment casting his eyes up into a
+large street that faced him and joined to the place of
+execution, saw about the middle of it a troop of
+horsemen coming with full speed towards the palace.
+<span class="pb" id="Page_67">[67]</span>
+Vizier, said the king immediately, look yonder, what
+is the meaning of those horsemen? Saouy, who knew
+not what it might be, earnestly pressed the king to
+give the executioner the sign. No, replied the king,
+I will first see who these horsemen are. It was the
+vizier Giafar and his train, who came in person from
+Bagdad by the caliph&rsquo;s order.</p>
+<p>To make the occasion of this minister&rsquo;s coming to
+Balsora a little plainer, we must observe, that after
+Noureddin&rsquo;s departure with the caliph&rsquo;s letter, the
+caliph the next day, nor several days after, ever
+thought of sending the patent that he mentioned to
+the Fair Persian. He happened one day to be in the
+inner palace, which was the women&rsquo;s, and passing by
+the apartment, he heard the sound of a fine voice: he
+listened to it, and he had no sooner heard the words
+of one complaining for the absence of somebody, than
+he asked the officer of his eunuchs that attended him,
+who that woman was that belonged to that apartment.
+The officer told him that it was the young
+stranger&rsquo;s slave, whom he had sent to Balsora to be
+king in the room of Mohammed Zinchi.</p>
+<p>Ah! poor Noureddin, cried the caliph presently, I
+had forgot thee; but haste, said he to the officer, and
+bid Giafar come to me. The vizier was with him in
+an instant. As soon as he came, Giafar, said he, I
+have hitherto neglected sending the patent to Noureddin,
+which was to confirm him king of Balsora;
+but we have no time now to draw up one, therefore
+immediately take post-horses, and, with some of your
+servants, make what haste you can to Balsora. If
+Noureddin is dead, and put to death by them, order
+the vizier Saouy to be hanged; but, if he be living,
+bring him to me with the king and the vizier.</p>
+<p>The grand vizier staid no longer than just the time
+of getting on horseback, and being attended by a
+great train of officers belonging to his house, he set
+<span class="pb" id="Page_68">[68]</span>
+forward for Balsora, where he arrived after the manner,
+and at the time above mentioned. As soon as he
+came to the palace-yard the people cleared the way
+for him, crying out, A pardon for Noureddin! and
+with his whole train he rode into the palace, even to
+the very stairs, where he alighted.</p>
+<p>The king of Balsora knowing him to be the caliph&rsquo;s
+chief minister, went to meet him, and received him at
+the entrance of his apartment. The first question the
+vizier asked was, if Noureddin was living; and, if he
+was, that he might be sent for. The king made answer,
+He was alive, and gave orders to have him
+brought in. Accordingly he soon made his appearance
+as he was, tied, and bound with cords. The
+grand vizier Giafar caused him to be untied, and setting
+him at liberty, ordered the vizier Saouy to be
+seized, and bound with the same cords.</p>
+<p>The grand vizier Giafar lay but one night in Balsora.
+The next day he set out again for Bagdad;
+and, according to the order he had received, carried
+Saouy, the king of Balsora, and Noureddin along with
+him. As soon as he came to Bagdad, he presented
+them all to the caliph; and after he had given him an
+account of his journey, and particularly of the miserable
+condition he found Noureddin in, and that all his
+ill usage was purely by the advice and malice of
+Saouy, the caliph desired Noureddin to behead the
+vizier himself. Commander of the true believers, said
+Noureddin, notwithstanding the injury this wicked
+man has done me, and the mischief he endeavoured to
+do my deceased father, I should think myself the
+basest of mankind if I had stained my hands with his
+blood. The caliph was extremely pleased with his
+generosity, and ordered justice to be done by the executioner&rsquo;s
+hand.</p>
+<p>The caliph would fain have sent Noureddin back to
+Balsora to have been king there; but Noureddin humbly
+<span class="pb" id="Page_69">[69]</span>
+begged to be excused from accepting the offer,
+saying, Commander of the true believers, the city of
+Balsora, after the misfortunes that have happened to
+me there, is so much my aversion, and will always
+continue to be so, that I beseech your majesty to give
+me leave to keep the oath I have made of never returning
+thither again: and I shall think it my greatest
+glory to do you some services near your royal person,
+if you are pleased to do me the honour. The caliph
+consented to it; and placing him among the number
+of those courtiers who were his greatest favourites,
+restored the Fair Persian to him again. To all these
+favours he added a plentiful fortune; and he and the
+Fair Persian lived together to their dying day, with
+all the satisfaction they could both desire.</p>
+<p>As for the king of Balsora, the caliph contented
+himself with only letting him see how careful he ought
+to be in the choice of his viziers, and so sent him
+back into his kingdom.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_70">[70]</div>
+<h2 id="c2"><br />THE STORY OF
+<br />BEDER, PRINCE OF PERSIA, AND GIAHAURE, PRINCESS OF SAMARCAND.</h2>
+<p>Persia is a country of so vast extent, that their
+ancient monarchs have, not without some colour of
+reason, assumed the haughty title of king of kings.
+For, not to mention those nations subdued by their
+arms, there are whole kingdoms and provinces whose
+kings are not only tributary, but also in as great subjection
+to them as petty governors in other nations
+are to kings.</p>
+<p>Some ages ago one of these kings, who, in the beginning
+of his reign, had signalized himself by many
+glorious and successful conquests, enjoyed so profound
+and lasting a peace and tranquillity as rendered
+him the happiest of monarchs. The only thing
+in which he could be termed unfortunate was, that
+amongst all his mistresses not one of them ever
+brought him a son; and being now far advanced in
+years, he was desirous of an heir to succeed him after
+his death. However, he had above a hundred ladies
+all lodged in separate apartments, after a magnificent
+manner, with women slaves and eunuchs to wait upon
+and take care of them. Yet, notwithstanding all
+his endeavours to please and humour them in every
+thing, there was not one that answered his expectation.
+He had women very often brought him from
+the most remote countries, and if they pleased him,
+he not only gave the merchants their full price at the
+first word, but treated them with all respect and civility
+imaginable, and by considerable presents obliged
+them still to bring others, flattering himself, that at
+<span class="pb" id="Page_71">[71]</span>
+last he might be so happy as to meet with one by
+whom he might have a son. There was scarce any
+act of charity but what he performed, fancying by
+that means to prevail with Heaven. He gave immense
+sums to the poor, besides large donatives to
+the religious of his own persuasion, building for their
+use many noble colleges richly endowed, in hopes of
+obtaining by their prayers what he earnestly desired.</p>
+<p>One day, according to the custom of his royal predecessors,
+during their residence in the capital city,
+he gave his mistresses a ball, at which all the ambassadors
+and strangers of quality about the court were
+present; and where they not only entertained one
+another with talking of news and politics, but also of
+learning, history, poetry, and whatever else was capable
+of diverting the understanding after the most
+agreeable manner. It was upon that day that an
+eunuch came to acquaint him with the arrival of a certain
+merchant from a far country, who, having brought
+a slave along with him, desired leave to show her to
+his majesty. Give him admittance instantly, says the
+king, and after the ball is done I will talk with him:
+the merchant was introduced, and seated in a convenient
+place, from whence he might easily have a full
+view of the king, and hear him talk with abundance
+of familiarity to those that stood near his person. The
+king was extremely civil in his conversation with
+strangers, with a design, that by degrees they might
+grow acquainted with him; so that when they saw
+with what freedom and civility he addressed himself
+to the whole assembly, they took courage and began
+to discourse with him also, without being the least
+surprised at the dazzling pomp and splendour of his
+appearance, which was enough to deprive those of
+their power of speech that were not used to such glorious
+sights. He treated the ambassadors also after
+the same manner: first he ate with them, and during
+<span class="pb" id="Page_72">[72]</span>
+the repast, he asked them several questions concerning
+their health, of their voyage, and the affairs of
+their country; and, after they had been encouraged
+by his generous entertainment, he gave them audience.</p>
+<p>When the ball was over, all the company retired;
+the merchant, who was the only person left, fell prostrate
+before the king&rsquo;s throne with his face to the
+earth, wishing his majesty an accomplishment of all
+his desires. As soon as he rose up, the king asked
+him if the news of his having brought a slave for him
+was true, and whether she was handsome.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the merchant, I doubt not in the least
+but your majesty has very beautiful women, since you
+search every corner of the earth for them; but I may
+boldly affirm, without overvaluing my merchandise,
+that you never saw a woman that could stand in competition
+with her for shape and beauty, besides a
+thousand other agreeable qualifications that she is
+mistress of. Where is she? says the king; bring her
+to me instantly. Sir, replied the merchant, I have
+delivered her into the hands of one of your chief
+eunuchs, and your majesty may send for her at your
+pleasure.</p>
+<p>The fair slave was immediately brought in, and no
+sooner had the king cast his eyes on her, than the genteelness
+of her mien and shape charmed him. He
+went presently into his closet, whither the merchant,
+with a few eunuchs, followed him. The slave wore a
+red satin veil, striped with gold, over her face; and
+when the merchant had taken it off, the king of Persia
+beheld a lady that surpassed in beauty, not only
+his present mistresses, but even all that ever he had
+before; in short, he immediately fell passionately in
+love with her, and bade the merchant name his price.</p>
+<p>Sir, said he, I gave a thousand pieces of gold to
+the persons of whom I bought her, and in my three
+<span class="pb" id="Page_73">[73]</span>
+years&rsquo; journey to your court, I have spent as much:
+but I shall forbear setting any price to so great a
+monarch; and, therefore, if your majesty likes her, I
+humbly beg you would accept of her as a present. I
+am highly obliged to you, replied the king; but it is
+never my custom to treat merchants, who come hither
+purely for my pleasure, after so ungenerous a manner.
+I am going to order thee ten thousand pieces
+of gold; therefore speak, whether thou art pleased
+with that sum or not. Sir, answered the merchant,
+though I should have esteemed myself very happy in
+your majesty&rsquo;s acceptance of her for nothing, yet I
+dare not refuse so generous an offer. I shall take
+care to publish it, not only in my own country, but
+also in every place through which I pass. The money
+was presently paid him; and, before he stirred out of
+his presence, the king made him put on a rich suit of
+cloth of gold.</p>
+<p>The king caused the fair slave to be lodged in the
+finest apartment next his own, and gave particular
+orders to the matrons and to the women slaves appointed
+to attend her, that after bathing they should
+dress her in the richest clothes the kingdom afforded.
+He also commanded them to carry her some pearl-necklaces,
+with abundance of diamonds, and other
+precious stones, that she might have the liberty of
+choosing those she liked best.</p>
+<p>The officious matrons, whose only care it was to
+please the king, were astonished with admiration at
+her beauty; and being well skilled in that affair, they
+told his majesty, that, if he would allow them but
+three days, they would engage to make her so much
+handsomer than she was at present, that he should
+scarce know her again. The king at first was very
+loath to defer the pleasure of enjoyment so long; but
+at last he consented, upon condition they would be
+as good as their word.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_74">[74]</div>
+<p>The king of Persia&rsquo;s capital was situated in an
+island, and his palace, which was very magnificent,
+was built upon the sea-shore: his apartment looked
+upon that element; and the fair slave&rsquo;s, which was
+pretty near it, had also the same prospect; and it
+was the more agreeable upon the account of the sea
+beating almost against the foot of the wall.</p>
+<p>At the three days&rsquo; end, the fair slave, gloriously
+dressed and set off, was alone in her chamber, sitting
+upon a sofa, and leaning against one of the windows
+that faced the sea, when the king, being informed
+that he might visit her, came in. The slave hearing
+somebody walk in the room, with an air quite different
+from that of the women slaves who had hitherto attended
+her, immediately turned her head about to see
+who it was. She knew him to be the king; but without
+discovering the least surprise, or so much as rising
+from her seat to salute or receive him, as if he had
+been the meanest person in the world, she put herself
+in the same posture again.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia was extremely surprised to see
+a slave of so beauteous a form so ignorant of the
+world. He attributed this piece of ill breeding to
+the narrowness of her education, and the little care
+that was taken of instructing her at first in the rules
+of civility and good manners. He went to her at the
+window, where, notwithstanding the coldness and indifferency
+with which she had just now received him,
+she suffered herself to be admired, caressed, and embraced,
+as much as he pleased.</p>
+<p>In the midst of these amorous embraces and tender
+endearments, this monarch paused a while to gaze
+upon, or rather to devour her with his eyes: My
+goddess! my angel! my charmer! cried the king;
+whence came you? and where do those happy parents
+live that brought into the world so surprising a
+masterpiece of nature as you are? Ah! how I adore
+<span class="pb" id="Page_75">[75]</span>
+you! and my passion shall continue the same. Never
+did I feel for a woman what I now suffer for you: and
+though I have seen, and do see every day, a vast number
+of beauties, yet never did my eyes behold so many
+charms in one single person, which have so transported
+me out of myself, that I am no longer at my
+own, but entirely at your disposal. My dearest life,
+continued he, you neither answer me, nor by any visible
+token give me the least reason to believe that you
+are sensible of the many demonstrations I have given
+you of the violence of my passion; neither will you
+turn your eyes on me, to afford mine the pleasure of
+meeting them with an amorous glance, and to convince
+you that it is impossible to love more than I do
+you. Why will you still keep this obstinate silence,
+which freezes me to death? and whence proceeds the
+seriousness, or rather sorrow, that torments me to the
+soul? Do you mourn for your country, your friends,
+or your relations? Alas! is not the king of Persia,
+who loves and adores you, capable of comforting and
+making you amends for the loss of every thing in the
+world?</p>
+<p>What protestations of love soever the king of Persia
+made the fair slave to oblige her to speak to him,
+she continued her astonishing reservedness, and keeping
+her eyes still fixed on the ground, would not so
+much as open her lips.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia, charmed with the purchase he
+had made of a slave that pleased him so well, pressed
+her no farther, in hopes that, by treating her civilly,
+he might prevail upon her to change her mind. He
+presently gave the usual sign to the women that
+waited in an outward room; and as soon as they entered,
+he commanded them to bring in supper. When
+it was on the table, My dear, said he to the slave,
+come hither and sup with me. She rose up from her
+<span class="pb" id="Page_76">[76]</span>
+seat, and being placed over against the king, his majesty
+helped her before he began eating himself; and
+so he did of every dish during the whole supper. The
+slave ate with downcast eyes, and without speaking
+one word, though he often asked her how she liked
+the entertainment, and whether it was dressed to her
+taste.</p>
+<p>The king, willing to change the discourse, asked
+her what her name was, how she liked the clothes
+and the jewels she had on, what she thought of her
+apartment and the rich furniture, and whether the
+prospect of the sea was not very agreeable and charming.
+But to all these questions she answered not a
+word; so that the king was at a loss what to think of
+her silence. He imagined at first, that perhaps she
+might be dumb: But then, said he to himself, can it
+be possible that Heaven should form a creature so
+beautiful, so perfect, and so accomplished, and yet at
+the same time with so great an imperfection? However,
+I cannot love with less passion than I do.</p>
+<p>When the king of Persia rose from the table, he
+washed his hands on one side, while the fair slave
+washed hers on the other. He took that time to ask
+the women that held the basin and the towel, if ever
+they had heard her speak. One of them presently
+made answer, Sir, we have neither seen her open her
+lips, nor heard her speak, any more than your majesty
+has just now: we have taken care of her in the
+bath, we have combed and dressed her head, put on
+her clothes, and waited upon her in her chamber;
+but she has never opened her lips, so much as to say,
+That is well, or, I like this. We have often asked her,
+Madam, do you want any thing? let us know what
+you would have; do but ask, and we are ready to get
+it for you: but we have never been able to draw a
+word from her; so that we cannot tell whether her
+<span class="pb" id="Page_77">[77]</span>
+silence proceeds from pride, sorrow, stupidity, or
+dumbness; and this is all we can inform your majesty.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia was more astonished at hearing
+this than he was before: however, believing the slave
+might have some reason for her sorrow, he was willing
+to endeavour to divert it, and make her merry.
+Accordingly, he made a very splendid ball, to which
+all the fine ladies of the court came, and those who
+were skilful in playing upon musical instruments
+showed their parts, while others sang or danced, or
+did both together: in short, they played at a great
+many sorts of games, which mightily diverted the king.
+The fair slave was the only person that took no pleasure
+in those diversions: she never stirred out of her
+place, but with her eyes still fixed on the ground,
+without taking any notice of the entertainment, behaved
+herself with so much indifferency that all the
+ladies were no less surprised at it than the king.
+After the ball was done, every one retired to her
+apartment; and the king, who was left alone with
+the fair slave, lay with her that night.</p>
+<p>The next morning, the king of Persia arose more
+pleased than he had been with all the women he
+had ever seen, and more enamoured with the fair
+slave than he was before. Indeed, he soon made it
+appear, by resolving henceforth to keep constant to
+her; and he performed his resolution. On the very
+same day he dismissed all his other women, giving
+every one of them their jewels and other valuable
+things, besides a considerable fortune, with free leave
+to marry whom they thought fit, and only kept the
+matrons, and a few other old women, to wait upon
+and attend the fair slave. However, for a whole year
+together, she never afforded him the pleasure of one
+single word; yet the king took abundance of pains to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_78">[78]</span>
+please her, and, with all complaisance imaginable, to
+give her the most signal proofs of his violent passion.</p>
+<p>The year was now expired, when the king, sitting
+one day by his mistress, protested to her that his
+love, instead of being diminished, grew every day
+more violent: My queen, said he, I cannot conceive
+what your thoughts are; but, however, nothing is
+more true, and I swear to you the same, that in having
+the happiness of possessing you, there remains
+nothing for me to desire: I esteem my kingdom, great
+as it is, less than an atom, when I have the pleasure
+of beholding your eyes, and of telling you a thousand
+times how I adore you. You see I have given you
+some other proofs of my affection than bare words;
+and therefore surely you can never doubt of it, after
+the vast number of women I have sacrificed to your
+beauty. You may remember, it is about a year since
+I sent them away from my court; and I repent of it as
+little even now I am talking with you, as I did the
+first moment of their departure, and I believe I never
+shall. Nothing would be wanting to complete my
+happiness, and crown my joys for ever, would you
+speak but one single word to me, by which I might
+be assured that you thought yourself in some measure
+obliged to me. But how can you speak to me if you
+are dumb? and alas! how fearful I am lest it should
+be true! yet what reason have I to doubt of it, since
+you still torment me with silence, after a whole year&rsquo;s
+entreating you every hour to speak to me! However,
+if it is impossible for me to obtain that consolation,
+may Heaven, at least, grant me the blessing
+of a son by you to succeed me after my death. I find
+myself growing old every day, and I begin to want
+one to assist me in bearing the weight of a crown.
+But still I cannot refrain from the desire I have of
+hearing you speak; for methinks something within
+<span class="pb" id="Page_79">[79]</span>
+me tells me you are not dumb; and, therefore, dear
+madam, I beseech, I conjure you, to break through
+this obstinate humour, and speak but one word to
+me; and after that, I care not how soon I die.</p>
+<p>At this discourse, the fair slave, who, according to
+her usual custom, had hearkened to the king with
+downcast eyes, and had given him cause to believe,
+not only that she was dumb, but that she never had
+laughed in her life, began to look up and smile a little.
+The king of Persia perceived it with a surprise that
+made him break forth into an exclamation of joy; and
+no longer doubting but that she was going to speak,
+he waited for that happy moment with an eagerness
+and attention that cannot be easily expressed.</p>
+<p>At last, the fair slave, breaking her long silence,
+thus addressed herself to the king: Sir, said she, I
+have so many things to say to your majesty, that,
+having once broke silence, I know not where to
+begin. However, in the first place, I think myself
+obliged in duty to thank your majesty for all the
+favours and honours you have been pleased to confer
+upon me, and to implore the gods to bless and prosper
+you, to prevent the wicked designs and intentions
+of your enemies, and that they would not suffer you
+to die after hearing me speak, but grant you a long
+and happy reign. After this, sir, I cannot give you
+a greater satisfaction than acquainting you with my
+being with child; and I wish, as you do, it may be a
+son. Had it never been my fortune to have been
+breeding, I was resolved (I beg your majesty to pardon
+the sincerity of my intention) never to have loved
+you, as well as to have kept an eternal silence; but
+now I love and respect you as I ought to do.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia, ravished to hear the fair slave
+not only speak, but at the same time tell him news
+in which he was so nearly concerned, embraced
+her tenderly: Shining light of my eyes, said he, it is
+<span class="pb" id="Page_80">[80]</span>
+impossible for me to receive a greater joy than what
+you have now given me: you have spoken to me, and
+declared your being with child; so that I am fully
+satisfied in myself, that after these two signal occasions
+of joy, I ought to expect no other.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia, in the transport of joy he was
+in, said no more to the fair slave. He left her; but
+after such a manner as made her perceive his intention
+was speedily to return; and being willing that
+the occasion of his joy should be made public, he declared
+it to his officers, and sent in all haste for the
+grand vizier. As soon as he came, he ordered him to
+distribute a thousand pieces of gold among the holy
+men of his religion, who had made vows of poverty;
+as also among the hospitals and the poor, by way of
+returning thanks to Heaven; and his will was obeyed,
+by the direction of that minister.</p>
+<p>After the king of Persia had given this order, he
+came to the fair slave again: Madam, said he, pardon
+me for leaving you so abruptly, since you have
+been the occasion of it; but I hope you will entertain
+me some other time, since I am desirous to know of
+you several things of a much greater consequence.
+However, in the mean time, tell me, I beseech you,
+my dearest charmer, what were the powerful reasons
+that induced you to persist in that obstinate silence
+for a whole year together, though every day you saw
+me, heard me talk to you, ate and drank with me,
+and every night lay with me? I shall pass by your
+not speaking; but how you could carry yourself after
+such an indifferent manner, that I could never discover
+whether you were sensible of what I said to you,
+or no, I must confess it surpasses my understanding:
+and I cannot yet comprehend, how you could contain
+yourself so long: therefore I must conclude the occasion
+of it to be very extraordinary.</p>
+<p>To satisfy the king of Persia&rsquo;s curiosity, this fair
+<span class="pb" id="Page_81">[81]</span>
+person replied, Think whether or no to be a slave, far
+from my own country, without any hopes of ever seeing
+it again, to have a heart torn with grief, for being
+separated from my mother, my brother, my friends,
+and my acquaintance, are not sufficient reasons for
+my keeping a silence your majesty has thought so
+strange and unaccountable. The love of our native
+country is as natural to us as that of our parents; and
+the loss of liberty is unsupportable to every one, who
+is not wholly destitute of sense and reason, and knows
+how to set a value on it. The body indeed may be
+enslaved, and under the subjection of a master who
+has the power and authority in his hands; but the
+will can never be conquered or domineered over, but
+still remains free and unconfined, depending on itself
+alone, and your majesty has found an example of it
+in me; and it is a wonder that I have not followed
+the example of abundance of unfortunate wretches,
+whom the loss of liberty has reduced to the mournful
+resolution of procuring their own deaths a thousand
+ways, rather than survive it, and wear out a wretched
+life in shameful slavery.</p>
+<p>Madam, replied the king, I am now convinced of
+the truth of what you say; but till this moment I was
+of opinion, that a person beautiful, well-shaped, with
+a great deal of wit and good sense, such as yourself,
+whom her rigorous stars had destined to be a slave,
+ought to think herself very happy in meeting with a
+king for her master.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the fair slave, whatever the slave is,
+supposing her to be such as I have already mentioned
+to your majesty, there is no king on earth can tyrannize
+over her will. But, however, when you speak
+of a slave, mistress of charms enough to captivate a
+monarch, and make him adore her, provided she is of
+a rank infinitely below him, I am of your opinion she
+ought to think herself happy in her misfortune; but
+<span class="pb" id="Page_82">[82]</span>
+what happiness can it be when she considers herself
+only as a slave, torn from her parents&rsquo; arms, and perhaps
+a lover&rsquo;s, for whom she has a passion that death
+only can extinguish? But when this very slave is
+nothing inferior to the king that bought her, your
+majesty shall then judge yourself of the rigour of her
+destiny, of her misery, and of her sorrow, and to
+what desperate attempts the anguish of despair may
+drive her.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia, astonished at this discourse,
+said, Madam, can it be possible that you are of royal
+blood, as by your words you seem to intimate? Explain
+the whole secret to me, I beseech you, and no
+longer augment my impatience. Ah! let me instantly
+know who are the happy parents of so great a prodigy
+of beauty, who are your brothers, your sisters,
+and your relations; but above all, what your name is.</p>
+<p>Sir, said the fair slave, my name is Gulnare of the
+sea; and my father, who is now dead, was one of the
+most potent monarchs of the ocean. When he died,
+he left his kingdom to a brother of mine, named Saleh,
+and to the queen my mother, who is also a princess,
+the daughter of another puissant monarch of
+the sea. We enjoyed a profound peace and tranquillity
+through the whole kingdom, till a neighbouring
+prince, an enemy to our repose, invaded our dominions
+with a mighty army; and, penetrating as far as
+our capital, made himself master of it: and we had
+but just time enough to save ourselves in a steep
+inaccessible place, with a few trusty officers, who
+were so generous as not to forsake us in our distress.</p>
+<p>In this retreat, my brother was not negligent in
+contriving all manner of ways to drive the unjust invader
+from our dominions. While this affair was in
+agitation, one day taking me into his closet, Sister,
+said he, the events of the least undertakings in this
+<span class="pb" id="Page_83">[83]</span>
+world are always dubious. As, for my own part, I
+am willing to die in the attempt I design to make to
+re-establish myself in my kingdom; and I shall be
+less concerned for my own disgrace, than for what may
+possibly happen to you; and therefore to prevent it,
+and to secure you from whatever accident may befall
+you, I would fain see you married first. But in the
+miserable condition that our affairs are at present, I
+see no probability of matching you to any of the
+princes of the sea; and therefore I should be very
+glad if you would resolve to be of my opinion, and
+think of marrying to some of the princes of the earth.
+I am ready to contribute all that lies in my power towards
+it, and I am certain there is not one of them,
+considering the beauty you are mistress of, but would
+be proud of your accepting of their crown.</p>
+<p>At this discourse of my brother&rsquo;s, I fell into a violent
+passion. Brother, said I, you know that I am
+descended, as well as you, by both father and mother&rsquo;s
+sides, from the kings and queens of the sea, without
+any mixture of alliance with those of the earth;
+therefore I do not design to marry below myself, any
+more than they did: and I took an oath of it, as soon
+as I had understanding to inquire into the nobleness
+and antiquity of our family. The condition to which
+we are reduced shall never oblige me to alter my resolution;
+and if you perish in the execution of your
+design, I am prepared to fall with you, rather than
+follow the advice I so little expected from you.</p>
+<p>My brother, who was still earnest for the marriage,
+endeavoured to make me believe that there were
+kings of the earth who were no ways inferior to those
+of the sea. This put me again into a violent passion,
+which occasioned him to speak several bitter reflecting
+things that nettled me to the quick. At last he
+left me, as much dissatisfied with myself as he could
+possibly be; and in this peevish mood, I gave a spring
+<span class="pb" id="Page_84">[84]</span>
+from the bottom of the sea, directly up to the island
+of the moon.</p>
+<p>Notwithstanding the violent discontent that made
+me cast myself upon that island, I lived pretty easy
+in a by-corner of it, where I retired for conveniency
+and safety. But, alas! this happiness lasted not
+long; for, in spite of all my endeavours to lie concealed
+in my beloved obscurity, a certain person of
+distinction and figure, attended by his servants, surprised
+me sleeping, and carried me to his own house.
+He made violent love to me, and omitted nothing
+which he thought might reasonably induce me to
+make a return to his passion. When he saw that fair
+means would prevail nothing upon me, he attempted
+to make use of force; but I soon made him repent of
+his insolence. So at last, finding that there was
+nothing to be done with me, he resolved to part with
+me, which he did to that very merchant who brought
+me hither and sold me to your majesty. He was a
+very prudent, courteous, obliging person; and during
+the whole journey, which was somewhat tedious, he
+never gave me the least reason to complain of his
+usage.</p>
+<p>As for your majesty, sir, continued the princess
+Gulnare, if you had not shown me all the respect you
+have hitherto paid (for which I am extremely obliged
+to your goodness) and given me such undeniable
+marks of your affection, that I could no longer doubt
+of it; if you had not immediately sent away your
+women; give me leave to tell you plainly, sir, that I
+was positively resolved not to have lived with you: I
+would have thrown myself into the sea, out of this
+very window, where your majesty first saw me when
+you came into this apartment; and I would have gone
+in search after my mother, my brother, and the rest
+of my relations. I still persisted in that design, and
+I would infallibly have put it in execution, if, after a
+<span class="pb" id="Page_85">[85]</span>
+certain time, I had found myself deceived in the hopes
+of being with child: but now, in the condition I am
+in, I shall take care what I do. Should I tell my
+mother or my brother that I have been a slave, even
+to a king as mighty as you are, they would never believe
+it, but would for ever upbraid me with the crime
+I have committed against my honour, since it was a
+voluntary act of my own. However, sir, be it a prince
+or a princess that I bring into the world, it will be a
+pledge to engage me never to be parted from your
+majesty; and therefore I hope you will no longer
+look upon me as a slave, but as a princess worthy of
+your alliance.</p>
+<p>It was after this manner that the princess Gulnare
+finished her story she had been telling the king of
+Persia. My charming and adorable princess, cried
+he, what wonders have I heard! and what an ample
+subject have you afforded my curiosity, of asking a
+thousand questions concerning those strange and unheard-of
+things which you have related to me! But,
+in the first place, I ought to thank you for your goodness
+and patience in making a trial of the truth and
+constancy of my passion. I must confess, I thought
+it impossible for me to love you more than I did; but
+since I know you to be so great a princess, I love you
+a thousand times more. What! did I say princess?
+Madam, you are no longer so; but you are my queen,
+the queen of Persia; and by that title you shall soon
+be proclaimed throughout the whole kingdom. Tomorrow
+the ceremony shall be performed in my capital,
+with a pomp and magnificence that was never
+yet beheld; which will plainly show, that you are
+both my queen and lawful wife. This should have
+been done long ago, had you sooner convinced me of
+my error; for, from the first moment of my seeing
+you, I have been of the same opinion as now, to love
+<span class="pb" id="Page_86">[86]</span>
+you for ever, and never to place my affection on any
+other.</p>
+<p>However, I am pleased with myself for having, in
+the mean time, paid you all the respect and civility I
+ought, that is due to your merit; and therefore, madam,
+I beseech you to inform me in a more particular
+manner, of the kingdoms and people of the sea, which
+are altogether unknown to me. I have heard much
+talk indeed of the inhabitants of the sea; but I always
+looked upon it as nothing but a pleasant tale or
+fable: however, by what you have told me, I am convinced
+there is nothing more true; and I have a very
+good proof of it in your own person, who are one of
+them, and are pleased to condescend to be my wife;
+which is an honour no other inhabitant on the earth
+can boast of besides myself. There is one thing yet,
+madam, which puzzles me a little, therefore I must
+beg the favour of you to explain it; that is, I cannot
+comprehend how it is possible for you to move,
+breathe, and walk up and down in the water, without
+being drowned. There are but few amongst us
+who have the art of staying under water; but they
+would surely perish there, if after a certain space of
+time, which is according to their skill, and constitution
+of their bodies, they did not come up again.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the queen Gulnare, I shall take a great
+deal of pleasure in satisfying the king of Persia in
+any thing that lies in my power. You must know,
+then, that we can walk at the bottom of the sea with
+as much ease as you can upon the dry land; and can
+breathe in the water as well as you do in the air; so
+that instead of suffocating us, as it does you, it is
+absolutely necessary for the preservation of our lives.
+What is yet more remarkable is, that it never wets
+our clothes: so that when we have a mind to visit
+your upper world, we have no occasion of drying
+<span class="pb" id="Page_87">[87]</span>
+them. Our vulgar language is the same in which the
+writing upon the seal of the great prophet Solomon,
+the son of David, was engraven.</p>
+<p>I must not forget to tell you, that the water does
+not in the least hinder us from seeing in the sea; for
+we can open and shut our eyes when we please, without
+any manner of inconveniency; and as we have
+generally a very quick, piercing sight, so we can discern
+any object as clearly in the deepest part of the
+sea, as upon land. We have also a succession there
+of day and night; the moon affords us her light, and
+even the planets and the stars appear very visible to
+us. I have already spoken of their kingdoms; but as
+the sea is a great deal larger than the earth, so there
+are a greater number of them, and of vaster extent.
+They are divided into provinces, and in every province
+there are several great cities, well peopled;
+and, in short, there are an infinite number of nations,
+differing in manners and customs, as well as upon
+the earth.</p>
+<p>The palaces of the kings and princes are very
+sumptuous and magnificent. There are some of them
+of marble of various colours; others of rock-crystal,
+mother-of-pearl, coral, and of other materials more
+valuable; gold, silver, and all sorts of precious stones,
+are more plentiful there than with you. I say nothing
+of the pearls, since the largest that ever was seen
+upon the earth would not be valuable amongst us;
+and none but the very lowest rank of citizens would
+wear them.</p>
+<p>As we have a marvellous and almost incredible
+agility of transporting ourselves whither we please in
+the twinkling of an eye, so we have no occasion for
+any coaches or horses: not but that every king has
+his stables, and his breed of sea-horses; but they seldom
+make use of them, but upon public feasts and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_88">[88]</span>
+rejoicing days. After they have been well managed,
+they set riders upon their backs, who show their skill
+and dexterity in the art of riding: others are put to
+chariots of mother-of-pearl, adorned with an infinite
+number of shells of all sorts, of the liveliest colours
+in the world. These chariots are open; and in the
+middle there is a throne on which the king sits, and
+exposes himself to the public view of his subjects.
+The horses are trained up to draw by themselves, so
+that there is no occasion for a coachman to guide
+them. I pass over a thousand other particulars relating
+to these sea-countries, full of wonder and
+curiosity, which would be very entertaining to your
+majesty; but I believe, sir, you will be pleased I
+should defer it, to speak of something of much greater
+consequence; which is, that the method of delivering,
+and the way of managing the women of the sea in
+their lying-in, is quite different from those of the women
+of the earth; and I am afraid to trust myself in
+the hands of the midwives of this country. Therefore,
+sir, since my safe delivery is a thing which equally
+concerns us both, with your majesty&rsquo;s permission, I
+think it proper to send for my mother and my cousins
+to assist at my labour; at the same time to desire my
+brother&rsquo;s company, to whom I have a great desire to
+be reconciled. They will be very glad to see me
+again, after I have related my story to them, and
+when they understand that I am wife to the mighty
+king of Persia. I beseech your majesty to give me
+leave to send for them: I am sure they will be proud
+to pay their respects to you; and I dare say you will
+be extremely pleased to see them.</p>
+<p>Madam, said the king of Persia, you are mistress,
+and so do whatever you please; I will endeavour to
+receive them with all the honours they deserve. But
+I would fain know how you would acquaint them with
+<span class="pb" id="Page_89">[89]</span>
+what you desire, and when they will arrive; that I
+may make some preparation for their reception, and
+go myself in person to meet them.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the queen Gulnare, there is no need of
+any of these ceremonies; they will be here in a moment:
+and if your majesty will be pleased but to step
+into the closet and look through the lattice, you shall
+see the manner of their arrival.</p>
+<p>As soon as the king of Persia was gone into the
+closet, the queen Gulnare ordered one of her women
+to bring her a perfuming-pan, with a little fire in it.
+After that, she bade her retire, and shut the door.
+When she was alone, she took a little piece of aloes
+out of a box, and put it into the perfuming-pan. As
+soon as she saw the smoke arise, she repeated some
+mystical words, utterly unknown to the king of Persia,
+who observed with great attention what she was
+doing. She had no sooner ended her charm, than the
+sea began to be disturbed. The closet that the king
+was in was so contrived, that looking through the
+lattice, on the same side with the windows that faced
+the sea, he could plainly perceive it.</p>
+<p>In short, the sea opened at some distance; presently
+there appeared a tall handsome young man,
+with whiskers of a sea-green colour; a little behind
+him, a lady well in years, but of a stately majestic
+air, attended by five young ladies, nothing inferior in
+beauty to queen Gulnare.</p>
+<p>The queen Gulnare immediately came to one of the
+windows, and saw the king her brother, the queen her
+mother, and the rest of her relations, who at the same
+time perceived her also. The company came forward,
+not walking, but carried, as it were, upon the surface
+of the waves. When they came to the brink of the
+sea, they nimbly, one after another, leaped in at the
+window, from whence the queen Gulnare was retired,
+to make room for them. The king Saleh, the queen
+<span class="pb" id="Page_90">[90]</span>
+her mother, and the rest of her relations, embraced
+her tenderly, with tears in their eyes, upon their first
+entrance.</p>
+<p>After the queen Gulnare had received them with all
+the honour imaginable, and placed them upon a sofa,
+the queen her mother addressed herself to her after a
+very tender manner. Daughter, said she, I am overjoyed
+to see you again, after so long an absence; and
+I am confident that your brother and your relations
+are no less so than I. Your leaving us, without acquainting
+any body with it, put us into an inexpressible
+concern; and it is impossible to tell you how
+many tears we have shed upon that account. We know
+of no other reason that could induce you to take such
+a surprising resolution, but the discourse that passed
+between your brother and you, of which he afterwards
+informed me. The advice he gave you seemed very
+advantageous to him at that time, for settling you
+handsomely in the world; and was then very suitable
+to the posture of our affairs. However, if you had
+not approved of his proposals, you ought not to have
+been so much alarmed; and give me leave to tell you,
+you took the thing quite otherwise than you ought
+to have done. But no more of this discourse, which
+serves only to renew the occasion of our sorrows and
+complaints, that we and you ought to bury for ever in
+oblivion. Give us now a relation of all that has happened
+to you since you left us, and also an account of
+the present circumstances you are in; but especially
+let us know if you are pleased and contented.</p>
+<p>The queen Gulnare immediately threw herself at
+her mother&rsquo;s feet, and after rising up and kissing her
+hand, said, Madam, I own I have been guilty of a very
+great crime, and I shall be indebted to your goodness
+for the pardon which I hope you will be pleased to
+grant me. What I am going to say, in obedience to
+your commands, will soon convince you, that it is very
+<span class="pb" id="Page_91">[91]</span>
+often in vain for us to have an aversion for some certain
+things: I have experienced it myself; and the
+only thing I had an abhorrence to, either justly, or by
+the malice of my stars, has happened to me here. She
+began to relate the whole story of what had befallen
+her since her quitting the sea, in a violent passion, for
+the earth. As soon as she had made an end, and had
+acquainted them with her having been sold to the king
+of Persia, in whose palace she was at present; Sister,
+cried the king her brother, you have been mightily
+wronged in having so many affronts offered you; but
+you can blame nobody but yourself: you have it in
+your power now to free yourself; and I cannot but
+admire your patience, that you could endure so long
+a slavery. Rise, and return with us into my kingdom,
+that I have reconquered, and taken from the proud
+usurper that was once master of it.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia, who heard these killing words
+from the closet where he stood, was in the utmost
+confusion imaginable. Ah! said he to himself, I am
+ruined and undone; and if my queen, my angel, leaves
+me, I shall surely die, for it is impossible for me to
+live without her: and will they be so barbarous as to
+deprive me of her? But the queen Gulnare soon put
+him out of his fears, and eased the sorrow of his
+heart.</p>
+<p>Brother, said she, and smiled, what I have just
+now heard, gives me a greater proof than ever I had
+of the sincerity of your friendship for me; but as
+heretofore I could not brook your proposing a match
+between me and a prince of the earth, so now I can
+scarce forbear being angry with you, for advising me
+to break the engagement I have made with the most
+puissant and most renowned monarch in the world. I
+do not speak here of an engagement between a slave
+and her master; if that were all, it would be easy to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_92">[92]</span>
+return the ten thousand pieces of gold that I cost him;
+but I speak now of a contract between a woman and
+her husband, who has never given her the least reason
+to complain or be discontented: besides, he is a king,
+wise, temperate, religious, and just, and has given me
+the most essential demonstrations of his love that possibly
+he could. What can be a greater instance of
+the violence of his passion, than sending away all his
+women (of which he had a great number) immediately
+upon my arrival, and confining himself only to me?
+I am now his wife, and he has lately declared me
+queen of Persia; and I am to sit with him in the
+council: besides, I am breeding; and if Heaven shall
+be pleased to favour me with a son, that shall be another
+motive to engage my affections to him the more.
+So, brother, continued the queen Gulnare, instead
+of following your advice, you see I have all the reason
+in the world, not only to love the king of Persia as
+passionately as I do, but also to live and die with him,
+more out of gratitude than duty. I hope, then, neither
+my mother, nor you, nor any of my cousins, will
+disapprove of the resolution and alliance I have made,
+which will be an equal honour to the kings of both the
+sea and earth. I ask a thousand pardons for giving
+you the trouble of coming hither from the bottom of
+the deep to partake of it; and I return you thanks for
+the pleasure of seeing you after so long a separation.</p>
+<p>Sister, replied king Saleh, the proposition I made
+you of going back with us into my kingdom, upon the
+recital of your adventures, (which I could not hear
+without concern,) was to let you see what a particular
+love and honour I had for you, and that nothing in the
+world was so dear to me as your welfare and happiness.
+Upon the same account, then, for my own part,
+I cannot condemn a resolution so reasonable, and so
+worthy of yourself, after what you have told me of the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_93">[93]</span>
+king of Persia your husband, and the many obligations
+you have to him; and I am persuaded that the
+queen our mother will be of the same opinion.</p>
+<p>The queen confirmed what her son had just spoken,
+and addressing herself immediately to her daughter,
+said, My dear, I am very glad to hear you are pleased;
+and I have nothing else to add to what your brother
+has already said to you. I should have been the first
+that would have condemned you, if you had not expressed
+all the gratitude you were capable of for a
+monarch that loves you so passionately, and has done
+such mighty things to oblige you.</p>
+<p>As the king of Persia, who was still in the closet,
+had been extremely concerned for fear of losing his
+beloved queen, so now he was transported with joy at
+her resolution never to forsake him; and having no
+room to doubt of her love, after so open a declaration,
+he began to love her more than ever, and was resolved
+within himself to give her all the outward proofs of
+it, after the most sensible manner he possibly could.</p>
+<p>While the king was entertaining himself with a
+pleasure that cannot easily be imagined, the queen
+Gulnare clapped her hands aloud, and presently in
+came some of her slaves, whom she had ordered to
+bring in a collation. As soon as it was served up,
+she invited the queen her mother, the king her brother,
+and her cousins, to sit down and take part of
+it. They began to consider, that, without ever asking
+leave, they were got into the palace of a mighty king,
+who had never seen or heard of them, and were all of
+the same opinion, that it would be a great piece of
+rudeness and incivility to eat at his table without him.
+This reflection raised a blush in their faces, and their
+eyes glowing with the concern they were in, they
+breathed nothing but flames at their mouths and
+nostrils.</p>
+<p>This unexpected sight put the king of Persia, who
+<span class="pb" id="Page_94">[94]</span>
+was perfectly ignorant of the cause of it, into a most
+dreadful consternation. The queen Gulnare fancying
+that his majesty might be a little surprised at it, and
+finding her relations desirous of the honour of seeing
+him, rose from her seat, and told them she would be
+back in a moment. She went directly to the closet,
+and by her presence recovered the king of Persia from
+his surprise: Sir, said she, I doubt not but that your
+majesty is well pleased with the acknowledgment I
+have lately made of the many favours that I am still
+indebted to your goodness for. It was wholly in my
+power to have complied with my relations, who would
+fain have persuaded me to have forsaken you, and
+gone back with them into their dominions; but alas!
+I am not capable of being guilty of such ingratitude as
+I should have condemned in another. Ah! my queen,
+cried the king of Persia, speak no more of your obligations
+to me, for indeed you have none; it is I that
+am your debtor so much, that I am afraid I shall never
+be able to repay, or return you thanks equal to the
+favour you have done me; for I never thought it possible
+you could have loved me so tenderly as you do,
+and as you have made it appear to me, after the most
+signal manner in the world. Ah! sir, replied the
+queen Gulnare, could I do less than I have done? I
+rather fear I have not done enough, considering all
+the honours and favours that your majesty has heaped
+upon me; and it is impossible for me to remain insensible
+of your passion, after so many convincing
+proofs as you have given me. But let us drop this,
+and give me leave to assure you of the sincere friendship
+that the queen my mother, and the king my brother,
+are pleased to honour you with; they earnestly
+desire to see you, and tell you themselves. I intended
+to have discoursed with them a little before I introduced
+them to your majesty, and accordingly I have
+ordered a banquet for them; but they are very impatient
+<span class="pb" id="Page_95">[95]</span>
+to pay their respects to you, and therefore I
+desire your majesty would be pleased to walk in, and
+honour them with your presence.</p>
+<p>Madam, said the king of Persia, I should be very
+glad to salute persons that have the honour to be so
+nearly related to you; but I am afraid of the flames
+that they breathe at their mouths and nostrils. Sir,
+replied the queen, laughing, you need not in the least
+be afraid of those flames, which are nothing but a sign
+of their unwillingness to eat in your palace without
+your honouring them with your presence, and eating
+with them.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia taking heart at these words,
+went into his chamber with his queen Gulnare. She
+presented him to the queen her mother, to the king
+her brother, and to her other relations, who instantly
+threw themselves at his feet, with their faces to the
+ground. The king of Persia ran to them, and lifting
+them up, embraced them one after another after a very
+tender manner. After they were all seated, king
+Saleh began his speech: Sir, said he to the king of
+Persia, we are at a loss for words to express our joy,
+to think that the queen my sister, after all her hardships
+and affronts, should have the happiness of falling
+under the protection of so powerful a monarch as
+your majesty. We can assure you, sir, she is not unworthy
+of the high honour that you have been pleased
+to raise her to; and we have always had so much love
+and tenderness for her, that we could never think of
+parting with her, even to the most puissant princes
+of the sea, who have often demanded her in marriage
+before she came of age: but Heaven has reserved her
+for you, sir; and we have no better way of returning
+thanks for the favour it has done her, than beseeching
+it to grant your majesty a long and happy life with
+her, and to crown your days with content and satisfaction.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_96">[96]</div>
+<p>Certainly, replied the king of Persia, Heaven reserved
+her purely for me, as you were pleased to observe;
+and I love her with so tender and violent a
+passion, that it is plain I never loved any woman till
+I saw her. Oh! how I am blessed and transported
+with her charms! and I cannot sufficiently thank
+either the queen her mother, or you, prince, or your
+whole family, for the matchless generosity with which
+you have consented to receive me into so glorious an
+alliance as yours. At the end of these words, he invited
+them to take part of the collation, and he and
+his queen sat down at his table with them. After the
+collation was over, the king of Persia entertained
+them with discourse till it was very late; and when
+they thought it convenient to retire, he waited upon
+them himself to the several apartments he had ordered
+to be prepared for them.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia treated his illustrious guests for
+a great many days together; during which time, he
+omitted nothing that might show his court in its greatest
+splendour and magnificence, and insensibly prevailed
+with them to stay there till the queen was
+brought to bed. When the time of her lying-in drew
+near, he gave particular orders to get every thing in
+readiness that was necessary upon such an occasion.
+At last there was a son born, to the great joy of the
+queen his mother, who, as soon as he was dressed in
+swaddling-clothes, which were very rich and costly,
+went and presented him to the king.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia received the present with a joy
+easier to be imagined than expressed. The young
+prince being of a beautiful countenance, and all over
+charms, he thought no name so proper for him as that
+of Beder, which, in the Arabian language, signifies
+the Full Moon. By way of thanks to Heaven, he was
+very liberal in his alms to the poor, and caused the
+prison-doors to be set open, and gave all the prisoners
+<span class="pb" id="Page_97">[97]</span>
+of both sexes their liberty. He distributed vast
+sums among the priests and the holy men of his religion.
+He also gave large donatives to his courtiers,
+besides a great deal that was thrown amongst the people;
+and, by a proclamation, ordered several rejoicing
+days to be kept publicly through the whole city.</p>
+<p>One day after the queen&rsquo;s up-sitting, as the king of
+Persia, queen Gulnare herself, the queen her mother,
+king Saleh her brother, and the princesses their relations,
+were discoursing together in her majesty&rsquo;s bed-chamber,
+the nurse chanced to come in with the young
+prince Beder in her arms. King Saleh no sooner saw
+him, than he ran to embrace him, and taking him in
+his arms, fell a kissing and caressing him after a
+mighty rate. He took several turns with him about
+the room, dancing and dandling him about, when all
+of a sudden, through a transport of joy, the window
+being open, he leaped out, and plunged with him into
+the sea.</p>
+<p>The king of Persia, who expected no such sight,
+set up a hideous cry, verily believing he should either
+see the dear prince his son no more, or that he should
+see him drowned; nay, he was like to give up the
+ghost amidst his so great grief and affliction. Sir,
+quoth queen Gulnare, with a quiet and undisturbed
+countenance, (the better to comfort him,) let your
+majesty fear nothing; the young prince is my son as
+well as yours, and I do not love him less than you do.
+You see I am not alarmed at the loss of him; neither
+in truth ought I to be so. In short, he runs no risk,
+and you will soon see the king his uncle appear with
+him again, who will return him to you safe and sound.
+Although he be born of your blood as well as mine,
+he will not fail to have the same advantage his uncle
+and I have, of living equally in the sea and upon the
+land. The queen his mother, and the princesses his
+relations, confirmed the same thing: yet all was no
+<span class="pb" id="Page_98">[98]</span>
+great consolation to the king; he could not possibly
+recover from his fright till he saw prince Beder appear
+again as before.</p>
+<p>The sea at length became troubled, when immediately
+king Saleh arose, with the young prince in his
+arms, and dancing and dandling him about, re-entered
+at the same window he went out at. The king of
+Persia, overjoyed to see prince Beder again, became
+as calm as before he lost sight of him. Then king
+Saleh said, Sir, was not your majesty in a great fright,
+when you first saw me plunge into the sea with the
+prince my nephew? Alas! prince, answered the king
+of Persia, I cannot express my concern: I thought him
+lost from that very moment, and you now restore life
+to me by bringing him again. I thought as much, replied
+king Saleh, though you had not the least reason
+to apprehend any danger; for before I plunged into
+the sea with him, I pronounced certain mysterious
+words over him, which were engraven on the seal of
+the great Solomon the Son of David. We practise
+the like in relation to all those children that are born
+in the regions at the bottom of the sea, by virtue
+whereof they receive the same privileges that we
+have over those people who inhabit the earth. Now,
+from what your majesty has observed, you may easily
+see what advantage your son prince Beder has acquired
+on the part of his mother queen Gulnare my
+sister; for as long as he lives, and as often as he
+pleases, it shall be free for him to plunge into the sea,
+and traverse the vast empires it contains at its
+bottom.</p>
+<p>Having so spoken, king Saleh, who had restored
+prince Beder to his nurse&rsquo;s arms, opened a box he had
+fetched from his palace in that little time he had disappeared,
+which was filled with three hundred diamonds,
+as large as pigeons&rsquo; eggs; a like number of
+rubies, of extraordinary size; as many emerald wands,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_99">[99]</span>
+of half a foot long; and with thirty strings of necklaces
+of pearl, consisting each of ten pieces. Sir, said
+he to the king of Persia, presenting him with this box,
+when I was first summoned by the queen my sister, I
+knew not what part of the earth she was in, or that
+she had the honour to be married to so great a monarch
+as I now find; wherefore I came empty-handed: but
+now I understand how much we have been both obliged
+to your majesty, I beg you therefore to accept of
+this small token of gratitude, in acknowledgment of
+the many particular favours you have been pleased to
+do us, and whereof I am not less sensible than she.</p>
+<p>It cannot be imagined how greatly the king of Persia
+was surprised at the sight of so much riches enclosed
+in so little compass. What! prince, cried he,
+do you call so inestimable a present a small token of
+your gratitude, when you never have been indebted
+to me? I declare you have never been in the least
+obliged to me, neither you nor the queen your mother;
+I esteem myself but too happy in the consent you have
+been pleased to give to the alliance I have contracted
+with you. Madam, continued he, turning to Gulnare,
+the king your brother has put me into the greatest
+confusion in the world; and I would beg of him to retain
+his present, were it not that I fear to disoblige
+him. Do you therefore endeavour to obtain his leave,
+that I may be dispensed with on this occasion.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied king Saleh, I am not at all surprised
+that your majesty thinks this present so extraordinary:
+I know you are not accustomed upon earth to see such
+and so many fine stones; but if you knew, as I do,
+the mines from whence these jewels were taken, and
+that it is in my power to heap up a treasure, much
+larger than those, of all the things of the earth, you
+would, it may be, wonder I should have the boldness
+to make you a present of so small a value. I beseech
+you therefore not to regard it in that respect, but on
+<span class="pb" id="Page_100">[100]</span>
+account of the sincere friendship I am obliged to offer
+to you, which I hope you will not give me the mortification
+to refuse. These engaging expressions obliged
+the king of Persia to accept the present, for which
+he returned many thanks, both to king Saleh and the
+queen his mother.</p>
+<p>A few days after, king Saleh gave the king of Persia
+to understand that the queen his mother, the princesses
+his relations, and himself could have no greater
+pleasure than to spend their whole lives at his court;
+but that having been absent from their own kingdom
+for some time, where their presence was absolutely
+necessary, they begged of him not to take it ill, if
+they took leave of him and queen Gulnare. The king
+of Persia assured them he was very sorry that it was
+not in his power to come and visit them in their dominions;
+but added, As I am verily persuaded you
+will not forget queen Gulnare, but come and see her
+now and then, I hope I shall have the honour to kiss
+your hands again many times before I die.</p>
+<p>Many tears were shed on both sides upon their separation.
+King Saleh departed first; but the queen
+his mother, and the princesses his relations, were fain
+to force themselves, in a manner, from the embraces
+of queen Gulnare, who could not prevail with herself
+to let them go. This royal company were no sooner
+out of sight, than the king of Persia said to queen Gulnare,
+Madam, I should have looked upon that person
+as one who would have imposed on my credulity in
+the grossest manner, that had pretended to palm those
+wonders upon me for true, which I myself have been
+an eye-witness of from the time I have been honoured
+with your illustrious family at my court: but I cannot
+escape conviction of this kind; and shall remember
+it as long as I live, and be always ready to bless
+Heaven for directing you to me, rather than to any
+other prince.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_101">[101]</div>
+<p>Young prince Beder was brought up and educated
+in the palace, under the care of the king and queen of
+Persia, who both saw him grow and increase in beauty,
+to their great satisfaction. He gave them yet greater
+pleasure as he advanced in years, by his continued
+sprightliness, by his agreeable ways in whatever he
+did, and by the justness and vivacity of his wit in
+whatever he said; and they were the more sensible
+of this satisfaction, by reason king Saleh his uncle,
+the queen his grandmother, and the princesses his
+relations, came from time to time to take part of it.</p>
+<p>He was easily taught to read and write, and was
+instructed with the same facility in all the sciences
+that became a prince of his rank.</p>
+<p>When he arrived at fifteen, he acquitted himself of
+all his exercises with infinitely better address, and
+good grace, than any of his masters. He was withal
+very wise and prudent. The king, who had almost
+from his cradle discovered in him virtues so necessary
+for a monarch, and who moreover began to perceive
+the infirmities of old age coming upon himself, would
+not stay till death gave him the possession of his throne,
+but purposed to resign it to him immediately. He
+had no great difficulty to make his council consent to
+it; and the people heard this resolution with so much
+the more joy, as they conceived prince Beder worthy
+to govern them. In a word, as the king had not for
+a long time appeared in public, they had all the opportunity
+in the world to observe he had not that disdainful,
+proud, and crabbed air, which most princes,
+who look upon all below them with scorn and contempt,
+have. They saw, on the contrary, he treated
+all mankind with that goodness which invited them to
+approach him, that he heard favourably all who had
+any thing to say to him; that he answered every body
+with a goodness that was peculiar to him; and that
+<span class="pb" id="Page_102">[102]</span>
+he refused nobody any thing that had the least appearance
+of reasonableness.</p>
+<p>The day for the ceremony was appointed, when in
+the midst of the whole assembly, which was then
+more numerous than ordinary, the king of Persia,
+then sitting on his throne, came down from it, took
+the crown off his head, put it on that of prince Beder;
+and having seated him in his place, kissed his
+hand, as a token that he resigned his authority to
+him: after which, he ranged himself among the
+crowd of viziers and emirs.</p>
+<p>Hereupon the viziers, emirs, and other principal
+officers, came immediately and threw themselves at
+the new king&rsquo;s feet, taking each the oath of fidelity,
+according to their degrees. Then the grand vizier
+made a report of divers important matters; on
+which the young king gave judgment with that admirable
+prudence and sagacity that surprised all the
+council. He next turned out divers governors convicted
+of mal-administration, and put others in their
+room; which he did with that wonderful and just
+discernment as excited the acclamations of every body,
+which were so much the more honourable, as flattery
+had no share in them. He at length left the council,
+accompanied by the late king his father, and went to
+wait on his mother queen Gulnare, at her apartment.
+The queen no sooner saw him coming with the crown
+upon his head, than she ran to embrace him with a
+great deal of tenderness, wishing him a long and
+prosperous reign.</p>
+<p>The first year of his reign, king Beder acquitted
+himself of all his royal functions with great assiduity.
+Above all, he took care to instruct himself
+in affairs of state, and all that might any way contribute
+towards the happiness of his people. Next
+year, having left the administration to his council,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_103">[103]</span>
+under the direction of the old king his father, he
+went out of his capital city, under pretence of diverting
+himself with hunting; but his real intention
+was to visit all the provinces of his kingdom, that he
+might reform all abuses there, establish good order
+and discipline every where, and deprive all ill-minded
+princes, his neighbours, of any opportunities of attempting
+any thing against the security and tranquillity
+of his subjects, by appearing and showing himself
+seasonably on his frontiers.</p>
+<p>No less than a whole year sufficed this young king
+to put in practice a purpose so worthy of him. Soon
+after his return, the old king his father fell so dangerously
+ill, that he knew at first he should never
+recover. He waited for his last moment with great
+tranquillity, and his only care was to recommend to
+the ministers and other lords of his son&rsquo;s court to
+persist in the fidelity they had sworn to him; insomuch
+that there was not one but willingly renewed
+his oath as freely as at first. He died at length, to
+the great grief of king Beder and queen Gulnare,
+who caused his corpse to be carried to a stately mausoleum,
+worthy of his rank and dignity.</p>
+<p>When the funeral obsequies were ended, king
+Beder found no difficulty to comply with that ancient
+custom in Persia to mourn for the dead a whole
+month, and not to be seen by any body during all that
+time. He had mourned the death of his father his
+whole life, had he hearkened to his excessive affliction,
+and had it been permitted to so great a prince
+as he was to amuse himself after that manner. During
+this interval, the queen, mother to queen Gulnare,
+and king Saleh, together with the princesses
+their relations, arrived at the Persian court, and
+shared in great part of their affliction, before they
+proposed any consolation.</p>
+<p>Though the month was expired, the king could
+<span class="pb" id="Page_104">[104]</span>
+not prevail on himself to give admittance to the
+grand vizier and the other lords of his court, who all
+besought him to lay aside his mourning habit, to
+show himself to his subjects, and take upon him the
+administration of affairs as before.</p>
+<p>He showed so great unwillingness to their request,
+that the grand vizier took upon him to speak
+in the following manner: Sir, it would be needless
+to represent to your majesty that it belongs only to
+women to persist in perpetual mourning. We doubt
+not but you are sufficiently convinced of that, and
+that it is not your intention to follow their example.
+Neither our tears nor yours are capable of restoring
+life to the good king your father, though we should
+lament all our days. He has undergone the common
+fate of all men, which nobody can resist. Yet
+we cannot say absolutely that he is dead, since we
+see him reviving in the person of your sacred majesty.
+He did not himself doubt, when he was dying,
+but he should revive in you, and to your majesty
+it belongs to show that he was not deceived.</p>
+<p>King Beder could no longer oppose such pressing
+instances. He laid aside his mourning habit that
+very moment; and after he had resumed the royal
+ornaments, he began to provide for the necessities of
+his subjects with the same assiduity as before his
+father&rsquo;s death. He acquitted himself with universal
+approbation; and, as he was exact in maintaining his
+predecessor&rsquo;s ordinances, the people perceived no alteration
+in their sovereign.</p>
+<p>King Saleh, who was returned to his dominions in
+the sea, with the queen his mother and the princesses,
+no sooner saw that king Beder had resumed
+the government, than he came alone to visit him; and
+king Beder and queen Gulnare were overjoyed to
+see him. One day, as they rose from table, they
+fell to discoursing of several matters. King Saleh
+<span class="pb" id="Page_105">[105]</span>
+fell insensibly on the praises of the king his nephew,
+and the queen his sister, how glad he was to see
+him govern so prudently, which had acquired him
+so great reputation, not only among his neighbours,
+but more remote princes. King Beder, who could
+not bear to hear himself so well spoken of, and not
+being willing to interrupt the king his uncle, through
+good manners turned on one side, and seemed to be
+asleep, leaning his head against a cushion that was
+behind him.</p>
+<p>From these commendations, which regarded only
+the wonderful conduct and surprising wit of king
+Beder, king Saleh came to speak of the perfections
+of his body, which he extolled after a mighty rate,
+as having nothing equal to them, either upon the
+earth, or the kingdoms under the waters, which he
+was well acquainted with.</p>
+<p>Sister, said he in an ecstasy, so beautiful as he is,
+and of such excellent endowments, I wonder you
+have not thought of marrying him ere this: if I mistake
+not, he is at present in his twentieth year,
+and at that age no prince ought to be suffered to be
+without a wife. I will think of a match for him myself,
+since you will not, and marry him to some
+princess of our lower world, that may be worthy of
+him.</p>
+<p>Brother, replied queen Gulnare, you call to my
+remembrance a thing, I must own, I have never
+thought of to this very moment. As he never discovered
+any inclination for marriage, I never thought
+of mentioning it to him; and I am glad you have
+now spoken of it to me. I like your proposing one of
+your princesses; and I desire you to name one who
+may be beautiful and well accomplished, that the
+king my son may be obliged to love her.</p>
+<p>I know one that will be proper, replied king Saleh,
+softly; but before I will tell you who she is, let
+<span class="pb" id="Page_106">[106]</span>
+us see if the king my nephew sleeps or not, and I will
+tell you afterwards why it is necessary we should
+take that precaution. Queen Gulnare then looked
+upon her son, and thought she had no reason to
+doubt but he was profoundly asleep, (king Beder
+nevertheless, very far from sleeping, redoubled his
+attention, as being unwilling to lose any thing the
+king his uncle said upon that subject.) There is no
+necessity for your speaking so low, said the queen to
+the king her brother; you may speak out with all
+freedom, without fear of being heard.</p>
+<p>It is by no means proper, replied king Saleh, that
+the king my nephew should as yet have any knowledge
+of what I am going to say. Love, you know,
+sometimes enters the ear; and it is not necessary he
+should love this lady I am about to name, after that
+sort: in short, I see many difficulties to surmount in
+this case, not on the lady&rsquo;s part, as I hope, but on
+that of her father. I need only mention to you the
+princess Giahaure<a class="fn" id="fr_2" href="#fn_2">[2]</a>,
+and the king of Samarcand.</p>
+<p>How, brother, replied queen Gulnare, is not the
+princess Giahaure yet married? I remember to have
+seen her a little before I left your palace; she was
+then about eighteen months old, and surprisingly
+beautiful, and must needs be the wonder of the
+world, if her charms have increased equal with her
+years. The few years she is older than the king my
+son, ought not to hinder our doing our utmost to
+bring the match about. Let me know but the difficulties
+that are to be surmounted, and I will warrant
+we will do well enough.</p>
+<p>Sister, replied king Saleh, the greatest difficulty
+is, that the king of Samarcand is insupportably vain,
+looking upon all others as his inferiors: it is not
+likely we shall easily get him to enter into this alliance.
+<span class="pb" id="Page_107">[107]</span>
+For my part, I will go to him in person, and
+demand the princess his daughter of him; and in
+case he refuses her, will address ourselves elsewhere,
+where we shall be like to be more favourably heard.
+For this reason, as you may perceive, added he, it is
+not proper for the king my nephew to know any
+thing of our design, lest he should fall in love with
+the princess Giahaure, and we afterwards not be able
+to obtain her for him. They discoursed a little longer
+upon this point, and before they parted, agreed that
+king Saleh should forthwith return to his own dominions,
+and demand the princess Giahaure of the
+king of Samarcand, her father, for the king of Persia,
+his nephew.</p>
+<p>This done, queen Gulnare and king Saleh, who
+verily believed king Beder asleep, agreed to wake
+him; and he dissembled the matter so well, that he
+seemed to wake from a profound sleep. He had
+nevertheless heard every word they said; and the
+character they gave of the princess Giahaure had
+inflamed his heart with an unknown passion. He
+had conceived so bright an idea of her beauty, that
+he could not sleep a wink all night, but remained
+under continual inquietudes.</p>
+<p>Next day king Saleh would needs take leave of
+queen Gulnare and the king his nephew. The
+young king, who knew the king his uncle would not
+have departed so soon, but to go and promote his
+happiness, blushed when he heard him mention his
+departure. His passion was become so violent, it
+would not suffer him to wait so long for the sight of
+his mistress as would suffice to accomplish the marriage.
+He more than once resolved to desire his
+uncle to bring her away with him; but as he did not
+care to let the queen his mother understand he knew
+any thing of what had passed, he desired him only
+to stay with him a day or two, that they might hunt
+<span class="pb" id="Page_108">[108]</span>
+together, intending to make use of that occasion to
+discover his mind to him.</p>
+<p>The day for hunting was set, and king Beder had
+many opportunities to declare his mind to his uncle;
+but he had not the courage so much as once to
+open his mouth to acquaint him with what he designed.</p>
+<p>In the midst of the chase, when not only king Saleh
+but all his attendants had left him, he alighted
+near a spring; and, having tied his horse to a tree
+that afforded a very plentiful shade, as did several
+others along the banks of the rivulet, he laid himself
+down on the grass, and gave a free course to his
+tears, which issued forth in great abundance, accompanied
+with many sobs and sighs. He remained in
+this condition, overwhelmed with thought, and not
+speaking so much as one word. King Saleh, in the
+mean time, missing the king his nephew, and not
+meeting with any one who could tell tidings of him,
+began to be much concerned to know what was become
+of him. He therefore left his company to go
+in search of him, and at length perceived him at a
+distance. He had observed the day before, and even
+more evidently that day, that he was not so merry
+as he used to be, that he was more pensive than
+ordinary, and that if he was asked a question, he
+either answered not at all, or nothing to the purpose:
+but he never so much as in the least suspected
+the cause of all this alteration, till he saw him lying
+in that disconsolate posture; when he immediately
+guessed he had not only heard what passed between
+him and the queen Gulnare, but was become passionately
+in love. He hereupon alighted, at some
+distance from him, and having tied his horse to a
+tree, took a compass, and came upon him so softly,
+that he heard him pronounce the following
+words:</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_109">[109]</div>
+<p>Adorable princess of the kingdom of Samarcand,
+cried he out, I have no doubt had but an imperfect
+sketch of your incomparable beauty; yet I hold you
+to be preferable to all the princesses in the world in
+charms, and to excel them as much as the sun does
+the moon and stars. I would this moment go and
+offer you my heart, if I but knew where to find you:
+it belongs to you, dear princess, and nobody shall be
+the possessor of it but you.</p>
+<p>King Saleh would hear no more: he advanced
+immediately, and discovered himself to king Beder.
+From what I have understood, nephew, said he, you
+heard that which the queen your mother and I discoursed
+the other day of the princess Giahaure. It
+was not our intention you should have known any
+thing, and we verily thought you were asleep. My
+dear uncle, replied king Beder, I heard every word
+you said, and have sufficiently experienced the effect
+you foretold; which it was not in your power to prevent.
+I detained you on purpose to acquaint you
+with my love before your departure; but the confusion
+I had to let you know my weakness, if it be any
+to love so worthy a princess as this seems to be, altogether
+sealed my mouth. I beseech you then, by
+the friendship you profess for a prince that has the
+honour to be so nearly allied to you, that you would
+pity me, and not delay to procure me the consent of
+the king of Samarcand, that I may marry his daughter,
+the adorable Giahaure, with all speed, unless you
+have a mind to see me die with love before I have
+the sight of her.</p>
+<p>These words of the king of Persia troubled king
+Saleh very much: he gave him to understand how
+difficult it was to give him the satisfaction he desired,
+and that he could not well do it without carrying
+him along with him; which might be of dangerous
+<span class="pb" id="Page_110">[110]</span>
+consequences, since his presence was so absolutely
+necessary in his kingdom, that the least absence
+might occasion his subjects to revolt. He conjured
+him, therefore, to moderate his passion till such time
+as he had put things into a better posture; assuring
+him he would use his utmost diligence to content
+him, and, when he had brought matters to bear, he
+would come to acquaint him. But these reasons
+were not sufficient to satisfy the king of Persia.
+Cruel uncle, said he, I find you do not love me so
+much as you pretended, and that you had rather see
+me die than grant the first request that ever I made
+you.</p>
+<p>I am ready to convince your majesty, replied king
+Saleh, that I would do any thing to serve you in reason;
+but as for carrying you along with me, I cannot
+do that till I have spoken to the queen your mother.
+What would she say if I should do this? If
+she consents, I am ready to do all you would have
+me. You cannot be ignorant, replied the king of
+Persia, that the queen my mother would never willingly
+part with me; and therefore this excuse of
+yours does but yet farther convince me of the hardness
+of your heart. If you do really love me, as you
+would have me to believe you do, you must return to
+your kingdom immediately, and carry me along with
+you.</p>
+<p>King Saleh, finding himself in a manner obliged to
+yield to his nephew&rsquo;s importunity, drew a ring off
+his finger, which was engraved with the same mysterious
+names of God that were upon Solomon&rsquo;s
+seal, that had wrought so many wonders by their
+virtue. Here, take this ring, said he, put it upon
+your finger, and fear neither the waters of the sea,
+nor their depth. The king of Persia took the ring,
+and when he had put it on his finger, king Saleh said
+<span class="pb" id="Page_111">[111]</span>
+unto him, Follow me; when, at the same time, they
+both mounted leisurely up into the air, and made towards
+the sea, which was not far off, whereinto they
+jointly plunged.</p>
+<p>The sea-king was not long in going to his palace
+with the king of Persia, whom he immediately carried
+to the queen&rsquo;s apartment, and presented him to
+her. The king of Persia kissed the queen his grandmother&rsquo;s
+hands, and she embraced him with great
+demonstrations of joy. I do not ask you how you
+do, said she to him, I see you are well enough, and I
+am rejoiced at it; but I desire to know how my
+daughter and your mother queen Gulnare does.
+The king of Persia took great care not to let her
+know he came without her consent; and therefore
+told her the queen his mother was in perfect health,
+and had enjoined him to pay her duty to her. Then
+the queen presented him to the princesses; and
+while he was in conversation with them, she left
+him, and went with king Saleh into a closet. He
+there told her how the king of Persia was fallen in
+love with the princess Giahaure, upon the bare relation
+of her beauty; and, contrary to his intention,
+that he had brought him along with him, without
+being able to hinder it, and that he was going to
+concert measures to procure the princess for him in
+marriage.</p>
+<p>Although king Saleh was, to do him justice, perfectly
+innocent of the king of Persia&rsquo;s passion, yet
+the queen could hardly forgive his indiscretion, in
+mentioning the princess Giahaure before him. Your
+imprudence is beyond parallel, said she to him: can
+you think that the king of Samarcand, whose character
+is so well known, will have greater consideration
+for you than the many other kings he has refused his
+daughter to with scorn and contempt? Would you
+<span class="pb" id="Page_112">[112]</span>
+have him send you away with the same confusion he
+has done them?</p>
+<p>Madam, replied king Saleh, I have told you it was
+contrary to my intention that the king my nephew
+heard what I related of the beauty of the princess
+Giahaure to the queen my sister. The fault, if it be
+one, is already committed; and we must consider
+what a violent passion he has for this princess, and
+that he will die with grief and affliction if we do not
+speedily obtain her for him, with whatever trouble
+we are to do it. For my part, I shall omit nothing
+that may contribute to it, since I was, though innocently,
+the cause of the malady: I will therefore do
+all that I can to remedy it. I hope, madam, you
+will approve of my resolution, to go and wait upon
+the king of Samarcand, with a rich present of precious
+stones, and demand the princess his daughter of him
+for the king of Persia, your grandson and my nephew.
+I have some reason to believe he will not
+refuse me, nor neglect to ally himself with one of the
+greatest potentates of the earth.</p>
+<p>It were to have been wished, replied the queen,
+that we had not been under a necessity of making
+this demand, since the success of our attempt is not
+so certain as we could desire; but since my grandson&rsquo;s
+quiet and content totally depend upon it, I
+freely give my consent to it. But, above all, I
+charge you, since you sufficiently know the humour
+of the king of Samarcand, that you take care to show
+him due respect, and not in any wise offend him by
+too presuming a behaviour.</p>
+<p>The queen prepared the present herself, composing
+it of diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and strings of
+pearl; all which she put into a box, very neat and
+very rich. Next morning, king Saleh took his
+leave of her majesty and the king of Persia, and departed
+<span class="pb" id="Page_113">[113]</span>
+with a chosen but small troop of officers and
+other attendants. He soon arrived at the capital
+and palace of the king of Samarcand, who did not
+scruple to afford him audience immediately upon his
+arrival. He rose from his throne as soon as he perceived
+king Saleh; who, being willing to forget his
+character for some moments, knowing whom he had
+to deal with, prostrated himself at his feet, wishing
+him an accomplishment of whatever he desired. The
+king of Samarcand immediately stooped to take him
+up; and, after he had placed him by him on his left-hand,
+he told him he was welcome, and asked him if
+there was any thing he could do to serve him.</p>
+<p>Sir, answered king Saleh, though I should have no
+other motive than that of rendering my respects to
+the most potent and most prudent prince in the
+world, yet would I endeavour to convince your majesty,
+though poorly, how much I honour and adore
+you. Were it possible you could penetrate into my
+inmost soul, you would soon be convinced of the
+great veneration I have had for you, and the ardent
+desire I entertain to pay you my most humble acknowledgments.
+Having spoken these words, he
+took the box of jewels from one of his servants, and
+having opened it, presented it to the king, imploring
+him to accept of it for his sake.</p>
+<p>Prince, replied the king of Samarcand, I hope you
+do not make me this present without requiring a
+proportional benefit from me. If there be any thing
+within the compass of my capacity, you may freely
+command it, and will do me signal honour in accepting
+it. Speak, and tell me frankly wherein I can
+serve you.</p>
+<p>I must own ingenuously, replied king Saleh, I
+have a boon to ask of your majesty; but I shall take
+care to ask nothing but what is within your power to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_114">[114]</span>
+grant. The thing depends so absolutely on yourself,
+that it would be to no purpose to require it of
+any other. I ask it then with all possible earnestness,
+and I beg of you not to refuse it me. If it be
+so, replied the king of Samarcand, you have nothing
+to do but to acquaint me what it is, and you shall
+see after what manner I can oblige people of desert.</p>
+<p>Sir, then said king Saleh, after the confidence your
+majesty has been pleased to think I have put in your
+good-will, I will not dissemble any longer, that I
+came to beg of you to honour our house with your
+alliance by marriage, and by that means to fortify the
+good understanding that has always hitherto been
+between our two crowns.</p>
+<p>At these words, the king of Samarcand began to
+laugh heartily, falling back in his throne against a
+cushion that supported him; and soon after said,
+with an injurious and scornful air, to king Saleh;
+King Saleh, I have always hitherto thought you were
+a prince of great sense and wisdom; but now I find
+you just the contrary. Tell me, I beseech you, where
+was your wit or discretion, when you formed to
+yourself so great a chimera as you have just now
+proposed to me? Could you conceive a thought only
+of aspiring in marriage to so great a princess as my
+daughter? You ought to have considered better the
+great distance between us, and not to run the risk of
+losing in a moment the esteem I always had for your
+person.</p>
+<p>King Saleh was extremely nettled at this affronting
+answer, and had much ado to restrain his just
+resentment: however he replied, with greater moderation
+than could be expected, God reward your
+majesty according as you deserve. I beg the honour
+to inform you, I do not demand the princess in marriage
+<span class="pb" id="Page_115">[115]</span>
+for myself: had I done so, your majesty, or the
+princess, ought to have been so far from being offended,
+that you might rather have taken it for an
+honour done to both. Your majesty knows well I am
+a king of the sea as well as yourself; that the kings
+my ancestors have no reason to yield in antiquity to
+any other royal families; and that the kingdom I
+inherit from them is no less potent and flourishing
+than it has ever been. If your majesty had not interrupted
+me, you had soon understood, that the favour
+I asked of you was not for myself, but for the
+young king of Persia, my nephew, whose power and
+grandeur, no less than his personal good qualities,
+cannot be unknown to you. Every body acknowledges
+the princess Giahaure to be one of the finest
+ladies under the heavens; but it is at the same time
+acknowledged by all, that the young king of Persia,
+my nephew, is as accomplished as any prince, either
+upon land or under the water. Thus the favour
+that is asked being likely to redound both to the honour
+of your majesty and the princess your daughter,
+you ought not to delay your consent to an alliance
+so equal, and which no doubt will be approved by
+the generality of people. The princess is worthy of
+the king of Persia, and the king of Persia is no less
+worthy of her. No king or prince in the world can
+deny me this.</p>
+<p>The king of Samarcand had not let king Saleh
+go on so long after this rate, had not the rage he put
+him in deprived him of all power of speech. He was
+moreover some time longer before he could find his
+tongue, so much was he transported with passion.
+At length, however, he broke out into outrageous
+and injurious expressions, unworthy of a king. Dog,
+says he aloud, dare you talk to me after this manner,
+and so much as once to mention my daughter&rsquo;s name
+in my presence? Can you think the son of your sister
+<span class="pb" id="Page_116">[116]</span>
+Gulnare worthy to come in competition with my
+daughter? Who are you? who was your father? who
+is your sister? and who your nephew? Was not his
+father a dog, and a son of a dog, like thee? Guards,
+seize the insolent wretch, and immediately cut off his
+head.</p>
+<p>The few officers that were about the king of Samarcand
+were immediately going to obey his orders,
+when king Saleh, who was in the flower of his age,
+nimble and vigorous, got from them before they
+could draw their sabres; and, having reached the
+palace gate, he there found a thousand men of his relations
+and friends, well armed and equipped, who
+were but just arrived. The queen his mother having
+considered the small number of attendants he took
+with him, and moreover foreseeing the bad reception
+he would probably have from the king of Samarcand,
+had sent these troops to protect and defend him,
+in case of danger. Those of his relations who were
+at the head of this troop immediately saw how seasonably
+they were arrived, when they beheld him and
+his companions come running in great disorder, and
+a small number of officers at their heels in pursuit of
+them. My lord, cried out his friends, at the moment
+he joined them, what is the matter? We are
+ready to revenge you; you need only command us.</p>
+<p>King Saleh related his case to them in as few
+words as he could; and afterwards putting himself
+at the head of a large troop, he, whilst some seized
+on the gates, re-entered the palace as before. The
+few officers and guards who had pursued him being
+soon dispersed, he re-entered the king of Samarcand&rsquo;s
+apartment, who, being abandoned by his attendants,
+was soon seized. King Saleh left sufficient guards
+to secure his person, and then went from apartment
+to apartment, to search after the princess Giahaure.
+But that princess, on the first noise of this alarm,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_117">[117]</span>
+had, together with her women, flung herself on the
+surface of the sea, and escaped to a desert island.</p>
+<p>As matters passed thus in the palace of the king of
+Samarcand, those of king Saleh&rsquo;s attendants, who had
+fled at the first menaces of the king, put the queen
+his mother into a terrible consternation, upon relating
+the danger her son was in. King Beder, who
+was by at that time, was the more concerned, in that
+he looked upon himself as the principal author of all
+the mischief that might ensue: therefore, not caring
+to abide the queen&rsquo;s presence any longer, he, whilst
+she was giving the necessary orders at that conjuncture,
+darted himself upwards from the bottom of the
+sea; and not knowing how to find his way to the
+kingdom of Persia, he happened to light on the
+same island where the princess Giahaure had saved
+herself.</p>
+<p>The prince, not a little disturbed in his mind, went
+and seated himself under the shade of a large tree,
+surrounded with divers others. Whilst he was endeavouring
+to recover his temper, he heard one that
+talked, but was too far off to understand what was
+said. He arose, and advanced softly towards the
+place whence the sound came, where, among the
+branches, he perceived a beauty that dazzled him.
+Doubtless, said he within himself, stopping, and
+considering her with great attention, this must be
+the princess Giahaure, whom fear has obliged to
+abandon her father&rsquo;s palace; or, if it be not, she is,
+at least, one that no less deserves my love and admiration.
+This said, he moved forward, and discovering
+himself, approached the princess with a profound
+reverence. Madam, said he, I can never sufficiently
+thank Heaven for the favour it has done me, in regaling
+my eyes this day with so glorious a sight. A
+greater blessing could not be conferred on me than
+this opportunity to offer you my most humble services.
+<span class="pb" id="Page_118">[118]</span>
+I beseech you, therefore, madam, to accept
+them, it being impossible that a lady, under such
+solitary circumstances, should not want assistance.</p>
+<p>True, my lord, replied Giahaure, very sorrowfully,
+it is not a little extraordinary for a lady of my quality
+to be found in this condition. I am a princess,
+daughter of the king of Samarcand, and my name is
+Giahaure. As I was at ease in my father&rsquo;s palace,
+and in my apartment, I all of a sudden heard a
+dreadful noise: news was immediately brought me,
+that king Saleh, I know not for what reason, had
+fired the palace, seized upon the king my father, and
+murdered all the guards that made any resistance.
+I had only time to save myself, and escape hither
+from his violence.</p>
+<p>At these words of the princess, king Beder began
+to be concerned that he had quitted his grandmother
+so hastily, without staying to hear from her
+the news that had been brought her; but he was, on
+the other hand, overjoyed to find that the king his
+uncle had rendered himself master of the king of Samarcand&rsquo;s
+person, not doubting but he would consent
+to give up the princess for his liberty. Adorable
+princess, continued he, your concern is most just;
+but it is easy to put an end both to that and your
+father&rsquo;s captivity. You will agree with me, when I
+shall tell you that I am Beder, king of Persia, and
+king Saleh is my uncle. I assure you, madam, he
+has no design to seize upon the king your father&rsquo;s
+dominions: his only intent is, to obtain of him that
+I may have the honour to be received for his son-in-law.
+I had already given my heart to you, upon the
+bare relation of your charming beauty; and now,
+very far from repenting of what I have done, I beg
+of you to accept it, and to be assured that I will love
+you as long as I live. I dare flatter myself you will
+not refuse this favour, but be ready to acknowledge,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_119">[119]</span>
+that a king that quitted his dominions purely on your
+account deserves some favour. Permit then, beauteous
+princess, that I may have the honour to go and
+present you to the king my uncle; and the king your
+father shall no sooner have consented to our marriage,
+than king Saleh will leave him sovereign of his
+dominions as before.</p>
+<p>This declaration of king Beder had not all the
+success he could have desired. It is true the princess
+no sooner saw his person, and the good mien
+wherewith he accosted her, than she had some kindness
+for him; but when she came to understand
+from his own mouth that he had been the occasion of
+all the ill treatment her father had undergone, of the
+grief and fright she had endured, and especially the
+necessity she was reduced to in flying her country
+to save her life, she looked upon him with that horror,
+that she considered him rather as an enemy than
+a friend, with whom she resolved to have no manner
+of converse. Moreover, whatever inclination she
+might by any means be thought to have in regard to
+this marriage, she determined never to yield to it, in
+consideration that one of the reasons her father might
+have against this match might be, that king Beder
+was son of a king of the earth; and therefore she
+proposed to obey her father, especially in that particular.</p>
+<p>She nevertheless resolved to let king Beder know
+nothing of her resentment, and only sought an occasion
+to deliver herself dexterously out of his hands,
+seeming, in the mean time, to have a great kindness
+for him. Are you then, said she, with all possible
+civility, son of the queen Gulnare, so famous for her
+wit and beauty? I am highly glad of it, and moreover
+rejoice that you are the son of so worthy a mother.
+The king my father was much in the wrong for so
+<span class="pb" id="Page_120">[120]</span>
+strongly opposing our conjunction: he could no
+sooner have seen you but he must have consented to
+have made us both happy. Saying these words, she
+reached forth her hand to him as a token of friendship.</p>
+<p>King Beder, believing himself arrived at the very
+pinnacle of happiness held forth his hand, and was
+stooping to take that of the princess to kiss it, when
+she, pushing him back, and spitting at him, said,
+Wretch, quit that form of a man, and take one of a
+white bird, with a red bill and feet. Upon her pronouncing
+these words, king Beder was immediately
+changed into a bird of that sort, to his great surprise
+and astonishment. Take him now, said she to one of
+her women, and carry him to the Desert Island. This
+island was only one frightful rock, where there was
+not a drop of water to be had.</p>
+<p>The waiting-woman took the bird; and, in executing
+the princess&rsquo;s orders, had compassion on king
+Beder&rsquo;s destiny. It would be great pity, said she
+to herself, to let a prince, so worthy to live, die of
+hunger and thirst. The princess will, it may be, repent
+of what she has ordered, when she comes again
+to herself: it were better that I carried him to a
+place where he may die a natural death. She then
+carried him to a well-frequented island, and left him
+on a charming plain, planted with all sorts of fruit-trees,
+and watered by divers rivulets.</p>
+<p>Let us now return to king Saleh, who, after he had
+sought a good while for the princess Giahaure, and
+ordered others to seek for her, to no purpose, caused
+the king of Samarcand to be shut up in his palace,
+under a good guard; and, having given the necessary
+orders for governing the kingdom in his absence,
+he returned to give the queen his mother an
+account of what he had done. The first thing he
+<span class="pb" id="Page_121">[121]</span>
+asked, upon his arrival, was, Where was the king
+his nephew? and he was answered, to his great surprise
+and astonishment, that he disappeared soon
+after he left him. News being brought me, said the
+queen, of the danger you was in at the palace of the
+king of Samarcand, while I was giving orders to send
+troops for you to revenge yourself, he disappeared.
+He must necessarily have been frightened at the
+hearing of your being in so great danger, and did not
+think himself in sufficient security with us.</p>
+<p>This news exceedingly afflicted king Saleh, who
+now repented of his being so easily wrought upon by
+king Beder, as to carry him away with him without
+his mother&rsquo;s consent. He sent every where after
+him; but whatever diligence was used, he could hear
+no news of him; and instead of the joy he conceived
+at having carried on the marriage so far, which he
+looked upon as his own work, he felt a grief for this
+accident that was mortifying to him. While he was
+under suspense about his nephew, he left his kingdom
+to the administration of his mother, and went
+and governed that of the king of Samarcand, whom he
+continued to keep with great vigilance, though with
+all due respect to his character.</p>
+<p>The same day that king Saleh returned to the
+kingdom of Samarcand, queen Gulnare, mother to
+king Beder, arrived at the court of the queen her
+mother. The princess was not at all surprised to find
+her son did not return the same day he set out; because
+it was common for him to go farther than he
+proposed, in the heat of the chase: but when she
+saw he neither returned the next day nor the day
+after that, she began to be alarmed, as may easily
+be imagined, from the kindness she professed for
+him. This alarm was considerably augmented, when
+the officers who had accompanied the king, and were
+retired, after they had for a long time sought in vain
+<span class="pb" id="Page_122">[122]</span>
+both for him and his uncle, came and told her majesty
+they must of necessity have come to some
+harm, since, whatever diligence they had used, they
+had heard no tidings of them. Their horses, indeed,
+they had found; but, as for their persons, they knew
+not where to look for them. The queen, hearing this,
+dissembled and concealed her affliction, bidding the
+officers go and search once more with their utmost
+diligence; but in the mean time, saying nothing to
+any body, she went and plunged into the sea, to satisfy
+herself in the suspicion she had that king Saleh
+must have carried away his nephew along with
+him.</p>
+<p>This great queen would have been the more affectionately
+received by the queen her mother, had she
+not, upon first sight of her, guessed the occasion of
+her coming. Daughter, said she, I plainly perceive
+you are not come hither to visit me; you come only
+to inquire after the king your son; and I can only
+tell you such news of him as will augment both your
+grief and mine. I must confess, I no sooner saw
+him arrive in our territories, than I greatly rejoiced:
+yet, when I came to understand he had come away
+without your knowledge, I began to partake with you
+in the concern you must needs have at it. Then she
+related to her with what zeal king Saleh went to demand
+the princess Giahaure in marriage for king
+Beder, and what happened upon it, till such time as
+her son disappeared. I have sent diligently after
+him, added she; and the king my son, who is just
+gone to govern the kingdom of Samarcand, has done
+all that lay in his power on his part. All our endeavours
+have hitherto proved unsuccessful; but we
+hope nevertheless to see him again, perhaps when we
+least expect it.</p>
+<p>Comfortless queen Gulnare was not satisfied with
+this hope: she looked upon the king her dear son as
+<span class="pb" id="Page_123">[123]</span>
+lost; and she lamented him grievously, laying all the
+blame upon the king his uncle. The queen her mother
+made her to consider the necessity there was of her
+not yielding too much to her grief. The king your
+brother, said she, ought not, it is true, to have talked
+to you so inconsiderately about that marriage, nor
+ever have consented to carry away the king your son
+without your privacy: yet, since it is not certain
+that the king of Persia is absolutely lost, you ought
+to neglect nothing to preserve his kingdom for him.
+Lose then no more time; but return to your capital:
+your presence there will be necessary; and it will
+not be hard for you to preserve the public peace, by
+causing it to be published that the king of Persia was
+gone to visit his grandmother.</p>
+<p>This reason was sufficient to oblige queen Gulnare
+to submit to it. She took leave of the queen her
+mother, and was got back to the palace of her capital
+of Persia before she had been missed. She despatched
+immediately persons to recall the officers she
+had sent after the king, and to tell them she knew
+where his majesty was, and that they should soon
+see him again. She also caused the same report to
+be spread throughout the city, and governed, in
+concert with the prime minister and council, with
+the same tranquillity as if the king had been present.</p>
+<p>To return to king Beder, whom the princess Giahaure&rsquo;s
+waiting-woman had carried and left in the
+island before mentioned. That monarch was not a
+little surprised when he found himself alone, and under
+the form of a bird. He esteemed himself more
+unhappy, in that he knew not where he was, nor in
+what part of the world the kingdom of Persia lay.
+But if he had known, and sufficiently knew the force
+of his wings to traverse so vast watery regions, what
+could he have gained by it, but the mortification to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_124">[124]</span>
+continue still in the same ill plight, not to be accounted
+so much as a man, in the lieu of being acknowledged
+for king of Persia? He was then in a
+manner constrained to remain where he was, and live
+upon such nourishment as birds of his kind were
+wont to have.</p>
+<p>A few days after, a peasant, who was skilled in
+taking birds with nets, chanced to come to the place
+where he was; when, perceiving this fine bird, the
+like of which he had never seen, though he had used
+that sport for a long while, he began greatly to rejoice.
+He employed all his art to become master of him;
+and at length used such proper methods, that he took
+him. Overjoyed at so great a prize, which he looked
+upon to be of more worth than all the other birds
+he commonly took, by reason of its being so great a
+rarity, he shut it up in a cage, and carried it to the
+city. As soon as he was come into the market, a
+citizen stopped him, and asked him how much he
+would have for that bird.</p>
+<p>Instead of answering, the peasant demanded of the
+citizen what he would do with him in case he should
+buy him. What wouldst thou have me do with him,
+answered the citizen, but roast and eat him? Very
+well, replied the peasant; and so, I suppose, you
+would think me very well paid if you should give me
+the smallest piece of money for him: but know, I
+set a much greater value upon him; and you should
+not have him for a large piece of gold. Although I
+am pretty well advanced in years, I never saw such a
+bird in my life. I intend to make a present to the
+king of him; and I am sure he will know the worth
+of him better than you.</p>
+<p>Without staying any longer in the market, the peasant
+went directly to the court, and placed himself
+exactly before the king&rsquo;s apartment. His majesty
+being at a window where he could see all that passed
+<span class="pb" id="Page_125">[125]</span>
+in the base-court, at length cast his eyes on this
+beautiful bird; and, being charmed with the sight of
+it, he immediately sent the commander of his eunuchs
+to buy it for him. The officer, going to the
+peasant, demanded of him how much he would have
+for that bird. If it be for his majesty, answered the
+peasant, I humbly beg of him to accept it of me as a
+present, and I desire you to carry it to him. Hereupon
+the officer took the bird, and brought it to the
+king, who found it so great a rarity, that he ordered
+the same officer to take ten pieces of gold and carry
+them to the peasant, who departed very well satisfied
+with the market he had made. The king ordered the
+bird to be put into a magnificent cage, and gave it
+corn and water in rich vessels.</p>
+<p>His majesty being then ready to mount on horseback,
+had not time to consider the bird, therefore had
+it brought to him as soon as he came back. The
+officer brought the cage; and the king, that he might
+better view the bird, took it out himself, and perched
+it upon his hand. Looking earnestly upon it, he demanded
+of the officer if he had seen it eat. Sir, replied
+the officer, your majesty may observe his eating:
+the drawer is still full; and I believe he has
+hardly touched any of his meat; at least I did not see
+him. Then the king ordered him meat of divers
+sorts, that he might take what he liked best.</p>
+<p>The table being spread, (for dinner happened to
+be served up just as the king had given these orders),
+and the plates being placed, the bird leaped off the
+king&rsquo;s hand, and, clapping his wings, flew upon the
+table, where he began to peck the bread and victuals
+after an extraordinary rate. The king seeing this,
+was so surprised at it, that he immediately sent for
+the queen to come and see this miracle. The person
+that was sent related the matter to her majesty, and
+she came forthwith; but she no sooner saw the bird,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_126">[126]</span>
+than she covered her face with her veil, and would
+have retired. The king, admiring her proceedings,
+in that there were none but the eunuchs of the chamber
+and the women that waited on her, asked the
+reason of it.</p>
+<p>Sir, answered the queen, your majesty will no
+longer admire at my proceeding, when you come to
+know that this bird, which you take to be such, is
+no bird, but a man. Madam, said the king, more
+astonished than before, you are pleased to banter me,
+I suppose; but you shall never persuade me that a
+bird can be a man. Sir, replied the queen, far be it
+from me to banter your majesty; yet nothing is more
+certain than what I have had the honour to tell you.</p>
+<p>I can assure your majesty it is the king of Persia,
+named Beder, son of the celebrated Gulnare, princess
+of one of the largest kingdoms of the sea, nephew of
+Saleh, king of that kingdom, and grand-child of queen
+Farasche, mother of Gulnare and Saleh; and it was
+the princess Giahaure, daughter of the king of Samarcand,
+who thus metamorphosed him into a bird.
+Moreover, that the king might no longer doubt of
+what she affirmed, she told him the whole story, as
+how, and for what reason, the princess Giahaure had
+thus revenged herself for the ill treatment which king
+Saleh had used towards the king of Samarcand, her
+father.</p>
+<p>The king had the less difficulty to believe this assertion
+of the queen&rsquo;s, in that he knew her to be a
+skilful sorceress, perhaps one of the greatest in the
+world; and as she knew every thing which passed in
+it, he was always timely informed of the designs of
+the kings his neighbours against him, and so prevented
+them. His majesty had compassion on the
+king of Persia, and therefore earnestly besought his
+queen to break the enchantment, that he might return
+to his own form.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_127">[127]</div>
+<p>The queen consented to it with great willingness.
+Sir, said she to the king, be pleased to take the bird
+into your closet, and I will show you a thing worthy
+of the consideration you have for him. The bird,
+which had never minded eating, by reason of his attentiveness
+to what the king and queen said, would
+not give his majesty the trouble to take him, but hopped
+into the closet before him; and the queen came
+in soon after, with a pot full of water in her hand.
+She mumbled over the pot some words, unknown to
+the king, till such time as the water began to boil;
+when she took some of it in her hand, and sprinkling
+a little upon the bird, said, By virtue of these holy
+and mysterious words I am going to pronounce, and
+in the name of the Creator both of heaven and earth,
+who raises the dead, and maintains the universe in its
+distinct state, quit that form of a bird, and reassume
+that form which thou receivedst from thy Creator.</p>
+<p>The words were scarce out of the queen&rsquo;s mouth,
+when, instead of a bird, the king saw a young prince of
+good shape, air, and mien. King Beder immediately
+fell on his knees, and thanked God for the mercy that
+had been bestowed upon him. Then he took the
+king&rsquo;s hand, who helped him up, and kissed it as a
+token of his acknowledgment; but the king embraced
+him with a great deal of joy, and testified to him the
+great satisfaction he had to see him. He would then
+have paid his acknowledgments to the queen, but she
+was already retired to her apartment. The king
+made him sit at the table with him, and after supper
+was over, he prayed him to relate to him how the
+princess Giahaure had had the inhumanity to transform
+him into a bird, so agreeable and amiable a
+prince as he was; and the king of Persia immediately
+applied himself to satisfy him. When he had done,
+the king, disdaining the proceeding of the princess,
+could not help blaming her. It was commendable,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_128">[128]</span>
+said he, in the princess of Samarcand, not to be insensible
+of the king her father&rsquo;s ill treatment; but to
+carry her vengeance so far, and especially against one
+that was not culpable, was by no means to be excused,
+and she will never be able to justify herself.
+But let us have done with this discourse, and tell me,
+I beseech you, in what I can farther serve you.</p>
+<p>Sir, answered king Beder, my obligation to your
+majesty has been so great, that I ought to remain
+with you all my life-time to testify my acknowledgments;
+but since your majesty has set no limits to
+your generosity, I humbly entreat you to grant me
+one of your ships to transport me to Persia, where I
+fear my absence, which has been but too long, may
+have occasioned some disorder; and moreover, that
+the queen my mother, from whom I concealed my departure,
+may be dead of grief, under the uncertainty
+she must needs be of my life or of my death.</p>
+<p>The king granted what he desired with all the
+good will imaginable, and immediately gave orders
+for equipping one of his largest ships and best sailers
+in all his numerous fleet. The ship was soon furnished
+with all its complement of men, provisions, and
+ammunition; and as soon as the wind became fair,
+king Beder embarked, after having taken leave of the
+king, and thanked him for all his favours.</p>
+<p>The ship sailed before the wind for ten days together,
+which made it advance considerably. The eleventh
+day the wind changed, and becoming very violent,
+there followed a furious tempest. The ship was
+not only driven out of its course, but so grievously
+agitated, that all its masts were thrown overboard;
+and driving along at the pleasure of the wind, it at
+length struck against a rock and bulged.</p>
+<p>The greatest part of the people were drowned,
+though some few were saved by swimming, and others
+by getting on pieces of the wreck. King Beder was
+<span class="pb" id="Page_129">[129]</span>
+one of the last; when, after having been tossed about
+for some time under great uncertainty of his fate, he
+at length perceived himself near the shore, and not
+far from a city that seemed large. He used his utmost
+endeavours to reach the land, and was at length
+so fortunate to come so near as to be able to touch
+the ground with his feet. He then immediately abandoned
+his piece of wood, which had been of so great
+service to him; but when he came pretty near the
+shore, he was greatly surprised to see horses, camels,
+mules, asses, oxen, cows, bulls, and other animals,
+crowding towards the shore, and putting themselves
+in a posture to oppose his landing. He had all the
+difficulty in the world to conquer their obstinacy, and
+force his way; but at length he did it, which when
+done, he sheltered himself among the rocks till such
+time as he had recovered his breath, and dried his
+clothes in the sun.</p>
+<p>When the prince advanced to enter the city, he
+met with the same opposition from these animals,
+who seemed to intend to make him forego his design,
+and give him to understand it was dangerous to
+proceed.</p>
+<p>King Beder, however, got into the city soon after,
+and saw many fair and spacious streets, but was surprised
+to find never a man there. This made him
+think it was not without a cause that so many animals
+had opposed his passage. Going forward, nevertheless,
+he observed divers shops open, which gave him
+reason to believe the place was not destitute of inhabitants,
+as he imagined. He approached one of these
+shops, where several sorts of fruits were exposed to
+sale, and saluted very courteously an old man that
+was sitting there.</p>
+<p>The old man, who was busy about something,
+suddenly lifted up his head, and seeing a youth
+that showed some grandeur in his air, started, and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_130">[130]</span>
+asked him whence he came, and what business had
+brought him hither. King Beder satisfied him in a
+few words; and the old man farther asked him, if he
+had met any body on the road. You are the first
+person I have seen, answered the king; and I cannot
+comprehend how so fine and large a city comes to be
+without inhabitants. Come in, sir, stay no longer on
+the threshold, replied the old man, or peradventure
+some misfortune may happen to you. I will satisfy
+your curiosity at leisure, and give you a reason why
+it is necessary you should take this precaution.</p>
+<p>King Beder would not be bid twice. He entered
+the shop, and sat himself down by the old man. The
+old man, who had learned from him an account of his
+misfortunes, knew he must needs want nourishment,
+therefore immediately presented him with what was
+necessary to recover his spirits; and, although king
+Beder was very earnest to know why he gave him
+that precaution before he entered the shop, he would
+nevertheless not be prevailed upon to tell him any
+thing till he had done eating, for fear the sad things
+he had to relate might balk his appetite. In a word,
+when he found he ate no longer, he said to him, You
+have great reason to thank God you got hither without
+any ill accident. Alas! why? replied king Beder,
+very much surprised and alarmed.</p>
+<p>Because, answered he, this city is the city of enchantments,
+and governed not by a king, but a queen,
+who is not only one of the finest women of her sex,
+but likewise a dangerous sorceress. You will be convinced
+of this, added he, when you come to know
+that these horses, mules, and other animals that you
+have seen, are so many men like you and me, whom
+she has transformed by her diabolical art: and for
+young men like you only, that come to enter into the
+city, she has hired servants to stop and bring them,
+either by good will or force, before her. She receives
+<span class="pb" id="Page_131">[131]</span>
+them with all the seeming civility in the world: she
+caresses them, she treats and lodges them magnificently,
+and gives them so many reasons to believe
+that she loves them, that they think they cannot be
+mistaken. But she does not suffer them to enjoy
+long their happiness. Not one of them but she has
+transformed into some animal or bird, within the
+space of forty days. You told me those animals presented
+themselves to oppose your landing, and hinder
+your entering the city; and I must now tell you they
+were your friends, and what they did was to make
+you comprehend the danger you were going to expose
+yourself to.</p>
+<p>This account afflicted exceedingly the young king of
+Persia. Alas! cried he out aloud, to what extremities
+has my ill fortune reduced me! I am hardly freed
+from one enchantment, which I look back upon with
+horror, but I incur another much more terrible to
+me. This gave him occasion to relate his story to the
+old man much more at length, and to acquaint him
+of his birth and quality, his passion for the princess
+of Samarcand, and her cruelty in changing him into
+a bird, the very moment he came to see and declare
+his love to her.</p>
+<p>When the prince came to that passage where he
+spoke of his good fortune in finding a queen that
+broke the enchantment, the old man said to him,
+Notwithstanding all I have told you of the magic
+queen being true, yet that ought not to give you the
+least disquiet, since I am generally beloved throughout
+the city, and am not even unknown to the queen
+herself, who has no small respect for me; therefore
+it was your peculiar happiness to address yourself to
+me rather than elsewhere. You are secure in my
+house, where I advise you to continue, if you think
+fit; and, provided, you do not stray from hence, I dare
+assure you, you will have no just cause to complain of
+<span class="pb" id="Page_132">[132]</span>
+my breach of faith; so that you are under no sort of
+constraint whatsoever.</p>
+<p>King Beder thanked the old man for his kind reception
+of him, and the protection he was pleased to
+afford him. Then he sat down at the entrance into the
+shop, where he no sooner appeared, than his youth
+and good mien drew the eyes of all that passed that
+way on him. Many stopped and complimented the old
+man on his having so fine a slave, as they imagined
+the king to be; and they could not comprehend how
+so beautiful a youth could escape the queen&rsquo;s knowledge.
+Believe not, said the old man, this is a slave:
+you all know I am not rich enough to have one of
+this consequence: he is my nephew, son of a brother
+of mine that is dead; and as I had no children of my
+own, I sent for him to keep me company. They all
+congratulated his good fortune, in having so fine a
+young man for his relation; but withal told him,
+they feared the queen would take him from him.
+You know her well, said they to him; and you cannot
+be ignorant of the danger you expose yourself and
+nephew to, after all the examples you have seen of
+the kind. How grieved would you be, if she should
+serve you as she has done so many others!</p>
+<p>I am obliged to you, gentlemen, replied the old
+man, for your good will towards me, and I thank you
+for the care you seem to take of my interest; but I
+shall never entertain the least thought that the queen
+will do me any injury, after all the kindness she has
+professed for me. In case she happens to hear of this
+young man, and speaks to me about him, I doubt not
+but she will be contented to excuse him, as soon as
+she comes to know he is my nephew.</p>
+<p>The old man was exceedingly glad to hear the commendations
+they bestowed on the young king of Persia.
+He was as much affected with them as if he had
+been his own son; and he conceived such a kindness
+<span class="pb" id="Page_133">[133]</span>
+for him, as augmented every day during the stay he
+made with him. They lived about a month together,
+when king Beder, sitting at the shop-door after his
+ordinary manner, queen Labe (so was this magic
+queen&rsquo;s name) happened to come by with great pomp.
+The young king no sooner perceived the guards coming,
+who marched before her, than he arose, and going
+into the shop, asked the old man what all that show
+meant. The queen is coming by, answered he; but
+stand you still, and fear nothing.</p>
+<p>The queen&rsquo;s guards, clothed in purple, and well
+armed and mounted, marched in four files, with their
+sabres drawn, to the number of a thousand, and not
+one of their officers but, as they passed by the shop,
+saluted the old man. Then followed a like number
+of eunuchs habited in brocade silk, and better mounted,
+whose officers did the old man the like honours.
+Next came as many young ladies on foot, equally
+beautiful, richly dressed, and set off with precious
+stones. They marched gravely, with half pikes in
+their hands; and in the midst of them appeared queen
+Labe, on a horse all glittering with diamonds, with a
+golden saddle, and a housing of inestimable price.
+All the young ladies saluted the old man as they
+passed by him; and the queen, moved with the good
+mien of king Beder, stopped as soon as she came
+over-against the shop. Abdallah, (so was the old
+man&rsquo;s name,) said she to him, tell me, I beseech thee,
+does that beautiful and charming slave belong to
+thee, and is it long that thou hast been in possession
+of him?</p>
+<p>Abdallah, before he answered the queen, threw
+himself on the ground, and rising again, said, Madam,
+he is my nephew, son of a brother I had, who has
+been dead for some time. Having no children, I
+look upon him as my son, and sent for him to come
+<span class="pb" id="Page_134">[134]</span>
+and comfort me, intending to leave him what I have
+when I die.</p>
+<p>Queen Labe, who had never yet seen any one that
+pleased her so well as king Beder, and who began to
+conceive a mighty passion for him, thought immediately
+of getting the old man to abandon him to her.
+Father, quoth she, will not you oblige me so far as to
+make me a present of this young man? Do not refuse
+me, I conjure you; and I swear by the fire and the
+light, I will make him as great and powerful as ever
+private man was in the world. Although my design
+be to do evil to all mankind, yet he shall be the sole
+exception. I trust you will grant me what I desire,
+more on account of the friendship you have for me,
+than the esteem you know I have always had, and
+shall ever have, for your person.</p>
+<p>Madam, replied the good Abdallah, I am infinitely
+obliged to your majesty for all the kindness you have
+for me, and the honours you propose to do my nephew.
+He is not worthy to approach so great a
+queen, and I humbly beseech your majesty to excuse
+him.</p>
+<p>Abdallah, replied the queen, I all along flattered
+myself you loved me, and I could never have thought
+you would have given me so evident a token of your
+slighting my request: but I swear once more by the
+fire and light, and even by whatsoever is most sacred
+in my religion, that I will pass on no farther until I
+have conquered thy obstinacy. I understand very
+well what raises fears in thee; but I here promise,
+thou shalt never have any occasion to repent thy
+having trusted me.</p>
+<p>Old Abdallah was exceedingly grieved, in relation
+to king Beder and himself, for being in a manner
+forced to obey the queen. Madam, therefore, replied
+he, I would not willingly have your majesty have an
+<span class="pb" id="Page_135">[135]</span>
+ill opinion of the sincere respect I have for you, but
+would always contribute whatever I can to oblige
+you: I put an entire confidence in your royal word,
+and I do not in the least doubt but you will keep it:
+I only beg of your majesty to delay doing this great
+honour to my nephew till you shall again pass by this
+way. That shall be to-morrow, quoth the queen; and
+so saying, she inclined her head, as a token of her
+being pleased, and so went forward towards her
+palace.</p>
+<p>When queen Labe and all her attendants were out
+of sight, the good Abdallah said to king Beder, Son,
+(for so he was wont to call him, for fear of some time
+or other betraying himself in public,) it has not been
+in my power, as you may have observed, to refuse
+the queen what she demanded of me with so great
+earnestness, to the end I might not force her to an
+extremity of employing her magic both against you
+and myself. But I have some reason to believe she
+will use you well, as she promised, on account of that
+particular esteem she professes for me. This you may
+have seen, by the respect both she and all her court
+paid me. She would be a cursed creature indeed, if
+she should deceive me; but in case she should, she
+shall not deceive me unrevenged, for I know how to
+be even with her.</p>
+<p>All these assurances, which appeared very doubtful,
+were not sufficient to support king Beder&rsquo;s spirits.
+After all you have told me of this queen&rsquo;s wickedness,
+replied he, you cannot wonder if I am somewhat fearful
+to approach her. I should, it may be, slight all
+you could tell me of her, and suffer myself to be dazzled
+by the lustre of grandeur that surrounds her, if I
+had not already been at the mercy of a sorceress. The
+condition I was in, through the enchantment of the
+princess Giahaure, and from whence I was delivered
+only to enter anew into another, has made me look upon
+<span class="pb" id="Page_136">[136]</span>
+such a fate with horror. His tears hindered him from
+going on any farther, and sufficiently showed with
+what repugnance he held himself in a manner under
+a fatal necessity of being delivered to queen Labe.</p>
+<p>Son, replied old Abdallah, do not afflict yourself;
+for though I must own there is no great stress to be
+laid upon the oaths and promises of so perfidious a
+queen, yet I must withal acquaint you, her power
+extends no farther than I am pleased to permit it: she
+knows it full well herself; and that is the reason, and
+no other, that she pays me so great respect. I can
+quickly hinder her from doing you the least harm,
+though she should be perfidious enough to attempt it.
+You may entirely depend upon me; and, provided you
+follow exactly the advice I shall give you before I
+abandon you to her, she shall have no more power
+over you than she has over me.</p>
+<p>The magic queen did not fail to pass by the old
+man&rsquo;s shop the next day, with the same pomp she had
+done the day before; and Abdallah waited for her
+with great respect. Father, cried she, stopping just
+against him, you may judge of my impatience to have
+your nephew with me, by my punctual coming to put
+you in mind of your promise: I know you are a man
+of your word, and I cannot think you will break it
+with me.</p>
+<p>Abdallah, who fell on his knees as soon as he saw
+the queen approaching, rose up when she had done
+speaking; and as he would have nobody hear what he
+had a mind to say to her, he advanced with great respect
+as far as her horse&rsquo;s head, and then said softly,
+Puissant queen! I am persuaded your majesty will
+not be offended at my seeming unwillingness to trust
+my nephew with you yesterday, since you cannot be
+ignorant of the reasons I had for it; but I conjure you
+to lay aside the secrets of that art which you possess
+in so wonderful a degree. I respect my nephew as
+<span class="pb" id="Page_137">[137]</span>
+my own son; and your majesty would reduce me to
+the utmost despair, if you should think fit to deal
+with him as you have done with others.</p>
+<p>I promise you once more I will not, replied the
+queen; and I once more repeat the oath I made yesterday,
+that neither you nor your nephew shall have
+any cause to be offended at me. I see plainly, added
+she, you are not yet well enough acquainted with me:
+you never saw me yet but through a veil; but as I
+find your nephew worthy of my friendship, I will show
+you I am not any wise unworthy of his. With that
+she threw off her veil, and discovered to king Beder,
+who came near her with Abdallah, an incomparable
+face: but king Beder was little charmed. It is not
+enough, said he within himself, to be beautiful;
+one&rsquo;s actions ought to correspond in regularity with
+one&rsquo;s features.</p>
+<p>While king Beder was making these reflections,
+with his eyes fixed on queen Labe, the old man turned
+towards him, and, taking him by the arm, presented
+him to her majesty, saying, Here he is, madam; and
+I beg of your majesty once more to remember he is
+my nephew, and to let him come and see me sometimes.
+The queen promised he should; and, to give
+a farther assurance of her acknowledgment, she caused
+a bag of a thousand pieces of gold to be given him.
+He excused himself at first from receiving them; but
+she insisted absolutely upon it, and he could not refuse
+her. She had caused a horse to be brought, as
+richly harnessed and set out as her own, for the king
+of Persia. While he was mounting him, I forgot, said
+the queen to Abdallah, to ask you your nephew&rsquo;s
+name; pray how is he called? He answered, his name
+was Beder, (The Full Moon); and her majesty replied,
+Sure his ancestors were mistaken; they ought
+to have given him the name of Shems, (The Sun).</p>
+<p>When king Beder was mounted, he would have
+<span class="pb" id="Page_138">[138]</span>
+taken his post behind the queen; but she would not
+suffer him, and made him to ride on her left hand.
+She looked upon Abdallah; and, after having made
+him an inclination with her head, she set forward on
+her march.</p>
+<p>Instead of observing a satisfaction in the people&rsquo;s
+faces at the sight of their sovereign, king Beder took
+notice that they rather despised and cursed her. The
+sorceress, said some, has got a new subject to exercise
+her wickedness upon: will Heaven never deliver the
+world from her tyranny? Poor stranger, cried out
+others, thou art much deceived if thou thinkest thy
+happiness will last long: it is to render thy fall more
+terrible, that she has raised thee so high. This talk
+gave king Beder to understand Abdallah had told him
+nothing but the truth of queen Labe; but as he no
+longer depended on him, he had recourse to divine
+Providence to free him from the danger he was got
+into.</p>
+<p>The magic queen arrived at her palace, whither
+she was no sooner come, than she alighted, and, giving
+her hand to king Beder, entered with him, accompanied
+by her women and the officers of her eunuchs.
+She herself showed him all her apartments, where
+there was nothing to be seen but massy gold, precious
+stones, and furniture of wonderful magnificence.
+When she had carried him into her closet, she led him
+out into a balcony, from whence he observed a garden
+of surprising beauty. King Beder commended all he
+saw, with a great deal of wit, but nevertheless in such
+a manner that he might not be discovered to be any
+other than old Abdallah&rsquo;s nephew. They discoursed
+of divers indifferent matters, till such time as news
+was brought the queen that dinner was upon the
+table.</p>
+<p>The queen and king Beder arose, and went to place
+themselves at table, which was of pure massy gold,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_139">[139]</span>
+and the plates of the same. They began to eat, but
+did not drink till almost the dessert came, when the
+queen caused a cup to be filled with excellent wine:
+she took it, and drank to king Beder&rsquo;s health; and
+then causing it to be filled again, presented it to him.
+King Beder received it with profound respect, and,
+by a very low bow, signified to her majesty that he
+likewise drank to her health.</p>
+<p>Soon after, ten of queen Labe&rsquo;s women entered with
+musical instruments, with which, accompanied with
+their voices, they made an agreeable concert during
+the whole drinking, which continued till late at night.
+At length they began to be so heated with wine, that
+king Beder insensibly forgot he had to do with a magic
+queen, and looked upon her only as the finest
+woman he ever saw. As soon as the queen perceived
+she had wrought him to the pitch she desired, she
+made a sign to her eunuchs and women to retire.
+They obeyed; and king Beder and she went and lay
+together all night.</p>
+<p>Next morning the queen and king Beder went to
+the bagnio; and as soon as they came out, the women
+who had served the king there, presented him with
+fine linen and a magnificent habit. The queen likewise,
+who was more splendidly dressed than the day
+before, came to receive him, and they went together
+to her apartment, where they had a good repast brought
+before them, and spent the remainder of the day in
+walking and other amusements.</p>
+<p>Queen Labe treated king Beder after this manner
+for forty days, as she had been accustomed to do all
+her lovers. The fortieth night, as they were lying together,
+she, believing he was really asleep, arose without
+making any noise; but he was awake, and perceiving
+she had some design upon him, watched all
+her motions. Being up, she opened a chest, from
+whence she took a little box, full of a certain yellow
+<span class="pb" id="Page_140">[140]</span>
+powder. Taking some of the powder, she laid a train
+of it across the chamber, and immediately flowed in a
+rivulet of water, to the great astonishment of king
+Beder. He trembled with fear, but still pretended
+to sleep, that he might not discover to the sorceress
+he was awake.</p>
+<p>Queen Labe next took up some of the water in a
+pot, and poured it into a basin where there was flour,
+with which she made paste, and kneaded it for a long
+time: then she mixed certain drugs with it, which
+she took from different boxes, and made a cake, and
+put it into a covered baking-pan. As she had taken
+care at first to make a good fire, she took some of the
+coals, and set the pan upon them; and as the cake
+was baking, she put up her pot and boxes again; and
+at the pronouncing of certain words, dismissed the
+rivulet, which appeared no more. When the cake
+was baked, she took it off the coals, and carried it
+into her closet, and afterwards returned to bed again
+to king Beder, who dissembled the matter so well with
+her, that she had not the least suspicion that he knew
+any thing of what she had done.</p>
+<p>King Beder, whom the pleasures and delights of
+a court had made to forget his good host Abdallah,
+began now to think of him again, and believed he had
+more than ordinary occasion for his advice at this
+juncture, since he saw all the queen had done that
+night. As soon as he was up, therefore, he expressed
+a great desire to go and see his uncle, and begged of
+her majesty to permit him. Alas! my dear Beder,
+cried the queen, are you then already tired, I will not
+say with the pleasures of so superfine a palace as mine
+is, but with the company of a queen who loves you so
+passionately as I do?</p>
+<p>Great queen, answered king Beder, how can I be
+tired with so many favours and graces as your majesty
+perpetually heaps upon me? Very far from that, I
+<span class="pb" id="Page_141">[141]</span>
+desire this permission, madam, purely to go and give
+my uncle an account of the mighty obligations I have
+to your majesty. I must own likewise it is partly in
+this respect, that my uncle loving me so tenderly, as
+it is very well known he does, and I having been from
+him now forty days, without so much as once seeing
+him, he will surely take it very unkindly if I cannot
+afford him one visit. Go, said the queen, I consent
+to it; but you will not be long before you return, if
+you consider I cannot possibly live without you. This
+said, she ordered him a fine horse richly caparisoned,
+and so he departed.</p>
+<p>Old Abdallah was overjoyed to see his dear adopted
+son again; insomuch that, without regard to his
+quality, he embraced him heartily, and king Beder
+returned the like, that nobody might doubt but that
+he was his nephew. As soon as they were sat down,
+Well, said Abdallah to the king, how do you do, sir?
+and how have you passed your time with that infidel
+sorceress?</p>
+<p>Hitherto, answered king Beder, I must needs own
+she has been extraordinary kind to me, and has done
+all she could to persuade me that she loves me entirely;
+but I observed something last night, which
+gives me just reason to suspect that all her kindness
+hitherto is but dissimulation. Whilst she thought me
+asleep, although I was really awake, she stole from
+me with a great deal of precaution, which made me
+suspect her intention, and therefore I resolved to
+watch her. Going on with his discourse, he related
+to Abdallah how, and after what manner, he had seen
+her make the cake; and then added, Hitherto, said
+he, I must needs confess I had almost forgot, not only
+you, but all the advice you gave me concerning the
+wickedness of this queen: but this last action of hers
+gives me reason to fear she neither intends to observe
+any of her oaths nor promises. I thought of you immediately,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_142">[142]</span>
+and esteem myself happy in that I have
+obtained permission to come to you.</p>
+<p>You are not deceived in this wicked queen, replied
+old Abdallah with a smile, to show he did not himself
+believe she would observe one word she spoke, nor oath
+she made; nothing is capable of obliging a perfidious
+woman to mend her morals. But fear nothing; I have
+a way to make the mischief she intends you fall upon
+herself. You are become jealous in time; and you
+could not have done better than this, to have recourse
+to me. It is her ordinary practice to keep her lovers
+only forty days; and after that time, instead of sending
+them home, to turn them into animals to stock
+her forests and parks; but I thought of measures
+yesterday to prevent her doing any harm. The earth
+has borne this monster long enough, and it is now
+high time she should be served as she deserves.</p>
+<p>So saying, Abdallah put two cakes into king Beder&rsquo;s
+hands, bidding him keep them to make use of as he
+should direct. You told me, continued he, the sorceress
+made a cake last night: it was for you to eat
+of, depend upon it, but take great care you do not
+touch it. Nevertheless, do not refuse to receive it
+when she offers it you; but, instead of tasting it,
+break off part of one of the two that I gave you, unobserved,
+and eat that. As soon as she thinks you
+have swallowed it, she will not fail to attempt transforming
+you into some animal, but she shall not succeed;
+which when she sees, she will immediately
+turn the thing to pleasantry, as if what she had done
+was only to frighten you; but she will conceal a mortal
+aversion in her heart, and think her having failed
+proceeded only from the want of something in the
+composition of her cake. As for the cake she made,
+and which she will not know to be her own, you shall
+make a present of it to her, and press her to eat it;
+which she will not refuse to do, if it were only to convince
+<span class="pb" id="Page_143">[143]</span>
+you she does not mistrust you, though she has
+given you so much reason to mistrust her. When she
+has quite eaten it, take a little water in the hollow of
+your hand, and, throwing it in her face, say, Quit that
+form you now wear, and take that of such or such an
+animal, as you shall think fit; which done, come to
+me with the animal, and I will tell you what you
+shall do afterwards.</p>
+<p>King Beder made all possible acknowledgments to
+old Abdallah, for the great obligations he had to him,
+for defending him from the wiles of a pestilent sorceress
+who sought to ruin him; and after some little
+discourse, he took his leave of him and returned to
+the palace. Upon his arrival, he understood that the
+queen waited for him with great impatience in the
+garden. He went to pay his respects to her, and she
+no sooner perceived him, than she came in great haste
+to meet him. My dear Beder! said she, it is said,
+with a great deal of reason, that nothing moves more
+the force and excess of love than absence from the
+object beloved. I have had no quiet since I saw you,
+and the minutes I have been separated from you have
+seemed so many ages; nay, if you had staid ever so
+little longer, I was preparing to come and fetch you
+once more to my arms.</p>
+<p>Madam, replied king Beder, I can assure your majesty
+that I have not been under less disquiets on your
+account; but I could not refuse to stay a little longer
+than ordinary with an uncle who loves me so dearly,
+and had not seen me for so long a while. He would
+have kept me still longer, but I tore myself away from
+him to come and pay my vows where they are so much
+due. Of all the collations he prepared for me, I have
+only brought away this cake, which I desire your majesty
+to accept. King Beder had wrapped up one of
+the two cakes in a handkerchief very neatly, took it
+out, and presented it to the queen, saying, I beg your
+<span class="pb" id="Page_144">[144]</span>
+majesty to accept of it, though it be so inconsiderable
+a present.</p>
+<p>I do accept of it with all my heart, replied the
+queen, receiving it, and will eat it cheerfully for yours
+and your good uncle&rsquo;s sake: but before I taste of it,
+I desire you will eat a piece of mine, which I have
+made for you during your absence. Fair queen, answered
+king Beder, receiving it with great respect,
+such hands as your majesty&rsquo;s can never make any thing
+but what is excellent; and the favour hereby done me
+will exact an eternal acknowledgment.</p>
+<p>King Beder then substituted, in the place of the
+queen&rsquo;s cake, the other which old Abdallah had given
+him, and having broken off a piece, he put it to his
+mouth, and cried, while he was eating, Ah! queen, I
+never tasted any thing so charming in my life. They
+being near a cascade, the sorceress seeing him swallow
+one bit of the cake, and ready to eat another, she took
+a little water in the palm of her hand, and throwing
+it on the king&rsquo;s face, said, Wretch! quit that form of
+a man thou bearest, and take that of a vile horse, lame
+and blind.</p>
+<p>These words not having the desired effect, the sorceress
+was strangely surprised to find king Beder still
+in the same form, and that he only started, being a
+little frightened. Blushes came suddenly into her
+cheeks; and as she saw that she had missed her aim,
+Dear Beder, cries she, this is nothing, recover thyself;
+I did not intend thee any harm; what I did, was only
+to see what thou wouldst say. I should be the most
+miserable and execrable of women, should I attempt
+aught against thy tranquillity; I do not only say, after
+all the oaths I made to the contrary, but even after
+so many testimonies of love as I have given thee.</p>
+<p>Puissant queen, replied king Beder, however well
+satisfied I were, that what your majesty did was only
+to divert yourself, yet I could not help being a little
+<span class="pb" id="Page_145">[145]</span>
+frightened with the surprise. Also, what could hinder
+me from being a little moved at the pronouncing of
+such terrible words, as are capable of making so
+strange a transformation? But, madam, continued he,
+let us set aside this discourse; and since I have ate of
+your cake, I desire you would do me the like favour
+by tasting of mine.</p>
+<p>Queen Labe, who could no better justify herself
+than by putting this confidence in the king of Persia,
+broke off a piece of his cake and ate it; which she
+had no sooner done, than she appeared much troubled,
+and remained, as it were, motionless. King Beder,
+seeing his time, took water out of the same basin she
+had done, and, throwing it in her face, cried, Abominable
+sorceress! quit that form of a woman, and
+be turned instantly into a mare.</p>
+<p>The same instant queen Labe was transformed into
+a very beautiful mare; and she was so concerned to
+find herself in that condition, that she shed tears in
+great abundance, which perhaps no mare before had
+been ever known to do. She bowed her head with
+great obeisance to king Beder, thinking to move him
+to compassion; but, though he could have been so
+moved, it was absolutely out of his power to repair
+the damage he had done her. He led her then into
+the stable belonging to the palace, and put her into
+the hands of a groom, to bridle and saddle; but of
+all the bridles he tried upon her, not one would fit
+her. This made him cause two horses to be saddled,
+one for the groom and the other for himself; and the
+groom led the mare after him to old Abdallah&rsquo;s.</p>
+<p>Abdallah, seeing king Beder coming with the mare
+at a distance, doubted not but he had done what he
+advised him. Cursed sorceress! said he immediately
+to himself very joyfully. Heaven has at length punished
+thee as thou deservest. King Beder alighted at
+Abdallah&rsquo;s door, and entered with him into the shop
+<span class="pb" id="Page_146">[146]</span>
+embracing and thanking him for all the signal services
+he had done him. He related to him the whole matter,
+with all its circumstances; and moreover told
+him, he could find no bridle fit for the mare. Abdallah
+found one that fitted exactly; and as soon as king
+Beder had sent back the groom, he said to him, My
+lord, you have no reason to stay any longer in this
+city; take the mare, mount her, and return to your
+kingdom. I have but one thing more to recommend to
+you; and that is, if ever you should happen to part
+with the mare, be sure to deliver her bridle. King
+Beder promised to observe all his commands, and this
+especially; and so, having taken leave of the good old
+man, he departed.</p>
+<p>The young king of Persia no sooner got out of the
+city, than he began to reflect on the deliverance he had
+had, and to rejoice he had the sorceress in his power,
+who had given him so much cause to tremble. Three
+days after, he arrived at a great city, where, entering
+the suburbs, he met a venerable old man, walking on
+foot towards a pleasure-house he had hard by: Sir,
+said the old man to him, stopping, may I presume to
+ask from what part of the world you come? The king
+stopped to satisfy him; and, as they were discoursing
+together, an old woman chanced to come by, who,
+stopping likewise, wept and sighed bitterly at the
+sight of the mare.</p>
+<p>King Beder and the old man left off discoursing, to
+look on the old woman, whom the king asked, whom
+she had to lament so much. Alas! sir, replied she,
+It is because your mare resembles so perfectly one my
+son had, and which I still mourn the loss of on this
+account, and should think yours were the same, did
+I not know she was dead. Sell her to me, sir, I beseech
+you, and I will give you even more than she is
+worth, for the sake of the person that once owned her
+likeness.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_147">[147]</div>
+<p>Good woman, replied king Beder, I am heartily
+sorry I cannot comply with your request; my mare is
+not to be sold. Alas! sir, continued the old woman,
+do not refuse me this favour, for the love of God. I
+conjure you to do it out of pure charity, since my son
+and I shall certainly die with grief if you do not grant
+it. Good mother, replied the king, I would grant it
+with all my heart, if I was disposed to part with so
+good a beast; but if I were so disposed, I believe
+you would hardly give a thousand pieces of gold for
+her, which is the lowest price I shall ever put upon
+her. Why should I not give so much? replied the
+old woman: if that be the lowest price, you need only
+say you will take it, and I will fetch you the money.</p>
+<p>King Beder, seeing the old woman so poorly dressed,
+could not imagine she could find the money;
+therefore, to try her, he said, not thinking to part
+with his mare for all that, Go fetch me the money, and
+the mare is yours. The old woman immediately unloosed
+a purse she had fastened to her girdle, and desiring
+him to alight, bade him tell over the money:
+and, in case he found it came short of the sum demanded,
+her house was not far off, and she could
+quickly fetch the rest.</p>
+<p>The surprise king Beder was in at the sight of this
+purse was not small. Good woman, said he, do you
+not perceive I have bantered you all this while? I
+will assure you my mare is not to be sold.</p>
+<p>The old man, who had been witness to all that was
+said, now began to speak: Son, quoth he to king
+Beder, it is necessary you should know one thing,
+which I find you are ignorant of; and that is, that in
+this city it is not permitted any one to lie, on any account
+whatsoever, and that on pain of death: now,
+you having made this bargain with this old woman,
+you must not refuse her money, and delivering your
+mare according to the agreement; and this you had
+<span class="pb" id="Page_148">[148]</span>
+better do without any noise, than expose yourself to
+what may ensue.</p>
+<p>King Beder, sorely afflicted to find himself thus
+trapped by his rash proffer, was nevertheless forced
+to alight and perform his agreement. The old woman
+stood ready to seize the bridle; which when she had
+done, she immediately unbridled the mare, and taking
+some water in her hand from a spring that ran in
+the middle of the street, she threw it in the mare&rsquo;s
+face, uttering these words: Daughter, quit that bestial
+form, and reassume thy own. The transformation
+was effected in a moment; and king Beder, who
+swooned as soon as he saw queen Labe appear, would
+have fallen to the ground, if the old man had not hindered
+him.</p>
+<p>The old woman, who was mother to queen Labe,
+and who had instructed her in all her magic, had no
+sooner embraced her daughter, than in an instant, she,
+by whistling, caused a genie to rise, of a gigantic form
+and stature: this genie immediately took king Beder
+on one shoulder, and the old woman with the magic
+queen on the other, and transported them in a few
+minutes to the palace of queen Labe, in the city of
+enchantments.</p>
+<p>The magic queen immediately fell upon king Beder,
+reproaching him grievously, in the following manner:
+Is it thus, ungrateful wretch, that thy unworthy uncle
+and thou make me amends for all the kindnesses I
+have done for you? I shall soon be able to make you
+both feel what you so well deserve. She said no more,
+but, taking water in her hand, threw it in his face,
+with these words, Come out of that form, and take
+that of a vile owl. These words were soon followed
+by the effect; and immediately she commanded one of
+her women to shut up the owl in a cage, and give him
+neither meat nor drink.</p>
+<p>The woman took the cage, and, without regarding
+<span class="pb" id="Page_149">[149]</span>
+what the queen ordered, gave him both meat and drink;
+and being old Abdallah&rsquo;s friend, she sent him word
+privately how the queen had treated his nephew, and
+what design she had taken to destroy him and king
+Beder, in case he did not take timely measures to
+prevent it.</p>
+<p>Abdallah knew no common measures would do with
+queen Labe; he therefore did but whistle after a certain
+manner, and there immediately rose a vast giant,
+with four wings, who presented himself before him,
+and asked what he would have with him. Lightning,
+said Abdallah to him, (for so was the genie&rsquo;s name,)
+I command you to preserve the life of king Beder, son
+of the queen Gulnare. Go to the palace of the magic
+queen, and transport immediately to the capital of
+Persia the compassionate woman who has the cage in
+custody, that she may inform queen Gulnare of the
+danger the king her son is in, and the occasion he has
+of her assistance. Take care not to fright her when
+you come before her, and acquaint her from me what
+she ought to do.</p>
+<p>Lightning immediately disappeared, and got in an
+instant to the palace of the magic queen. He instructed
+the woman, lifted her up into the air, and
+transported her to the capital of Persia, where he
+placed her on the terrace of the apartment where
+queen Gulnare was. She went down stairs to the
+apartment, and she there found queen Gulnare and
+queen Farasche, lamenting their mutual misfortunes.
+She made them a profound reverence, and, by the
+relation she gave them, they soon came to understand
+the great necessity king Beder was in of their assistance.</p>
+<p>Queen Gulnare was so overjoyed at the news, that,
+rising from her seat, she went and embraced the good
+woman, telling her how much she was obliged to her
+for the service she had done her.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_150">[150]</div>
+<p>Then going immediately out, she commanded the
+trumpets to sound and the drums to beat, to acquaint
+the city, that the king of Persia would suddenly return
+safe to his kingdom. She then went again, and found
+king Saleh her brother, whom Farasche had caused
+to come speedily thither, by a certain fumigation.
+Brother, said she to him, the king your nephew, and
+my dear son, is in the city of enchantments, under the
+power of queen Labe. Both you and I must see what
+we can do to deliver him, for there is no time to be
+lost.</p>
+<p>King Saleh forthwith assembled a puissant body of
+sea-troops, and even called to his assistance the genies
+his allies, who appeared with a much more numerous
+army. As soon as the two armies were joined, he
+put himself at the head of them, together with queen
+Farasche, queen Gulnare, and the princesses, who
+would all have their share in this glorious action.
+They then lifted themselves up into the air, and soon
+poured down on the palace and city of enchantments,
+where the magic queen, her mother, and all the other
+adorers of fire, were destroyed in an instant.</p>
+<p>Queen Gulnare had ordered the woman who brought
+her the news of queen Labe&rsquo;s transforming and imprisoning
+her son, to follow her close, and bade her, in
+her hurly-burly, to take no other care than to go and
+seize the cage, and bring it to her. She did as she
+was ordered, and queen Gulnare was no sooner in the
+possession of the cage, than she opened it, and took
+the owl out, saying, after she had sprinkled a little
+water upon him, My dear son, quit that foreign form
+which has been given thee, and resume thy natural
+one of a man. In a moment queen Gulnare no more
+saw the hideous owl, but king Beder her son instead
+of him. She immediately embraced him with that
+excess of joy which is better expressed by actions than
+words. She could not find in her heart to let him
+<span class="pb" id="Page_151">[151]</span>
+go; and, if he had not been in a manner torn from
+her by queen Farasche, who had a mind to embrace
+him in her turn, for aught I know, they might not have
+parted till now, so great queen Gulnare&rsquo;s affection
+was for him. After the queen his grandmother had
+done with him, he was likewise embraced by the king
+his uncle, and the princesses his relations.</p>
+<p>The next care queen Gulnare had, was to look out
+for old Abdallah, to whom she had been obliged for
+the recovery of the king of Persia; and who, being
+brought to her, she said to him, My obligations to you,
+sir, have been so great, that there is nothing within
+my power but I will freely do for you as a token of
+my acknowledgment. Do but satisfy me in what I
+can serve you; and you shall see I will immediately
+set about it. Great queen, replied Abdallah, if the
+lady next to your majesty will but consent to the marriage
+I offer her, and the king of Persia will give me
+leave to reside at his court, I will spend the remainder
+of my days in his service. The queen turned towards
+the lady; and, finding by her modesty that she
+was not against the match proposed, she caused them
+to join hands, and the king of Persia and she took
+care of their fortune.</p>
+<p>This marriage occasioned the king of Persia to
+speak thus, addressing himself to the queen: Madam,
+I am heartily glad of this match which your majesty
+has just now made: there remains one more, which
+I desire you to think of. Queen Gulnare did not at
+first comprehend what marriage he meant; but, after
+a little considering, she said, Of yours do you mean,
+son? I consent to it with all my heart. Then, turning
+about, and looking on her brother&rsquo;s sea-attendants,
+and the genies, who were still present, she said, Go
+you, and traverse both the sea and land, to find out
+the most lovely and amiable princess, worthy of the
+king my son, and come and bring us word.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_152">[152]</div>
+<p>Madam, replied king Beder, it is to no purpose for
+them to take all that pains. You have, no doubt,
+heard that I have already given my heart to the princess
+of Samarcand, upon the bare relation of her beauty.
+I have seen her, and do not repent of the present I
+then made her. In a word, neither earth nor sea, in
+my opinion, can furnish a princess any thing like her.
+It is true, upon declaring my love to her, she used me
+after a rate that would have extinguished any flame
+less fierce than mine: but I hold her excused; for,
+after a rigorous treatment, and imprisoning the king
+her father, which I was in some measure the cause of,
+how could she use me more civilly? But, it may be,
+the king of Samarcand may have changed his resolution;
+and his daughter, the princess, may consent to
+love me, when she sees her father has agreed to it.</p>
+<p>Son, replied queen Gulnare, if only the princess
+Giahaure can make you happy in this world, I shall
+not make it my business to oppose you. The king
+your uncle need only have the king of Samarcand
+brought, and we shall see whether he be still of the
+same untractable temper.</p>
+<p>How strictly soever the king of Samarcand had been
+kept during his captivity, by king Saleh&rsquo;s orders, yet
+he always had great respect shown him, and was become
+very familiar with the officers that guarded him.
+In order to bring him, king Saleh caused a chafing
+dish of coals to be brought, into which he threw a
+certain composition, uttering at the same time some
+mysterious words. As soon as the smoke began to
+arise, the palace shook, and immediately the king of
+Samarcand, with king Saleh&rsquo;s officers, appeared. The
+king of Persia cast himself at the king of Samarcand&rsquo;s
+feet; and then, rising upon one knee, he said, It is no
+longer king Saleh that demands of your majesty the
+honour of your alliance for the king of Persia: it is
+the king of Persia himself that humbly begs that boon;
+<span class="pb" id="Page_153">[153]</span>
+and I persuade myself your majesty will never persist
+in being the cause of the death of a king, who can no
+longer live than he is in the possession of the adorable
+princess Giahaure.</p>
+<p>The king of Samarcand did not long suffer the king
+of Persia to remain on his knee; he took him up, and
+embracing him, said, I should be very sorry to have
+contributed in the least towards the death of a monarch
+who is so worthy to live. If it be true that so
+precious a life cannot be preserved, without being in
+possession of my daughter, live, sir, and live happy;
+she is yours. She has always hitherto been obedient
+to my will, and I cannot think she will now oppose it.
+Speaking these words, he ordered one of the officers
+that king Saleh had assigned him, to go and look for
+the princess Giahaure, and bring her to him immediately.</p>
+<p>The princess continued all this while where the
+king of Persia had left her. The officer brought her
+with her women to attend her. The king of Samarcand
+embraced her, and said, Daughter, I have provided
+a husband for you: it is the king of Persia you
+see there, the most accomplished monarch at this
+juncture in the universe. The preference he has
+given you to all other princesses obliges us both to
+make him suitable acknowledgments.</p>
+<p>Sir, replied the princess Giahaure, your majesty
+well knows I have never presumed to disobey your
+will in any thing: I shall be always ready to obey
+you; and I hope the king of Persia will please to
+forget the ill treatment I gave him, and consider it
+was duty, not inclination, that forced me to it.</p>
+<p>The nuptials were celebrated in the palace of the
+city of enchantments, with so much the greater solemnity,
+as all the lovers of the magic queen, who
+resumed their pristine forms as soon as ever that queen
+ceased to live, assisted at them, and came to pay their
+<span class="pb" id="Page_154">[154]</span>
+acknowledgments to the king of Persia, queen Gulnare,
+and king Saleh. They were all either sons of
+kings, or princes of extraordinary merit.</p>
+<p>King Saleh at length conducted the king of Samarcand
+to his dominions, and put him once again in
+possession of them. The king of Persia, having what
+he most desired, returned to his capital with queen
+Giahaure, queen Gulnare, queen Farasche, and the
+princesses; and queen Farasche and the princesses
+continued there, till such time as king Saleh came
+to re-conduct them to his kingdom under the waves
+of the sea.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_155">[155]</div>
+<h2 id="c3"><br />THE STORY OF
+<br />GANEM, SON TO ABOU AYOUB, AND KNOWN BY THE SURNAME OF LOVE&rsquo;S SLAVE.</h2>
+<p>There was formerly a merchant at Damascus,
+who had, by care and industry, acquired great wealth,
+on which he lived in a very honourable manner. His
+name was Abou Ayoub, and he had one son and a
+daughter. The son was at first called Ganem, but
+afterwards had the surname of Love&rsquo;s Slave. He
+was graceful as to his person, and the excellent natural
+qualities of his mind had been improved by
+able masters his father had taken care to provide
+him. The daughter&rsquo;s name was Alcolomb, signifying
+ravisher of hearts, because her beauty was so accomplished,
+that whosoever saw her could not but
+love her.</p>
+<p>Abou Ayoub died, and left immense riches: an
+hundred loads of brocades, and other silks that lay in
+his warehouse, were the least part of it. The loads
+were ready made up, and on every bale was written,
+in large characters, &ldquo;For Bagdad.&rdquo;</p>
+<p>Mohammed, the son of Soliman, surnamed Zinebi,
+reigned at that time in Damascus, the capital of Syria.
+His kinsman Haroun Alraschid, whose residence was
+at Bagdad, had bestowed this kingdom on him as
+tributary to him.</p>
+<p>Soon after the death of Abou Ayoub, Ganem, discoursing
+with his mother about their private affairs,
+among the rest, concerning the bales of merchandise
+that lay in the warehouse, asked her the meaning of
+what was written upon each bale. My son, answered
+his mother, your father used to travel sometimes into
+<span class="pb" id="Page_156">[156]</span>
+one province and sometimes into another, and it was
+customary with him, before he set out, to write the
+name of the city he designed to repair to on every
+bale. He had provided all things to take a journey
+to Bagdad, and was upon the point of setting forwards,
+when death&mdash;&mdash;She had not the power to
+proceed any farther; the lively remembrance of the
+loss of her husband would not permit her to say any
+more, and drew from her a shower of tears.</p>
+<p>Ganem could not see his mother so sensibly affected
+without relenting. Thus they continued some
+time in silence; but at length he recovered himself;
+and, as soon as he found his mother calm enough to
+listen to him, he directed his discourse to her, and
+said: Since my father designed these goods for Bagdad,
+and is no longer in being to put his design in
+execution, I will prepare myself to perform that journey;
+and I am of opinion, it will be proper for me to
+expedite my departure, for fear those commodities
+should perish, or, at least, that we lose the opportunity
+of selling them to the best advantage.</p>
+<p>Abou Ayoub&rsquo;s widow, who tenderly loved her son,
+was much surprised at this resolution; and replied,
+My dear child, I cannot but commend you for designing
+to follow your father&rsquo;s example; but consider that
+you are too young, inexperienced, and altogether a
+stranger to the toils of travelling. Besides, can you
+think of leaving me, and by that means add to that
+sorrow with which I am already oppressed? Is it not
+better to sell those goods to the merchants of Damascus,
+and to take up with a moderate profit, than
+to expose yourself to the danger of perishing?</p>
+<p>It was in vain for her to oppose Ganem&rsquo;s resolution
+by the strongest arguments, for they had no
+weight with him. An inclination to travel, and to
+accomplish himself by a thorough knowledge of the
+affairs of the world, urged him on to set out, and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_157">[157]</span>
+prevailed above all his mother&rsquo;s remonstrances, her
+entreaties, and even her tears. He went away to the
+market where the slaves are sold, and bought such as
+were able of body, hired one hundred camels, and,
+having furnished all other necessaries, he entered
+upon his journey, with five or six merchants of Damascus,
+who were going to trade at Bagdad.</p>
+<p>Those merchants, attended by all their slaves, and
+accompanied by several other travellers, made up
+such a considerable caravan, that they had no occasion
+to fear the Bedouins, that is, the Arabs who
+make it their only profession to range the country,
+and to attack and plunder the caravans which are not
+strong enough to repulse them. Thus they had no
+other difficulty to encounter than the usual fatigues of
+a long journey, which were easily forgot when they
+saw the city of Bagdad, where they arrived in safety.</p>
+<p>They went to alight at the most magnificent and
+most resorted khan in the city; but Ganem, who had
+a mind to be lodged conveniently, and by himself,
+took no apartment there. He only left his goods in
+a warehouse for their greater security, and hired a
+very fine house in the neighbourhood, richly furnished;
+having a garden, which was very delightful,
+on account of the many water-works and shady groves
+that were in it.</p>
+<p>Some days after this young merchant had been
+settled in his house, and perfectly recovered of the
+fatigue of his journey, he dressed himself genteelly,
+and repaired to the public place where the merchants
+meet to buy and sell their commodities, with a slave
+following him, carrying a parcel of fine stuffs and
+silks.</p>
+<p>The merchants received Ganem very courteously,
+and their syndic, or chief, to whom he first made application,
+bought all his parcel at the price set down
+in the ticket annexed to every piece of stuff. Ganem
+<span class="pb" id="Page_158">[158]</span>
+continued his trade so successfully, that he daily sold
+all the goods he exposed.</p>
+<p>He had no more left than one bale, which he had
+caused to be carried from the warehouse to his own
+house, and then went to the public rendezvous, where
+he found all the shops shut. This seemed somewhat
+extraordinary to him; and, having asked the cause
+of it, was told, that one of the prime merchants, whom
+he knew, was dead, and that all his brother traders
+were gone to his funeral.</p>
+<p>Ganem inquired after the mosque where the ceremony
+was to be performed, and whence the body was
+to be conducted to the grave; and having been told
+it, sent back his slaves with the goods, and walked
+towards the mosque. He got thither before the prayers
+were ended, which were said in a hall hung with
+black satin. The corpse was taken up and followed
+by the kindred, the merchants, and Ganem, to the
+place of burial, which was at a great distance without
+the city. It was a stone structure, like a dome, purposely
+built to receive the bodies of all the family
+of the deceased, and, being very small, they had
+pitched tents all about it, that all the company might
+be sheltered during the ceremony. The monument
+was opened, and the corpse laid into it, after which
+it was shut up again. Then the iman, and other ministers
+of the mosque, sat down in a ring on carpets,
+in the largest tent, and said the rest of the prayers.
+They also read the chapters of the Alcoran appointed
+for the burial of the dead. The kindred and merchants
+sat round in the same manner behind the ministers.</p>
+<p>It was near night before the whole was ended.
+Ganem, who had not expected such a long ceremony,
+began to be uneasy; and was the more so, when he
+saw meat served up in memory of the deceased, according
+to the custom of Bagdad. He was also told
+<span class="pb" id="Page_159">[159]</span>
+that the tents had been set up, not only against the
+heat of the sun, but also against the evening dew,
+because they should not return to the city before the
+next morning. These words perplexed Ganem: I
+am a stranger, said he to himself, and have the reputation
+of being a rich merchant: thieves may take
+this opportunity of my absence, and go rob my house:
+my very slaves may be tempted to make their advantage
+of so convenient a time; they may run away
+with all the gold I have received for my goods; and
+whither shall I look for them? His head being full
+of these thoughts, he ate a few mouthfuls hastily, and
+dexterously slipped away from the company.</p>
+<p>He made all possible haste to gain time; but, as
+it often happens, the more a man puts on, the less he
+advances: he mistook his way, and went astray in
+the dark; so that it was near midnight when he
+came to the city-gate; and, to add to this misfortune,
+that was shut. That disappointment was a
+fresh affliction to him; and he was obliged to think
+of finding some convenient place to pass the rest of
+the night in, and wait till the gate was opened. He
+went into a burial-place, so very spacious, that it
+reached from the city to the very place he was come
+from. He advanced to a parcel of pretty high walls,
+which enclosed a small field, being the peculiar burying-place
+of a family, and in which there was a palm-tree.
+There was an infinite number of other particular
+burial-places, the doors whereof they did not
+take much care to shut fast. Ganem, finding that
+this burial-place was open, went into it, and put to
+the door after him. He lay down on the grass, and
+did all he could to sleep; but the uneasiness he was
+under, for being absent from home, would not permit
+him. He got up; and, after having passed by the
+door several times, as he walked forwards and backwards,
+he opened it, without knowing why he did so,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_160">[160]</span>
+and immediately perceived a light at a distance,
+which seemed to come towards him. He was startled
+at that sight, put to the door, which had nothing
+to make it fast but a latch, and got up as fast as
+he could to the top of the palm-tree, looking upon
+that as the safest retreat under his present apprehensions.
+No sooner was he got up, than, by the
+help of the light which had frightened him, he plainly
+perceived three men, whom, by their habit, he knew
+to be slaves, come into the burial-place. One of
+them went foremost with a lantern, and the two
+others followed him, being loaded with a chest, between
+five and six feet long, which they carried on
+their shoulders. They laid it down, and then one of the
+three slaves said to his comrades, Brothers, if you will
+be advised by me, we will leave the chest here, and
+return to the city. No, no, replied another, that is
+not the way of doing what we were ordered by our
+mistress; we may have cause to repent our not
+doing as we were commanded: let us bury the chest,
+since we are so enjoined to do. The two other
+slaves complied with him; so they began to break
+ground with the tools they had brought for that purpose.
+When they had made a deep trench, they
+put the chest into it, and covered it with the earth
+they had taken out; then departed, and returned
+home.</p>
+<p>Ganem, who, from the top of the palm-tree, had
+heard every word the slaves had spoken, could not
+tell what to think of that adventure. He concluded
+that chest must needs contain something of value,
+and that the person to whom it belonged had some
+particular reasons for causing it to be buried in that
+church-yard. He resolved immediately to satisfy
+his curiosity, came down from the palm-tree, his fear
+being gone with the slaves, and fell to work upon the
+pit, plying his hands and feet so well, that in a short
+<span class="pb" id="Page_161">[161]</span>
+time he discovered the chest, but found it secured
+with a great padlock. This new obstacle to the satisfying
+of his curiosity was no small mortification to
+him: yet he would not be discouraged; but the day
+beginning then to appear, he saw several great pebbles
+about the burial-place: he picked out one, with
+which he easily knocked off the padlock, and then,
+with much impatience, opened the chest. Ganem
+was strangely surprised, when, instead of finding money
+in it, he discovered a young lady of incomparable
+beauty. Her fresh and rosy complexion, and her
+gentle regular breathing, satisfied him that she was
+alive; but he could not conceive, why, if she were
+only asleep, she had not awaked at the noise he made
+in forcing off the padlock. Her habit was so costly,
+with bracelets and pendants of diamonds, and a
+necklace of true pearl, and so large, that he made not
+the least doubt of her being one of the prime ladies
+about the court. At the sight of so beautiful an object,
+not only natural inclination to relieve persons in
+danger, but also something more powerful, which
+Ganem could not then give an account of, prevailed
+on him to afford that young beauty all the assistance
+he was able.</p>
+<div class="img">
+<img src="images/p170.jpg" alt="Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chas. Heath." width="500" height="630" />
+<p class="center"><span class="smaller">Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chas. Heath.</span></p>
+</div>
+<p>He first shut the gate of the burial-place, which
+the slaves had left open, then returning, took the
+lady in his arms out of the chest, and laid her on the
+soft earth he had thrown off the chest. As soon as
+the lady was laid down, and had the benefit of the
+open air, she sneezed; and having made a motion in
+turning her head there came from her mouth a
+liquor, which seemed to have been offensive to her
+stomach; then opening and rubbing her eyes, she,
+with such a voice as charmed Ganem, whom she did
+not see, cried out, Zohorob Bostan, Schragrom Matglon,
+Cassabos Soucear, Nouron Nihar, Nagmatos
+<span class="pb" id="Page_162">[162]</span>
+Sobi, Nour Hatos Zoman, why do you not answer?
+where are you? Those were the names of six female
+slaves that used to wait on her, and signified, Flower
+of the Garden, Branch of Coral, Sugar Cane, Light
+of the Day, Morning Star, and Delight of the Season.
+She called them, and wondered that nobody
+answered; but at length looking about, and perceiving
+she was in a burial-place, she was in a mighty
+fright. How now, cried she, much louder than before,
+is this the resurrection of the dead? Is the day
+of judgment come? What a wonderful change is this
+from night to morning!</p>
+<p>Ganem did not think fit to leave the lady any
+longer in that confusion, but immediately appeared
+before her with all possible respect; and, in the most
+courteous manner, said, Madam, I am scarce able to
+express my joy, for having happened to be here to do
+you the service I have done, and for being present to
+offer you all the assistance you shall stand in need of,
+under your present circumstances.</p>
+<p>In order to persuade the lady to repose all her
+confidence in him, he, in the first place, told her who
+he was, and what accident it was that had brought
+him into that place. Next, he acquainted her with
+the coming of the three slaves, and how they had
+buried the chest. The lady, who had covered her face
+with her veil as soon as Ganem appeared, was extraordinarily
+sensible of the obligations she owed him.
+I return thanks to God, said she, for having sent so
+worthy a person as you are to deliver me from death;
+but, since you have begun so charitable a work, I
+conjure you not to leave it imperfect. Let me beg
+of you to go into the city, and provide a muleteer to
+come with his mule, and carry me to your house in
+the chest; for, should I go in with you on foot, my
+dress being different from that of the city-ladies,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_163">[163]</span>
+some one might happen to take notice of it, and follow
+me, which it highly concerns me to prevent.
+When I shall be in your house, I will give you an
+account of myself; and, in the mean time, be assured
+that you have not obliged an ungrateful person.</p>
+<p>Before the young merchant left the lady, he drew
+the chest out of the pit, which he filled up with the
+earth, laid her again in the chest, and shut it in such
+a manner, that it did not look as if the padlock had
+been forced off; but, for fear of stifling her, he put
+it not quite close, leaving room for the air to get in.
+Going out of the burial-place, he drew the door after
+him; and the city-gate being then open, soon found
+what he sought for. He returned with speed to the
+burial-place, and helped the muleteer to lay the chest
+across his mule; telling him, to remove all causes of
+suspicion, that he came to that place the night before,
+with another muleteer, who, being in haste to
+return home, had laid down the chest in the burial-place.</p>
+<p>Ganem, who had minded nothing but his business
+since his arrival at Bagdad, was still unacquainted
+with the power of love, and now felt the first sallies
+of it. It had not been in his power to look upon the
+young lady without being disturbed; and the uneasiness
+he felt, following the muleteer at a distance,
+and the fear lest any accident might happen by the
+way that should deprive him of his conquest, taught
+him to unravel his intricate thoughts. It was an
+extraordinary satisfaction to him, when, being arrived
+safe at home, he saw the chest unloaded. He
+dismissed the muleteer; and having caused a slave
+to shut the doors of his house, he opened the chest,
+helped the lady out, gave her his hand, and conducted
+her to his apartment, lamenting how much she
+must have endured in that close confinement. If I
+<span class="pb" id="Page_164">[164]</span>
+have suffered, said she, I have satisfaction enough in
+what you have done me, and in the pleasure of seeing
+myself out of danger.</p>
+<p>Though Ganem&rsquo;s apartment was very richly furnished,
+the lady did not so much regard that, as she
+did the handsome presence and engaging mien of her
+deliverer, whose politeness and obliging behaviour
+highly heightened her gratitude. She sat down on a
+sofa; and, to begin to give the merchant to understand
+how sensible she was of the service done her,
+she took off her veil. Ganem, on his part, was sensible
+of the favour so lovely a lady did in uncovering
+herself, or rather felt he had already a most violent
+passion for her. Whatsoever obligations she owed
+him, he thought himself more than requited by so singular
+a favour.</p>
+<p>The lady dived into Ganem&rsquo;s thoughts, yet was
+not at all surprised, because he appeared very full of
+respect. He, judging she might have occasion to
+eat, and not willing to trust any but himself with the
+care of entertaining so charming a guest, went out
+with a slave to an eating-house to give directions for
+a treat. From thence he went to a fruit-seller, where
+he chose the finest and most excellent fruit; buying
+also the choicest wine, and some of the same bread
+that was eaten at the caliph&rsquo;s table.</p>
+<p>As soon as he returned home, he, with his own
+hands, made a pyramid of the fruit he had bought,
+and served it up himself to the lady, in a large dish
+of the finest china ware, saying, Madam, be pleased
+to make choice of some of this fruit, while a more
+solid entertainment, and more worthy yourself, is
+made ready. He would fain have continued standing
+before her; but she declared she would not
+touch any thing, unless he sat down and ate with
+her. He obeyed; and when they had eaten some
+small matter, Ganem observing that the lady&rsquo;s veil,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_165">[165]</span>
+which she had laid down by her on a sofa, was embroidered
+along the edge with golden letters, begged
+leave of her to look upon that embroidery. The lady
+immediately took up the veil, and delivered it to
+him, asking him whether he could read. Madam, replied
+he, with a modest air, a merchant would be
+able to manage his business very ill, if he could not
+at least read and write. Well then, said she, read
+the words which are embroidered on that veil,
+which gives me an opportunity of telling you my
+story.</p>
+<p>Ganem took the veil, and read these words, &lsquo;I am
+yours, and you are mine, thou descendant from the
+prophet&rsquo;s uncle.&rsquo; That descendant from the prophet&rsquo;s
+uncle was the caliph Haroun Alraschid, who
+then reigned, and was descended from Abbas, Mahomet&rsquo;s
+uncle.</p>
+<p>When Ganem perceived the sense of these words,
+Alas! madam, said he, in a melancholy tone, I have
+just saved your life, and this embroidery is my death!
+I do not comprehend all the mystery; but it makes
+me too sensible that I am the most unfortunate of
+men. Pardon the liberty I take, madam, of telling
+you so much. It was impossible for me to see you
+without giving you up my heart. You are not ignorant
+yourself, that it was not in my power to refuse
+it to you; and that makes my presumption excusable.
+I proposed to myself to move yours by my
+respect, my diligence, my complaisance, my assiduity,
+my submission, and my constancy; and no
+sooner had I flattered myself with that design, than
+I am robbed of all my hopes. But be that as it will,
+I shall have the satisfaction of dying entirely yours.
+Proceed, madam, I conjure you, to give me a full information
+of my unhappy state.</p>
+<p>He could not deliver those words without letting
+<span class="pb" id="Page_166">[166]</span>
+fall some tears. The lady was moved, but was so
+far from being displeased at the declaration he made,
+that she felt an inward joy, for her heart began to
+yield. However, she concealed it; and, as if she
+had not regarded what Ganem said, I would have
+been very cautious, answered she, of showing you my
+veil, had I thought it would have made you so uneasy;
+and I do not perceive that what I have to say
+to you can make your condition so deplorable as you
+imagine.</p>
+<p>You must understand, proceeded she, in order to
+acquaint you with my story, that my name is Fetnah,
+(which signifies a storm or tempest) which was given
+me at my birth, because it was judged that the sight
+of me would occasion many calamities. You cannot
+be a stranger to it, since nobody in Bagdad but knows
+that the caliph Haroun Alraschid, my sovereign lord
+and yours, has a favourite so called.</p>
+<p>I was carried into his palace in my very tender
+years, and I have been brought up there with all the
+care that is usually taken with such persons of my
+sex as are designed to reside there. I made no ill
+advances in all they took the pains to teach me; and
+that, with some share of beauty, gained me the caliph&rsquo;s
+affection, who gave me a particular apartment
+adjoining to his own. That prince was not satisfied
+with such a mark of distinction: he appointed twenty
+women to wait on me, and as many eunuchs; and,
+ever since, he has made me such considerable presents,
+that I was once richer than any queen in the
+world. You may reasonably judge, by what I have
+said, that Zobeide, the caliph&rsquo;s wife and kinswoman,
+could not but be jealous of my happiness. Though
+Haroun has all the regard imaginable for her, she has
+used all her endeavours to ruin me.</p>
+<p>Hitherto, I had secured myself against all her
+<span class="pb" id="Page_167">[167]</span>
+snares; but, at length, I fell under the last effort of
+her jealousy; and, were it not for you, I had now
+been exposed to inevitable death. I do not question
+but that she had corrupted one of my slaves, who,
+last night, in some lemonade, gave me a drug, which
+causes such a deep sleep, that it is easy to dispose of
+those who have taken it; and that sleep is so profound,
+that nothing can dispel it for the space of
+seven or eight hours. I have the more reason to
+judge so, because naturally I am very light of sleep,
+and apt to wake at the least noise.</p>
+<p>Zobeide, the better to put her design in execution,
+has laid hold of the opportunity of the absence of the
+caliph, who has been gone lately to put himself at
+the head of his troops, to chastise some neighbouring
+kings, who have presumed to join in league to make
+war on him. Were it not for this opportunity, my
+rival, courageous as she is, durst not have presumed
+to attempt any thing against my life. I know not
+what she will do to conceal this action from the
+caliph; but you see it highly concerns me that you
+should keep my secret. My life depends on it. I
+shall be safe in your house as long as the caliph is
+from Bagdad. It behoves you to keep my adventure
+private; for, should Zobeide know the obligation I
+owe you, she would punish you for having saved me.</p>
+<p>When the caliph returns, I shall not need to be so
+much upon my guard. I shall find means to acquaint
+him with all that has happened, and I am
+fully persuaded he will be more earnest than myself
+to requite a service which restores me to his
+love.</p>
+<p>As soon as Haroun Alraschid&rsquo;s beautiful favourite
+had done speaking, Ganem began, and said, Madam,
+I return you a thousand thanks for having given me
+the information I took the liberty to desire of you;
+and I beg of you to believe that you are here in
+<span class="pb" id="Page_168">[168]</span>
+safety; the sentiments you have inspired in me are a
+pledge of my secrecy.</p>
+<p>As for my slaves, I own there is cause to suspect
+them; they may perhaps fail of the fidelity they owe
+me, should they know by what accident, and in what
+place I had the good fortune to find you; but it is
+impossible they should guess at that. Nay, I dare
+assure you that they will not have the curiosity to
+inquire after it. It is so natural for young men to
+purchase beautiful slaves, that it will be no way surprising
+to them to see you here, as believing you to
+be one, and that I have bought you. They will also
+believe that I had some particular reasons for bringing
+you home as I did. Set your heart therefore at
+rest as to that point, and remain satisfied that you
+shall be served with all the respect that is due to the
+favourite of so great a monarch as ours is. But how
+great soever he is, give me leave, madam, to declare,
+that nothing will be able to make me recall the present
+I have made you of my heart. I know, and shall
+never forget, that what belongs to the master is forbidden
+to the slave; but I loved you before you told
+me that you were engaged to the caliph: it is not in
+my power to overcome a passion, which, though now
+in its infancy, has all the force of a love strengthened
+by a perfect correspondence. I wish your august
+and most fortunate lover may revenge you against
+the malice of Zobeide, by calling you back to him;
+and, when you shall be restored to his wishes, that
+you may remember the unfortunate Ganem, who is no
+less your conquest than the caliph. As powerful as
+that prince is, I flatter myself he will not be able to
+blot me out of your memory. If love be your predominant
+passion, he cannot love you more passionately
+than I do; and I shall never cease to burn in your
+flames, whatsoever part of the world I go into to
+expire, after having lost you.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_169">[169]</div>
+<p>Fetnah perceived that Ganem was under the greatest
+of afflictions, and it moved her; but, considering
+the uneasiness she was likely to bring upon herself
+by prosecuting the discourse upon that subject, which
+might insensibly lead her to discover the inclination
+she felt in herself for him, she said, I perceive that
+this sort of conversation gives you too much trouble;
+let us change the discourse, and talk of the infinite
+obligations I owe you. I can never sufficiently express
+my satisfaction, when I consider that, without
+your assistance, I had not beheld the light of the
+sun.</p>
+<p>It was happy for them both that somebody just
+then knocked at the door: Ganem went to see who
+it was, and found it was one of his slaves to acquaint
+him that the entertainment was ready. Ganem, who,
+by way of precaution, would have none of his slaves
+to come into the room where Fetnah was, took what
+was brought, and served it up himself to his beautiful
+guest, whose soul was ravished to behold with
+what diligence and respect he attended her.</p>
+<p>When they had eaten, Ganem took away, as he
+covered the table; and having delivered all things at
+the chamber-door to his slaves, he said to Fetnah,
+Madam, you may now perhaps desire to take some
+rest; I will leave you, and when you have reposed
+yourself you shall find me ready to receive your commands.</p>
+<p>Having spoken these words, he left her, and went
+to buy two women-slaves. He also bought two
+parcels, the one of linen, and the other of all such
+things as were proper to make up a toilet fit for the
+caliph&rsquo;s favourite. Having conducted home the two
+women-slaves, he presented them to Fetnah, saying,
+Madam, a person of your quality cannot be without
+two maids, at least, to serve you; be pleased to allow
+me to give you these.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_170">[170]</div>
+<p>Fetnah, admiring Ganem&rsquo;s forecast, My lord, said
+she, I perceive you are not one that will do things
+by halves: you add by your courtesy to the obligations
+I owe you already; but I hope I shall not die
+ungrateful, and that Heaven will soon put me in a
+condition to make acknowledgments for all your acts
+of generosity.</p>
+<p>When the women-slaves were withdrawn into a
+chamber adjoining, which the young merchant showed
+them, he sat down on the sofa where Fetnah was;
+but, at some distance from her, in token of the
+greater respect. He then began again to discourse
+of his passion, and spoke very moving things relating
+to the invincible obstacles which robbed him of all
+his hopes. I dare not so much as hope, said he, by
+my passion, to excite the least sensibility in a heart
+like yours, destined for the greatest prince in the
+world. Alas! it would be a comfort to me, if I
+could flatter myself that you have not looked upon
+the excess of my love with indifferency. My lord,
+answered Fetnah&mdash;Alas! madam, said Ganem, interrupting
+her at the word lord, this is a second time
+you have done me the honour to call me lord; the
+presence of the women-slaves hindered me the first
+time from taking notice of it to you: in the name of
+God, madam, do not give me that title of honour; it
+does not belong to me: treat me, I beseech you, as
+your slave: I am, and shall never cease to be so.</p>
+<p>No, no, replied Fetnah, interrupting him in her
+turn, I shall be cautious how I treat a man to whom
+I owe my life, after that manner. I should be ungrateful
+could I say or do any thing that did not become
+you. Leave me therefore to follow the dictates
+of my gratitude, and do not require it of me that I
+misbehave myself towards you, in return for the benefits
+I have received. I shall never be guilty of it;
+I am too sensible of your respectful behaviour, to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_171">[171]</span>
+abuse it; and I will not stick to own, that I do not
+look upon all your care with indifferency. You know
+the reason that condemns me to silence.</p>
+<p>Ganem was ravished at that declaration: he wept
+for joy; and not being able to find expressions significant
+enough, in his own conceit, to return Fetnah
+thanks, was satisfied with telling her, that, as she
+knew what she owed to the caliph, he, on his part,
+was not ignorant, &lsquo;that what belongs to the master is
+forbidden to the servant.&rsquo;</p>
+<p>Night drawing on, he went out to fetch some light,
+which he brought in himself, as also some collation,
+as is the custom in the city of Bagdad; where, having
+made a good meal at noon, they, at night, are
+satisfied with eating some fruit, and drinking a glass
+of wine; so diverting the time till they go to bed.</p>
+<p>They both sat down at table, and at first complimented
+each other, presenting the fruit reciprocally.
+The excellency of the wine insensibly drew them
+both on to drink; and having drunk two or three
+glasses, they agreed that neither should take another
+glass without singing some air first. Ganem sang
+verses he composed <i>extempore</i>, and which expressed
+the vehemency of his passion; and Fetnah, encouraged
+by his example, composed and sang verses relating
+to her adventure, and always containing something
+which Ganem might take in a sense that was
+favourable to him; bating, that she nicely observed
+the fidelity due to the caliph. The collation held till
+very late, and the night was far advanced, before they
+thought of parting. Ganem then withdrew to another
+apartment, leaving Fetnah where she was, and the
+women-slaves he had bought coming in to wait upon
+her.</p>
+<p>They lived together after this manner for several
+days. The young merchant went not abroad, unless
+upon business of the utmost consequence; and, even
+<span class="pb" id="Page_172">[172]</span>
+for that, took the time when his lady was at her rest;
+for he could not prevail upon himself to let slip a
+moment that might be spent in her company. All
+his thoughts were taken up with his dear Fetnah,
+who, on her side, giving way to her inclination, confessed
+she had no less affection for him than he had
+for her. However, as fond as they were of each
+other, their respect for the caliph kept them within
+those bounds that were due to him, which still heightened
+their passion.</p>
+<p>While Fetnah, thus snatched from the jaws of
+death, passed her time so agreeably with Ganem,
+Zobeide was not without some apprehensions in Haroun
+Alraschid&rsquo;s palace.</p>
+<p>As soon as the three slaves intrusted with the
+execution of her revenge, had carried away the chest,
+without knowing what was in it, or so much as the
+least curiosity to inquire into it, as being used to pay
+a blind obedience to her commands, she was seized
+with a tormenting uneasiness: a thousand perplexing
+thoughts disturbed her rest; sleep fled from her
+eyes, and she spent the night in contriving how to
+conceal her crime. My consort, said she, loves Fetnah
+more than ever he did any of his favourites.
+What shall I say to him at his return, when he inquires
+of me after her? Many contrivances occurred
+to her, but none were satisfactory: she still met with
+difficulties, and knew not where to fix. There lived
+with her an ancient lady, who had bred her up from
+her infancy: as soon as it was day, she sent for her,
+and having intrusted her with the secret, said, Dear
+mother, you have always been assisting to me with
+your advice; if ever I stood in need of it, it is now;
+when the business before you is to still my thoughts,
+distracted by a mortal concern, and to show me some
+way to satisfy the caliph.</p>
+<p>Dear madam, replied the old lady, it had been
+<span class="pb" id="Page_173">[173]</span>
+much better not to have run yourself into the difficulties
+you labour under; but since the thing is done,
+the best way is to say no more of it: all that must
+now be thought of, is how to deceive the chief of believers;
+and I am of opinion that you must immediately
+cause a wooden image to be carved resembling
+a dead body; we will shroud it up in old linen;
+and, when shut up in a coffin, it shall be buried
+in some part of the palace; then shall you immediately
+cause a marble monument to be built, after
+the manner of a dome, over the burial-place; and
+erect a figure which shall be covered with black
+cloth, and set about with great candlesticks and large
+wax tapers. There is another thing, added the old
+lady, which ought not to be forgot: you must put on
+mourning, and cause the same to be done by all your
+own and Fetnah&rsquo;s women, your eunuchs, and all that
+belong to the palace. When the caliph returns, and
+sees you and all the palace in mourning, he will be
+sure to ask the occasion of it; then will you have an
+opportunity of insinuating yourself into his favour,
+saying, it was in respect to him, that you paid the
+last honours to Fetnah, snatched away by sudden
+death. You may also tell him you have caused a
+mausoleum to be built; and, in short, that you have
+paid all the dues to his favourite which he would have
+done himself had he been present. His passion for
+her being extraordinary, he will certainly go and shed
+some tears upon her grave; and, perhaps, added the
+old woman, he will not believe she is really dead;
+and suspect you have turned her out of the palace
+through jealousy, and look upon all the mourning as
+an artifice to deceive him, and prevent his making
+search after her. It is likely he will cause the coffin
+to be taken up and opened, and it is certain he will
+be convinced of her death as soon as he shall see the
+figure of a dead body buried. He will be pleased
+<span class="pb" id="Page_174">[174]</span>
+with all you shall have done, and express his gratitude.
+As for the wooden image, I will undertake to
+have it cut myself by a carver in the city, who shall
+not know what use it is to be put to. As for your
+part, madam, order Fetnah&rsquo;s woman, who yesterday
+gave her the lemonade, to give out that she had just
+found her mistress dead in her bed; and, that they
+may only think of lamenting, without offering to go
+into her chamber, let her add, she has already acquainted
+you with it, and that you have ordered Mesrour
+to cause her to be laid out and buried.</p>
+<p>As soon as the old lady had spoken these words,
+Zobeide took a rich diamond ring out of her casket,
+and putting it on her finger, and embracing her in a
+perfect transport of joy, said, How infinitely am I
+beholden to you, my dear mother! I should never
+have thought of so ingenious a contrivance. It cannot
+fail of success, and I perceive my peace of mind
+begins to be restored to me. I leave the care of the
+wooden figure to you, and I will go myself to order
+the rest.</p>
+<p>The wooden image was got ready with as much
+expedition as Zobeide could have wished, and then
+conveyed by the lady herself into Fetnah&rsquo;s bed-chamber,
+where she dressed it like a dead body, and put
+it into a coffin. Then Mesrour, who was much deceived
+by it, caused the coffin, and the representation
+of Fetnah, to be carried away; and buried it with
+the usual ceremonies, in the place appointed by Zobeide,
+the favourite&rsquo;s women weeping and lamenting,
+and she who had given her the lemonade setting them
+an example by her cries and howlings.</p>
+<p>That very day, Zobeide sent for the architect of
+the palace, and of the caliph&rsquo;s other houses; and,
+according to the orders he received from her, the
+mausoleum was finished in a very short time. Such
+potent princesses, as was this consort of a monarch,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_175">[175]</span>
+whose power extended from east to west, are always
+punctually obeyed in whatsoever they command, by
+all the court; so that the news of Fetnah&rsquo;s death
+was soon spread all over the town.</p>
+<p>Ganem was one of the last who had heard of it;
+for, as I have before observed, he scarce went abroad.
+Being at length informed of it, Madam, said he to
+the caliph&rsquo;s fair favourite, you are thought to be
+dead in Bagdad, and I do not question but that Zobeide
+herself believes it; I bless Heaven that I am
+the cause, and the happy witness of your being
+alive; and would to God, that, taking the advantage
+of this false report, you would share my fortune, and
+go far from hence to reign in my heart! But whither
+does this pleasing notion carry me? I do not consider
+that you are born to make the greatest prince in the
+world happy, and that only Haroun Alraschid is
+worthy of you. Supposing you could resolve to give
+him up for me, and that you would follow me, ought I
+to consent to it? No, it is my part always to remember,
+that what belongs to the master is forbidden to
+the slave.</p>
+<p>The lovely Fetnah, though moved by the tenderness
+of the passion he expressed, yet prevailed with
+herself not to comply with it. My lord, said she to
+him, we cannot obstruct Zobeide&rsquo;s triumphing. I am
+not at all surprised at the artifice she makes use of to
+conceal her guilt: but let her proceed; I flatter myself
+that sorrow will soon follow her triumph: the
+caliph will return, and we shall find means privately
+to inform him of all that has happened. In the mean
+time, let us be more cautious than ever, that she may
+not know I am alive. I have already told you the
+consequences.</p>
+<p>Three months after, the caliph returned to Bagdad
+with honour, having vanquished all his enemies: he
+entered the palace with impatience to see Fetnah,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_176">[176]</span>
+and to lay all his laurels at her feet; but was amazed
+to see all the servants he had left behind him in
+mourning. It struck him, without knowing the cause;
+and his concern was double, when, coming into the
+apartment of Zobeide, he spied that princess coming
+to meet him with all her women in mourning. He
+immediately asked her the cause of it, with much
+concern. Chief of the believers, answered Zobeide,
+I am in mourning for your slave Fetnah, who died so
+suddenly, that it was impossible to apply any medicine
+to her distemper. She would have proceeded,
+but the caliph did not give her time, being so surprised
+at the news, that he cried out, and then fell
+into a swoon in the arms of Giafar, his grand vizier,
+who attended him. Coming soon after to himself, he,
+with a weak voice, which sufficiently expressed his
+concern, asked where his dear Fetnah had been buried?
+Sir, said Zobeide, I took care myself of her
+funeral, and spared for no cost to make it magnificent.
+I have caused a marble mausoleum to be built
+over her grave, and will attend you thither, if you
+desire it.</p>
+<p>The caliph would not permit Zobeide to take that
+trouble, but was satisfied to have Mesrour to conduct
+him. He went thither just as he was, that is, in the
+camp dress. When he saw the figure covered with
+a black cloth, the lighted candles all about it, and the
+magnificence of the mausoleum, he was amazed that
+Zobeide should have performed the obsequies of her
+rival with so much magnificence; and, being naturally
+of a jealous temper, he suspected his wife&rsquo;s
+generosity, and fancied his mistress might perhaps
+be yet alive; that Zobeide, taking the advantage of
+his long absence, might have turned her out of the
+palace, ordering those she had intrusted with it to
+convey her so far-off, that she might never more be
+heard of. This was all he suspected; for he did not
+<span class="pb" id="Page_177">[177]</span>
+think Zobeide wicked enough to have murdered his
+favourite.</p>
+<p>The better to discover the truth himself, that prince
+ordered the figure to be removed, and caused the
+grave and the coffin to be opened in his presence: but
+when he saw the linen which wrapped up the wooden
+image, he durst not proceed any farther. That religious
+caliph thought it would be an irreligious act to
+suffer the body of the dead lady to be touched; and
+this scruple prevailed above his love and curiosity.
+He caused the coffin to be shut up again, the grave
+to be filled, and the figure to be placed as it was before.</p>
+<p>The caliph, thinking himself obliged to pay some
+respect to the tomb of his favourite, sent for the ministers
+of his religion, the officers of the palace, and
+the readers of the Alcoran; and, whilst they were
+calling together, he remained in the mausoleum,
+moistening the earth that covered the phantom of his
+love with his tears. When all the persons he had sent
+for were come, he stood before the figure, and they
+about it recited long prayers; after which the readers
+of the Alcoran read several chapters.</p>
+<p>The same ceremony was performed every day during
+the whole month, morning and evening, the caliph
+being always present, with Giafar the grand vizier,
+and the prime officers of the court, all of them in
+mourning, as well as the caliph himself, who all that
+while failed not to honour the memory of Fetnah with
+tears, and would not talk the least of any business.</p>
+<p>The last day of the month, the prayers and reading
+of the Alcoran lasted from that morning till break of
+day the next morning; and at length, when all was
+done, every man returned home. Haroun Alraschid,
+being tired with sitting up all that time, went to take
+some rest in his apartment, and fell asleep on a sofa
+between two of the court ladies, one of them sitting
+<span class="pb" id="Page_178">[178]</span>
+at the bed&rsquo;s head, and the other at the feet, who,
+whilst he slept, were working some embroidery, and
+observed a profound silence.</p>
+<p>She who sat at the bed&rsquo;s head, and whose name
+was Nouron-Nihar, that is, Dawn of the Day, perceiving
+the caliph was asleep, whispered to the other,
+called Nagmatos-Sobi, signifying Morning-Star, There
+is great news! The chief of the believers, our master,
+will be overjoyed when he awakes and hears what I
+have to say to him: Fetnah is not dead; she is in
+perfect health. O Heavens! cried Morning-Star, in
+a transport of joy, is it possible that the beautiful, the
+charming, the incomparable Fetnah should be still
+among the living? Morning-Star uttered these words
+with such a sprightly air, and so loud, that the caliph
+awaked. He asked why they had disturbed his rest.
+Alas! my sovereign lord, answered Morning-Star,
+pardon me this indiscretion, I could not contain myself.
+What then is become of her, said the caliph, if
+she is not dead? Chief of the believers, replied Dawn
+of the Day, I this evening received a note, not signed,
+from a person unknown, but written with Fetnah&rsquo;s
+own hand, which gives me an account of her melancholy
+adventures, and orders me to acquaint you with
+it. I thought fit, before I fulfilled my commission,
+to let you take some few moments&rsquo; rest, believing you
+must stand in need of it after your fatigue. Give me
+that note, said the caliph, interrupting her in a disorderly
+manner; you were in the wrong in deferring
+to deliver it to me.</p>
+<p>Dawn of the Day immediately delivered him the
+note, which he opened with much impatience; and in
+it Fetnah gave a brief account of all that had befallen
+her, but enlarged a little too much on the care Ganem
+took of her. The caliph, who was naturally jealous,
+instead of being provoked at the inhumanity of Zobeide,
+was only concerned for the infidelity he fancied
+<span class="pb" id="Page_179">[179]</span>
+Fetnah had been guilty of towards him. Is it so?
+said he, after reading the note; the perfidious wretch
+has been four months with a young merchant, and
+has the impudence to boast of the respect he pays
+her. Thirty days are passed since my return to Bagdad,
+and she now bethinks herself of sending me this
+news. Ungrateful creature! while I spend the days
+in bewailing her, she passes them away in betraying
+me. Go to, let us take revenge of the false woman,
+and that bold youth who affronts me. Having spoken
+these words, that prince got up, and went into a great
+hall, where he used to appear in public, and to give
+audience to the great men of his court. The first
+gate was opened, and immediately all the courtiers,
+who expected him, that moment entered. The grand
+vizier came in, and prostrated himself before the
+throne the caliph sat on. Then rising, he stood before
+his master, who, in a tone which denoted he
+would be instantly obeyed, said to him, Giafar, your
+presence is requisite for putting in execution an important
+affair I am about to commit to you. Take
+four hundred men out of my guards along with you,
+and first inquire where a merchant of Damascus lives,
+whose name is Ganem, the son of Abou Ayoub. When
+you have learned that, repair to his house, and cause
+it to be razed down to the foundation; but first secure
+Ganem, and bring him hither, with my slave Fetnah,
+who has lived with him these four months. I will
+punish her, and make an example of that insolent
+man, who has presumed to fail in respect to me.</p>
+<p>The grand vizier having received this positive command,
+made a low bow to the caliph, having his hand
+on his own head, as a token that he would rather lose
+it than disobey him, and departed. The first thing
+he did, was to send to the syndic, or head of the
+merchants, for some foreign stuffs and fine silks, of
+the new ones brought by Ganem; with strict orders,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_180">[180]</span>
+above all things, to inquire after the street and house
+he lived in. The officer he sent with these orders
+brought him back word, that he had scarce been seen
+for some months, and no man knew what could keep
+him at home, if he was there. The same officer told
+Giafar where Ganem lived, and the name of the widow
+who had let him the house.</p>
+<p>Upon this information, which could not fail, that
+minister, without losing any time, marched with the
+soldiers the caliph had ordered him to take, went to
+the mayor of the city, whom he also caused to bear
+him company; and being attended by a great number
+of carpenters and masons, with the necessary tools
+for razing of a house, came to that in which Ganem
+lived; and finding it stood alone, without being confined
+any way, he posted his soldiers quite round it,
+to prevent the young merchant making his escape.</p>
+<p>Fetnah and Ganem had just then dined: the lady
+was sitting at a window next the street; and hearing
+a noise, she looked out through the lattice, when, seeing
+the grand vizier draw near with all his attendants,
+she concluded his design was upon her as well as Ganem.
+She perceived her note had been received, but had
+not expected such an answer, having hoped that the
+caliph would have taken that business quite otherwise.
+She knew not how long that prince had been
+come home; and though she was acquainted with his
+jealous temper, yet she apprehended nothing on that
+account. However, the sight of the grand vizier and
+the soldiers made her quake in reality, not for herself,
+but for Ganem: she did not question clearing herself,
+provided the caliph would but hear her. As for Ganem,
+whom she was kind to rather out of gratitude
+than affection, she plainly foresaw that his rival, being
+incensed, would see, and might be apt to condemn
+him, upon account of his youth and mien. Being full
+of that thought, she turned to the young merchant,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_181">[181]</span>
+and said, Alas! Ganem, we are undone; it is you and
+I that are sought after. He presently looked through
+the lattice, and was seized with dread when he beheld
+the caliph&rsquo;s guards with their naked scimitars, and
+the grand vizier with the civil magistrate at the head
+of them. At that sight he stood motionless, and had
+not power to utter one word. Ganem, said the favourite,
+there is no losing of time: if you love me,
+put on the habit of one of your slaves immediately,
+and daub your face and arms with soot; then lay
+some of these dishes on your head: you may be taken
+for a servant belonging to the eating-house, and they
+will let you pass. If they happen to ask you where
+the master of the house is, answer, without any hesitation,
+that he is within. Alas! madam, answered
+Ganem, less concerned for himself than for Fetnah,
+you only take care of me; what will become of you?
+Let not that trouble you, replied Fetnah, it is my part
+to look to that. As for what you leave in this house,
+I will take care of it; and I hope it will be one day
+justly restored to you, when the caliph&rsquo;s anger is over:
+but do you avoid his fury; for the orders he gives in
+heat of passion are always fatal. The young merchant&rsquo;s
+affliction was so great, that he knew not what
+course to fix upon, and would certainly have suffered
+himself to have been seized by the caliph&rsquo;s soldiers,
+had not Fetnah pressed him to disguise himself. He
+was prevailed upon by her persuasions, to put on the
+habit of a slave, and daub himself with soot; and it
+was high time, for they were knocking at the door;
+and all they could do was to embrace each other lovingly:
+they were both so overwhelmed with sorrow
+that they could not utter one word; and it was thus
+they parted. Ganem went out with some dishes on
+his head: he was taken for the servant of an eating-house,
+and nobody offered to stop him. On the contrary,
+the grand vizier, who was the first that met him,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_182">[182]</span>
+gave him way to let him pass, being far from any
+thought that he was the man he looked for. Those
+who were behind the grand vizier made way as he
+had done, and thus favoured his escape. He got
+speedily to one of the city gates, and so got clear
+away.</p>
+<p>While he was making the best of his way from the
+grand vizier Giafar, that minister came into the room
+where Fetnah was sitting on a sofa, and where there
+were many chests full of Ganem&rsquo;s equipage, and of
+the money he had made of his goods.</p>
+<p>As soon as Fetnah saw the grand vizier come into
+the room, she fell flat on her face, and continued in that
+posture, as it were, ready to receive her death. My lord,
+said she, I am ready to undergo the sentence passed
+against me by the chief of the believers; you need
+only make it known to me. Madam, answered Giafar,
+falling also down till she had raised herself, God
+forbid any man should presume to lay his profane
+hands on you. I do not design to offer you the least
+wrong. I have no farther orders than to entreat you
+will be pleased to go with me to the palace, and to
+conduct you thither with the merchant that lives in
+this house. My lord, replied the favourite, let us go;
+I am ready to follow you. As for the young merchant,
+to whom I am indebted for my life, he is not here;
+he has been gone about a month since to Damascus,
+whither his business called him, and he has left these
+chests you see under my care till he returns. I conjure
+you to cause them to be secured, that I may
+perform the promise I made to take all possible care
+of them.</p>
+<p>You shall be obeyed, said Giafar, and immediately
+sent for porters, whom he commanded to take up the
+chests, and carry them to Mesrour.</p>
+<p>As soon as the porters were gone, he whispered
+the civil magistrate, committing to him the care of
+<span class="pb" id="Page_183">[183]</span>
+seeing the house razed; but first to cause diligent
+search to be made for Ganem, who, he suspected,
+might be hid, whatever Fetnah had told of him.
+Then he went out, taking the young lady with him
+attended by the two slaves that waited on her. As for
+Ganem&rsquo;s slaves, they were not regarded; they ran in
+among the crowd, and it was not known what became
+of them.</p>
+<p>No sooner was Giafar out of the house, than the
+masons and carpenters began to raze it; and did it so
+effectually, that in a few hours none of it remained.
+But the civil magistrate, not finding Ganem, after the
+strictest search, sent to acquaint the grand vizier with
+it, before that minister reached the palace. Well,
+said Haroun Alraschid, seeing him come into his
+closet, have you executed my orders? Yes, sir, answered
+Giafar, the house Ganem lived in is levelled
+with the ground, and I have brought you your favourite
+Fetnah; she is at your closet-door, and I will call her
+in if you command me. As for the young merchant,
+we could not find him, though all places have been
+searched; and Fetnah affirms that he has been gone
+this month to Damascus.</p>
+<p>Never was any man in such a passion as the caliph,
+when he heard that Ganem had made his escape.
+As for his favourite, being possessed that she had
+been false to him, he would neither see nor speak to
+her. Mesrour, said he to the chief of the eunuchs,
+who was there present, take the ungrateful, the perfidious
+Fetnah, and go shut her up in the dark tower.
+That tower was within the enclosure of the palace,
+and commonly served as a prison for the favourites
+who any way disgusted the caliph.</p>
+<p>Mesrour, being used to execute his sovereign&rsquo;s
+orders, though ever so unjust, without making any
+objection, obeyed this with some reluctancy. He signified
+<span class="pb" id="Page_184">[184]</span>
+his concern to Fetnah, who was the more
+grieved at it, because she had reckoned that the
+caliph would not refuse to speak to her. There was
+no remedy but to submit to her hard fate, and to
+follow Mesrour, who conducted her to the dark tower,
+and there left her.</p>
+<p>In the mean time the caliph, being incensed, and
+only consulting his passion, wrote the following letter,
+with his own hand, to the king of Syria, his cousin
+and tributary, who resided at Damascus.</p>
+<h3 title="">THE LETTER FROM THE CALIPH HAROUN ALRASCHID TO MOHAMMED ZINEBI, KING OF SYRIA.</h3>
+<p>&lsquo;<span class="sc">Cousin</span>, this is to inform you, that a merchant
+of Damascus, whose name is Ganem, the son of Abou
+Ayoub, has seduced the most amiable of my women
+slaves, called Fetnah, and is fled. It is my will, that,
+when you have read my letter, you cause search to be
+made for Ganem, and secure him. When he is in
+your power, you shall cause him to be loaded with
+irons, and for three days successively he shall receive
+fifty strokes with a bull&rsquo;s pizzle. Then let him be led
+through all parts of the city, with a crier, crying,
+This is the smallest punishment the chief of the believers
+inflicts on him that offends his lord, and debauches
+one of his slaves. After that, you shall send
+him to me under a strong guard. It is my will that
+you cause his house to be plundered; and when it
+shall be razed, order the materials to be carried out
+of the city into the middle of the plain. Besides, if
+he has father, mother, sister, wives, daughters, or
+other kindred, cause them to be stripped; and when
+they are naked, expose them as a spectacle during
+three days to the whole city, forbidding any one, on
+pain of death, to afford them any shelter. I expect
+you will no way delay what I enjoin.</p>
+<p><span class="jr"><span class="sc">Haroun Alraschid.</span>&rsquo;</span></p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_185">[185]</div>
+<p class="tb">The caliph having written this letter, sent it away
+by an express, ordering him to make all possible speed,
+and to take pigeons along with him, that he might
+the sooner hear what had been done by Mohammed
+Zinebi.</p>
+<p>The pigeons of Bagdad have this particular quality,
+that, though they be carried ever so far, they return
+to Bagdad as soon as they are turned loose, especially
+when they have young ones. A letter rolled up is
+made fast under their wing; and by that means, they
+have speedy advice from such places as they desire.</p>
+<p>The caliph&rsquo;s express travelling night and day, as
+his master&rsquo;s impatience required, and being come to
+Damascus, went directly to king Zinebi&rsquo;s palace, who
+sat upon his throne to receive the caliph&rsquo;s letter. The
+express having delivered it, Mohammed looking upon
+it, and knowing the hand, stood up to show his respect,
+kissed the letter, and laid it on his head, to
+denote he was ready submissively to obey the orders
+contained in it. He opened it, and having read it,
+immediately descended from his throne, and, without
+losing time, mounted on horseback, with the prime
+officers of his household. He also sent for the civil
+magistrate, who came to him; and then he went directly
+to Ganem&rsquo;s house, attended by all his guards.</p>
+<p>That young merchant&rsquo;s mother had never heard or
+received any letter from him since he left Damascus,
+but the other merchants with whom he went to Bagdad
+were returned, and all of them told her they had
+left her son in perfect health. However, as he did
+not return himself, and neglected to write, the tender
+mother could not be persuaded but that he was dead,
+and was so fully convinced of it in her imagination,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_186">[186]</span>
+that she went into mourning. She bewailed Ganem
+as if she had seen him die, and had herself closed his
+eyes: never mother expressed greater sorrow; and
+so far was she from seeking any comfort, that she delighted
+in indulging her sorrow. She caused a dome
+to be built in the middle of the court belonging to her
+house, in which she placed a figure representing her
+son, and covered it with black cloth. She spent the
+greatest part of the days and nights in weeping under
+that dome, in the same manner as if her son had been
+buried there. The beautiful Alcolomb, or Ravisher
+of Hearts, her daughter, bore her company, and mixed
+her tears with hers.</p>
+<p>It was now some time since they had thus devoted
+themselves to sorrow, and since the neighbourhood,
+hearing their cries and lamentations, pitied such
+loving relations, when king Mohammed Zinebi came
+to the door, which, being opened by a slave belonging
+to the family, he went into the house, inquiring for
+Ganem, the son of Abou Ayoub.</p>
+<p>Though the slave had never seen king Zinebi, she
+easily guessed, by his retinue, that this must be one
+of the prime men of Damascus. My lord, said she,
+that Ganem you inquire for is dead: my mistress, his
+mother, is in that monument you see there, actually
+lamenting the loss of him. The king, not regarding
+what was said by the slave, caused all the house to be
+diligently searched by his guards for Ganem. Then
+he advanced towards the monument, where he saw
+the mother and daughter sitting on nothing but a mat,
+by the figure which represented Ganem, and their
+faces appeared to him bathed in tears. Those poor
+women immediately veiled themselves, as soon as they
+beheld a man at the door of the dome; but the mother,
+knowing the king of Damascus, got up, and ran
+to cast herself at his feet. My good lady, said he, I
+was looking for your son Ganem; is he here? Alas,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_187">[187]</span>
+sir! cried the mother, it is a long time since he has
+ceased to be: would to God I had at least put him
+into his shroud with my own hands, and had the comfort
+of having his bones in this monument! O, my
+son, my dear son! She would have said more, but
+was oppressed with so violent sorrow that she was
+not able.</p>
+<p>Zinebi was moved; for he was a prince of a mild
+nature, and had much compassion for the sufferings
+of the unfortunate. If Ganem alone is guilty, thought
+he to himself, why should the mother and the daughters,
+who are innocent, be punished? Ah! cruel
+Haroun Alraschid, what a mortification do you put
+upon me, in making me the executioner of your vengeance,
+obliging me to persecute those persons who
+have not offended you!</p>
+<p>The guards that the king ordered to search for
+Ganem, came and told him they had lost their labour.
+He was fully convinced: the tears of these two women
+would not leave him any room to doubt. It distracted
+him to be obliged to execute the caliph&rsquo;s order. My
+good lady, said he to Ganem&rsquo;s mother, come out of
+this monument with your daughter; it is no place
+of safety for you. They went out; and he, to secure
+them against any insult, took off his own robe, which
+was very large, and covered them both with it, bidding
+them be sure to keep close to him. Then he ordered
+the multitude to be admitted to plunder, which was
+performed with the utmost rapaciousness, and many
+shouts, which terrified Ganem&rsquo;s mother and sister the
+more, because they knew not the reason of it. The
+rabble carried off the richest goods, chests full of
+wealth, fine Persian and Indian carpets, cushions
+made of cloth of gold and silver, fine china ware. In
+short, all was taken away; nothing was left but the
+hard walls of the house: and it was certainly a dismal
+spectacle for the unhappy ladies, to see all their
+<span class="pb" id="Page_188">[188]</span>
+goods plundered, without knowing why they were so
+cruelly treated.</p>
+<p>When the house was plundered, Mohammed ordered
+the civil magistrates to raze the house and monument;
+and, whilst that was doing, he carried away
+Alcolomb and her mother to his palace. There it was
+he redoubled their affliction, acquainting them with
+the caliph&rsquo;s will. He commands me, said he to them,
+to cause you to be stripped, and expose you naked for
+three days to the view of the people. It is with the
+utmost reluctance that I execute that cruel and ignominious
+sentence. The king delivered these words
+with such an air, as plainly made it appear his heart
+was really pierced with grief and compassion. Though
+the fear of being dethroned obstructed his following
+the dictates of his pity, yet he in some measure moderated
+the rigour of Haroun Alraschid&rsquo;s orders,
+causing coarse sacks, like smocks with sleeves, to be
+made of horse-hair, for Ganem&rsquo;s mother, and his sister
+Alcolomb, or Ravisher of Hearts.</p>
+<p>The next day, these two victims of the caliph&rsquo;s rage
+were stripped of their clothes, and their horse-hair
+smocks put upon them; their head-dress was also
+taken away, so that their dishevelled hair hung upon
+their backs. Alcolomb had the finest hair in the
+world; and it hung down to the ground. In that condition,
+they were exposed to the people. The civil
+magistrate, attended by his officers, went along with
+them; and they were conducted throughout all the
+city. A crier went before them, who, every now and
+then, cried, This is the punishment due to those who
+have drawn on themselves the indignation of the chief
+of the believers.</p>
+<p>When they walked in this manner along the streets
+of Damascus, with their arms and feet naked, clad in
+such a strange garment, and endeavouring to hide
+their shame under their hair, with which they covered
+<span class="pb" id="Page_189">[189]</span>
+their faces, all the people were dissolved in tears;
+more especially the ladies, looking on them as innocent
+persons, through their lattice-windows, and being
+particularly moved by Alcolomb&rsquo;s youth and beauty,
+made the air ring with their dreadful shrieks, as
+they passed before their houses. The very children,
+frightened at those shrieks, and at the spectacle that
+occasioned them, mixed their cries with that general
+lamentation, and added new horror to it. In short,
+had an enemy been at Damascus, and then putting
+all to fire and sword, the consternation could not have
+been greater.</p>
+<p>It was near night when that dismal scene concluded.
+The mother and daughter were both conducted
+back to king Mohammed&rsquo;s palace. Not being
+used to walk barefoot, they were so spent, that they
+lay a long time in a swoon. The queen of Damascus,
+highly afflicted at their misfortunes, notwithstanding
+the caliph&rsquo;s prohibition to relieve them, sent some of
+her women to comfort them with all sorts of refreshments,
+and wine to raise their spirits.</p>
+<p>The queen&rsquo;s women found them still in a swoon,
+and almost past receiving any benefit by what they
+offered them. However, with much difficulty, they
+were brought to themselves. Ganem&rsquo;s mother immediately
+returned them thanks for their courtesy. My
+good lady, said one of the queen&rsquo;s ladies to her, we
+are highly concerned at your affliction; and the queen
+of Syria, our mistress, has done us a favour in employing
+us to assist you. We can assure you, that
+princess is much afflicted at your misfortunes, as well
+as the king her consort. Ganem&rsquo;s mother entreated
+the queen&rsquo;s women to return her majesty a thousand
+thanks from her and her daughter Alcolomb; and then,
+directing her discourse to the lady that spoke to her,
+she said, Madam, the king has not told me why the
+chief of the believers inflicts so many outrages on us;
+<span class="pb" id="Page_190">[190]</span>
+pray be pleased to tell us what crimes we have been
+guilty of. My good lady, answered the other, the
+origin of your misfortune proceeds from your son
+Ganem. He is not dead, as you imagine. He is accused
+of having stolen the beautiful Fetnah, the best
+beloved of all the king&rsquo;s favourites; and he having,
+by timely flight, withdrawn himself from that prince&rsquo;s
+indignation, the punishment is fallen on you. All
+mankind condemns the caliph&rsquo;s resentment; but all
+mankind fears him: and you see king Zinebi himself
+dares not contradict his orders, for fear of incurring
+his displeasure. So that all we can do is to pity and
+exhort you to have patience.</p>
+<p>I know my son, answered Ganem&rsquo;s mother; I have
+educated him very carefully, and in that respect which
+is due to the commander of the believers. He has
+not committed the crime he is accused of; I dare answer
+for his innocency. But I will give over muttering
+and complaining, since it is for him that I suffer,
+and he is not dead. O Ganem! added she, in a
+transport of love and joy, my dear son Ganem, is it
+possible that you are still alive? I no longer am concerned
+for the loss of my goods; and how extravagant
+soever the caliph&rsquo;s orders may be, I forgive him
+all the severity of them, provided Heaven has saved
+my son. I am only concerned for my daughter; her
+sufferings only afflict me; yet I believe her to be so
+good a sister as to follow my example.</p>
+<p>At the hearing of these words, Alcolomb, who till
+then had appeared insensible, turned to her mother,
+and, clasping her arms about her neck, Yes, dear
+mother, said she, I will always follow your example,
+whatever extremity the love of my brother brings you
+to.</p>
+<p>The mother and daughter, thus interchanging their
+sighs and tears, continued a considerable time in such
+moving embraces. In the mean time, the queen&rsquo;s
+<span class="pb" id="Page_191">[191]</span>
+women, who were much moved at that spectacle,
+omitted no persuasions to prevail with Ganem&rsquo;s mother
+to take some sustenance. She ate a morsel out
+of complaisance, and Alcolomb did the like.</p>
+<p>The caliph having ordered that Ganem&rsquo;s kindred
+should be exposed three days successively to the sight
+of the people, in the condition as has been said, Alcolomb
+and her mother afforded the same spectacle
+the second time next day, from morning till night.
+But that day and the following, things were not done
+after the same manner: the streets, which at first had
+been full of people, were left quite empty. All the
+traders, incensed at the ill usage of Abou Ayoub&rsquo;s
+widow and daughter, shut up their shops, and kept
+themselves close within their houses. The ladies, instead
+of looking through their lattice-windows, withdrew
+into the back parts of their houses. There was
+not one soul to be seen in the public places those unfortunate
+women were carried through. It looked as
+if all the inhabitants of Damascus had abandoned
+their city.</p>
+<p>On the fourth day, king Mohammed Zinebi, who
+was resolved punctually to obey the caliph&rsquo;s orders,
+though he did not approve of them, sent criers into
+all quarters of the city to make proclamation, strictly
+forbidding all the inhabitants of Damascus, and
+strangers, of what condition soever, upon pain of
+death, and having their bodies cast to the dogs to be
+devoured, to receive Ganem&rsquo;s mother and sister into
+their houses, or to give them a morsel of bread or a
+drop of water; and, in a word, to afford them the
+least support, or hold the least correspondence with
+them.</p>
+<p>When the criers had performed what the king had
+enjoined them, that prince ordered the mother and
+the daughter to be turned out of the palace, and left
+to their choice to go where they thought fit. As soon
+<span class="pb" id="Page_192">[192]</span>
+as ever they appeared, all persons fled from them, so
+great an impression had the late prohibition made
+upon them all. They easily perceived that every body
+shunned them; but not knowing the reason of it, they
+were much surprised; and their amazement was the
+greater, when, coming into any street, or among several
+persons, they knew some of their best friends,
+who presently vanished with as much haste as the rest.
+What is the meaning of this? said Ganem&rsquo;s mother:
+do we carry the plague about us? Must the unjust
+and barbarous usage we have received render us
+odious to our fellow-citizens? Come, my child, added
+she, let us depart from Damascus with all speed; let
+us not stay any longer in a city where we are become
+frightful to our very friends.</p>
+<p>The two wretched ladies, discoursing after this
+manner, came to one of the ends of the city, and retired
+to a ruined house, to pass the night. Thither
+some Mussulmen, or believers, out of charity and
+compassion, resorted to them after the day was shut
+in. They carried them provisions, but durst not stay
+to comfort them, for fear of being discovered, and
+punished for disobeying the caliph&rsquo;s orders.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, king Zinebi had let fly a pigeon,
+to give Haroun Alraschid an account of his exact
+obedience. He informed him of all that had been
+done, and conjured him to direct what he would have
+done with Ganem&rsquo;s mother and sister. He soon received
+the caliph&rsquo;s answer the same way, which was,
+that he banished them from Damascus for ever. Immediately
+the king of Syria sent men to the old house,
+with orders to take the mother and the daughter, and
+to conduct them three days&rsquo; journey from Damascus,
+and there to leave them, forbidding them ever to return
+to the city.</p>
+<p>Zinebi&rsquo;s men executed their commission; but
+being less precise than their master, in the strict performance
+<span class="pb" id="Page_193">[193]</span>
+of every tittle of Haroun Alraschid&rsquo;s orders,
+they in pity gave Alcolomb and her mother some small
+pieces of money to buy them some subsistence, and
+each of them a bag, which they hung about their
+necks, to carry their provisions.</p>
+<p>In this miserable condition, they came to the first
+village. The peasants flocked about them; and as
+it appeared through their disguise that they were
+people of some fashion, they asked them what was
+the occasion of their travelling after that manner, in
+a habit that did not seem properly to belong to them.
+Instead of answering the question put to them, they
+fell a-weeping, which only served to heighten the
+curiosity of the peasants, and to move them to compassion.
+Ganem&rsquo;s mother told them what she and her
+daughter had endured; at which the good countrywomen
+were sensibly afflicted, and endeavoured to
+comfort them. They treated them as well as their
+poverty would permit; they took off their horse-hair
+smocks, which were very uneasy, and put on others
+they gave them, with shoes, and something to cover
+their heads, and save their hair.</p>
+<p>Having expressed their gratitude to those charitable
+women, Alcolomb and her mother departed that village,
+taking short journeys towards Aleppo. They
+used at night to lie near the mosques, or in them,
+upon the mat, if there was any, or else on the bare
+pavement; and sometimes put up in the places appointed
+for the use of travellers. As for sustenance,
+they did not want; for they often came to places
+where bread, boiled rice, and other provisions, are
+distributed to all travellers who desire it.</p>
+<p>At length they came to Aleppo, but would not stay
+there, and holding on their journey towards the Euphrates,
+crossed that river, and entered into Mesopotamia,
+which they traversed as far as Moussoul.
+Thence, notwithstanding all they had endured, they
+<span class="pb" id="Page_194">[194]</span>
+proceeded to Bagdad. That was the place they had
+fixed their thoughts upon, hoping to find Ganem there,
+though they ought not to have fancied that he was in
+a city where the caliph resided: but they hoped, because
+they wished it; their affection rather increasing
+than diminishing, in spite of all their misfortunes.
+Their discourse was generally about him, and they
+inquired for him of all they met. But let us leave
+Alcolomb and her mother, to return to Fetnah.</p>
+<p>She was still confined close in the dark tower, ever
+since the day that had been so fatal to Ganem and
+her. However, disagreeable as her prison was to her,
+it was much less grievous than the thoughts of Ganem&rsquo;s
+misfortune, the uncertainty of whose fate was
+a killing affliction to her. There was scarce a moment
+in which she did not lament him.</p>
+<p>One night when the caliph was walking by himself
+within the enclosure of his palace, as he frequently
+did; for he was the most prying prince in the world,
+and sometimes, by means of those night-walks, he
+came to the knowledge of things that happened in his
+palace, which would otherwise never have come to his
+ear: one of these nights, in his walk, he happened to
+pass by the dark tower, and fancying he heard somebody
+talk, he stopped, and drew near the door to listen,
+and distinctly heard these words, which Fetnah,
+whose thoughts were always on Ganem, uttered with
+a loud voice: O Ganem! too unfortunate Ganem!
+where are you at this time? whither has thy cruel
+fate led thee? Alas! it is I that have made you miserable!
+Why did you not let me perish unhappily,
+rather than afford me your generous relief? What a
+dismal reward have you received for your care and
+respect! The commander of the faithful, who ought
+to have requited, persecutes you; and in return for
+having always looked upon me as a person reserved
+for his bed, you lose all your goods, and are obliged
+<span class="pb" id="Page_195">[195]</span>
+to seek for safety in flight. O caliph! barbarous caliph!
+what will you say for yourself when you shall
+appear with Ganem before the tribunal of the Supreme
+Judge, and the angels shall testify the truth before
+your face! All the power you are now invested with,
+and which makes the best part of the world quake,
+will not prevent your being condemned and punished
+for your violent and unjust proceedings. Here Fetnah
+ceased her complaint, her sighs and tears putting
+a stop to her tongue.</p>
+<p>This was enough to bring the caliph to himself.
+He plainly perceived, that if what he had heard was
+true, his favourite must be innocent, and that he had
+been too rash in giving orders against Ganem and his
+family. Being resolved to be rightly informed in an
+affair which so nearly concerned him, in point of
+equity, on which he valued himself, he immediately
+returned to his apartment, and that moment ordered
+Mesrour to repair to the dark tower and bring Fetnah
+to him.</p>
+<p>By this command, and much more by the caliph&rsquo;s
+way of delivery, the chief of the eunuchs guessed that
+his master designed to pardon his favourite, and take
+her to him again. He was overjoyed at it, for he
+loved Fetnah, and had been much concerned at her
+disgrace; and therefore flying to the tower, Madam,
+said he to the favourite, with such an air as expressed
+his satisfaction, be pleased to follow me: I hope you
+will never more return to this vile dark tower: the
+commander of the faithful has a mind to speak with
+you, and I have reason to hope for a happy issue.</p>
+<p>Fetnah followed Mesrour, who conducted her into
+the caliph&rsquo;s closet. She prostrated herself before that
+prince, and so continued, letting fall a shower of tears.
+Fetnah, said the caliph, without bidding her rise, I
+think you charge me with violence and injustice.
+Who is he, who, notwithstanding the regard and respect
+<span class="pb" id="Page_196">[196]</span>
+he had for me, is in a miserable condition?
+Speak freely; you know how good-natured I am, and
+that I love to do justice.</p>
+<p>By these words the favourite conceived that the caliph
+had heard what she had said; and laying hold on
+so favourable an opportunity to clear her dear Ganem,
+she said, Commander of the true believers, if I have
+let fall any word that is not agreeable to your majesty,
+I most humbly beseech you to forgive me; but
+he whose innocence and misfortune you desire to be
+acquainted with, is Ganem, the unhappy son of Abou
+Ayoub, merchant in Damascus. He is the man that
+saved my life, and afforded me a safe sanctuary in his
+house. I must own, that, from the first moment he
+saw me, he perhaps designed to devote himself to me,
+and conceived hopes of engaging me to admit of his
+service. I guessed at this, by the eagerness he showed
+in entertaining, and giving me all the attendance
+which was requisite under the circumstances I was
+then in; but as soon as he heard that I had the honour
+to belong to you, Alas, madam, said he, &lsquo;That
+which belongs to the master is forbidden to the
+slave.&rsquo; From that moment, I owe this justice to his
+virtue, his behaviour was always suitable to his
+words. However, you well know with what rigour
+you have treated him, and you will answer for it before
+the tribunal of God.</p>
+<p>The caliph was not displeased with Fetnah for the
+freedom of those words. But may I, answered he,
+rely on the assurances you give me of Ganem&rsquo;s virtue?
+Yes, replied Fetnah, you may; I would not for
+the world conceal the truth from you: and to make
+out to you that I am sincere, I must own one thing to
+you, which perhaps may displease you; but I beg pardon
+of your majesty beforehand. Speak, child, said
+Haroun Alraschid; I forgive all, provided you conceal
+nothing from me. Well then, replied Fetnah, let
+<span class="pb" id="Page_197">[197]</span>
+me inform you, that Ganem&rsquo;s respectful behaviour,
+together with all the good offices he did me, gained
+him my esteem. I went farther yet: you know the
+tyranny of love; I felt some tender inclination growing
+in my breast. He perceived it, but was still far
+from taking an advantage of my frailty: and notwithstanding
+the flame which consumed him, he still remained
+steady in his duty; and all his passion could
+force from him, were those words I have already told
+your majesty, &lsquo;That which belongs to the master is
+forbidden to the slave.&rsquo;</p>
+<p>This ingenuous confession might have provoked any
+other man than the caliph; but it was the very thing
+which quite appeased that prince. He commanded
+her to rise, and making her sit by him, Tell me your
+story, said he, from the beginning to the end. She
+did so with much art and wit, slightly passing over
+what regarded Zobeide, and dilating on the obligations
+she owed Ganem, the expense he had been at
+for her; and, above all, she highly extolled his discretion,
+endeavouring by that means to make the caliph
+sensible that she had been under the necessity of
+lying concealed in Ganem&rsquo;s house, to deceive Zobeide.
+She concluded with the young merchant&rsquo;s escape,
+which she plainly told the caliph she had compelled
+him to, that he might avoid his indignation.</p>
+<p>When she had done speaking, the caliph said to
+her, I believe all you have told me; but why was it so
+long before you let me hear from you? Was there any
+need of staying a whole month after my return, before
+you sent me word where you were? Commander of
+the true believers, answered Fetnah, Ganem went
+abroad so very seldom, that you need not wonder that
+we were none of the first that heard of your return.
+Besides that, Ganem, who took upon him to deliver
+the letter I wrote to Nouron Nihar, was a long time
+<span class="pb" id="Page_198">[198]</span>
+before he could find an opportunity of putting it into
+her own hands.</p>
+<p>It is enough, Fetnah, replied the caliph; I own my
+fault, and would willingly make amends for it by
+heaping favours on that young merchant of Damascus;
+therefore consider what I can do for him: ask what
+you think fit, and I will grant it. Hereupon the
+favourite fell down at the caliph&rsquo;s feet, with her face
+flat on the ground; and then rising again, said, Commander
+of the true believers, after returning your majesty
+thanks for Ganem, I most humbly entreat you
+to cause it to be published throughout all your dominions,
+that you pardon the son of Abou Ayoub, and
+that he may safely come to you. I will do more, rejoined
+that prince, in requital for having saved your
+life, and the respect he has bore to me, and to make
+amends for the loss of his goods; and, in short, to repair
+the wrong I have done to his family, I give him
+to you for a husband. Fetnah had not words expressive
+enough to thank the caliph for his generosity.
+She then withdrew into the apartment she had before
+her dismal adventure. The same furniture was still
+in it; nothing had been removed; but that which
+pleased her most, was, to find there Ganem&rsquo;s chests
+and packs, which Mesrour had taken care to convey
+thither.</p>
+<p>The next day Haroun Alraschid ordered the grand
+vizier to cause proclamation to be made throughout
+all his dominions, that he pardoned the son of Abou
+Ayoub; but this proved of no effect, for a long time
+elapsed without any news of that young merchant.
+Fetnah concluded for certain, that he had not been
+able to survive the pain of losing her. A dreadful
+uneasiness seized her; but as hope is the last thing
+which forsakes lovers, she entreated the caliph to
+give her leave to seek for Ganem herself; which being
+<span class="pb" id="Page_199">[199]</span>
+granted, she took a purse with a thousand pieces
+of gold out of her basket, and one morning went out
+of the palace, mounted on a mule she had out of the
+caliph&rsquo;s stables, very richly accoutred. Black eunuchs
+attended her, with their hands on each side upon the
+mule&rsquo;s buttocks.</p>
+<p>Thus she went from mosque to mosque, bestowing
+her alms among the devotees of the Mahometan religion,
+desiring their prayers for obtaining the accomplishment
+of an affair on which the happiness of two
+persons, as she told them, depended. She spent the
+whole day and the thousand pieces of gold, in giving
+alms at the mosques, and returned to the palace in
+the evening.</p>
+<p>The next day she took another purse of the same
+value, and, in the like equipage as the day before,
+went to the place where all the jewellers&rsquo; shops were;
+and stopping at the door without alighting, sent one
+of her black eunuchs for the syndic, or chief of them.
+That syndic, who was an extraordinary charitable man,
+and spent above two-thirds of his income in relieving
+poor strangers, whether they happened to be sick or
+in distress, made not Fetnah stay, knowing by her
+dress that she was a lady belonging to the palace. I
+apply myself to you, said she, putting the purse into
+his hands, as a person whose piety is cried up throughout
+the city. I desire you to distribute that gold
+among the poor strangers you relieve, for I know you
+make it your business to assist poor strangers who
+have recourse to your charity. I am also satisfied that
+you prevent their wants, and that nothing is more
+agreeable to you than to have an opportunity of
+easing their misery. Madam, answered the syndic,
+I shall obey your commands with pleasure; but if you
+desire to exercise your charity in person, and will be
+pleased to step to my house, you will there see two
+women worthy of your compassion: I met them yesterday
+<span class="pb" id="Page_200">[200]</span>
+as they were coming into the city; they were
+in a deplorable condition, and it moved me the more,
+because I thought they were persons of some quality.
+Through all the rags that covered them, and notwithstanding
+the impression the sun has made on their
+faces, I discovered a noble air, not to be commonly
+found in those poor people I relieve. I carried them
+both to my house, and delivered them to my wife,
+who was of the same opinion with me. She caused
+her slaves to provide them good beds, whilst she herself
+washed their faces, and gave them clean linen.
+We know not as yet who they are, because we will
+let them take some rest before we trouble them with
+our questions.</p>
+<p>Fetnah, without being able to give any reason for
+it, had a curiosity to see them. The syndic would
+have conducted her to his house, but she would not
+give him the trouble, and was satisfied that a slave of
+his should go and show her the way. She alighted at
+the door, and followed the syndic&rsquo;s slave, who was
+gone on before to give notice to his mistress, she being
+then in the chamber with Alcolomb and her mother,
+for they were the persons the syndic had been
+talking of to Fetnah.</p>
+<p>The syndic&rsquo;s wife, being informed by the slave that
+a court-lady was in her house, was going out of the
+room to meet her; but Fetnah, who had followed
+close to the slave&rsquo;s heels, did not give her so much
+time, and coming into the chamber, the syndic&rsquo;s wife
+fell down before her, to express the respect she had
+for all that belonged to the caliph. Fetnah took her
+up, and said, My good lady, I desire you would let
+me speak with those two strangers that arrived at
+Bagdad last night. Madam, answered the syndic&rsquo;s
+wife, they lie in those two little beds you see close by
+each other. The favourite immediately drew near
+the mother&rsquo;s, and viewing her carefully, Good woman,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_201">[201]</span>
+said she, I come to offer you my assistance: I have
+a considerable interest in this city, and may be assisting
+to you and your companion. Madam, answered
+Ganem&rsquo;s mother, I perceive by your obliging offers
+that Heaven has not quite forsaken us, though we
+have cause to believe it, after so many misfortunes as
+have befallen us. Having uttered these words, she
+wept so bitterly that Fetnah and the syndic&rsquo;s wife
+could not forbear letting fall some tears.</p>
+<p>The caliph&rsquo;s favourite, having dried up hers, said to
+Ganem&rsquo;s mother, Be so kind as to tell us your misfortunes,
+and recount your story. You cannot give the
+relation to any persons better disposed than we are
+to use all possible means to comfort you. Madam,
+replied Abou Ayoub&rsquo;s disconsolate widow, a favourite
+of the commander of the true believers, a lady whose
+name is Fetnah, is the occasion of all our misfortunes.
+These words were like a thunderbolt to the favourite:
+but suppressing her concern and uneasiness,
+she suffered Ganem&rsquo;s mother to proceed, who did it
+after this manner: I am the widow of Abou Ayoub, a
+merchant of Damascus; I had a son, called Ganem,
+who, coming to trade at Bagdad, has been accused of
+having debauched that Fetnah. The caliph has caused
+search to be made for him every where, to put him to
+death; and not finding him, wrote to the king of
+Damascus, to cause our house to be plundered and
+razed, and to expose my daughter and me three days
+successively, stark naked, to be seen by the people,
+and then to banish us out of Syria for ever.</p>
+<p>But how unworthy soever our usage has been, I
+should still be comforted, were my son alive, and I
+could meet with him. What a pleasure would it be
+for his sister and me to see him again! Embracing
+him, we should forget the loss of our goods, and all
+the evils we have suffered for him. Alas! I am fully
+persuaded he is the innocent cause of them; and that
+<span class="pb" id="Page_202">[202]</span>
+he is no more guilty towards the caliph, than his
+sister and I.</p>
+<p>No doubt of it, said Fetnah, interrupting her there;
+he is no more guilty than you are; I can assure you
+of his innocence, for I am that very Fetnah you so
+much complain of, who, through some fatality in my
+stars, have occasioned so many misfortunes. To me
+you must impute the loss of your son, if he is no
+more; but if I have occasioned your misfortune, I
+can in some measure relieve it. I have already
+cleared Ganem to the caliph, who has caused it to be
+proclaimed throughout his dominions, that he pardons
+the son of Abou Ayoub; and I do not question
+but that he will do you as much good as he has done
+you harm. You are no longer his enemies: he expects
+Ganem to requite the service he has done me by
+uniting our fortunes: he gives me to him for his consort;
+therefore look on me as your daughter, and permit
+me to vow an eternal friendship to you. Having
+so said, she bowed down on Ganem&rsquo;s mother, who
+was so astonished that she could return no answer.
+Fetnah held her a long time in her arms, and only left
+her to run to the other bed to Alcolomb, who, sitting
+up, held out her arms to receive her.</p>
+<p>When the caliph&rsquo;s charming favourite had given
+the mother and daughter all the tokens of affection
+they could expect from Ganem&rsquo;s wife, she said to
+them, Cease both of you to afflict yourselves: the
+wealth Ganem had in this city is not lost; it is in my
+apartment in the palace; but I know all the treasure
+in the world cannot comfort you without Ganem: I
+judge so of his mother and sister, if I may judge of
+them by myself; blood is no less powerful than love
+in great minds. But why should we despair of seeing
+him again? We shall find him: the good fortune of
+meeting with you makes me conceive fresh hopes:
+and perhaps this is the last day of your sufferings, and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_203">[203]</span>
+the beginning of a greater felicity than you enjoyed
+in Damascus when Ganem was with you.</p>
+<p>Fetnah would have gone on, when the syndic of the
+jewellers came in, saying, Madam, I am come from
+seeing a very moving object; it is a young man, a camel-driver,
+who was carrying to the hospital of Bagdad:
+he was bound with cords on a camel, because
+he had not strength enough to sit him. They had
+already unbound, and were carrying him into the
+hospital, when I happened to be passing by. I went
+close up to the young man, viewed him carefully, and
+fancied his countenance was not altogether unknown
+to me. I asked him some questions concerning his
+family and his country; but all the answer I could
+get, consisted only in sighs and tears. I took pity
+on him, and perceiving, by being so much used to
+sick people, that he had great need to have particular
+care taken of him, I would not permit him to be
+put into the hospital; for I am too well acquainted
+with their way of looking to the sick, and am sensible
+of the incapacity of the physicians. I have caused
+him to be brought home to my house by my slaves;
+and they are now, by my orders, putting on some of
+my own linen, and serving him as they would do me,
+in a chamber for that purpose.</p>
+<p>Fetnah&rsquo;s heart leaped at these words of the jeweller,
+and she felt a sudden emotion, for which she
+could not account. Show me, said she to the syndic,
+into that sick man&rsquo;s room; I would gladly see him.
+The syndic conducted her, and whilst she was going
+thither, Ganem&rsquo;s mother said to Alcolomb, Alas!
+daughter, as wretched as that sick stranger is, your
+brother, if he be living, is not perhaps in a more happy
+condition.</p>
+<p>The caliph&rsquo;s favourite, coming into the chamber
+where the sick man was, drew near the bed, into
+which the syndic&rsquo;s slaves had already laid him. She
+<span class="pb" id="Page_204">[204]</span>
+saw a young man whose eyes were closed, his countenance
+pale, disfigured, and bathed in tears. She
+gazed earnestly on him, her heart beat, and she fancied
+she beheld Ganem; but yet she would not believe
+her eyes. Though she found something of Ganem
+in the object she beheld, yet, in other respects,
+he appeared so different, that she durst not imagine
+it was he that lay before her. However, not being
+able to withstand the earnest desire of being satisfied,
+Ganem, said she, with a quivering voice, is it
+you I behold? Having spoken these words, she
+stopped to give the young man time to answer; but
+observing that he seemed insensible, Alas! Ganem,
+added she, it is not you that I talk to! My imagination
+being overcharged with your image, has given
+this stranger a deceitful resemblance: the son of
+Abou Ayoub, though ever so sick, would know the
+voice of Fetnah. At the name of Fetnah, Ganem
+(for it was really he) opened his eyes, and turned his
+face towards the person that spoke to him, and
+knowing the caliph&rsquo;s favourite, Ah! madam, said
+he, what miracle?&mdash;&mdash;He could say no more; such
+a sudden transport of joy seized him that he fell into
+a swoon. Fetnah and the syndic did all they could
+to bring him to himself; but as soon as they perceived
+he began to revive, the syndic desired the lady
+to withdraw, for fear lest the sight of her should
+heighten Ganem&rsquo;s distemper.</p>
+<p>The young man, having recovered his senses, looked
+all about, and not seeing what he looked for, cried
+out, What is become of you, charming Fetnah? did
+you really appear before mine eyes, or was it only an
+illusion? No, sir, said the syndic, it was no illusion.
+It was I that caused that lady to withdraw, but you
+shall see her again as soon as you are in a condition
+to bear her sight. You now stand in need of rest,
+and nothing ought to obstruct your taking it. The
+<span class="pb" id="Page_205">[205]</span>
+posture of your affairs is altered, since you are, as I
+suppose, that Ganem, in favour of whom the commander
+of the true believers has caused a proclamation
+to be made in Bagdad, declaring that he forgives
+him what is past. Be satisfied for the present, with
+knowing so much; the lady who just now spoke to
+you will acquaint you with the rest; therefore think
+of nothing but recovering your health: I will contribute
+all that shall be in my power towards it. Having
+spoken these words, he left Ganem to take his
+rest, and went himself to provide all such medicines
+for him as were proper to recover his strength, quite
+spent by want and toil.</p>
+<p>During that time Fetnah was in the room with
+Alcolomb and her mother, where almost the same
+scene was acted over again; for when Ganem&rsquo;s mother
+understood that the sick man the syndic had
+then newly brought into his house was Ganem himself,
+she was so overjoyed, that she also swooned
+away; and when, with the assistance of Fetnah and
+the syndic&rsquo;s wife, she was again come to herself, she
+would have got up to see her son: but the syndic
+coming in then, hindered her, giving her to understand
+that Ganem was so weak and feeble that it
+would endanger his life, to excite in him those commotions
+which must be the consequence of the unexpected
+sight of a beloved mother and sister. There
+was no occasion for the syndic&rsquo;s making any long discourses
+to persuade Ganem&rsquo;s mother: as soon as she
+was told that she could not discourse to her son without
+hazarding his life, she ceased insisting to go and
+see him. Then Fetnah, turning the discourse, said,
+Let us bless Heaven for having brought us all together
+into one place. I will return to the palace to
+give the caliph an account of all these adventures,
+and to-morrow morning I will return to you: this
+said, she embraced the mother and the daughter, and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_206">[206]</span>
+went away. As soon as she came to the palace, she
+sent Mesrour to desire to be admitted to the caliph
+in private, which was immediately granted; and being
+brought into that prince&rsquo;s closet, where he was
+alone, she prostrated herself at his feet, with her
+face on the ground, according to custom. He commanded
+her to rise, and having made her sit down,
+asked whether she had heard any news of Ganem.
+Commander of the true believers, said she, I have
+been so successful, that I have found him, as also his
+mother and sister. The caliph was curious to know
+how she could find them in so short a time, and she
+satisfied his curiosity, saying so many things in commendation
+of Ganem&rsquo;s mother and sister, that he
+desired to see them, as well as the young merchant.</p>
+<p>Though Haroun Alraschid was passionate, and in
+his heat sometimes guilty of cruel actions; yet, to
+make amends, he was just, and the most generous
+prince in the world, as soon as his anger was over,
+and he was made sensible of the wrong he had done.
+Therefore, having no longer cause to doubt but that
+he had unjustly persecuted Ganem and his family,
+and having publicly wronged them, he resolved to
+make them public satisfaction. I am overjoyed, said
+he to Fetnah, that your search has proved so successful;
+it is a mighty satisfaction to me, not so
+much for your sake as for my own. I will keep the
+promise I have made you. You shall marry Ganem,
+and I here declare you are no longer my slave. Go
+back to that young merchant; and, as soon as he has
+recovered his health, you shall bring him to me, with
+his mother and sister.</p>
+<p>The next morning early, Fetnah repaired to the
+syndic of the jewellers, being impatient to hear of
+Ganem&rsquo;s health, and to tell the mother and daughter
+the good news she had for them. The first person
+<span class="pb" id="Page_207">[207]</span>
+she met was the syndic, who told her that Ganem had
+rested very well that night; and that his distemper
+altogether proceeded from melancholy, and the cause
+being removed, he would soon recover his health.</p>
+<p>Accordingly the son of Abou Ayoub was much
+mended. Rest, and the good medicines applied to
+him, but, above all, the easiness of his mind, had
+wrought so good an effect, that the syndic thought
+he might without danger see his mother, his sister,
+and his mistress, provided he was prepared to receive
+them; because there was ground to fear that, not
+knowing his mother and sister were at Bagdad, the
+sight of them might occasion too great joy and surprise.
+It was therefore resolved, that Fetnah should
+first go alone into Ganem&rsquo;s chamber, and then make a
+sign to the two other ladies to appear, when she
+thought fit.</p>
+<p>Affairs being so ordered, the sick man was acquainted
+with Fetnah&rsquo;s coming, by the syndic, which
+was so ravishing a sight to him, that he was again
+near falling into a swoon. Well, Ganem, said she,
+drawing near to his bed, you have again found your
+Fetnah, whom you thought you had lost for ever.
+Ah! madam, said he, interrupting her, what miracle
+has restored you to my sight? I thought you were in
+the caliph&rsquo;s palace: that prince has doubtless given
+ear to you. You have dispelled his jealousy, and he
+has restored you to his favour. Yes, my dear Ganem,
+answered Fetnah, I have cleared myself before
+the commander of the true believers, who, to make
+amends for the wrong he has done you, bestows me
+on you for a wife. These last words occasioned such
+an excess of joy in Ganem, that he knew not for a
+while how to express himself, otherwise than by that
+passionate silence so well known to lovers. At length
+he broke out with these words: Ah, beautiful Fetnah,
+may I give credit to what you tell me? May I
+<span class="pb" id="Page_208">[208]</span>
+believe that the caliph really resigns you to Abou
+Ayoub&rsquo;s son? Nothing is more certain, answered the
+lady. That prince, who before caused search to be
+made for you to take away your life, and who in his
+fury caused your mother and your sister to suffer a
+thousand indignities, desires now to see you, that he
+may reward the respect you had for him; and there
+is no question to be made, but that he will be profuse
+in his favours to your family.</p>
+<p>Ganem asked what the caliph had done to his mother
+and sister, which Fetnah told him; and he could
+not forbear letting fall some tears at that relation,
+notwithstanding his thoughts were so full of the
+news he had heard of being married to his mistress.
+But when Fetnah informed him that they were actually
+in Bagdad, and in the same house with him, he
+appeared so impatient to see them, that the favourite
+could no longer defer giving him that satisfaction;
+and accordingly called them in. They were then at
+the door, only waiting that moment. They came in,
+made up to Ganem, and embracing him in their
+turns, gave him a thousand kisses. How many tears
+were shed amidst those embraces! Ganem&rsquo;s face
+was bathed with them, as well as his mother&rsquo;s and
+sister&rsquo;s; and Fetnah let fall in abundance. The
+syndic himself, and his wife, being moved at the
+spectacle, could not forbear weeping, nor sufficiently
+admire the secret workings of Providence, which
+brought together into their house four persons whom
+fortune had so cruelly parted.</p>
+<p>When they had all dried up their tears, Ganem
+drew a fresh supply, by the recital of all he had suffered
+from the day he left Fetnah, till the moment
+the syndic brought him to his house. He told them,
+that having reached a small village, he there fell
+sick; that some charitable peasants had taken care
+of him, but finding he did not recover, a camel-driver
+<span class="pb" id="Page_209">[209]</span>
+had undertaken to carry him to the hospital at Bagdad.
+Fetnah, also, told them all the uneasiness of
+her imprisonment; how the caliph, having heard her
+talk in the tower, had sent for her into his closet,
+and how she had cleared herself. In the conclusion,
+when they had all related what accidents had befallen
+them, Fetnah said, Let us bless Heaven, which has
+brought us all together again, and let us think of nothing
+but the happiness that attends us. As soon
+as Ganem has recovered his health, he must appear
+before the caliph with his mother and sister; but because
+they are not in a condition to be seen, I will go
+and make some provision for them; so I desire you
+to stay a moment for me.</p>
+<p>This said, she went away to the palace, and soon returned
+to the syndic&rsquo;s, with a purse containing a thousand
+pieces of gold, which she delivered to the syndic,
+desiring him to buy clothes for the mother and
+daughter. The syndic, who was a man of a good
+fancy, chose such as were extraordinary fine, and had
+them made up with all speed. They were finished
+in three days, and Ganem, finding himself strong
+enough to go abroad, prepared for it; but on the day
+he had appointed to go and pay his respects to the
+caliph, when he was making ready with his mother
+and sister, the grand vizier Giafar came to the syndic&rsquo;s
+house.</p>
+<p>That minister came on horseback, attended by a
+great number of officers. Sir, said he to Ganem, as
+soon as he came in, I am come from the commander
+of the true believers, my master and yours; the orders
+I have, differ very much from those which I do
+not care to revive in your memory. I am to bear
+you company, and to present you to the caliph, who
+is desirous to see you. Ganem returned no other
+answer to the vizier&rsquo;s compliments than by profoundly
+bowing his head, and then mounted a horse
+<span class="pb" id="Page_210">[210]</span>
+brought from the caliph&rsquo;s stables, which he managed
+very gracefully. The mother and daughter were
+mounted on mules belonging to the palace; and
+whilst Fetnah led them a by-way to the prince&rsquo;s
+court, Giafar conducted Ganem another way, and
+brought him into the presence-chamber. The caliph
+was there sitting on his throne, encompassed with
+emirs, viziers, and other attendants and courtiers,
+Arabs, Persians, Egyptians, Africans, and Syrians,
+of his own dominions, not to mention strangers.</p>
+<p>When the vizier had conducted Ganem to the foot
+of the throne, that young merchant paid his obeisance,
+prostrating himself with his face on the ground; and
+then rising, made his compliment in verse, which,
+though <i>extempore</i>, met with the approbation of the
+whole court.</p>
+<p>After his compliment, the caliph caused him to
+draw near, and said to him, I am glad to see you,
+and desire to hear from your own mouth where you
+found my favourite, and all that you did for her.
+Ganem obeyed, and appeared so sincere, that the
+caliph was convinced of the reality of what he said.
+That prince ordered a very rich vest to be given him,
+according to the custom observed with those who are
+admitted to audience. After which, he said to him,
+Ganem, I will have you live in my court. Commander
+of the true believers, answered the young
+merchant, a slave has no will but his master&rsquo;s, on
+whom his life and fortune depend. The caliph was
+highly pleased with Ganem&rsquo;s answer, and assigned
+him a considerable pension. Then that prince came
+down from his throne, and causing only Ganem and
+the grand vizier to follow him, went into his own
+apartment. Not questioning but Fetnah was there,
+with Abou Ayoub&rsquo;s widow and daughter, he caused
+them to be called in. They fell down before him:
+he made them rise, and was so taken with Alcolomb&rsquo;s
+<span class="pb" id="Page_211">[211]</span>
+beauty, that, after viewing her very attentively, he
+said, I am so sorry for having treated your charms
+so unworthily, that I owe them such a satisfaction
+as may surpass the injury I have done them: I take
+you to wife; and by that means shall punish Zobeide,
+who shall become the first cause of your good
+fortune, as she was of your past sufferings. This is
+not all, added he, turning towards Ganem&rsquo;s mother;
+you are still young; I believe you will not disdain to
+be allied to my grand vizier: I give you to Giafar.
+Let a cadi and witnesses be called, and the three contracts
+be drawn up and signed immediately. Ganem
+would have represented to the caliph, that it would be
+honour enough for his sister to be one of his favourites;
+but that prince was resolved to marry her.</p>
+<p>He thought this such an extraordinary story, that
+he ordered a famous historian to commit it to writing,
+with all its circumstances. It was afterwards laid up
+in his library; and many copies being transcribed
+from that original, it became public.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_212">[212]</div>
+<h2 id="c4"><br />THE STORY OF
+<br />PRINCE ZEYN ALASNAM, AND THE KING OF THE GENII.</h2>
+<p>A king of Balsora, who possessed great wealth
+and was well beloved by his subjects, had no children,
+which was a great affliction to him; and therefore
+he made presents to all the holy persons in his
+dominions to engage them to beg a son for him of
+Heaven: and their prayers being effectual, the queen
+proved with child, and was happily delivered of a
+prince who was named Zeyn Alasnam, which signifies
+Ornament of the Statues.</p>
+<p>The king caused all the astrologers in his kingdom
+to be assembled, and ordered them to calculate the
+infant&rsquo;s nativity. They found by their observations,
+that he would live long and be very brave; but that
+all his courage would be little enough to bear him
+through the misfortunes that would threaten him.
+The king was not daunted at the prediction. My
+son, said he, is not to be pitied, since he will be
+brave: it is fit that princes should have a taste of
+misfortunes; for adversity tries virtue, and they are
+the fitter to reign.</p>
+<p>He rewarded the astrologers, and dismissed them;
+and caused Zeyn to be educated with the greatest
+care imaginable; appointing him able masters as
+soon as he was of age to receive their instructions.
+In short, he proposed to make him an accomplished
+prince; when, on a sudden, that good king fell sick
+of a distemper which all the skill of his physicians
+could not cure. Perceiving his disease was mortal,
+he sent for his son, and among other things advised
+<span class="pb" id="Page_213">[213]</span>
+him rather to endeavour to be beloved than to be
+feared by his people; not to give ear to flatterers;
+to be as slow in rewarding as in punishing; because
+it often happens that monarchs, misled by false appearances,
+load wicked men with favours, and oppress
+the innocent.</p>
+<p>As soon as king Zeyn was dead, prince Zeyn went
+into mourning, which he wore seven days, and the
+eighth he ascended the throne, taking his father&rsquo;s
+seal off the royal treasure, and putting on his own.
+He began thus to taste the sweets of ruling, the
+pleasure of seeing all his courtiers bow down before
+him, and make it their whole business to show their
+zeal and obedience. In a word, the sovereign power
+was too agreeable to him. He only regarded what
+his subjects owed to him, without considering what
+his duty was towards them, and consequently took
+little care to govern them well. He wallowed in all
+sorts of debauchery among the voluptuous youth, on
+whom he conferred the prime employments in the
+kingdom; so that there was nothing regular. Being
+naturally prodigal, he set no bounds to his grants, so
+that his women and his favourites insensibly drained
+his treasure.</p>
+<p>The queen his mother was still living, a discreet
+wise princess. She had several times unsuccessfully
+tried to give some check to her son&rsquo;s prodigality and
+debauchery; giving him to understand, that if he did
+not soon take another course, he would not only
+squander his wealth, but would also alienate the
+minds of his people, and occasion some revolution,
+which perhaps might cost him his crown and his life.
+What she had foretold was very near falling out;
+the people began to mutter against the government,
+and their muttering had certainly been followed by a
+general revolt, had not the queen by her dexterity
+prevented it. But that princess, being informed of
+<span class="pb" id="Page_214">[214]</span>
+the ill posture of affairs, gave notice to the king, who
+at last suffered himself to be prevailed upon. He
+committed the government to discreet ancient men,
+who knew how to keep the people within the bounds
+of duty.</p>
+<p>Zeyn, seeing all his wealth consumed, repented
+that he had made no better use of it. He fell into
+a dismal melancholy, and nothing could comfort him.
+One night he saw in a dream, a venerable old man,
+who came towards him, and with a smiling countenance
+said, Know, Zeyn, that there is no sorrow
+but what is followed by mirth, no misfortune but
+what in the end brings some happiness. If you desire
+to see the end of your affliction, get up, set out for
+Egypt, go to Grand Cairo: a greater fortune attends
+you there.</p>
+<p>The prince, when he awaked in the morning, reflected
+on his dream, and talked of it very seriously
+to his mother, who only laughed at it. My son, said
+she to him, would you now go into Egypt upon belief
+of that fine dream? Why not, madam? answered
+Zeyn: do you imagine all dreams are chimerical?
+No, no, some of them are mysterious. My masters
+have told me a thousand stories, which will not permit
+me to doubt of it. Besides, though I were not
+otherwise convinced, I could not forbear giving some
+credit to it. The old man that appeared to me had
+something supernatural. He was not one of those
+men whom nothing but age makes venerable; there
+appeared a sort of divine air about his person. In
+short, he was such a one as our great prophet is
+represented; and if you will have me tell you what
+I think, I believe it was he, who, pitying my affliction,
+designs to ease it: I rely on the confidence he
+has inspired me with. I am full of his promises,
+and have resolved to follow his advice. The queen
+endeavoured to dissuade him; but it was in vain.
+<span class="pb" id="Page_215">[215]</span>
+The prince committed to her the government of the
+kingdom, set out one night very privately from his
+palace, and took the road to Cairo, without suffering
+any person to attend him.</p>
+<p>After much trouble and fatigue, he arrived at that
+famous city, like which there are few in the world
+either for extent or beauty. He alighted at the gate
+of a mosque, where, being spent with weariness, he
+lay down. No sooner was he fallen asleep, than he
+saw the same old man, who said to him, I am pleased
+with you, my son; you have given credit to my words.
+You are come hither, without being deterred by the
+length or the difficulties of the way: but take notice,
+that I have not put you upon undertaking such a long
+journey upon any other design than to make trial of
+you. I find you have courage and resolution. You
+deserve I should make you the greatest and richest
+prince in the world. Return to Balsora, and you
+shall find immense wealth in your palace. No king
+ever possessed so much as is there.</p>
+<p>The prince was not pleased with that dream.&mdash;Alas!
+thought he to himself, when he awaked, how
+much was I mistaken! That old man, whom I took
+for our prophet, is no other than the product of my
+disturbed imagination. My fancy was so full of him,
+that it is no wonder I have seen him again. I had
+best return to Balsora; what should I do here any
+longer? It is very happy that I told none but my
+mother the occasion of my journey: I should become
+a jest to my people if they knew it.</p>
+<p>Accordingly he set out again for his kingdom;
+and as soon as he arrived there, the queen asked
+him, whether he returned well pleased. He told her
+all that had happened; and he was so much concerned
+for having been so credulous, that the queen, instead
+of adding to his vexation by reproving or laughing
+at him, comforted him. Forbear afflicting yourself,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_216">[216]</span>
+my son, said she; if God has appointed you riches,
+you will have them without any trouble. Be easy:
+all that I recommend to you is, to be virtuous. Renounce
+the delight of dancing, music, and high-coloured
+wine: shun all pleasures; they have already
+almost ruined you: apply yourself to the making of
+your subjects happy; and, securing their happiness,
+you will fix your own.</p>
+<p>Prince Zeyn swore he would for the future follow
+his mother&rsquo;s advice, and be directed by the wise
+viziers she had made choice of to assist him in supporting
+the weight of the government. But the very
+first night after he returned to his palace, he the
+third time saw in a dream the old man, who said to
+him, Brave Zeyn, the time of your prosperity is
+come. To-morrow morning, as soon as you are up,
+take a little pick-axe, and go dig in your father&rsquo;s
+closet; you will there find a mighty treasure.</p>
+<p>As soon as the prince awaked, he got up, ran to
+the queen&rsquo;s apartment, and with much earnestness
+told her the new dream of that night. Really, my
+son, said his mother, that is a very positive man:
+he is not satisfied with having deceived you twice;
+have you a mind to believe him again? No, madam,
+answered Zeyn, I give no credit to what he has
+said; but I will, for my own satisfaction, search my
+father&rsquo;s closet. I really fancied so, cried the queen,
+laughing very heartily: go, my son, please yourself;
+my comfort is, that work is not so toilsome as the
+journey to Egypt.</p>
+<p>Well, madam, answered the king, I must own that
+this third dream has restored my belief, for it agrees
+with the two others; and, in short, let us examine
+the old man&rsquo;s words. He first directed me to go
+into Egypt; there he told me, he had put me upon
+taking that journey only to try me. Return to Balsora,
+said he; that is the place where you are to find
+<span class="pb" id="Page_217">[217]</span>
+treasures: this night he has exactly pointed out the
+place where they are. These three dreams, in my
+opinion, are connected. After all, they may be chimerical;
+but I would rather search in vain, than
+blame myself as long as I live for having perhaps
+missed of great riches, by being unseasonably too
+hard of belief.</p>
+<p>Having spoken these words, he left the queen&rsquo;s
+apartment, caused a pick-axe to be brought him, and
+went alone into the late king&rsquo;s closet. He fell to breaking
+up the ground, and took up above half the square
+stones it was paved with; and yet found not the
+least appearance of what he sought after. He ceased
+working to take a little rest, thinking within himself,
+I am much afraid my mother had cause enough to
+laugh at me. However, he took heart, and went on
+with his labour: nor had he cause to repent; for, on
+a sudden, he discovered a white stone, which he
+took up, and under it found a door made fast with a
+steel padlock, which he broke with the pick-axe,
+and opened the door, which covered a staircase of
+white marble. He immediately lighted a candle,
+and went down those stairs into a room, the floor
+whereof was laid with tiles of china-ware, and the
+roofs and walls were of crystal; but he particularly
+fixed his eyes on four places a little raised above the
+rest of the floor, on each of which there were ten
+urns of porphyry stone. He fancied they were full
+of wine: Well, said he, that wine must needs be
+very old; I do not question but it is excellent.
+He went up to one of the urns, took off the cover,
+and, with no less joy than surprise, perceived it
+was full of pieces of gold. He searched all the
+forty, one after another, and found them full of the
+same coin, took out a handful, and carried it to the
+queen.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_218">[218]</div>
+<p>That princess was as much amazed as can be imagined,
+when the king gave her an account of what he
+had seen. Oh! my son, said she, take heed that you
+do not lavish away all that treasure foolishly, as you
+have already done the royal treasure: let not your
+enemies have so much occasion to rejoice. No, madam,
+answered Zeyn, I will from henceforward live
+after such a manner as shall be pleasing to you.</p>
+<p>The queen desired the king her son to conduct her
+to that wonderful subterraneous place, which the late
+king her husband had made with such secrecy, that
+she had never heard the least account of it. Zeyn
+led her to the closet, down the marble stairs, and into
+the chamber where the urns were. She observed
+every thing with singular curiosity, and in a corner
+spied a little urn of the same sort of stone as the
+others. The prince had not before taken notice of it,
+but opening, found in it a golden key. My son, said
+the queen, the key certainly belongs to some other
+treasure; let us look all about; perhaps we may discover
+the use it is designed for.</p>
+<p>They viewed all the chamber with the utmost exactness,
+and at length found a key-hole in one of the
+pannels of the wall, and guessed it to be that the key
+belonged to. The king immediately tried, and as
+readily opened the door, which led into a chamber,
+in the midst of which were nine pedestals of massy
+gold, on eight of which stood as many statues, each
+of them made of one single diamond, and from them
+came such a brightness that the whole room was perfectly
+light.</p>
+<p>O Heavens! cried Zeyn, in a wonderful surprise,
+where could my father find such rarities? The ninth
+pedestal redoubled their amazement, for it was covered
+with a piece of white satin, on which were
+written these words: &lsquo;Dear son, it cost me much toil
+<span class="pb" id="Page_219">[219]</span>
+to get these statues: but though they are extraordinary
+beautiful, you must understand that there is a
+ninth in the world which surpasses them all: that
+alone is worth more than a thousand such as these.
+If you desire to be master of it, go to the city of
+Cairo in Egypt: one of my old slaves, whose name is
+Morabec, lives there; you will easily find him; the
+first person you shall meet will show you his house:
+go seek, and tell him all that has befallen you. He
+will know you to be my son, and he will conduct you
+to the place where that wonderful statue is, which
+you will get with safety.&rsquo;</p>
+<p>The prince, having read those words, said to the
+queen, I will not be without that ninth statue; it must
+certainly be a very rare piece, since all these here
+are not of so great value together. I will set out
+speedily for Grand Cairo; nor do I believe, madam,
+that you will oppose my design. No, my son, answered
+the queen, I am not against it: you are certainly
+under the special protection of our great prophet;
+he will not suffer you to perish in this journey.
+Set out when you think fit; your viziers and I will
+take care of the government during your absence.
+The prince made ready his equipage, but would take
+only a small number of slaves with him.</p>
+<p>Nothing remarkable befell him by the way; but
+arriving at Cairo, he inquired for Morabec. The
+people told him he was one of the wealthiest inhabitants
+of the city; that he lived like a great lord,
+and that he kept open house, especially for strangers.
+Zeyn was conducted thither, knocked at the gate,
+which a slave opened, and said, What is your want?
+and who are you? I am a stranger, answered the
+prince; and, having heard much of lord Morabec&rsquo;s
+generosity, am come to take up my lodging with him.
+The slave desired Zeyn to stay a while, and went to
+acquaint his master, who ordered him to desire the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_220">[220]</span>
+stranger to walk in. The slave returned to the gate,
+and told the prince he was welcome.</p>
+<p>Zeyn went in, crossed a large court, and entered
+into a hall magnificently furnished, where Morabec
+expected him, and received him very courteously, returning
+thanks for the honour he did him in accepting
+of a lodging in his house. The prince, having answered
+his compliments, said to Morabec, I am son
+to the late king of Balsora, and my name is Zeyn
+Alasnam. The king, said Morabec, was formerly my
+master; but, my lord, I never knew of any children
+he had. What age are you of? I am twenty years
+old, answered the prince. How long is it since you
+left my father&rsquo;s court? Almost two and twenty years,
+replied Morabec. But how can you convince me that
+you are his son? My father, replied Zeyn, had a subterraneous
+place under his closet, in which I have
+found forty porphyry urns full of gold. And what
+more is there? said Morabec. There are, answered
+the prince, nine pedestals of massy gold, on eight
+whereof are eight diamond statues, and on the ninth is
+a piece of white satin, on which my father has written
+what I am to do to get another statue, more valuable
+than all those together. You know where the statue
+is; for it mentioned on the satin that you will conduct
+me to it.</p>
+<p>As soon as he had spoken these words, Morabec
+fell down at his feet, and kissing one of his hands several
+times, said, I bless God for having brought you
+hither: I know you to be the king of Balsora&rsquo;s son.
+If you will go to the palace where the wonderful statue
+is, I will conduct you; but you must first rest
+here a few days. This day I treat the great men of
+the court: we were at table when word was brought
+me of your being at the door. Will you vouchsafe to
+come and be merry with us? I shall be very glad, replied
+Zeyn, to be admitted to your feast. Morabec
+<span class="pb" id="Page_221">[221]</span>
+immediately led him into a dome where the company
+was, seated him at table, and served him on his knee.
+The great men of Cairo were surprised, and whispered
+to one another, Who is this stranger to whom
+Morabec pays so much respect?</p>
+<p>When they had dined, Morabec, directing his discourse
+to the company, said, Great men of Cairo, do
+not think much to see me serve this young stranger
+after this manner: be it known to you, that he is the
+son of the king of Balsora, my master. His father
+purchased me with his money, and died without
+making me free; so that I am still a slave, and consequently
+all I have of right belongs to this young
+prince, his sole heir. Here Zeyn interrupted him,
+saying, Morabec, I declare before all these lords, that
+I make you free from this moment, and that I renounce
+all right to your person, and all you possess.
+Consider what you would have me do more for you.
+Morabec then kissed the ground, and returned the
+prince most hearty thanks. Wine was then brought
+in, which they drank all the day, and towards evening
+presents were distributed among the guests, who then
+went away.</p>
+<p>The next day, Zeyn said to Morabec, I have taken
+rest enough: I came not to Cairo to take my pleasure;
+my design is to get the ninth statue: it is time
+for us to set out in search of it. Sir, said Morabec,
+I am ready to comply with your desires; but you
+know not what dangers you must encounter to gain
+the precious conquest. Whatsoever the danger may
+be, answered the prince, I am resolved to undertake
+it; I will either perish or succeed. All that happens
+in this world is by God&rsquo;s direction: do you but bear
+me company, and let your resolution be equal to
+mine.</p>
+<p>Morabec finding him resolved to set out, called his
+<span class="pb" id="Page_222">[222]</span>
+servants, and ordered them to make ready his equipage.
+Then the prince and he performed the ablution,
+or washing, and the prayer enjoined, which is
+called Farz; and, that done, they set out. By the
+way they took notice of abundance of strange and
+wonderful things, and travelled many days; at the
+end whereof, being come to a delicious place, they
+alighted from their horses. Then Morabec said to
+all the servants that attended them, Do you stay in
+this place, and take care of our equipage till we return.
+Next, he said to Zeyn, Now, sir, let us two
+go on by ourselves: we are near the dreadful place
+where the ninth statue is kept. You will stand in
+need of all your courage.</p>
+<p>They soon came to a lake; and Morabec sat down
+on the brink of it, saying to the prince, We must
+cross this sea. How can we cross it, answered Zeyn,
+when we have no boat? You will see one appear in a
+moment, replied Morabec: the enchanted boat of the
+king of the genii will come for us. But do not forget
+what I am going to say to you: you must observe a
+profound silence; do not speak to the waterman,
+though his figure seem ever so strange to you: whatsoever
+you observe, say nothing: for I tell you beforehand,
+that if you utter the least word when you are
+embarked, the boat will sink down. I shall take care
+to hold my peace, said the prince: you need only
+tell me what I am to do, and I will strictly observe it.</p>
+<p>Whilst they were talking, he spied on a sudden a
+boat in the lake, and it was made of red sanders. It
+had a mast of fine amber, and a blue satin flag. There
+was only one waterman in it, whose head was like an
+elephant&rsquo;s, and his body like a tiger&rsquo;s. When the
+boat was come up to the prince and Morabec, the
+monstrous waterman took them up one after another
+with his trunk, and put them into the boat, and then
+<span class="pb" id="Page_223">[223]</span>
+carried them over the lake in a moment. He then
+again took them up with his trunk, set them ashore,
+and immediately vanished with his boat.</p>
+<p>Now we may talk, said Morabec: the island we
+are on belongs to the king of the genii; there are no
+more such throughout the world. Look all about you,
+prince; can there be a more delightful place? It is
+certainly a lively representation of the charming
+place God has appointed for the faithful observers of
+our law. Behold the fields, adorned with all sorts
+of flowers and odoriferous plants: admire those fine
+trees, whose delicious fruit makes the branches hang
+down to the ground: enjoy the delight of those harmonious
+songs formed in the air by a thousand birds,
+of as many various sorts, unknown in other countries.
+Zeyn could never sufficiently admire the beauty of
+those things that were about him, and still found
+something new as he advanced farther into the
+island.</p>
+<p>At length they came before a palace all of fine
+emeralds, encompassed with a ditch, on the banks
+whereof, at certain distances, were planted such tall
+trees that they shaded the whole palace. Before the
+gate, which was of massy gold, was a bridge made of
+one single shell of a fish, though it was at least six
+fathoms long and three in breadth. At the head of
+the bridge stood a company of genii, of a prodigious
+height, who guarded the entrance into the castle with
+great clubs of china steel.</p>
+<p>Let us go no farther, said Morabec; these genii
+will beat our brains out; and if we would prevent
+their coming to us, we must perform a magical ceremony.
+He then drew out of a purse he had under
+his garment four long stripes of yellow taffety; one he
+put about his middle, and laid the other on his back,
+giving the other two to the prince, who did the like.
+Then Morabec laid on the ground two large table-cloths,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_224">[224]</span>
+on the edges whereof he scattered some precious
+stones, musk, and amber. Then he sat down
+on one of those cloths, and Zeyn on the other; and
+Morabec said to the prince, I will now, sir, conjure
+the king of the genii, who lives in the palace that is
+before us, that he may come peaceably to us. I confess
+I am somewhat uneasy about the reception he is
+like to give us. If our coming into this island is displeasing
+to him, he will appear in the shape of a dreadful
+monster; but if he approves of our design, he will
+come in the shape of a handsome man. As soon as
+he appears before us, you must rise and salute him,
+without going off your cloth; for you would certainly
+perish, should you stir off it. You may say to him,
+Sovereign lord of the genii, my father, who was your
+servant, has been taken away by the angel of death;
+I wish your majesty may protect me, as you always
+protected my father. If the king of the genii ask you
+what favour you desire of him, you must answer,
+Sir, I most humbly beg of you to give me the ninth
+statue.</p>
+<p>Morabec having thus instructed prince Zeyn, began
+his conjuration. Immediately their eyes were
+dazzled with a long flash of lightning, which was followed
+by a clap of thunder. The whole island was
+covered with a hideous darkness, a furious storm of
+wind blew, a dreadful cry was heard, the island felt
+a shock, and there was such an earthquake as that
+which Asrasyel is to cause on the day of judgment.</p>
+<p>Zeyn was somewhat startled, and began to look
+upon that noise as a very ill omen, when Morabec,
+who knew better than he what to think of it, began
+to smile, and said, Be not dismayed, my prince, all
+goes well. In short, that very moment the king of
+the genii appeared in the shape of a very handsome
+man; yet there was something of sternness in his air.</p>
+<p>As soon as prince Zeyn had made him the compliment
+<span class="pb" id="Page_225">[225]</span>
+he had been taught by Morabec, the king of the
+genii, smiling, answered, My son, I loved your father;
+and every time he came to pay me his respects, I presented
+him with a statue, which he carried away
+with him. I have no less kindness for you. I obliged
+your father, some days before he died, to write that
+which you read on the piece of white satin. I promised
+him to receive you under my protection, and to give
+you the ninth statue, which in beauty surpasses those
+you have already. I have begun to perform my promise
+to him. It was I whom you saw in a dream in
+the shape of an old man: I caused you to open the
+subterraneous place where the urns and the statues
+are: I have a great share in all that has befallen
+you, or rather am the occasion of it. I know the
+motive that brought you hither; and you shall obtain
+what you desire. Though I had not promised your
+father to give it, I would willingly grant it you; but
+you must first swear to me by all that is sacred, that
+you will return to this island, and that you will bring
+a maid that is in her fifteenth year, and who has never
+known man, nor desired to know any. She must also
+be perfectly beautiful, and you so much master of
+yourself, as not even to desire to enjoy her, as you
+are conducting her hither.</p>
+<p>Zeyn took the rash oath that was required of him.
+But, sir, said he, then suppose I should be so fortunate
+as to meet with such a maid as you require, how
+shall I know that I have found her? I own, answered
+the king of the genii smiling, that you might be mistaken
+in her mien: that knowledge is above the sons
+of Adam, and therefore I do not intend to depend
+upon your judgment in that particular; I will give
+you a looking-glass, which will be surer than your
+conjectures. When you shall have seen a maid fifteen
+years of age, perfectly beautiful, you shall only
+need to look into the glass, in which you shall see the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_226">[226]</span>
+maiden&rsquo;s representation. If she be chaste, the glass
+will remain clear and unsullied; but if, on the contrary,
+it sullies, that will be a certain sign that she
+has not been always undefiled, or at least that she
+has desired to cease being so. Do not forget the
+oath you have taken; be sure to keep it, as becomes
+a man of honour, otherwise I will take away your
+life, as much kindness as I have for you. Prince
+Zeyn Alasnam protested over again that he would
+faithfully keep his word.</p>
+<p>Then the king of the genii delivered to him a looking-glass,
+saying, My son, you may return when you
+please: there is the glass you are to make use of.
+Zeyn and Morabec took leave of the king of the genii,
+and went towards the lake. The waterman with the
+elephant&rsquo;s head brought his boat, and carried them
+over the lake as he had done before. They joined
+their servants, and returned with them again to Cairo.</p>
+<p>Prince Alasnam rested a few days at Morabec&rsquo;s
+house, and then said to him, Let us go to Bagdad, to
+seek a maiden for the king of the genii. Why, are we
+not at Grand Cairo? said Morabec: shall we not there
+find beautiful maidens enough? You are in the right,
+answered the prince; but how shall we do to find
+where they are? Do not trouble yourself about that,
+sir, answered Morabec; I know a very cunning old
+woman, whom I will intrust with that affair, and she
+will acquit herself well of it.</p>
+<p>Accordingly the old woman found means to show
+the prince a considerable number of beautiful maidens
+of fifteen years of age; but when he had viewed them,
+and came to consult his looking-glass, the fatal touchstone
+of their virtue, the glass always appeared sullied.
+All the maidens in the court and city, that were
+in their fifteenth year, underwent the trial one after
+another, and the glass never remained bright and
+clear.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_227">[227]</div>
+<p>When they saw there were no chaste maids to be
+found in Cairo, they went away to Bagdad, where
+they hired a magnificent palace in one of the chief
+corners of the city, and began to live splendidly.
+They kept open house; and, after all people had
+eaten in the palace, the fragments were carried to
+the dervises, who, by that means, had convenient
+subsistence.</p>
+<p>There lived in that quarter an iman, whose name
+was Boubekir Mouesm, a vain, haughty, and envious
+person: he hated the rich, only because he was poor,
+his misery incensing him against his neighbour&rsquo;s prosperity.
+He heard talk of Zeyn Alasnam, and of the
+plenty his house afforded. This was enough for him
+to take an aversion to that prince; and it proceeded
+so far, that one day, after the evening prayer, in the
+mosque, he said to the people, Brethren, I have been
+told a stranger is come to live in our ward, who is at
+a prodigious expense every day. How can we tell
+but that this unknown person is some villain, who
+has committed a great robbery in his own country,
+and comes hither to make much of himself? Let us
+take heed, brethren; if the caliph should happen to
+be informed that such a man is in our ward, it is to be
+feared that he will punish us for not acquainting him
+with it: I declare, for my part, I wash my hands of
+it; and if any thing should happen amiss, it shall not
+lie at my door. The multitude, who were easily led
+away, unanimously cried to Boubekir, It is your business,
+doctor; do you acquaint the council with it. The
+iman went home well pleased, and drew up a memorial,
+resolving to present it to the caliph the next day.</p>
+<p>But Morabec, who had been at prayers, and heard
+all that was said by the doctor as well as the rest of
+the company, put five hundred pieces of gold into a
+handkerchief, made up with a parcel of several silks,
+and went away to Boubekir&rsquo;s house. The doctor
+<span class="pb" id="Page_228">[228]</span>
+asked him in a harsh tone what he wanted. Doctor,
+answered Morabec, with an obliging air, and at the
+same time putting into his hand the gold and the
+silk, I am your neighbour and your servant; I come
+from prince Zeyn, who lives in this ward. He has
+heard of your worth, and has ordered me to come and
+tell you, that he desires to be acquainted with you;
+and, in the mean time, desires you to accept of this
+small present. Boubekir was transported with joy,
+and answered Morabec thus: Be pleased, sir, to beg
+the prince&rsquo;s pardon for me: I am ashamed I have not
+yet been to see him, but I will atone for my fault, and
+wait on him to-morrow.</p>
+<p>Accordingly the next day, after morning prayer, he
+said to the people, You must understand, brethren,
+that no man is without some enemies. Envy pursues
+those chiefly who are very rich. The stranger I spoke
+to you about yesterday in the evening is no ill man,
+as some ill-designing persons would have persuaded
+me: he is a young prince, endued with all manner of
+virtues. It behoves us to take care how we go about
+to give any ill account of him to the caliph.</p>
+<p>Boubekir, having thus wiped off the ill impression
+he had the day before given the people concerning
+Zeyn, returned home, put on his best apparel, and
+went to visit that young prince, who gave him a courteous
+reception. After several compliments had passed
+on both sides, Boubekir said to the prince, Sir, do
+you design to stay long at Bagdad? I shall stay, answered
+Zeyn, till I can find a maid fifteen years of
+age, perfectly beautiful, and so chaste, that she has
+not only never known a man, but even never desired
+to know one. You seek after a rarity, replied the
+iman; and I should be apt to fear your search would
+prove unsuccessful, did I not know where there is a
+maid of that character. Her father was formerly vizier;
+but he has left the court, and lived a long time
+<span class="pb" id="Page_229">[229]</span>
+in a house out of the way, where he applies himself
+only to the education of his daughter. If you please,
+I will go ask her of him for you: I do not question
+but he will be overjoyed to have a son-in-law of your
+quality. Not so fast, said the prince; I shall not
+marry that maid before I know whether I like her.
+As for her beauty, I can depend on you: but what
+assurance can you give me in relation to her virtue?
+What assurance do you require? said Boubekir. I
+must see her face, answered Zeyn; that is enough for
+me to come to a resolution. You are skilful, then, in
+physiognomy? replied the iman, smiling. Well, come
+along with me to her father&rsquo;s: I will desire him to
+let you see her one moment in his presence.</p>
+<p>Mouesm conducted the prince to the vizier&rsquo;s, who,
+as soon as he was acquainted with the prince&rsquo;s birth
+and design, called his daughter, and made her take
+off her veil. Never had the young king of Balsora
+beheld such a perfect and powerful beauty. He stood
+amazed; and, since he could then try whether the
+maid was as chaste as fair, he pulled out his glass,
+which remained bright and unsullied.</p>
+<p>When he perceived he had at length found such a
+person as he desired, he entreated the vizier to grant
+her to him. Immediately the lady was sent for, and
+came; the contract was signed, and the marriage-prayer
+said. After which ceremony, Zeyn carried
+the vizier to his house, where he treated him magnificently,
+and gave him considerable presents.
+Next, he sent a prodigious quantity of jewels to the
+bride by Morabec, who brought her to his house,
+where the wedding was kept with all the pomp that
+became Zeyn&rsquo;s quality. When all the company was
+dismissed, Morabec said to his master, Let us be
+gone, sir; let us not stay any longer at Bagdad, but
+return to Cairo: remember the promise you made
+the king of the genii. Let us go, answered the prince;
+<span class="pb" id="Page_230">[230]</span>
+I must take care to perform it exactly: yet I must
+confess, my dear Morabec, that, if I obey the king of
+the genii, it is not without reluctancy. The person I
+have married is charming, and I am tempted to carry
+her to Balsora, and place her on the throne. Alas!
+sir, answered Morabec, take heed how you give way
+to your inclination. Make yourself master of your
+passions; and, whatsoever it costs you, be as good as
+your word to the king of the genii. Well then, Morabec,
+said the prince, do you take care to conceal
+that lovely maid from me: let her never appear in
+my sight. Perhaps I have already seen too much of
+her.</p>
+<p>Morabec having made all ready for their departure,
+they returned to Cairo, and thence set out for the
+island of the king of the genii. When they were there,
+the maid, who had performed the journey in a horse-litter,
+and whom the prince had never seen since his
+wedding-day, said to Morabec, Where are we? shall
+we be soon in the dominions of the prince my husband?
+Madam, answered Morabec, it is time to undeceive
+you. Prince Zeyn married you, only in order
+to get you from your father; he did not engage
+his faith to you to make you sovereign of Balsora,
+but to deliver you to the king of the genii, who has
+asked of him a virgin of your character. Hearing
+these words, she wept bitterly, which moved the
+prince and Morabec. Take pity on me, said she; I
+am a stranger: you will be accountable to God for
+your treachery towards me.</p>
+<p>Her tears and complaints were of no effect, for she
+was presented to the king of the genii, who, having
+gazed on her very earnestly, said to Zeyn, Prince, I
+am satisfied with your behaviour; the virgin you have
+brought me is beautiful and chaste, and I am pleased
+with the force you have put upon yourself to be as
+good as your word to me. Return to your dominions,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_231">[231]</span>
+and when you shall enter the subterraneous room
+where the eight statues are, you shall find the ninth
+which I promised you. I will go and make my genii
+carry it thither. Zeyn thanked the king, and returned
+to Cairo with Morabec, but did not stay long there;
+his impatience to see the ninth statue made him hasten
+his journey. However, he could not but often
+think of the young virgin he married; and, blaming
+himself for having deceived her, he looked upon himself
+as the cause and instrument of her misfortune.
+Alas! said he to himself, I have taken her from a
+tender father to sacrifice her to a genie. O incomparable
+beauty! you deserve a better fate.</p>
+<p>Prince Zeyn, disturbed with these thoughts, at
+length reached Balsora, where his subjects made
+extraordinary rejoicings for his return. He went
+directly to give his mother an account of his journey,
+who was in a rapture to hear he had obtained the
+ninth statue. Let us go, my son, said she, let us go
+and see it; for it is certainly in the chamber under
+ground, since the king of the genii told you you should
+find it there. The young king and his mother, being
+both impatient to see that wonderful statue, went down
+into the subterraneous place, and into the room of
+the statues: but how great was their surprise, when,
+instead of a statue of diamonds, they spied on the
+ninth pedestal a most beautiful virgin, whom the prince
+knew to be the same he had conducted into the island
+of the genii! Prince, said the young maid, you are
+amazed to see me here: you expected to have found
+something more precious than I; and I question not
+but that you now repent having taken so much trouble:
+you expected a better reward. Madam, answered
+Zeyn, Heaven is my witness, that I more than
+once thought to have broke my word with the king of
+the genii, to keep you to myself. Whatsoever the
+value of a diamond statue may be, is it worth the satisfaction
+<span class="pb" id="Page_232">[232]</span>
+of enjoying you? I love you above all the
+diamonds and wealth in the world.</p>
+<p>Just as he had done speaking these words, a clap
+of thunder was heard, which made that subterraneous
+place shake. Zeyn&rsquo;s mother was frightened; but the
+king of the genii, immediately appearing, dispelled
+her dread. Madam, said he to her, I protect and love
+your son: I had a mind to try whether, at his age, he
+could subdue his passions. I know the charms of this
+young lady have wrought on him, and that he did not
+punctually keep the promise he had made me, not to
+desire to enjoy her; but I am too well acquainted with
+the frailty of the human race. This is the ninth statue
+I designed for him; it is more rare and precious
+than the others. Live, said he, (directing his discourse
+to the young prince,) live happy, Zeyn, with
+this young lady, who is your wife; and, if you would
+have her true and constant to you, love her always,
+and love her alone. Give her no rival, and I will answer
+for her fidelity. Having spoken these words, the
+king of the genii vanished; and Zeyn, ravished with
+that young lady, consummated the marriage the same
+day, and caused her to be proclaimed queen of Balsora.
+Those two ever faithful and loving consorts lived together
+many years.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_233">[233]</div>
+<h2 id="c5"><br />THE STORY OF
+<br />CODADAD AND HIS BROTHERS.</h2>
+<p>Those who have written the history of the kingdom
+of Diarbekir inform us, that there formerly
+reigned a most magnificent king in the city of Harran,
+who loved his subjects, and was equally beloved
+by them. He was endued with all virtues, and wanted
+nothing to complete his happiness but an heir.
+Though he had the finest women in the world in his
+seraglio, yet he was destitute of children. He continually
+prayed to Heaven for them; and one night,
+in his sleep, a comely person, or rather a prophet,
+appeared to him, and said, Your prayers are heard;
+you have obtained what you desired: rise as soon as
+you awake, go to your prayers, and make two genuflections:
+then walk into the garden of your palace,
+call your gardener, and bid him bring you a pomegranate;
+eat as many of the seeds as you think fit,
+and your wishes shall be accomplished.</p>
+<p>The king, calling to mind his dream when he awaked,
+returned thanks to Heaven, got up, and fell to his
+prayers, made two genuflections, and then went down
+into his garden, where he took fifty pomegranate-seeds,
+which he counted, and ate them. He had
+fifty wives who shared in his bed; they all proved
+with child; but there was one called Pirouze, who
+did not appear to be big-bellied. He took an aversion
+to that lady, and would have her put to death.
+Her barrenness, said he, is a certain token that Heaven
+does not judge Pirouze worthy to bear a prince;
+it is my duty to deliver the world from an object that
+is odious to the Lord. He had taken this cruel resolution,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_234">[234]</span>
+but his vizier diverted him from putting it in
+execution; representing to him, that all women were
+not of the same constitution, and that it was not impossible
+but that Pirouze might be with child, though
+it did not appear. Well, answered the king, let her
+live; but let her depart my court, for I cannot endure
+her. Your majesty, replied the vizier, may send
+her to prince Samer, your cousin. The king approved
+of his advice: he sent Pirouze to Samaria with a letter,
+in which he ordered his cousin to treat her well;
+and, in case she proved with child, to give him notice
+of her being brought to bed.</p>
+<p>No sooner was Pirouze arrived in that country,
+than it appeared that she was with child; and at length
+she was delivered of a most beautiful prince. The
+prince of Samaria wrote immediately to the king of
+Harran, to acquaint him with the birth of that son,
+and to congratulate him on that occasion. The king
+was much rejoiced at it, and answered prince Samer
+as follows: &lsquo;Cousin, all my other wives have also
+been delivered of each a prince; so that we have a
+great number of children here. I desire you to breed
+up that of Pirouze, to give him the name of Codadad,
+and to send him to me when I shall give you notice.&rsquo;</p>
+<p>The prince of Samaria spared nothing that might
+improve the education of his nephew. He taught him
+to ride, shoot with a bow, and all the other things
+becoming the son of a king; so that Codadad, at
+eighteen years of age, was looked upon as a prodigy.
+This young prince, being inspired with a courage
+worthy his birth, said one day to his mother, Madam,
+I begin to grow weary of Samaria: I find myself inclined
+to gain renown; give me leave to go seek it
+amidst the perils of war. My father, the king of
+Harran, has many enemies. Some neighbouring
+princes make it their business to disturb him. Why
+does he not call me to his assistance? Why does he
+<span class="pb" id="Page_235">[235]</span>
+leave me here so long, like an infant? Must I spend
+my life here in sloth, when all my brothers have the
+good fortune to be fighting by his side? My son, answered
+Pirouze, I am no less impatient to have your
+name become famous; I could wish you had already
+signalized yourself against your father&rsquo;s enemies;
+but we must wait till he requires it. No, madam,
+replied Codadad, I have already waited but too long.
+I long to see the king, and am tempted to go to offer
+him my service as a young gentleman unknown. No
+doubt but he will accept of it, and I will not discover
+myself till I have performed a thousand glorious
+actions: I design to merit his esteem before he
+knows who I am. Pirouze approved of his generous
+resolution; and Codadad one day departed from Samaria,
+as if he had been going a-hunting, without acquainting
+prince Samer, for fear he should thwart his
+design.</p>
+<p>He was mounted on a white horse, who had a gold
+bit and shoes; his housing was of blue satin, embroidered
+with pearls; the hilt of his scimitar was of
+one entire diamond; and the scabbard of sandal-wood,
+all adorned with emeralds and rubies; and on his
+shoulder hung his bow and quiver. In this equipage,
+which added much to his good mien, he arrived at the
+city of Harran, and soon found means to offer his service
+to the king; who, being charmed with his beauty
+and lovely presence, and perhaps inspired by natural
+sympathy, gave him a favourable reception, and asked
+his name and quality. Sir, answered Codadad, I am
+son to an emir of Grand Cairo: an inclination to travel
+has made me quit my country; and, understanding,
+in my passage through your dominions, that you
+were engaged in war with some of your neighbours,
+I am come to your court to offer your majesty my service.
+The king showed him extraordinary kindness,
+and employed him in his troops.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_236">[236]</div>
+<p>That young prince soon signalized his bravery. He
+gained the esteem of the officers, and was admired by
+the soldiers; and, having no less wit than courage,
+he so far advanced himself in the king&rsquo;s affection as
+to become his favourite. All the ministers and other
+courtiers daily resorted to Codadad, and were so
+eager to purchase his friendship that they neglected
+the king&rsquo;s other sons. Those princes could not but
+resent it; and, imputing it to the stranger, they all
+conceived an implacable hatred against him; but the
+king&rsquo;s affection daily increasing, he was never weary
+of giving him fresh testimonies of it. He always desired
+he should be near him: he admired his discourse,
+ever full of wit and discretion; and, to show
+how much he was satisfied with his wisdom, he gave
+him the tuition of the other princes, though he was of
+the same age as they. Thus Codadad was made governor
+of his brothers; which only served to heighten
+their hatred. Is it come to this, said they, that the
+king, not satisfied with loving a stranger more than
+us, will have him to be our tutor, and not allow us to
+do any thing without his leave? This is not to be endured:
+we must rid ourselves of this stranger. Let
+us go together, said one of them, and dispatch him.
+No, no, answered another; we had better be cautious
+how we sacrifice ourselves: his death would render
+us odious to the king, who, in return would declare us
+all unfit to reign. Let us destroy the stranger artfully.
+We will ask leave to go a-hunting; and, when far
+from the palace, we will proceed to some other city,
+and stay there some time. The king will wonder at
+our absence; and, perceiving we do not return, he
+may perhaps put the stranger to death, or at least
+will turn him out of the court, for suffering us to leave
+the palace.</p>
+<p>All the princes applauded this artifice, went together
+to Codadad, and desired him to give them leave
+<span class="pb" id="Page_237">[237]</span>
+to go and take the diversion of hunting, promising to
+return the same day. Pirouze&rsquo;s son was taken in the
+snare, and granted the leave his brothers desired.
+They went, but returned not. They had been three
+days absent, when the king asked Codadad where the
+princes were, for it was long since he had seen them.
+Sir, answered Codadad, they have been gone a-hunting
+these three days; but they promised me they
+would return sooner. The king grew uneasy, and
+much more when he perceived the princes did not
+return the next day. This provoked his passion:
+Indiscreet stranger, said he to Codadad, why did you
+let my sons go without bearing them company? Is it
+thus you discharge the trust I have reposed in you?
+Go seek them immediately, or you are a dead man.</p>
+<p>These words pierced Pirouze&rsquo;s unfortunate son to
+the heart. He armed himself, went out of the city,
+and, like a shepherd who had lost his flock, searched
+all the country for his brothers, inquiring at every
+village whether they had been seen; and, hearing no
+news of them, was grieved to the heart. Alas! my
+brothers, said he, what is become of you? Are you
+perhaps fallen into the hands of our enemies? Am I
+come to the court of Harran to be the occasion of
+giving the king so much trouble? He was altogether
+comfortless for having given the princes leave to go
+a-hunting, or for not having borne them company.</p>
+<p>After some days spent in a fruitless search, he
+arrived in a plain of prodigious extent, in the midst
+whereof was a palace all of black marble. He drew
+near, and at one of the windows spied a most beautiful
+lady, but set off with no other ornament than her own
+beauty; for her hair was dishevelled, her garments
+ragged, and on her countenance appeared all the
+tokens of the greatest affliction. As soon as she saw
+Codadad, and judged he might hear her, she directed
+her discourse to him, saying, Alas! young man, get
+<span class="pb" id="Page_238">[238]</span>
+away from this fatal place, or else you will soon fall
+into the hands of the monster that inhabits it. A
+black who feeds only on human blood, resides in this
+palace. He seizes all persons whom their ill fate
+conducts to this plain, and shuts them up in his
+dark dungeons, whence they are never released but
+to be devoured by him.</p>
+<p>Madam, answered Codadad, tell me who you are,
+and be not concerned for any more. I am a maid of
+quality, of Grand Cairo, replied the lady: I was passing
+by this castle yesterday, in my way to Bagdad,
+and met with the black, who killed all my servants,
+and brought me hither. I wish I had nothing but
+death to fear; but, to add to my calamity, this monster
+would persuade me to love him; and, in case I
+do not yield to-morrow to his brutality, I must expect
+the utmost violence. I tell you once more, added she,
+make your escape: the black will soon return: he is
+gone out to pursue some travellers he spied at a distance
+on the plain. Lose no time; nay, I know not
+whether a speedy flight will deliver you from him.</p>
+<p>She had scarce done speaking these words before
+the black appeared. He was a man of a monstrous
+bulk, and of a dreadful aspect, mounted on a mighty
+Tartar horse, and wore such a large and heavy scimitar,
+that none but he could make use of it. The
+prince, seeing him, was amazed at his monstrous mien,
+directed his prayers to Heaven to assist him, then
+drew his scimitar, and stood still to expect the black;
+who, despising so inconsiderable an enemy, called to
+him to yield himself with engaging words; but Codadad,
+by his behaviour, gave him to understand that
+he was resolved to defend his life; for he drew near,
+and gave him a great cut on the knee. The black,
+feeling himself wounded, gave such a dreadful shriek
+as made all the plain resound. He grew enraged,
+foamed at the mouth, and raising himself on his
+<span class="pb" id="Page_239">[239]</span>
+stirrups, made at Codadad with his dreadful scimitar.
+The stroke was so violent, that no more would have
+been required to put an end to the prince, had not he,
+by a sudden spring he made his horse take, avoided
+it. The scimitar made a mighty hissing in the air;
+but, before the black could have leisure to second
+the blow, Codadad let fall one on his right arm with
+such fury, that he cut it off. The dreadful scimitar
+fell, with the hand that held it; and the black, yielding
+under the violence of the stroke, lost his stirrups,
+and made the earth quake with his mighty fall. The
+prince alighted at the same time, and chopped off his
+enemy&rsquo;s head. Just then the lady, who had been a
+spectator of the combat, and was still offering up her
+vows to Heaven for that young hero whom she admired,
+gave a shriek for joy, and said to Codadad,
+Prince, (for the mighty victory you have obtained convinces
+me that you are of no ordinary extraction,) finish
+the work you have begun: the black has the keys of
+this castle: take them, and deliver me out of prison.
+The prince searched the wretch&rsquo;s pockets, as he lay
+stretched out on the ground, and found several keys.</p>
+<p>He opened the first door, and went into a court,
+where he met the lady coming to meet him. She would
+have cast herself at his feet, in token of her gratitude;
+but he would not permit her. She commended his
+valour, and extolled him above all the heroes in the
+world. He returned her compliments; and she appearing
+still more lovely to him near at hand than at
+a distance, I know not whether she was more joyful
+to be delivered from the desperate danger she had
+been in, than he for having done so considerable a
+service to so beautiful a person.</p>
+<p>Their discourse was interrupted by dismal cries
+and groans. What is this I hear? said Codadad:
+whence come those miserable cries which pierce our
+ears? Sir, said the lady to him, pointing to a little
+<span class="pb" id="Page_240">[240]</span>
+door there was in the court, they come from thence.
+There are I know not how many wretched persons,
+whom fate has made to fall into the hands of the
+black. They are all chained; and that monster drew
+out one every day to be devoured.</p>
+<p>It is an addition to my joy, answered the young
+prince, to understand that my victory will save the
+lives of those unfortunate persons. Come along with
+me, madam, to partake in the satisfaction of giving
+them their liberty. You may guess by yourself how
+welcome we shall be to them. Having so said, they
+advanced towards the door of the dungeon; and the
+nearer they drew, the more distinctly they heard the
+complaints of the prisoners. Codadad pitying them,
+and impatient to put an end to their sufferings, put
+one of the keys into the key-hole, which proved not
+to be the right one at first, and therefore he took
+another; at which noise all those unfortunate creatures,
+concluding it was the black, who came, according
+to custom, to bring them some meat, and at the
+same time to seize one of them to eat himself, redoubled
+their cries and groans. Lamentable voices
+were heard, which sounded as if they had come from
+the centre of the earth.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, the prince had opened the door,
+and went down a very steep stair-case into a large
+and deep vault, which received some small light from
+a little window, and in which there were above a hundred
+persons bound to stakes, and their hands tied.
+Unfortunate travellers, said he to them, wretched victims,
+who only expected the moment of an approaching
+cruel death, give thanks to Heaven, which has
+this day delivered you by my means. I have slain
+the black by whom you were to be devoured, and am
+come to knock off your irons. The prisoners hearing
+these words, all together gave a shout, occasioned by
+joy and surprise. Codadad and the lady began to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_241">[241]</span>
+unbind them; and, as soon as any of them were loose,
+they helped to take off the fetters from the rest; so
+that in a short time they were all at liberty.</p>
+<p>They then kneeled down, and, having returned
+thanks to Codadad for what he had done for them,
+went out of the dungeon; and when they were come
+into the court, how surprising it was for the prince to
+see among the prisoners those he was in search of,
+and almost out of hopes to find! Princes, cried he,
+am I not deceived? is it not you I behold? May I
+flatter myself that it will be in my power to restore
+you to the king your father, who is inconsolable for
+the loss of you? But will he not have some one to
+lament? Are you all here alive? Alas! the death of
+one of you will suffice to damp all the joy I conceive
+for having delivered you.</p>
+<p>The forty-nine princes all made themselves known
+to Codadad, who embraced them one after another,
+and told them how uneasy their father was on account
+of their absence. They gave their deliverer all the
+commendations he deserved, as did the other prisoners,
+who could not find words expressive enough
+to declare the gratitude they were sensible of. Next,
+Codadad, with them, took a view of the whole castle,
+where there was immense wealth; curious silks, gold
+brocades, Persian carpets, China satins, and an infinite
+quantity of other goods, which the black had
+taken from the caravans he had plundered, a considerable
+part whereof belonged to the prisoners Codadad
+had then set free. Every man knew and reclaimed
+what belonged to him. The prince restored them
+their own, and divided the rest of the merchandise
+among them. Then he said to them, How will you do
+to carry away your goods? we are here in a desert
+place, and there is no likelihood of getting your horses.
+Sir, answered one of the prisoners, the black robbed
+us of our camels as well as our goods, and perhaps
+<span class="pb" id="Page_242">[242]</span>
+they may be in the stables of this castle. That is not
+unlikely, replied Codadad; let us see after it. Accordingly
+they went to the stables, where they not
+only found the camels, but also the horses belonging
+to the king of Harran&rsquo;s sons. There were some black
+slaves in the stables; who, seeing all the prisoners
+released, and guessing thereby that their master had
+been killed, fled through by-ways well known to
+them. Nobody minded to pursue them. All the merchants,
+overjoyed that they had recovered their goods
+and camels, together with their liberty, thought of
+nothing but prosecuting their journey; but first repeated
+their thanks to their deliverer.</p>
+<p>When they were gone, Codadad, directing his discourse
+to the lady, said, To what place, madam, do
+you desire to go? whither did you design when you
+were seized by the black? I intend to bear you company
+to the place you shall appoint, and I do not
+question but that all these princes will do the same.
+The king of Harran&rsquo;s sons protested to the lady
+they would not leave her till she was restored to her
+friends.</p>
+<p>Princes, said she, I am of a country too remote
+from hence: and, besides that it would be an imposition
+on your generosity to oblige you to travel so
+far, I must own to you that I am come from my
+native country for ever. I told you a while ago that
+I was a lady of Grand Cairo; but since you have
+shown me so much favour, and I am so highly
+obliged to you, added she, looking upon Codadad,
+I should be much in the wrong in concealing the
+truth from you. I am a king&rsquo;s daughter; an usurper
+has possessed himself of my father&rsquo;s throne after
+having murdered him, and I have been forced to fly
+to save my life.</p>
+<p>Then Codadad and his brothers desired the princess
+to tell them her story, assuring her they were
+<span class="pb" id="Page_243">[243]</span>
+highly concerned at her misfortunes, and fully disposed
+to spare for nothing that might contribute towards
+rendering her more happy. After thanks returned
+for their fresh protestations of readiness to
+serve her, she could not refuse satisfying their curiosity,
+and began the recital of her adventures in the
+following manner.</p>
+<h2 id="c6"><br />STORY OF THE PRINCESS OF DERYABAR.</h2>
+<p>There is, in a certain island, a great city called
+Deryabar. It has been long governed by a potent,
+magnificent, and virtuous king. That prince had no
+children, which was the only thing wanting to make
+him happy. He continually addressed his prayers
+to Heaven; but Heaven granted his requests by
+halves; for the queen his wife, after a long expectation,
+brought forth a daughter.</p>
+<p>I am the unfortunate princess. My father was
+rather troubled than pleased at my birth; but he
+submitted to the will of God, and caused me to be
+educated with all possible care, being resolved, since
+he had no son, to teach me the art of ruling, that I
+might supply his place after his death.</p>
+<p>One day, when he was taking the diversion of
+hunting, he spied a wild ass, which he chased, lost
+his company, and was carried away so far in that
+heat, as to ride on till night, without reflecting that
+he was quite out of the way. He then alighted, and
+sat down at the edge of a wood, into which he had
+observed the ass had taken. No sooner was the day
+shut in, than he discovered a light among the trees,
+which made him conclude that he was not far from
+some village: he rejoiced at it, hoping that he might
+pass the night there, and find some person to send to
+his followers to acquaint them where he was; and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_244">[244]</span>
+accordingly he got up and walked towards the light,
+which served to guide him.</p>
+<p>He soon found he had been deceived, that light
+being no other than a fire lighted in a hut: however,
+he drew near, and with amazement beheld a great
+black, or rather a dreadful giant, sitting on a sofa.
+Before the monster was a great pitcher of wine, and
+he was roasting a bullock he had newly killed.
+Sometimes he drank out of the pitcher, and then cut
+slices off the bullock and ate them. But that which
+most drew the king my father&rsquo;s attention was a beautiful
+woman he saw in the hut. She seemed to be
+overwhelmed with grief; her hands were bound, and
+at her feet was a small child, about two or three
+years old, who, as if he was sensible of his mother&rsquo;s
+misfortunes, continually wept, and rent the air with
+cries.</p>
+<p>My father being moved with that object of pity,
+thought at first to have gone into the hut and attack
+the giant; but considering it would be an unequal
+combat, he stopped, and resolved, since he had not
+strength enough to prevail by open force, to use
+art.</p>
+<p>In the mean time the giant, having emptied the
+pitcher and devoured above half the bullock, turned
+to the woman, and said, Beautiful princess, why do
+you oblige me by your obstinacy to treat you with
+severity? It is in your own power to be happy. You
+need only to resolve to love and be true to me, and
+I shall express my affection to you. Thou hideous
+satyr, answered the lady, never expect that time
+should wear away the aversion I have for you.
+Thou wilt ever be a monster in my eyes. To these
+words she added so many reproaches, that the giant
+grew enraged. This is too much, cried he, in a furious
+tone; my love undervalued is turned into rage.
+Your hatred has at last caused mine; I find it prevails
+<span class="pb" id="Page_245">[245]</span>
+above my desires, and that I now wish your
+death rather than enjoyment. Having spoken these
+words, he took that wretched lady by the hair, held
+her up with one hand in the air, and drawing his
+scimitar with the other, was just going to strike off
+her head, when the king my father let fly an arrow,
+which pierced the giant&rsquo;s breast, so that he staggered
+and dropped down dead.</p>
+<p>My father entered the hut, unbound the lady&rsquo;s
+hands, asked her who she was, and how she came
+thither. Sir, said she, there are some families of
+Saracens along the sea-coast, who live under a
+prince who is my husband; this giant you have killed
+was one of his principal officers. The wretch fell
+desperately in love with me, but took special care to
+conceal it, till he could put in execution the designs
+he had laid of stealing me away. Fortune oftener
+favours wicked designs than the virtuous. The giant
+one day surprised me and my child in a by-place.
+He seized us both; and, to disappoint the search he
+well knew my husband would cause to be made on
+account of this rape, he removed far from the country
+inhabited by those Saracens, and brought us into
+this wood, where he has kept me some days. As
+deplorable as my condition is, it is still a great satisfaction
+to me to think that the giant, though so
+brutal and amorous, never used force to obtain that
+which I always refused to his entreaties: not but
+that he has threatened me a hundred times that he
+would have recourse to the worst of extremities, in
+case he could not otherwise prevail upon me; and, I
+must confess to you, that a while ago, when I provoked
+his anger by my words, I was less concerned
+for my life than for my honour.</p>
+<p>This, sir, said the prince of the Saracens&rsquo; wife, is
+the faithful account of my misfortunes, and I do not
+<span class="pb" id="Page_246">[246]</span>
+question but that you will think me worthy enough
+of your compassion, not to repent your having so generously
+relieved me. Madam, answered my father,
+be assured your troubles have moved me, and I will
+do all that shall be in my power to make you happy
+again. To-morrow, as soon as the day appears, we
+will go out of this wood, and endeavour to fall into
+the road which leads to the great city of Deryabar,
+of which I am sovereign; and, if you think fit, you
+shall be entertained in my palace, till the prince your
+husband shall come to reclaim you.</p>
+<p>The Saracen lady accepted the offer, and the next
+day followed the king my father, who found all his
+retinue upon the skirts of the wood, they having
+spent the night in searching after, and being very
+uneasy for that they could not find him. They were
+no less joyful to meet their king, than amazed to see
+him with a lady whose beauty surprised them. He
+told them how he had found her, and the danger he
+had run in drawing near to the hut, where he must
+certainly have lost his life had the giant espied him.
+One of his servants took up the lady behind him,
+and another carried the child.</p>
+<p>Thus they arrived at the king my father&rsquo;s palace,
+who assigned the beautiful Saracen lady an apartment,
+and caused the child to be carefully educated.
+The lady was sensible of the king&rsquo;s goodness to her,
+and expressed as much gratitude as he could desire.
+She had at first appeared very uneasy and impatient,
+on account that her husband did not reclaim her;
+but by degrees she shook off that uneasiness: the
+respect my father paid her dispelled her impatience;
+and I am of opinion she would at last have blamed
+fortune more for restoring her to her kindred than
+she did for removing her from them.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, the lady&rsquo;s son grew up; he was
+<span class="pb" id="Page_247">[247]</span>
+very handsome; and not wanting wit, found the way
+to please the king my father, who had a great kindness
+for him. All the courtiers perceived it, and
+guessed that young man might in the end be my
+husband. Upon this conceit, and looking on him
+already as heir to the crown, they made their court
+to him, and every man endeavoured to gain his favour.
+He soon saw into their designs, grew conceited
+of himself, and, forgetting the distance there
+was between our conditions, flattered himself with
+the hopes that my father was fond enough of him to
+prefer him before all the princes in the world. Nay,
+he went farther; for the king not answering his expectation,
+in offering me to him as soon as he could
+have wished, he had the boldness to ask me of him.
+Whatsoever punishment his insolence deserved, my
+father was satisfied with telling him that he had
+other thoughts in relation to me, and showed him
+no farther dislike. The youth was incensed at this
+refusal; the vain fellow resented the contempt, as if
+he had asked some maid of indifferent extraction, or
+as if his birth had been equal to mine. Nor was he
+so satisfied; but resolved to be revenged on the king;
+and, with unparalleled ingratitude, conspired against
+him. In short, he murdered him, and caused himself
+to be proclaimed king of Deryabar, by a great
+number of malcontents whom he supported. The
+first thing he did, after ridding himself of my father,
+was to come into my apartment with a great train of
+the conspirators. His design was, either to take my
+life or oblige me to marry him. While he was busy
+murdering my father, the grand vizier, who had been
+always loyal to his master, came to carry me away
+from the palace, and secured me in a friend&rsquo;s house,
+till a vessel he had provided was ready to sail. I
+then left the island, attended only by a governess and
+that generous minister, who chose rather to follow
+<span class="pb" id="Page_248">[248]</span>
+his master&rsquo;s daughter, and to partake of her misfortunes,
+than to submit to a tyrant.</p>
+<p>The grand vizier designed to carry me to the
+courts of the neighbouring kings, to implore their
+assistance, and excite them to revenge my father&rsquo;s
+death; but Heaven did not give me a blessing to that
+resolution we thought so just. When we had been
+but a few days at sea, there arose such a furious
+storm, that, in spite of all the mariners&rsquo; art, our vessel,
+carried away by the violence of the winds and
+waves, was dashed in pieces against a rock. I will
+not spend time in describing our shipwreck. I can
+but faintly represent to you how my governess, the
+grand vizier, and all that attended me, were swallowed
+up by the sea. The dread I was seized with
+did not permit me to observe the horror of our condition.
+In fine, I lost my senses; and whether I
+was thrown upon the coast upon any part of the
+wreck of our ship, or whether Heaven, which reserved
+me for other misfortunes, wrought a miracle
+in my deliverance, I found myself on shore when my
+senses returned to me.</p>
+<p>Misfortunes very often make us forget our duty:
+instead of returning thanks to God for so singular a
+mercy shown me, I only lifted up my eyes to heaven,
+to complain because I had been saved. I was so far
+from bewailing the vizier and my governess, that I
+envied their fate; and, my dreadful imaginations by
+degrees prevailing above my reason, I resolved to
+cast myself into the sea. I was upon the point of
+doing so, when I heard behind me a great noise of
+men and horses. I looked about to see what it might
+be, and spied several armed horsemen, among whom
+was one mounted on an Arabian horse. He had on
+a garment embroidered with silver, a girdle set with
+precious stones, and a crown of gold on his head.
+Though his habit had not convinced me that he was
+<span class="pb" id="Page_249">[249]</span>
+the chief of the company, I should have judged it by
+the air of grandeur which appeared in his person.
+He was a young man extraordinarily finely shaped, and
+perfectly beautiful. Being surprised to see a young
+lady alone in that place, he sent some of his officers
+to ask who I was. All my answer was weeping. The
+shore being covered with the wreck of our ship, they
+concluded some vessel had been cast away there, and
+that I was certainly some person that had saved my
+life. This conjecture, and my inconsolable condition,
+excited the curiosity of those officers, who began to
+ask me a thousand questions, with assurances that
+their king was a generous prince, and that I should
+receive all comfort in his court.</p>
+<p>The king, impatient to know who I was, grew
+weary of expecting the return of his officers, and
+drew near to me. He gazed on me very earnestly,
+and, observing that I did not give over weeping and
+afflicting myself, without being able to return an answer
+to their questions, he forbade them troubling me
+any more; and, directing his discourse to me, said,
+Madam, I conjure you to moderate your excessive
+affliction. Though Heaven in its wrath has laid this
+calamity upon you, yet it does not behove you to
+despair. I beseech you, show more courage: fortune,
+which has hitherto persecuted you, is inconstant,
+and may soon change. I dare assure you, that, if
+your misfortunes are capable of receiving any comfort,
+you shall find it in my dominions. My palace
+is at your service: you shall live with the queen my
+mother, who will endeavour by her kindness to ease
+your affliction. I know not as yet who you are; but
+I find I am already concerned for you.</p>
+<p>I thanked the young king for his great goodness towards
+me, accepted of the obliging offers he made me;
+and, to convince him that I was not unworthy of him,
+told him my condition. I described to him the insolence
+<span class="pb" id="Page_250">[250]</span>
+of the young Saracen, and found it needless to
+do any more than barely to recount my misfortunes,
+to excite compassion in him, and all his officers who
+heard me. When I had done speaking, the prince
+began again, assuring me that he was highly concerned
+at my misfortune. Then he conducted me to his
+palace, and presented me to the queen his mother, to
+whom I was obliged again to repeat my misfortunes,
+and to renew my tears. The queen seemed very sensible
+of my troubles, and took an extraordinary liking
+to me. On the other hand the king her son fell desperately
+in love with me, and soon offered me his
+person and his crown. I was still so entirely taken
+up with the thoughts of my calamities, that the prince,
+though so lovely a person, did not make so great an
+impression on me as he might have done at another
+time. However, gratitude prevailing on me, I did not
+refuse to make him happy; and our wedding was kept
+with all imaginable grandeur.</p>
+<p>At the time when all the people were taken up with
+the celebration of their sovereign&rsquo;s nuptials, a neighbouring
+prince, who was his enemy, made a descent
+by night on the island with a great number of troops.
+That formidable enemy was the king Zanguebar: he
+surprised those people, and cut to pieces all the king
+my husband&rsquo;s subjects. We two escaped very narrowly,
+for he had already entered the palace with some
+of his followers; but we found means to slip away,
+and got to the sea-coast, where we entered a fishing-boat
+we had the good fortune to meet with. Two
+days we were driven about by the winds, without
+knowing what would become of us. The third day,
+we spied a vessel making towards us with all her sails
+aboard. We rejoiced at first, believing it had been
+a merchant-ship which might take us aboard; but
+were more astonished than I can express, when, as it
+drew near, we saw ten or twelve armed pirates appear
+<span class="pb" id="Page_251">[251]</span>
+on the deck. Being come up to us, five or six of
+them leaped into our boat, seized us, bound the prince,
+and conveyed us into their ship, where they immediately
+took off my veil. Instead of casting lots, every
+one of them claimed the preference, and me as his
+right. The controversy grew hot, and they came to
+blows about me, and fought like so many madmen.
+The deck was soon covered with dead bodies; and,
+in short, they were all killed but one, who, being left
+sole possessor of me, said, You are mine; I will carry
+you to Grand Cairo, to deliver you to a friend of mine,
+to whom I have promised a beautiful slave. But who,
+added he, looking upon the king my husband, is that
+man? What relation is he to you? Are you allied by
+blood or love? Sir, answered I, he is my husband.
+If so, replied the pirate, in pity I must rid myself of
+him; it would be too great an affliction to him to see
+you in my friend&rsquo;s arms. Having spoken these words,
+he took up the unhappy prince, who was bound, and
+threw him into the sea, notwithstanding all my endeavours
+to hinder him.</p>
+<p>I shrieked in a dreadful manner at the sight of that
+cruel action, and had certainly cast myself headlong
+into the sea, had not the pirate held me. He plainly
+saw that was my design, and therefore bound me fast
+to the main-mast, and then hoisting sail, made towards
+the land, and there got ashore. He unbound
+and led me to a little town, where he bought camels,
+tents, and slaves, and then set out for Grand Cairo;
+designing, as he still said, to present me to his friend,
+according to his promise.</p>
+<p>We had been several days upon the road, when, as
+we were crossing this plain yesterday, we spied the
+black who inhabited this castle. At a distance, we
+took him for a tower; and, when near us, could scarce
+believe him to be a man. He drew his vast scimitar,
+and summoned the pirate to yield himself up a prisoner,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_252">[252]</span>
+with all his slaves, and the lady he was conducting.
+The pirate was daring; and, being seconded
+by all his slaves, who promised to stand by him,
+he attacked the black. The fight lasted a considerable
+time; but at length the pirate fell under the
+enemy&rsquo;s deadly blows, as did all his slaves, who chose
+rather to die than forsake him. The black then conducted
+me to the castle, whither he also brought the
+pirate&rsquo;s body, which he did eat that night for his supper.
+After that inhuman meal, perceiving that I
+ceased not weeping, he said to me, Young lady, prepare
+to satisfy my desires, rather than continue thus
+to afflict yourself. Make a virtue of necessity, and
+comply: I give you till to-morrow to consider. Let
+me then find you comforted for all your misfortunes,
+and overjoyed for having been reserved for my bed.
+Having spoken these words, he conducted me to a
+chamber, and went to bed in his own, after locking up
+all the castle-doors. He opened them this morning,
+and presently locked them again, to pursue some travellers
+he perceived at a distance; but it is likely
+they made their escape, since he was coming alone,
+and without any booty, when you attacked him.</p>
+<p>As soon as the princess had put an end to the recital
+of her adventures, Codadad declared to her that
+he was highly concerned at her misfortunes. But,
+madam, added he, it shall be your own fault if you do
+not live at ease for the future: the king of Harran&rsquo;s
+sons offer you a safe retreat in the court of the king
+their father; be pleased to accept of it. You will be
+there cherished by that prince, and respected by all
+other persons; and, if you do not disdain the person
+of your deliverer, permit me to make you a present of
+it, and to marry you before all these princes: let them
+be witnesses to our contract. The princess consented
+to it, and the marriage was concluded that very day
+in the castle, where they found all sorts of provisions.
+<span class="pb" id="Page_253">[253]</span>
+The kitchens were full of flesh and other eatables,
+which the black used to feed on when he was weary of
+feeding on human bodies. There was also a variety of
+fruits, very excellent in their kinds, and, to complete
+their satisfaction, abundance of delicious wine and
+other liquors.</p>
+<p>They all sat down to table; and, after having eaten
+and drunk plentifully, they took along with them the
+rest of the provisions, and set out for the king of Harran&rsquo;s
+court. They travelled several days, encamping
+in the pleasantest places they could find; and they
+were within one day&rsquo;s journey of Harran, when, having
+halted, and drunk all their wine, as being under
+no longer concern to make it hold out, Codadad directed
+his discourse to all his company thus: Princes,
+I have too long concealed from you who I am. Behold
+your brother Codadad! I have received my being,
+as well as you, of the king of Harran. The prince
+of Samaria has bred me, and the princess Pirouze is
+my mother. Madam, added he, applying himself to
+the princess of Deryabar, do you also forgive me, for
+having concealed my birth from you. Perhaps, by
+discovering it sooner, I might have prevented some
+disagreeable reflections which may have been occasioned
+by a match you may have thought unequal. No,
+sir, answered the princess; the opinion I at first conceived
+of you heightened every moment, and you did
+not stand in need of the extraction you now discover,
+to make me happy.</p>
+<p>The princes congratulated Codadad on his birth,
+and expressed much satisfaction at the knowledge of
+it: but, in reality, instead of rejoicing, their hatred
+for so amiable a brother was redoubled. They met
+together at night in a by-place, whilst Codadad and
+the princess his wife lay fast asleep in their tent.
+Those ungrateful, envious brothers, forgetting that,
+had it not been for the brave son of Pirouze, they must
+<span class="pb" id="Page_254">[254]</span>
+have been devoured by the black, agreed among themselves
+to murder him. We have no other course to
+choose, said one of those wicked brethren; for the
+moment our father shall come to understand that this
+stranger he is already so fond of is our brother, and
+that he alone has been able to destroy a giant whom
+we could not all of us together conquer, he will bestow
+all his favour and a thousand praises on him,
+and declare him his heir, in spite of all his brothers,
+who will be obliged to obey and fall down before him.
+Besides these, he added many other words, which
+made such an impression on their jealous minds, that
+they immediately repaired to Codadad, then fast
+asleep, stabbed him in a thousand places, and leaving
+him for dead in the arms of the princess of Deryabar,
+proceeded on their journey for the city of Harran,
+where they arrived the next day.</p>
+<p>The king their father conceived the greater joy at
+their return, because he had despaired of ever seeing
+them. He asked what had been the occasion of their
+stay; but they took care not to acquaint him with it,
+making no mention either of the black or of Codadad;
+and only said, that, being curious to see the country,
+they had spent some time in the neighbouring cities.</p>
+<p>In the mean time Codadad lay in his tent, drowned
+in his own blood, and little differing from a dead man,
+with the princess his wife, who seemed to be in no
+much better condition than he. She rent the air with
+her dismal shrieks, tore her hair, and, bathing her
+husband&rsquo;s body with her tears, Alas! Codadad, my
+dear Codadad, cried she, is it you whom I behold just
+departing this life? What cruel hands have put you
+into this condition? May I believe these are your brothers
+who have treated you so unmercifully? No, they
+are rather devils, who have taken those shapes to
+murder you. O barbarous wretches! whosoever you
+are, how could you make so ungrateful a return for
+<span class="pb" id="Page_255">[255]</span>
+the service he has done you? But why should I complain
+of your brothers, unfortunate Codadad! I alone
+am to blame for your death. You would tack your
+fate upon mine; and all the ill fortune that attends
+me since I left my father&rsquo;s palace has fallen upon you.
+O Heaven! which has condemned me to lead a wandering
+life and full of calamities, if you will not permit
+me to have a consort, why do you permit me to
+find any? Behold, you have now robbed me of two,
+just as I began to be endeared to them.</p>
+<p>By these, and other moving expressions, the unhappy
+princess of Deryabar vented her sorrow, fixing
+her eyes on the deplorable Codadad, who could not
+hear her. But Codadad was not dead; and his consort,
+observing that he still breathed, ran to a large
+open town she spied in the plain, to inquire for a
+surgeon. She was showed one, who went immediately
+with her: but when they came to the tent, they
+could not find Codadad, which made them conclude
+he had been dragged away by some wild beast to devour
+him. The princess renewed her complaints and
+lamentations in a most dismal manner. The surgeon
+took compassion; and, being unwilling to leave her in
+that miserable condition, proposed to her to return
+to the town, offering her his house and service.</p>
+<p>She suffered herself to be prevailed on. The surgeon
+conducted her to his house, and, without knowing
+as yet who she was, treated her with all imaginable
+courtesy and respect. He used all his rhetoric
+to comfort her; but it was in vain to think of removing
+her sorrow, which was rather heightened than
+diminished. Madam, said he to her one day, be
+pleased to recount to me your misfortunes; tell your
+country and your condition: perhaps I may give you
+some advice, when I am acquainted with all the circumstances
+of your calamity. You do nothing but
+<span class="pb" id="Page_256">[256]</span>
+afflict yourself, without considering that remedies may
+be found for the most desperate diseases.</p>
+<p>The surgeon&rsquo;s words were so efficacious, that they
+wrought on the princess, who recounted to him all her
+adventures; and when she had done, the surgeon directed
+his discourse to her, saying, Madam, since this
+is the posture of affairs, give me leave to tell you, that
+you ought not thus to give way to your sorrow; you
+ought rather to arm yourself with resolution, and to
+perform what the name and the duty of a wife require
+of you. You are obliged to revenge your husband:
+if you please I will wait on you as your squire: let
+us go to the king of Harran&rsquo;s court; he is a good and
+just prince: you need only represent to him, in a
+lively manner, how prince Codadad has been treated
+by his brothers: I am fully persuaded he will do you
+justice. I submit to your reasons, answered the princess:
+it is my duty to endeavour to revenge Codadad;
+and since you are so obliging and generous as to offer
+to bear me company, I am ready to set out. No
+sooner had she fixed this resolution, than the surgeon
+ordered two camels to be made ready, on which the
+princess and he mounted, and repaired to Harran.</p>
+<p>They alighted at the first caravansary they found;
+and inquiring of the host what news at court, It is,
+said he, in very great confusion. The king had a son,
+who lived a long time with him as a stranger, and none
+can tell what is become of that young prince. One of
+the king&rsquo;s wives, called Pirouze, is his mother; she
+has made all possible inquiry, but to no purpose. All
+men are concerned at the loss of that prince, because
+he was very deserving. The king has forty-nine other
+sons, all of them born of several mothers; but not
+one of them has worth enough to comfort the king
+for the death of Codadad: I say his death, because
+it is impossible he should be alive, since no news have
+<span class="pb" id="Page_257">[257]</span>
+been heard of him, notwithstanding so much search
+has been made after him.</p>
+<p>The surgeon, having heard this account from the
+host, concluded that the best course the princess of
+Deryabar could take, was to wait upon Pirouze: but
+that method was not without some danger, and required
+much precaution; for it was to be feared, that
+if the king of Harran&rsquo;s sons should happen to hear of
+the arrival of their sister-in-law, and her design, they
+might cause her to be conveyed away before she could
+speak to Codadad&rsquo;s mother. The surgeon weighed all
+these particulars, and considered what risk he might
+run himself; and therefore, that he might manage the
+affair with discretion, he desired the princess to stay
+in the caravansary, whilst he went to the palace to
+observe which might be the safest way to conduct her
+to Pirouze.</p>
+<p>He went accordingly into the city, and was walking
+towards the palace, like one led only by curiosity to
+see the court, when he spied a lady mounted on a
+mule richly accoutred. She was followed by several
+ladies mounted on mules, with a great number of
+guards and black slaves. All the people made a lane
+to see her pass along, and saluted her, prostrating
+themselves on the ground. The surgeon paid her the
+same respect, and then asked a calendar, who happened
+to stand by him, whether that lady was one of
+the king&rsquo;s wives. Yes, brother, answered the calendar,
+she is one of the king&rsquo;s wives, and the most
+honoured and beloved by the people, because she is
+mother to prince Codadad, of whom I suppose you
+have heard.</p>
+<p>The surgeon asked no more questions, but followed
+Pirouze to a mosque, into which she went to distribute
+alms, and assist at the public prayers the king
+had ordered to be made for the safe return of Codadad.
+The people, who were highly concerned for that young
+<span class="pb" id="Page_258">[258]</span>
+prince, ran in crowds to join their vows to the prayers
+of the priests, so that the mosque was quite full. The
+surgeon broke through the throng, and advanced as
+far as Pirouze&rsquo;s guards. He staid out the prayers;
+and when that princess went out, he stepped up to
+one of her slaves, and whispered him in his ear, saying,
+Brother, I have a secret of moment to impart to
+the princess Pirouze; may not I, by your means, be
+brought into her apartment? If that secret, answered
+the slave, be relating to prince Codadad, I dare promise
+you shall have audience of her this very day;
+but if it concerns not him, it is needless for you to
+endeavour to be introduced to her; for her thoughts
+are all upon her son, and she will not hear talk of any
+other subject. It is only about that dear son, replied
+the surgeon, that I would discourse to her. If so,
+said the slave, you need only follow us to the palace,
+and you shall soon speak to her.</p>
+<p>Accordingly, as soon as Pirouze was returned to her
+apartment, that slave acquainted her that a person
+unknown had some important affair to communicate
+to her, and that it related to prince Codadad. No
+sooner had he uttered these words, than Pirouze expressed
+her impatience to see that stranger. The
+slave immediately conducted him into the princess&rsquo;s
+closet, who ordered all her women to withdraw, except
+two, from whom she concealed nothing. As soon
+as she saw the surgeon, she asked him abruptly what
+news he had to tell her of Codadad. Madam, answered
+the surgeon, after having prostrated himself on the
+ground, I have a long account to give you, and such
+as will be very surprising. Then he told her all the
+particulars of what had passed between Codadad and
+his brothers, which she listened to with an eager
+attention; but when he came to speak of the murder,
+that tender mother swooned away on her sofa, as if
+she had been herself stabbed like her son. Her two
+<span class="pb" id="Page_259">[259]</span>
+women used proper means, and soon brought her to
+herself. The surgeon continued his relation; and
+when he had ended it, Pirouze said to him, Go back
+to the princess of Deryabar, and assure her from me
+that the king shall soon own her for his daughter-in-law;
+and as for yourself, be assured that your service
+shall be well rewarded.</p>
+<p>When the surgeon was gone, Pirouze remained on
+the sofa in such a state of affliction as is not easy to
+imagine; and, relenting at the thoughts of Codadad,
+O! my son, said she, I must never then expect to
+see you more! Alas! when I gave you leave to depart
+from Samaria, and you took leave of me, I did not
+imagine that so unfortunate a death had awaited you
+at such a distance from me. Unfortunate Codadad!
+why did you leave me? It is true, you would not
+have acquired so much renown; but you had been
+still alive, and had not cost your mother so many tears.
+Whilst she uttered these words, she wept bitterly,
+and her two confidants, moved by her sorrow, mixed
+their tears with hers.</p>
+<p>Whilst they were all three in that affliction, the
+king came into the closet, and seeing them in that
+condition, asked Pirouze whether she had received
+any bad news concerning Codadad. Alas! sir, said
+she, all is over; my son has lost his life; and, to add
+to my sorrow, I cannot pay him the funeral rites; for,
+in all appearance, the wild beasts have devoured him.
+Then she told him all that she had heard from the
+surgeon, and did not fail to express herself fully at the
+inhuman manner in which Codadad had been murdered
+by his brothers.</p>
+<p>The king did not give Pirouze time to finish her relation;
+but, being transported with anger, and giving
+way to his passion, Madam, said he to the princess,
+those perfidious wretches who cause you to shed these
+tears, and are the occasion of the mortal grief which
+<span class="pb" id="Page_260">[260]</span>
+oppresses their father, shall soon feel the punishment
+due to their guilt. The king having spoken these
+words, with indignation appearing in his countenance,
+went directly to the presence-chamber, where all his
+courtiers attended, and such of the people as had any
+petitions to present to him. They were all astonished
+to see him in that passion, and thought his anger had
+been kindled against his people.</p>
+<p>Their hearts failed them for fear. He ascended
+the throne, and causing the grand vizier to draw near,
+said, Hassan, I have some orders for you: go immediately,
+take a thousand of my guards, and seize all
+the princes my sons; shut them up in the tower appointed
+for a prison for murderers; and let this be
+done in a moment. All that were present quaked at
+the hearing of this surprising command; and the grand
+vizier, without answering one word, laid his hand on
+his head, to express his obedience, and went out of the
+presence to execute his orders, which were very surprising
+to him. In the mean time, the king dismissed
+those who attended to desire audience, and declared
+he would not despatch any business for a month to
+come. He was still in the presence-chamber, when
+the vizier returned. Are all my sons, said that prince,
+in the tower? They are, sir, answered the vizier; I
+have obeyed your orders. This is not all, replied the
+king, I have farther commands for you; and so saying,
+he went out of the presence-chamber, and returned
+to Pirouze&rsquo;s apartment, with the vizier following
+him. He asked that princess where Codadad&rsquo;s
+widow had taken up her lodging. Pirouze&rsquo;s women
+told him; for the surgeon had not forgot that in his
+relation. Then the king, turning to his minister, Go,
+said he, to that caravansary, and bring a young princess,
+who lodges there; but treat her with all the respect
+due to her quality.</p>
+<p>The vizier was not backward in performing what
+<span class="pb" id="Page_261">[261]</span>
+he was ordered. He mounted on horseback, with all
+the emirs and courtiers, and repaired to the caravansary
+where the princess of Deryabar was, whom he
+acquainted with his orders, and presented her, from
+the king, a fine white mule, whose saddle and bridle
+were adorned with gold, rubies, and diamonds. She
+mounted it, and went to the palace, attended by all
+those great men. The surgeon bore her company,
+mounted on a sprightly Tartar horse which the vizier
+had provided for him. All the people were at their
+windows, or in the streets, to see that noble cavalcade;
+and it being given out that the princess, whom
+they conducted in such state to court, was Codadad&rsquo;s
+wife, the city resounded with acclamations, the air
+rang with shouts of joy, which would certainly have
+been turned into lamentations, had that prince&rsquo;s fatal
+adventure been known; so much was he beloved by
+all men.</p>
+<p>The princess of Deryabar found the king at the
+palace gate, waiting to receive her. He took her by
+the hand, and led her to Pirouze&rsquo;s apartment, where
+a very moving scene was acted among them. Codadad&rsquo;s
+wife found her affliction redouble upon her at
+the sight of her husband&rsquo;s father and mother; as, on
+the other side, those parents could not look on their
+son&rsquo;s wife without being much concerned. She cast
+herself at the king&rsquo;s feet, and having bathed them with
+tears, was so overcome with grief, that she was not
+able to speak one word. Pirouze was in no better
+condition; she seemed to be stunned with her sorrows;
+and the king, moved by those dismal objects, gave
+way to his passion: those three persons, mixing their
+tears and sighs, for some time observed a silence,
+which appeared extraordinary moving and pitiful. At
+length the princess of Deryabar, being somewhat recovered,
+recounted the adventure of the castle and
+Codadad&rsquo;s disaster. Then she required justice for
+<span class="pb" id="Page_262">[262]</span>
+the treachery of the princes. Yes, madam, said the
+king to her, those ungrateful wretches shall perish,
+but Codadad&rsquo;s death must first be made public, that
+the punishment of his brothers may not cause my subjects
+to rebel; and, though we have not my son&rsquo;s
+body, we will not omit paying him the last duties.
+This said, he directed his discourse to the vizier, and
+ordered him to build a dome of white marble in a delightful
+plain, in the midst of which the city of Harran
+stands; then he appointed the princess of Deryabar a
+fine apartment in his palace, acknowledging her for
+his daughter-in-law.</p>
+<p>Hassan caused the work to be carried on with such
+diligence, and employed so many workmen, that the
+dome was soon finished. Within it was erected a
+monument, and on it was placed a figure representing
+Codadad. As soon as all was perfected, the king
+ordered prayers to be said, and appointed a day for the
+obsequies of his son.</p>
+<p>On that day, all the inhabitants of the city went
+out upon the plain to see that ceremony performed;
+which was after this manner. The king, attended by
+his vizier and the prime persons of the court, proceeded
+towards the dome; and being come to it, went
+in, and sat down with them on carpets laid on the
+ground, made of black satin, with gold flowers. A
+great body of horse guards, hanging their heads, and
+looking down, drew up close about the dome, and
+marched round it twice, observing a profound silence;
+but at the third round, they halted before the door,
+and all of them with a loud voice pronounced these
+words: &lsquo;O prince, son to the king, could we by dint
+of sword and human valour any way retrieve your
+misfortune, we would bring you back to life; but the
+King of kings has commanded, and the angel of death
+has obeyed.&rsquo; Having uttered these words, they drew
+off, to make way for a hundred old men, all of them
+<span class="pb" id="Page_263">[263]</span>
+mounted on black mules, and wearing long gray
+beards.</p>
+<p>These were anchorites, who lived all their days
+concealed in caves. They never appeared in the sight
+of the world, but when they were to assist at the obsequies
+of the kings of Harran, and of the princes of
+their family. Each of these venerable persons carried
+a book on his head, which he held with one hand.
+They took three turns round the dome without uttering
+one word; then stopping before the door, one of
+them said, &lsquo;O prince, what can we do for you? If
+you could be restored to life by prayers or learning,
+we would rub our gray beards at thy feet, and recite
+prayers; but the King of the universe has taken you
+away for ever.&rsquo;</p>
+<p>This said, the old men removed at a distance from
+the dome, and immediately fifty young beautiful maids
+drew near to it: each of them was mounted on a little
+white horse: they wore no veils, and carried gold
+baskets full of all sorts of precious stones. Thus
+they did also ride thrice round the dome; and, halting
+at the same place as the others had done, the
+youngest of them spoke in the name of all as follows:
+&lsquo;O prince, once so beautiful, what relief can you expect
+from us? If we could restore you to life by our
+charms, we would become your slaves. But you are
+no longer sensible to beauty, and have no more occasion
+for us.&rsquo;</p>
+<p>When the young maids were withdrawn, the king
+and his courtiers arose, and, having walked thrice
+round the figure representing Codadad, the king spoke
+as follows: &lsquo;O my dear son, light of my eyes, I have
+then lost thee for ever.&rsquo; These words were attended
+with sighs, and he watered the tomb with his tears,
+his courtiers weeping with him. Then the gate of the
+dome was shut, and all the people returned to the city.
+The next day, there were public prayers in all the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_264">[264]</span>
+mosques; and the same was continued for eight days
+successively. On the ninth, the king resolved to cause
+the princes his sons to be beheaded. All the people,
+being incensed at their cruelty towards Codadad, impatiently
+expected to see them executed. The scaffolds
+were erecting; but the execution was respited, on account
+that, on a sudden, news was brought, that the
+neighbouring princes, who had before made war on the
+king of Harran, were advancing with more numerous
+forces than the first time, and were not then far from
+the city. It had been long known that they were preparing
+for war, but no great notice had been taken of
+it. This advice occasioned a general consternation,
+and gave new cause to lament the loss of Codadad,
+by reason that prince had signalized himself in the
+former war against those enemies. Alas! said they,
+were the brave Codadad alive, we should little value
+those princes who are coming to surprise us. The
+king, nothing dismayed, raised men with all possible
+speed, formed a considerable army, and, being too
+brave to expect the enemy to come and attack him
+within his walls, marched out to meet them. They,
+on their side, being informed by their advanced parties
+that the king of Harran was marching to engage them,
+halted in the plain, and formed their army.</p>
+<p>As soon as the king discovered them, he also drew
+up his forces, and ranged them in order of battle. The
+signal was given, and he attacked them with extraordinary
+vigour. Nor was the opposition inferior: much
+blood was shed on both sides, and the victory remained
+long dubious; but at length it seemed to incline to
+the king of Harran&rsquo;s enemies, who, being more numerous,
+were about hemming him in, when a good
+body of horse appeared on the plain, and drew near
+the two armies in good order. The sight of that fresh
+party daunted both sides, as not knowing what to
+think of them. But their doubts were soon cleared;
+<span class="pb" id="Page_265">[265]</span>
+for those horsemen fell upon the flank of the king of
+Harran&rsquo;s enemies, giving such a furious charge, that
+they soon broke and put them to the rout; and, not
+so satisfied, they pursued them, and cut most of them
+in pieces.</p>
+<p>The king of Harran, who had nicely observed all
+the action, admired the bravery of those horsemen,
+whose unexpected arrival had given the victory to his
+side. But, above all, he was charmed with their chief,
+whom he had seen fighting with a more than ordinary
+valour. He longed to know the name of that generous
+hero. Being impatient to see and thank him, he
+advanced towards him, but perceived he was coming
+to prevent him. The two princes drew near, and
+the king of Harran finding Codadad in that brave
+warrior who had just then succoured him, or rather
+defeated his enemies, became motionless with joy
+and surprise. Sir, said Codadad to him, you have
+sufficient cause to be astonished, seeing a man appear
+on a sudden before your majesty whom perhaps you
+concluded to be dead. I should have been so, had
+not Heaven preserved me still against your enemies.
+O my son! cried the king, is it possible that you are
+restored to me? Alas! I despaired of seeing you any
+more. Having so said, he stretched out his arms to
+the young prince, who flew to his loving embraces.</p>
+<p>I know all, my son, said the king again, after having
+long held him in his arms; I know what return
+my sons have made you for the service you did in delivering
+them out of the hands of the black; but you
+shall be revenged to-morrow. Let us now go to the
+palace; your mother, who has wept sufficiently for
+you, expects me, to rejoice with us for the defeat of
+our enemies. What a joy will it be to her to be informed
+that my victory is your handy-work! Sir, said
+Codadad, give me leave to ask you, how could you
+<span class="pb" id="Page_266">[266]</span>
+come to know the adventure of the castle? Has any
+of my brothers, repenting, owned the thing to you?
+No, answered the king, the princess of Deryabar has
+given us an account of all things; for she is in my
+palace, and came thither to demand justice against
+your brothers. Codadad was in a transport of joy to
+understand that the princess his wife was at the court.
+Let us go, sir, cried he to his father in a rapture, let
+us go to see my mother, who waits for us. I have
+an ardent desire to dry up her tears, as well as those
+of the princess of Deryabar.</p>
+<p>The king immediately returned to the city, with
+his army, which he dismissed; entering his palace
+victorious, amidst the acclamations of his people, who
+followed him in crowds, praying to Heaven to prolong
+his life, and extolling Codadad to the skies. These
+two princes found Pirouze and her daughter-in-law
+waiting for the king to congratulate him; but there
+is no expressing the transport of joy they felt when
+they saw the young prince come with him: they dissolved
+in embraces, mixed with tears, but of a different
+sort from those they had before shed for him. When
+these four persons had performed all that the ties of
+blood and love demanded of them, the question was
+asked of Pirouze&rsquo;s son, by what miracle he came to
+be still alive. He answered, that a peasant, mounted
+on a mule, happening accidentally to come into the
+tent where he lay senseless, and perceiving him alone,
+and stabbed in several places, had made him fast on
+his mule, and carried him to his house, where he applied
+to his wounds certain herbs chewed, which had
+recovered him in a few days. When I found myself
+well, added he, I returned thanks to the peasant, and
+gave him all the diamonds I had. Then I drew near
+the city of Harran; but being informed by the way
+that some neighbouring princes had gathered forces,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_267">[267]</span>
+and were coming to fall upon the king&rsquo;s subjects, I
+made myself known unto the villagers, and stirred up
+those people to stand upon their guard. I armed a
+good number of young men; and heading them, happened
+to come in at that time when the two armies
+were engaged.</p>
+<p>When he had done speaking, the king said, Let us
+return thanks to God for having preserved Codadad;
+but it is requisite that the traitors, who would have
+destroyed him, should perish this day. Sir, answered
+the generous son of Pirouze, though they are wicked
+and ungrateful, consider they are your own flesh and
+blood: they are my brothers; I forgive them the
+offence, and beg pardon of you for them. This generosity
+drew tears from the king, who caused the
+people to be assembled, and declared Codadad his heir.
+Then he ordered the princes, who were prisoners, to
+be brought, loaded with irons. Pirouze&rsquo;s son knocked
+off their chains, and embraced them all successively,
+with as much sincerity as he had done in the court
+of the black&rsquo;s castle. The people were charmed with
+Codadad&rsquo;s good nature, and highly applauded him.
+Next he nobly rewarded the surgeon, to requite the
+service he had done the princess of Deryabar.</p>
+<p>The sultaness Scheherazade, having told the story
+of Ganem with so much address, and in so agreeable
+a manner, that the sultan of the Indies could not
+forbear showing the pleasure that relation gave him,
+said to that monarch, I doubt not but your majesty
+is very well satisfied to find the caliph Haroun Alraschid
+change his sentiments in favour of Ganem, his
+mother, and sister; and I believe you may be sensibly
+affected with their misfortunes, and the ill treatment
+they received; but am persuaded, if your majesty
+would hear the story of the Sleeper Awakened,
+it would, instead of exciting all those emotions of
+<span class="pb" id="Page_268">[268]</span>
+indignation and compassion in your breast, on the
+contrary, afford you all the mirth and diversion imaginable.
+The sultan, who promised himself some
+new adventures from the title of that story, would
+have heard it that morning; but perceiving day approached,
+deferred it till next, when Dinarzade called
+upon her sister, who began her story as follows.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_269">[269]</div>
+<h2 id="c7"><br />THE STORY OF
+<br />THE SLEEPER AWAKENED.</h2>
+<p>In the reign of caliph Haroun Alraschid, there
+lived at Bagdad a very rich merchant, who, having
+married a woman pretty well in years, had but one
+son, whom he named Abon Hassan, and educated
+with great restraint. When this son was thirty years
+old, the merchant died, and left him his sole heir, and
+master of great riches, which his father had amassed
+together by his industry, frugality, and great application
+to business.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan, whose views and inclinations were
+very much different from those of his father, was resolved
+to make another use of his wealth; for, as his
+father had never allowed him any money but what
+was just necessary for subsistence, and he had always
+envied those young persons of his age who wanted
+none, and who debarred themselves from none of
+those pleasures to which youth are too much addicted,
+he resolved, in his turn, to signalize himself by extravagances
+proportionable to his fortune. To this
+end, he divided his riches in two parts; with one half
+he bought houses in town and land in the country,
+with a promise to himself never to touch the income
+of his estate, which was considerable enough to live
+upon very handsomely, but lay it all by; with the
+other half, which he kept by him in ready money, he
+designed to make himself amends for the time he had
+lost in the severe restraint with which his father had
+always kept him.</p>
+<p>With this intent, Abon Hassan associated himself
+in a few days with people of his age and condition,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_270">[270]</span>
+and thought of nothing more than how to spend their
+time agreeably. Every day he gave them splendid
+entertainments, at which the most exquisite and delicate
+wines flowed in plenty, while concerts of the
+best vocal and instrumental music heightened their
+pleasures; and then this young band of debauchees,
+with glasses in their hands, sang and joined with the
+music; and these feasts generally ended with balls at
+night, to which the best dancers in Bagdad, of both
+sexes, were invited. These entertainments, renewed
+every day, were so expensive to Abon Hassan, that
+he could not support the extravagance above one year;
+and, in short, the great sum which he had consecrated
+to this prodigality and the year ended together. As
+soon as he left off keeping this table, his friends forsook
+him: whenever they saw him, they avoided him;
+and if by chance he met any of them, and would stop
+them, they always excused themselves on some pretence
+or other.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan, touched more to the quick at this
+strange behaviour of his friends, who had forsaken
+him so basely and ungratefully, after all the protestations
+of friendship they had made him, and
+their inviolable attachment to his service, than all the
+money he had foolishly squandered away, went, melancholy
+and thoughtful, into his mother&rsquo;s apartment,
+and sat down on a sofa a good distance from her.
+What is the matter with you, son? said his mother,
+reading his grief in his countenance: why are you so
+altered, so dejected, and so much different from yourself?
+You could not certainly be more concerned if
+you had lost all you had in the world. I know you
+have lived very profusely, and believe all your money
+is spent; yet you have a good estate; and the reason
+I did not so very much oppose your irregular way of
+living, was, I knew the wise precaution you had taken
+to preserve half your substance; therefore I do not
+<span class="pb" id="Page_271">[271]</span>
+see why you should plunge yourself into this deep
+melancholy.</p>
+<p>At these words, Abon Hassan melted into tears,
+and in the midst of his sighs cried out, Ah! mother,
+I see at last, by sad experience, how insupportable
+poverty is: I am sensible that it deprives us of joy, as
+much as the setting sun does of light. In poverty,
+we have no commendations and fine things said unto
+us: we endeavour to conceal all our actions, and spend
+our nights in tears and sorrow. In short, a poor man
+is looked upon, both by friends and relations, as a
+stranger. You know, mother, how I have used my
+friends for this year past: I have entertained them
+with all imaginable generosity, till I have spent all
+my money; and now they have left me, when I can
+treat them no longer. For my estate, I thank Heaven
+for having given me the grace to keep the oath I have
+made not to enter upon that; and now I shall know
+how to make a good use of it. But first, I will try
+the gratitude of friends, who deserve not that I
+should call them so: I will go to them one after
+another, and when I have represented to them what
+I have done for their sakes, I will ask them to make
+me up a sum of money among them, to relieve me out
+of the miserable condition I am reduced to: these
+are the steps I intend to take to try their gratitude.</p>
+<p>I do not pretend, son, said Abon Hassan&rsquo;s mother,
+to dissuade you from executing your design; but I
+can tell you before-hand, that you have no ground for
+any hope: believe me, you will find no relief, but
+from the estate you have reserved. I see you do not,
+but will soon know those people, whom we generally
+call friends; and I wish to Heaven you may, in the
+manner I desire; that is to say, for your own good.
+Mother, replied Abon Hassan, I am persuaded of the
+truth of what you say; but shall be certain of a fact
+which concerns me so nearly, when I shall inform
+<span class="pb" id="Page_272">[272]</span>
+myself better of their baseness. Upon this, Abon Hassan
+went immediately to his friends, whom he found
+at home, represented to them the great need he was
+in, and begged of them to loose their purse-strings to
+assist him. He promised to give every one bonds to
+pay them the money they lent him, as soon as his
+affairs were made up; giving them to understand, at
+the same time, that it was, in a great measure, upon
+their accounts that he was undone; and forgetting
+not to allure them with the hopes of being once again
+entertained in the same manner as before.</p>
+<p>Not one of his bottle companions was affected
+with the arguments which the afflicted Abon Hassan
+made use of to persuade them; and he had the mortification
+to find, that many of them told him plainly
+they scarce knew him.</p>
+<p>He returned home again full of grief and rage;
+and, going into his mother&rsquo;s apartment, said, Ah!
+madam, you was in the right of it; instead of friends,
+I have found none but ungrateful, perfidious wretches,
+who deserve not my friendship; whom I renounce,
+and promise never to see them more. He resolved to
+be as good as his word; and, to that end, took all
+possible precautions to avoid falling into the same
+inconvenience, taking an oath never to give an inhabitant
+of Bagdad any entertainment again. Afterwards
+he opened a strong chest, in which he had put
+the rents he had received from his estate, and resolved
+to take every day a sum that was sufficient to
+defray the expense of a single person to sup with
+him; who, according to the oath he had taken, must
+be a stranger that came into Bagdad the same day,
+and must take his leave of him the next morning.</p>
+<p>According to this project, Abon Hassan took care
+every morning to provide whatever he designed for
+night, and towards the close of the evening went and
+sat on Bagdad bridge; and, as soon as ever he saw a
+<span class="pb" id="Page_273">[273]</span>
+stranger, of whatever condition he was, he accosted
+him civilly, and invited him to sup and lodge with him
+that night; and, after having informed him of the law
+he had imposed upon himself, took him home with
+him. The repast with which Abon Hassan regaled
+his guests was not costly, but always plain and neat,
+with plenty of good wine, and generally lasted till the
+night was pretty well advanced; when, instead of
+entertaining his guest with the affairs of state, his
+family or business, as is too frequent, he affected to
+talk of indifferent subjects, and was naturally of so
+gay and pleasant a temper, that he could give the
+most agreeable turns in conversation, and make the
+most reserved and melancholy persons merry. When
+he saw his guest again the next morning, he always
+said to him, God preserve you from all sorrow
+wherever you go: when I invited you yesterday to
+come and sup with me, I informed you of the law I
+have made; therefore do not take it ill if I tell you
+that we must never see one another again, nor drink
+together, for reasons best known to myself: so God
+conduct you.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan was very exact in the observation of
+this oath, and never looked upon, or spoke to, any
+stranger he had once entertained, wherever he met
+them; and had lived for a long time after this manner,
+when one afternoon, a little before sunset, as he
+was sitting upon the bridge, according to custom, the
+caliph Haroun Alraschid came by so disguised that
+nobody could know him: for that monarch, though
+his chief ministers and officers of justice acquitted
+themselves of their duty very punctually, yet would
+take notice of every thing himself; and, to that purpose,
+often disguised himself, and walked through the
+city and suburbs of Bagdad; and that day was dressed
+like a merchant of Moussel, who had but just disembarked,
+and was followed by a slave.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_274">[274]</div>
+<p>As the caliph had in his disguise a grave and awful
+air, Abon Hassan, who thought him to be a Moussel
+merchant, went directly to him; and, after having
+saluted him with a smiling countenance, and kissed
+his hand, said, Sir, I congratulate you on your happy
+arrival, and beg of you to do me the honour to go and
+sup with me, and repose yourself at my home this
+night, after the fatigue of your voyage; and, to oblige
+him not to deny him that favour, he told him his custom
+of entertaining the first stranger he met with.
+The caliph found something so odd and singular in
+Abon Hassan&rsquo;s taste, that he was very desirous to
+know the bottom, without quitting the character of a
+merchant; and told him, that he could not better
+answer that great civility, which he did not expect
+at his arrival at Bagdad, than by accepting the obliging
+offer that he made him.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan, who knew not that the guest which
+fortune presented to him was so very much above
+him, treated him as his equal, carried him home, and
+led him into a room very neatly furnished, where he
+set him on a sofa, at the upper end of a table that was
+ready laid for supper, which was soon after sent up
+by Abon Hassan&rsquo;s mother, who took upon herself the
+care of the kitchen, and consisted of three dishes.
+The first was a capon and four large pullets, which
+were set in the middle; and the second and third,
+placed on each side, were a fat roasted goose and
+boiled pigeons, all dressed very neatly, and with proper
+sauces.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan sat down over against his guest, and
+he and the caliph began to eat heartily of what they
+liked best, without speaking or drinking, according to
+the custom of the country. When they had done eating,
+the caliph&rsquo;s slave brought them water to wash
+their hands; and, in the mean time, Abon Hassan&rsquo;s
+mother sent up a dessert of all sorts of dried sweetmeats,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_275">[275]</span>
+and all the fruits then in season, as grapes,
+peaches, apples, pears, &amp;c. As soon as it grew dark,
+wax-candles were lighted, and Abon Hassan, after
+charging his mother to take care of the caliph&rsquo;s slave,
+brought bottles and glasses.</p>
+<p>Then Abon Hassan, sitting down with the pretended
+Moussel merchant again, filled out a glass of
+wine, before he touched the dessert; and holding it
+out in his hand, said to the caliph, You know, sir,
+that the cock never drinks before he calls to his hens
+to come and drink with him; so I invite you to follow
+my example. I do not know what you may think;
+for my part, I cannot reckon him a wise man who
+does not love wine: come, let us leave those sort of
+people to their dull melancholy humours, and seek
+for mirth, which is only to be found in a brimmer.</p>
+<p>While Abon Hassan was drinking, the caliph, taking
+the glass that was set by him, said, Now I like
+you, you are an honest fellow; I am mightily taken
+with your pleasant temper, and expect you should fill
+me as much. Abon Hassan, as soon as he had drunk,
+filled the caliph&rsquo;s glass, and giving it to him, Here,
+sir, said he, taste this wine; I will warrant it good. I
+am very well persuaded, replied the caliph, laughing,
+that you know how to make choice of the best. O,
+replied Abon Hassan, while the caliph was taking off
+his glass, one may easily find that you know what
+good living is, and have seen the world. Alas! how
+happy is my house in your presence, and how overjoyed
+am I for meeting with a man of so much merit.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who was naturally a merry man, was
+mightily diverted with these sallies of Abon Hassan,
+and took great pleasure in promoting drinking, often
+asking for wine, thinking that when that began to
+work, he might penetrate so far into his discourse as
+to satisfy his curiosity. Therefore, to enter into conversation,
+he asked him his name, his business, and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_276">[276]</span>
+how he spent his life. My name, sir, replied he, is
+Abon Hassan: my father, whom I buried, was a
+merchant of Bagdad; and though he was not the
+richest, yet he lived very well. When he died, he
+left me enough in my station to live free from ambition;
+but as he always kept a very strict hand over
+me in his life-time, I was willing, when he was gone,
+to make up the time I thought I had lost.</p>
+<p>But notwithstanding, continued Abon Hassan, in
+this I was more prudent than most young people are,
+who give themselves unto debauchery without any
+thought, and who reduce themselves to the utmost
+poverty, and are forced to do penance all the rest of
+their lives after. Now I, to avoid this misfortune,
+divided what I had left me in two parts, and with one
+bought an estate, with a resolution not to finger my
+rents at that time; and kept the other in ready money
+to pursue my extravagances with. I associated
+myself with young people of my age, and with my
+ready money, which I spent profusely, treated them
+every day; and, in short, spared for no sort of pleasure.
+But these feastings did not last long; for by
+that time the year was out, I had got to the bottom of
+my cash, and then all my friends vanished. I made a
+visit to every one of them, and represented to them
+the miserable condition I was in, but none of them
+would relieve me. Upon this, I renounced their
+friendship, and retrenched so far as to live within the
+compass of my income, and obliged myself to keep
+company with none but the first stranger I could meet
+with, coming that day into Bagdad, and to entertain
+him but one night. I have told you the rest before;
+and I thank my good fortune this day for meeting with
+a stranger of so much worth.</p>
+<p>The caliph was very well satisfied with this information,
+and said to Abon Hassan, I cannot enough
+commend the measures you have taken, and the prudence
+<span class="pb" id="Page_277">[277]</span>
+with which you have acted, by forsaking your
+debauchery; a conduct rarely to be met with in
+young persons; and I esteem you the more for being
+so just to yourself as you have been. It was a slippery
+path you trode in; and I cannot enough admire,
+how, after having seen the end of your ready money,
+you had so great a command over yourself not to
+enter upon your estate. In short, I must own I envy
+your happiness: you are the only happy man in the
+world, to enjoy every day the company of some one
+honest man, with whom you can discourse freely and
+agreeably, and to whom you give an opportunity to
+declare, wherever he goes, how handsomely he was
+received by you. But we talk too long without drinking;
+come drink, and pour out to me.</p>
+<p>In this manner the caliph and Abon Hassan entertained
+each other, drinking and talking of indifferent
+matters till the night was pretty far advanced; when
+the caliph, pretending to be fatigued after his voyage,
+told his host he stood in need of a little rest; but,
+added he, that I may not deprive you of yours, before
+we part, because to-morrow I may be gone before
+you are stirring, I would be glad to show you how
+sensible I am of your civility, and the kind and obliging
+hospitality you have shown me. The only thing
+that troubles me is, that I know not which way to
+pay my acknowledgment; therefore I beg of you to
+let me understand how I may, and you shall see I
+will not be ungrateful; for certainly you must have
+some business in which you may be served, or must
+want something which you could wish for. Speak
+freely, and declare your mind; for, though I am but
+a merchant, it may be in mine or some friend&rsquo;s power
+to oblige you.</p>
+<p>To these offers of the caliph, Abon Hassan, taking
+him still for a Moussel merchant, replied, I am very
+well persuaded, good sir, that it is not out of a compliment
+<span class="pb" id="Page_278">[278]</span>
+that you make me these generous tenders;
+but, upon the word of an honest man, I have nothing
+that troubles me, no business nor desires, and want
+not any thing. I have not the least ambition, as I
+told you before, but am very well satisfied with my
+condition. Therefore, I can only thank you for your
+obliging proffers, and the honour you have done me
+to come and take a slight repast with me. Yet I
+must tell you, pursued Abon Hassan, there is one
+thing gives me great uneasiness. You know the town
+of Bagdad is divided into several parts and divisions,
+to each of which there belongs a mosque, and an iman
+to read prayers at certain hours. The iman of the
+division I live in is an old man, of an austere countenance,
+and the greatest hypocrite in the world.
+This man, and four old men of this neighbourhood,
+who are people of the same stamp, meet every day at
+the iman&rsquo;s house; there they vent their slander, calumny,
+and malice against me and the whole division,
+to the disturbance of the public peace of the neighbourhood,
+and the promotion of dissension. Some they
+threaten, others they rail against; and, in short,
+would be lords paramount, and have every one govern
+himself according to their caprice; and, at the same
+time, know not how to govern themselves. Indeed,
+I would have them meddle with nothing but their
+Alcoran, and let the world live quietly.</p>
+<p>Well, I suppose, said the caliph, you would willingly
+put a stop to this disorder. You have guessed
+it, answered Abon Hassan; and the only thing I
+should desire, would be to be caliph only for one day,
+in the stead of our sovereign lord and master Haroun
+Alraschid, the commander of the faithful. What
+would you do if you were? said the caliph. I would
+make them examples, answered Abon Hassan, to the
+satisfaction of all honest men. I would punish the
+four old men with each a hundred bastinadoes on the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_279">[279]</span>
+soles of their feet, and the iman with four hundred, to
+learn them not to disturb and abuse their neighbours
+any more.</p>
+<p>The caliph was extremely well pleased with this
+thought of Abon Hassan&rsquo;s; and, as he was a prince
+who loved adventures, he fancied to make this a very
+singular one. Indeed, said he, I approve very much of
+your wish, which I see proceeds from an upright mind,
+that cannot bear to see the malice of wicked people
+go unpunished. I could like to see it take effect, and
+that is not so impossible a thing as you imagine. I
+am persuaded that the caliph would willingly put his
+authority for twenty-four hours into your hands, if he
+knew your good intentions, and the just use you
+would make of it. I see, said Abon Hassan, you
+laugh at my foolish fancy; and the caliph himself
+would laugh at my extravagance too if he knew it;
+but yet it would be a means of informing him of the
+iman&rsquo;s and his companions&rsquo; behaviour, and he might
+chastise them.</p>
+<p>Heaven forbid, replied the caliph, that I, who have
+been so handsomely entertained by you, should laugh
+at you; neither do I believe, as much a stranger as I
+am, that the caliph would be displeased. But let us
+lay this discourse aside; it is almost midnight, and
+time to go to bed. With all my heart, said Abon
+Hassan, I would not be any hindrance to your going
+to rest; but there is still some wine in the bottle, and,
+if you please, we will drink it off first. The only
+thing that I have to recommend to you is, that, when
+you go out in the morning, if I am not up, you will
+give yourself the trouble of shutting the door after
+you, which the caliph promised; and while Abon
+Hassan was talking, took the bottle and two glasses,
+and filled his own first, saying, Here is a cup of thanks
+to you; and then filling the other, put artfully a little
+<span class="pb" id="Page_280">[280]</span>
+powder, which he had about him, into it, and giving
+it to Abon Hassan, said, you have taken the pains to
+fill for me all this night, and it is the least I can do
+to save you the trouble once; come, drink to our
+good repose.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan took the glass, and, to show his guest
+with how much pleasure he received the honour he
+did him, whipped it off at once; but had scarcely set
+the glass upon the table before the powder began to
+work, and he fell into so sound a sleep, that his head
+knocked against his knees. The caliph ordered the
+slave that he had brought along with him, and who
+came again into the room as soon as he had supped,
+to take him upon his back, and follow him; but to be
+sure to observe the house, that he might know it
+again when he should bring him back; and in this
+manner the caliph, followed by the slave with Abon
+Hassan on his back, went out of the house, but without
+shutting the door after him, as Abon Hassan desired,
+and went directly to his palace, and, by a backdoor,
+into his own apartment, where all the officers of
+his apartment were waiting for him, whom he ordered
+to undress him, and put him in his bed, which
+they immediately performed.</p>
+<p>Then the caliph sent for all the officers and ladies
+of the palace, and said to them, I would have all those
+whose business it is to attend my levee wait to-morrow
+morning upon this man who lies in my bed, and
+pay the same respect to him as to myself, and obey
+him in whatever he commands; let him be refused in
+nothing that he asks for, and be spoken to and answered
+in every thing he says or does, as if he was
+the commander of the faithful. In short, I expect
+you to look upon him as the true caliph, and neglect
+not the least circumstance.</p>
+<p>The officers and ladies presently understood that
+<span class="pb" id="Page_281">[281]</span>
+the caliph had a mind to divert himself, and made
+low bows to show their obedience, and then withdrew,
+every one full of the part they were to act.</p>
+<p>Then he sent for the grand vizier: Giafar, said he,
+I have sent for you to instruct you, and to prevent
+your being surprised to-morrow when you come to an
+audience, to see this man, that is laid here in my bed,
+seated on my throne in my royal robes: accost him
+with the same reverence and respect you pay to myself;
+observe, and punctually execute, whatever he
+bids you do, the same as if I commanded you, even if
+his liberality should extend so far as to empty all the
+coffers in my treasury; and remember to acquaint all
+my emirs and huissirs, all the officers without the palace,
+to pay him the same honour at audience as the
+commander of the believers himself; and to carry on
+the matter so well, that he might not perceive the
+least thing that may interrupt this joke which I am
+diverting myself with.</p>
+<p>Afterwards the grand vizier retired, and the caliph
+went to bed in another apartment; and ordered Mesrour,
+the chief of his eunuchs, to take care to manage
+things so well, that he might see how Abon Hassan
+would use the power and authority of the caliph for
+the time he desired to have it; and, above all, charged
+him to awake him at the usual hour, before he awakened
+Abon Hassan, because he had a mind to be present
+when he rose.</p>
+<p>Mesrour failed not to do as the caliph had commanded;
+and, as soon as the caliph went into the
+room where Abon Hassan lay, he placed himself in a
+little closet, from whence he could see all that passed.
+All the officers and ladies who were to attend Abon
+Hassan&rsquo;s levee, took their posts according to their
+rank, with great silence, and discharged themselves
+as punctually of their offices as if the caliph had been
+to rise.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_282">[282]</div>
+<p>As it was just day-break, and time to rise to morning
+prayer before sun-rise, the officer that stood
+nearest to the head of the bed, put a sponge steeped
+in vinegar to Abon Hassan&rsquo;s nose; who, presently
+turning his head about without opening his eyes,
+sneezed heartily, which was generally the effect of
+the caliph&rsquo;s powder, and which lasted longer or
+shorter in proportion to the dose. Then opening his
+eyes, he found himself, by the small light that appeared,
+in a stately room magnificently furnished, the
+ceiling of which was finely painted, and the floor covered
+with a rich silk tapestry, and surrounded by a
+great many young and handsome ladies, with all sorts
+of instruments of music in their hands, and black eunuchs
+richly clothed, all standing with great modesty
+and respect. After casting his eyes on the quilt of
+the bed, he perceived it was cloth of gold, richly embossed
+with pearls and diamonds; and that there was
+laid by the bed a habit of the same stuff and trimmings,
+with a caliph&rsquo;s turban.</p>
+<p>At the sight of these glittering objects, Abon Hassan
+was in the most inexpressible confusion and
+amazement, and looked upon all he saw as a dream.
+So, said he to himself, I am caliph; but, added he a
+little after, it is only a dream, the effect of the wish I
+entertained my guest with last night; and then he
+turned himself about to sleep again. At the same
+time, the eunuch said very respectfully, Commander
+of the Faithful, it is time for your majesty to rise to
+prayers; the morning begins to advance.</p>
+<p>These words very much surprised Abon Hassan.
+Am I awake, or do I sleep? said he to himself. Ah!
+certainly I am asleep! continued he, keeping his eyes
+shut; there is no reason to doubt of it.</p>
+<p>Immediately the eunuch, who saw he had no inclination
+to get up, and that he gave him no answer,
+said again, Your majesty, I hope, will not be angry, if
+<span class="pb" id="Page_283">[283]</span>
+I tell you once more that it is time to rise to morning
+prayer, which you never neglect, and the sun is
+just upon rising. I am mistaken, said Abon Hassan
+presently; I am not asleep, but awake: for those
+that sleep do not hear, and I hear very distinctly.
+Then opening his eyes, he saw plainly by broad daylight,
+what appeared but uncertain before, and rising
+upon his breech, with a smiling countenance, like a
+man overjoyed at a sudden promotion, pleased the
+caliph, who penetrated into the bottom of his thoughts.</p>
+<p>Then the ladies of the palace prostrated themselves
+with their faces to the ground before Abon Hassan,
+and those who had the instruments of music in their
+hands, wished him a good-morrow, by a concert of
+soft flutes, hautboys, theorboes, and other harmonious
+instruments, with which he was ravished, and
+was in such an ecstasy, that he knew not himself, nor
+where he was; but, recovering at last his first idea,
+he doubted whether what he saw was a dream or
+matter of fact. He clapped his hands before his eyes,
+and lowering his head, said to himself, What means
+all this? where am I? and whom does this palace belong
+to? What can these eunuchs, officers, beautiful
+ladies, and musicians signify? How is it possible for
+me to distinguish whether I am in my right senses or
+in a dream? When he took his hands from his eyes,
+the sun shone full in at the chamber-window; and at
+that instant, Mesrour, the chief of the eunuchs, came
+in, prostrated himself before Abon Hassan, and said,
+Commander of the Faithful, your majesty will excuse
+me for representing to you, that you used not to lie
+so long, and that the time of prayer is over; I am
+afraid your majesty has had an ill night, and has
+been indisposed, and may not be able to ascend your
+throne in council as usual: all your generals, governors,
+and other officers of state, wait your presence in
+the council-hall.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_284">[284]</div>
+<p>At this discourse of Mesrour&rsquo;s, Abon Hassan was
+verily persuaded that he was neither asleep nor in a
+dream; but, at the same time, was very much embarrassed
+and confused. At last, looking earnestly at
+Mesrour, he said to him in a serious tone, Who is it
+you speak to, and call the commander of the faithful?
+For my part, I do not know you, and you mistake
+me for somebody else.</p>
+<p>Any person but Mesrour would have been dashed
+at these questions of Abon Hassan&rsquo;s; but he had
+been so well instructed by the caliph, that he played
+his part to a wonder. My worthy lord and master, said
+he, your majesty only speaks thus to try me: is not
+your majesty the commander of the faithful, monarch
+of the world, and the prophet&rsquo;s vicar on earth? Mesrour,
+your slave, has not forgot you, after so many
+years that he has had the honour and happiness to
+serve and pay his respects to your majesty; and
+should think himself the most unhappy of all men if
+he has incurred your displeasure, and begs of you most
+humbly to remove his fears; but is apt to believe that
+you have been disturbed by some troublesome dream
+last night.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan burst out a-laughing at these words
+of Mesrour&rsquo;s, and fell backwards upon the bolster,
+which pleased the caliph so much, that he would have
+laughed as loud himself, if he had not been afraid
+of putting a stop to the pleasant scene he promised
+himself.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan, when he had tired himself with
+laughing, sat up again on his breech, and, speaking
+to a little black eunuch that stood by him, said, Hark
+ye, tell me who I am. Sir, answered the little boy
+modestly, your majesty is the commander of the believers,
+and God&rsquo;s vicar on earth. You are a liar,
+sooty face, said Abon Hassan. Then he called the
+lady that stood the nearest to him: Come hither, fair
+<span class="pb" id="Page_285">[285]</span>
+one, said he, holding out his hand, bite the end of
+my finger, that I may feel whether I am asleep or
+awake.</p>
+<p>The lady, who knew the caliph saw all that passed,
+was overjoyed to show how capable she was of diverting
+him, and went with a grave countenance, and
+putting his finger between her teeth, she bit so hard
+that he cried out; and, snatching his hand quickly
+back again, said, I find I am awake, and not asleep.
+But by what miracle am I become caliph in a night&rsquo;s
+time? This is certainly the most strange and surprising
+thing in the world! Then addressing himself
+to the same lady, he said, I conjure you, for Heaven&rsquo;s
+sake, not to hide the truth from me; am I
+really the commander of the faithful? It is so true,
+answered the lady, that we, who are your slaves, are
+amazed to find that you will not believe yourself to be
+so. Ah! you are a deceiver, replied Abon Hassan;
+I know very well who I am.</p>
+<p>As the chief of the eunuchs perceived that Abon
+Hassan had a mind to rise, he lent him his hand,
+and helped him to get out of bed. No sooner
+were his feet set on the floor, than the chamber rang
+again with repeated acclamations of the officers and
+ladies, who cried out, God preserve your majesty,
+and give you a good day. O Heaven! cried Abon
+Hassan, what a strange thing is this! Last night I
+was Abon Hassan, and this morning I am the commander
+of the believers! I cannot comprehend this
+sudden and surprising change. Presently some of
+the officers began to dress him; and when they had
+done, Mesrour led him through all the eunuchs and
+ladies, who were ranged on both sides quite to the
+council-chamber door, which was opened by one of
+the huissirs. Mesrour walked before him to the foot
+of the throne, where he stopped, and putting one
+hand under one arm, while another officer did the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_286">[286]</span>
+same by the other, they helped him to ascend the
+throne.</p>
+<p>The caliph, in the mean time, came out of the closet
+where he was hid, and went into another which
+looked into the council-hall, from whence he could
+hear all that passed, and see Abon Hassan, who filled
+his throne with all the gravity imaginable.</p>
+<p>As soon as Abon Hassan had seated himself, the
+grand vizier Giafar prostrated himself at the foot of
+the throne, and addressing himself to him, said, God
+shower down blessings on your majesty in this life,
+receive you into his paradise in the other world, and
+confound your enemies!</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan, after all that had happened that
+morning, and these words of the grand vizier, never
+doubted but he was caliph, as he wished to be; and
+so, without examining any farther, how, or by what
+adventure or sudden change of fortune, he immediately
+began to exercise his power, and looking very
+gravely upon the vizier, asked him what he had to
+say. Commander of the Faithful, replied the grand
+vizier, the emirs, viziers, and other officers who are
+of your majesty&rsquo;s council, wait at the door, until your
+majesty give them leave to come in, and pay their
+usual respects to you. Abon Hassan presently bade
+that the door be opened, and the grand vizier gave
+the sign to the huissir that waited for it.</p>
+<p>When the door was opened, the viziers, emirs, and
+principal officers of the court, all dressed magnificently
+in their habits of ceremony, went in their order
+to the foot of the throne, and paid their respects
+to Abon Hassan; and bowing their heads down to
+the carpet, kneeling on one knee, saluted him with
+the title of Commander of the Faithful, according to
+the instruction of the grand vizier, and afterwards
+took their seats.</p>
+<p>When this ceremony was over, the grand vizier,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_287">[287]</span>
+standing before the throne, began with papers in his
+hand to make his report of affairs, which at that
+time were of very little consequence. Nevertheless,
+Abon Hassan acquitted himself in his great post
+without the least embarrassment; and gave judgment
+so well in all matters, that the caliph could not
+help wondering at his address. But before the grand
+vizier had finished his report, Abon Hassan called
+the judge of the police, whom he knew by sight, as
+he sat in his place: Hold, said he to the grand
+vizier, I have something to order the judge of the
+police. The judge of the police perceiving that
+Abon Hassan looked at him, and hearing his name
+mentioned, arose from his seat, and went gravely to
+the foot of the throne, where he prostrated himself
+with his face to the ground. Judge of the police,
+said Abon Hassan, go immediately to such a division,
+and seize the iman of the mosque, and four old
+men, (whom he described,) and give each of the old
+men a hundred bastinadoes with a bull&rsquo;s pizzle, and
+the iman four hundred: after that, mount them all
+five on camels, with their faces to the tails; and lead
+them through the whole city, with a crier before
+them, who shall proclaim, This is the punishment of
+all those who trouble their heads with other people&rsquo;s
+affairs, and make it their business to create disturbances
+and misunderstandings in families in their
+neighbourhood. My intention is also, that you enjoin
+them to leave that division, and never to set a
+foot more in it; and while your lieutenant is conducting
+them through the town, return, and give me
+an account of the execution of my orders. The judge
+of the police laid his hand upon his head, to show his
+obedience, and, prostrating himself a second time,
+went away.</p>
+<p>The caliph was extremely well pleased at this order;
+and perceived by Abon Hassan&rsquo;s strictness and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_288">[288]</span>
+expedition, that he was resolved not to lose the opportunity
+of punishing the iman and the other four
+old hypocrites. In the mean time, the grand vizier
+went on with his report, and had just done when the
+judge of the police came back from executing his
+commission. He went to the throne with the usual
+ceremony, and said, Commander of the Faithful, I
+found the iman and his four companions; and for a
+proof that I have punctually obeyed your commands,
+I have brought an instrument signed by the principal
+inhabitants of that division: at the same time, he
+pulled out a paper, and presented it to the pretended
+caliph.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan took the paper, and reading over the
+names of the witnesses, who were all people that he
+knew very well, said to the judge of the police, It is
+very well; return to your seat. These old hypocrites,
+said he to himself, with a great deal of satisfaction
+in his looks, who must be censuring my
+actions, and finding fault with my entertaining honest
+people, deserved this punishment. The caliph
+all the time penetrated into his thoughts, and conceived
+a sensible joy in this expedition.</p>
+<p>Then Abon Hassan, addressing himself afterwards
+to the grand vizier, said, Go to the high treasurer
+for a purse of a thousand pieces of gold, and carry it
+to the mother of Abon Hassan, who is known by the
+name of the Debauchee; she lives in the same division
+into which I sent the judge of the police: return
+immediately.</p>
+<p>The grand vizier, after laying his hand upon his
+head, and prostrating himself before the throne,
+went to the high treasurer, who gave him the money,
+which he ordered a slave to take, and follow him to
+Abon Hassan&rsquo;s mother, to whom he gave it, saying
+only, The caliph makes you this present. She received
+it with the greatest surprise imaginable, and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_289">[289]</span>
+could not tell what to think of this liberality of the
+caliph.</p>
+<p>During the grand vizier&rsquo;s absence, the judge of the
+police acted for him, in making the report, which
+lasted till the vizier returned. As soon as he came
+into the council-chamber, and had assured Abon
+Hassan he had done as he had bade him, Mesrour,
+the chief of the eunuchs, who returned to the palace
+after he had conducted Abon Hassan to the council,
+came again, and made a sign to the viziers, emirs,
+and other officers, that the council was done, and
+that they might all retire; which they all did, by
+making the same reverence and obedience as when
+they entered.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan sat not long after them, but came
+down from the throne, supported in the same manner
+as he went up to it, by Mesrour and another eunuch,
+who attended him back again to the apartment from
+whence he came, preceded all the way by the grand
+vizier: but before he reached the apartment, he was
+taken with a pressing occasion; upon which they
+showed him into a convenient closet, paved with
+white marble; and while Abon Hassan was there,
+the grand vizier went to acquaint the caliph with
+what had passed, though he had been an eye-witness
+all the time.</p>
+<p>When Abon Hassan came out of the closet, Mesrour
+went before him, to show him the way into an
+inner apartment, where there was a table spread.
+Several eunuchs ran before, to tell the musicians that
+the sham caliph was coming, who immediately began
+a concert of vocal and instrumental music, with
+which Abon Hassan was so charmed and transported,
+that he could not tell what to think at all he saw and
+heard. If this is a dream, said he, it is a long one:
+but certainly, continued he, it is no dream; for I can
+see and feel, walk, hear, and argue reasonably.
+<span class="pb" id="Page_290">[290]</span>
+Whatever it is, I trust in God: yet I cannot believe
+but I am the commander of the faithful; for no
+other person could live in this splendour. The honour
+and respect that is given me, and the obedience
+paid to my commands, are sufficient proofs.</p>
+<p>In short, Abon Hassan took it for granted that he
+was caliph, and the commander of the faithful; and
+was fully convinced of it, when he entered that magnificent
+and spacious hall, which was finely painted.
+Seven bands of musicians were placed round the hall,
+and as many gold branches hung down from the ceiling,
+which was painted with blue and gold. In the
+middle of the hall there was spread a table, which
+was served up with all manner of rarities, in massy
+gold plates and dishes; and seven young beautiful
+ladies, dressed in the richest habits, of the most
+lively colours, stood round this table, each with a
+fan in her hand, to fan Abon Hassan when at dinner.</p>
+<p>If ever mortal was charmed, Abon Hassan was:
+at every step he took in that stately hall, he could
+not help stopping to contemplate on all the wonders
+that regaled his eyes, and turned his head first on
+one side and then again on the other, which made
+the caliph almost split his sides with laughing. At
+last he went and sat down at the table, and presently
+all the ladies that stood about it began to fan him.
+He looked first at one and then at another, and admired
+the grace with which they acquitted themselves;
+and told them, with a smile, that he believed
+one fan was enough to cool him, and would have six
+of the ladies sit at table with him, three on his right
+hand and three on his left; that, as the table was
+round, which way soever he turned, his eyes might
+be saluted with agreeable objects.</p>
+<p>The six ladies obeyed; and Abon Hassan taking
+notice that, out of respect, they did not eat, helped
+them himself, and invited them to eat in the most
+<span class="pb" id="Page_291">[291]</span>
+pressing and obliging terms. Afterwards, he asked
+their names; which they told him were, White neck,
+Coral Lips, Fair Face, Sun Shine, Heart&rsquo;s Delight,
+Sweet Looks, and she who fanned him was Sugar
+Cane. The many soft things he said upon their
+names, showed him to be a man of a sprightly wit,
+and very much increased the esteem which the caliph
+(who saw every thing) had for him.</p>
+<p>When the ladies saw that Abon Hassan had done
+eating, one of them said to the eunuch who waited,
+the commander of the faithful will go into the next
+hall to the desert: bring some water. Upon which
+they all rose from the table, and taking from the eunuchs,
+one a gold basin, another an ewer, and a third a
+towel, kneeled down before Abon Hassan, and presented
+them to him to wash his hands; who, as soon
+as he had done, got up, and after an eunuch had opened
+the door, went, preceded by Mesrour, who never left
+him, into another hall, as large as the former, adorned
+with the best paintings, gold vessels, silk tapestry,
+and other rich furniture. There seven other
+bands of music began a new concert, as soon as
+Abon Hassan appeared. In this hall there were
+seven gold branches, and a table full of dried sweetmeats,
+and the most choice and exquisite fruits, raised
+in pyramids, in seven gold basins, and seven ladies,
+more beautiful than the others, standing round it,
+with fans in their hands.</p>
+<p>These new objects put Abon Hassan into a greater
+admiration than ever; who, after he had made a full
+stop, and given the most sensible marks of his surprise
+and astonishment, went directly to the table;
+where, sitting down, he gazed a considerable time
+at the seven ladies, with an embarrassment that
+plainly showed he knew not which to give the preference
+to. At last he ordered them all to sit and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_292">[292]</span>
+eat with him, telling them that it was not so hot but
+he could spare them that trouble.</p>
+<p>When the ladies were all placed about him, the
+first thing he did was to ask their names, which were
+different from the other seven, and expressed some
+perfection of either mind or body, which distinguished
+them from one another; and upon which he took
+an opportunity, when he presented them with fruit,
+&amp;c. to say somewhat that was handsome. Take this
+fig, said he to Chain of Hearts, who sat on his right
+hand, and render the fetters with which you loaded
+me at first sight more supportable; and so went on
+to the rest. By these ways, Abon Hassan pleased
+and diverted the caliph more and more, who was resolved
+to carry on this scene which entertained him
+so agreeably.</p>
+<p>After Abon Hassan had tasted of all the fruits, &amp;c.
+he got up and followed Mesrour into a third hall,
+much more magnificently furnished than the other
+two; where he was received by the same number of
+musicians and ladies, who stood about a table covered
+over with all manner of sweetmeats. After he had
+looked about him with new admiration, he advanced
+to the table, the music playing all the time, which
+ceased when he sat down. The seven ladies sat
+down with him, by his order, and helped themselves,
+as he desired them, to what they liked best; and afterwards
+he informed himself of their names, which
+pleased him as much as the others had done.</p>
+<p>By this time the day began to close, and Abon
+Hassan was conducted into the fourth hall, much
+more stately and magnificently furnished, lighted with
+wax-candles, in seven gold branches and sconces,
+which were placed all around it, all which made a
+glorious light. Abon Hassan found the same number
+of musicians here as he had done in the other halls,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_293">[293]</span>
+and saw also as many ladies standing round a table,
+furnished with such things as were proper to promote
+drinking. There he saw a beaufet, which he
+had not observed in any of the other halls, which
+was set out with seven large silver flagons full of
+the choicest wines, and seven crystal glasses by
+them.</p>
+<p>All the day long, Abon Hassan had drunk nothing
+but water, according to a custom observed at Bagdad,
+from the highest to the lowest; who never drink
+wine till the evening, it being accounted the most
+scandalous thing in the world to be seen drunk in the
+streets in the day-time.</p>
+<p>As soon as Abon Hassan entered the fourth hall,
+he went directly to the table and sat down, and was
+a long time in a kind of ecstasy at the sight of those
+seven ladies, who were much more beautiful than all
+he beheld in the other halls. He was very desirous
+to know all their names; but the music playing then
+so very loud that he could not hear them speak, he
+made a sign for them to leave off playing: then taking
+one of the ladies who sat next to him by the hand,
+he made her sit down by him, and presenting her
+with some of those relishing viands before him, asked
+her name. Commander of the Faithful, said the
+lady, I am called Cluster of Pearls. No name, replied
+Abon Hassan, could have more properly expressed
+your worth; and indeed your teeth exceed
+the finest pearls. Cluster of Pearls, added he, since
+that is your name, oblige me with a glass of wine from
+your fair hand. The lady went presently to the
+beaufet, and brought him a glass with a pleasant air.
+Abon Hassan took the glass with a smile, and looking
+passionately upon her; said, Cluster of Pearls,
+your health; I desire you to fill out as much for yourself,
+and pledge me. Accordingly she went to the
+beaufet, and returned with a glass in her hand; but
+<span class="pb" id="Page_294">[294]</span>
+before she drank, she sang a song, and by the sweetness
+of her voice ravished his senses.</p>
+<p>After Abon Hassan had drunk, he made another
+lady sit, and presenting her with some of the viands,
+asked her name, which she told him was Morning
+Star. Your bright eyes, said he, shine with greater
+lustre than that star you bear the name of. Do me
+the pleasure to bring me some wine; which she did,
+with an extraordinary grace. Then turning to the
+third lady, whose name was Daylight, he ordered her
+to do the same; and so on to the seventh, to the extreme
+satisfaction of the caliph.</p>
+<p>When they had all filled him round, Cluster of
+Pearls went to the beaufet, poured out a glass of
+wine, and putting in a pinch of the same powder the
+caliph had used the night before, presented it to
+Abon Hassan. Commander of the Faithful, said she,
+I beg of your majesty to take this glass of wine; and,
+before you drink it off, do me the favour to hear a
+song I have made to-day, and which may not displease
+you. With all my heart, said Abon Hassan,
+taking the glass; and, as commander of the faithful,
+I command you to sing it: for I am persuaded
+that so beautiful a lady as yourself must abound with
+wit and humour. The lady took a lute, and tuning
+it to her voice, sang with so much justness and grace,
+and with such delicate turns of thought and expression,
+that Abon Hassan was in perfect ecstasy all the
+time, and was so much delighted, that he ordered her
+to sing it again.</p>
+<p>When the lady had done, Abon Hassan drank off
+his glass, and, turning his head towards her, to give
+her those praises which he thought due to her, fell
+fast asleep with his mouth open gaping, and his
+eyes close shut, just in the same condition as when
+the caliph brought him from home; who took a
+greater satisfaction in this scene, than he could have
+<span class="pb" id="Page_295">[295]</span>
+promised himself. One of the ladies stood ready to
+catch the glass, which fell out of his hand; and then
+the caliph, who was all along a spectator of what
+had passed, came into the hall to them, and ordered
+Abon Hassan to be dressed again in his own clothes,
+and to be carried back again to his own house by the
+same slave that brought him, charging him to lay
+him on a sofa in the same room, and to leave the
+door open.</p>
+<p>The slave took Abon Hassan upon his shoulders,
+and carried him home by a back-door of the palace,
+and returned with speed to acquaint the caliph he
+had executed his commands. Well, said the caliph,
+Abon Hassan wished only to be caliph for one day,
+to punish the iman of the mosque, and the four
+scheiks or old men of his division, who had displeased
+him: I have procured him the means, and
+he ought to be content.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, Abon Hassan, who was laid
+upon a sofa by the slave, slept very late the next
+morning. When the powder was worked off, Abon
+Hassan opened his eyes, and finding himself at
+home, was in the utmost surprise. Cluster of Pearls!
+Morning Star! Coral Lips! Fair Face! cried he,
+calling the ladies of the palace by their names, as he
+remembered them: Where are you? Come hither.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan called so loud, that his mother, who
+was in her own apartment, heard, and running to
+him upon the noise he made, said, What do you
+mean, son? What is the matter? At these words,
+Abon Hassan lifted up his head, and looking haughtily
+at his mother, said, Good woman, who is it you
+call son? Why, you, answered his mother, very
+calmly; are not you Abon Hassan, my son? It is
+a strange thing that you have forgot yourself. I
+your son, old trull! replied Abon Hassan; thou art
+mad, and knowest not what thou sayest: I am not
+<span class="pb" id="Page_296">[296]</span>
+Abon Hassan, I tell you, but the commander of the
+faithful.</p>
+<p>Hold your tongue, son, answered the mother; one
+would think you were a fool, to hear you talk thus.
+You are an old fool yourself, replied Abon Hassan:
+I tell you once more, I am the commander of the
+faithful, and God&rsquo;s vicar on earth. Ah! child, cried
+the mother, is it possible that I should hear you utter
+such words, that show you are distracted? What
+evil genius possesses you, to make you talk at this
+rate? God bless you, and preserve you from the
+power of Satan. You are my son Abon Hassan, and
+I am your mother.</p>
+<p>After she had made use of all the arguments she
+could think of to bring him to himself, and to show
+how great an error he was in, she said, Do not you
+see that the room you are now in is your own, and is
+not like a chamber fit for the commander of the
+believers? Think seriously of what I have said to
+you, and do not fancy things that are not, nor ever
+can be.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan heard all these remonstrances of his
+mother very patiently, holding down his eyes, and
+clapping his hands before his face, like one who was
+looking into himself to examine the truth of what he
+saw and heard. At last, said he to his mother, just
+as if he was come out of a deep sleep, and with his
+hands in the same posture, Methinks I am Abon
+Hassan, you are my mother, and I am in my own
+room. Then looking about him again, he added, I
+am Abon Hassan, there is no doubt of it; and I cannot
+comprehend how this fancy came into my head.</p>
+<p>The mother really believed that her son was cured
+of that disorder of mind, and began to laugh, and
+ask him questions about his dream; when, all on a
+sudden, he started up on his breech, and looking
+crossly at his mother, said, Old sorceress, thou
+<span class="pb" id="Page_297">[297]</span>
+knowest not what thou sayest. I am not thy son,
+nor thou my mother, but the commander of the
+faithful; and thou shalt never persuade me to the
+contrary. For heaven&rsquo;s sake, son, said the mother,
+let us leave off this discourse, and talk of something
+else, for fear some misfortune should happen to us. I
+will tell you what fell out yesterday in our division
+to the iman of the mosque, and the four scheiks our
+neighbours: the judge of the police came and seized
+them, and gave each of them I do not know how
+many strokes with a bull&rsquo;s pizzle; and afterwards led
+them through all the streets, with a crier before
+them, who proclaimed, that that was the punishment
+of all those who troubled themselves about other
+folks&rsquo; business, and set their neighbours at variance;
+and ordered them never to come into our division
+again. Abon Hassan&rsquo;s mother could not imagine
+that her son had any share in this adventure, and
+therefore turned the discourse this way to put him
+out of the conceit of being the commander of the
+faithful; but instead of effacing that idea, she rather
+strengthened it.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan no sooner heard this relation, than he
+cried out, I am neither thy son, nor Abon Hassan,
+but certainly the commander of the believers: I cannot
+doubt of it, after what you have told me. Know
+then, that it was by my order that the iman and the
+four scheiks were punished; and I tell you, I am
+certainly the commander of the faithful; therefore
+do not tell me any more of its being a dream. I was
+not asleep, but as much awake as I am now. You do
+me a pleasure to confirm what the judge of the police
+told me he had executed according to my order; and
+I am overjoyed that the iman and the four scheiks,
+those great hypocrites, were so chastised, and would
+be glad to know how I came here. God be praised
+for all things! I am certainly commander of the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_298">[298]</span>
+faithful, and all thy arguments shall not convince me
+to the contrary.</p>
+<p>The mother, who could not divine or imagine why
+her son supported and maintained himself so strenuously
+to be caliph, never disputed but that he had
+lost his senses, when she found he insisted so much
+upon a thing that was so incredible; and in this
+thought said, I pray God to have mercy upon you,
+son! pray do not talk so madly. Beseech God to
+forgive you, and give you grace to talk more reasonably.
+What would the world say to hear you rave
+in this manner? Do not you know, they say walls
+have ears?</p>
+<p>These remonstrances only enraged Abon Hassan
+the more; and he was so provoked at his mother,
+that he said, Old woman, I have bid you once already
+hold your tongue; if you do not, I shall rise
+and give you cause to repent it all your life-time. I
+am the caliph, and the commander of the believers;
+and you ought to believe me when I say so.</p>
+<p>Then the good woman perceiving that he was
+more lunatic than ever, abandoned herself to tears;
+and beating her face and breast, expressed the utmost
+grief and astonishment to see her son in that distraction.
+Abon Hassan, instead of appeasing and
+being moved by his mother&rsquo;s tears, on the contrary,
+lost all the respect due from a son to his mother;
+and getting up hastily, and laying hold of a cane, ran
+to his mother in great fury, and in a threatening
+manner said, Tell me presently, wicked woman, who
+I am. I do not believe, son, replied she, looking at
+him tenderly, and void of fear, that you are so abandoned
+by God as not to know your mother, who
+brought you into the world. Indeed you are my son
+Abon Hassan; and are very much in the wrong to
+arrogate to yourself the title of our sovereign lord the
+caliph Haroun Alraschid, after the noble and generous
+<span class="pb" id="Page_299">[299]</span>
+present that monarch made us yesterday. In
+short, I forgot to tell you, that the grand vizier Giafar
+came to me yesterday, and putting a purse of a
+thousand pieces of gold into my hands, bade me pray
+for the commander of the faithful, who made me that
+present.</p>
+<p>At these words, Abon Hassan grew quite mad.
+The circumstance of the caliph&rsquo;s liberality his mother
+told him of, persuaded him more than ever that he
+was caliph, remembering how he had sent the vizier.
+Well, old hag, cried he, will you be convinced when
+I tell you that I sent you those thousand pieces of
+gold by my grand vizier Giafar, who obeyed my
+commands, as I was commander of the faithful? But,
+instead of believing me, thou endeavourest to distract
+me by thy contradictions, and maintainest with obstinacy
+that I am thy son; but thou shalt not go long
+unpunished. After these words, he was so unnatural,
+in the height of his frenzy, as to beat her cruelly with
+his cane.</p>
+<p>The poor mother, who could not have thought that
+her son would have come so soon from words to
+blows, called out for help so loud, that the neighbours
+ran in to her assistance. But in the mean
+time, Abon Hassan, at every stroke, asked her if
+he was the commander of the faithful. To which she
+always answered tenderly, that he was her son.</p>
+<p>By the time the neighbours came in, Abon Hassan&rsquo;s
+rage began to abate. The first who entered
+the room got between him and his mother; and taking
+the cane out of his hand, said to him, What are
+you doing, Abon Hassan? Have you no fear of God,
+nor reason? Did ever a son, so well brought up as
+you, ever dare to strike his mother? Are you not
+ashamed to treat yours so, who loves you so tenderly?
+Abon Hassan looked at him that spoke, without
+returning an answer; and then staring on all
+<span class="pb" id="Page_300">[300]</span>
+that followed him, said, Who is that Abon Hassan
+you speak of? Is it me you call by that name?</p>
+<p>This question put the neighbours a little to a stand.
+How! said he that spoke first, do not you know your
+mother, who brought you up, and with whom you
+have always lived? Be gone, you are impertinent
+people, replied Abon Hassan; I neither know her
+nor you, and will not know you; I am not Abon Hassan;
+but will make you know, to your cost, I am the
+commander of the faithful.</p>
+<p>At this discourse, the neighbours no longer doubted
+but that he was mad; and to prevent his being guilty
+of the like actions, seized him, notwithstanding his
+resistance, and bound him hand and foot, while one
+in the mean time ran for the keeper of the hospital for
+mad folks, who came presently with a bull&rsquo;s pizzle,
+chains, and handcuffs, and a great many attendants.
+When they entered the room, Abon Hassan, who little
+expected such treatment, endeavoured all he could to
+unloose himself; but after the keeper had given him
+two or three smart strokes upon his shoulders with
+the bull&rsquo;s pizzle, he lay so quiet, that the keeper and
+his people might do what they would with him; who
+as soon as they had bound and manacled him, took
+him with them to the hospital; where, before the
+keeper put him into a room, he regaled him with fifty
+strokes of the bull&rsquo;s pizzle on his shoulders, which he
+repeated every day without pity for three weeks,
+bidding him to remember that he was not the commander
+of the faithful.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan&rsquo;s mother went every day to see her
+son, and could not forbear crying to see him fall away
+daily, and to hear him sigh and complain at the hardships
+he endured. In short, his shoulders, back, and
+sides were so black and blue and bruized, that he
+could not turn himself. His mother would willingly
+have talked with him, to comfort him, and to sound
+<span class="pb" id="Page_301">[301]</span>
+him whether he still retained the notion of being caliph;
+but whenever she opened her mouth, he rebuked
+her with so much fury, that she was forced to leave
+him, and return home disconsolate at his obstinacy.</p>
+<p>At last those strong and lively ideas which Abon
+Hassan entertained of being clothed in the caliph&rsquo;s
+habit, and having used all his authority, and being
+obeyed very punctually, and treated like the true caliph,
+and which persuaded him when he waked that
+he was so, all began to be insensibly effaced. Sometimes
+he would say to himself, If I was the caliph,
+and commander of the believers, how came I home
+dressed in my own apparel? Why should I not have
+been attended by eunuchs and ladies? Why should
+my grand Vizier Giafar, and all those emirs and
+governors of provinces, who prostrated themselves at
+my feet, forsake me? Undoubtedly if I had any
+authority over them, they would have delivered me all
+this time out of this miserable condition I am in: certainly
+I ought to look upon all this as a dream. It is
+true, I commanded the judge of the police to punish
+the iman and four old men his companions: I ordered
+Giafar the grand vizier to carry my mother a thousand
+pieces of gold: and all my commands were executed.
+All these things are obstacles to my believing it a
+dream; but yet there are so many things that I cannot
+comprehend, nor ever shall, that I will put my trust
+in God, who knows all things.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan was taken up with these thoughts
+and sentiments, when his mother came to see him,
+who found him so much altered and changed from
+what he had been, that she let fall a torrent of tears;
+in the midst of which she saluted him as she used to
+do, and he returned her salute, which he had never
+done before while he had been in the hospital. This
+civility she looked upon to be a good sign. Well, son,
+said she, how do you do, and how do you find yourself?
+<span class="pb" id="Page_302">[302]</span>
+Have you renounced all those whims and fancies
+which some cursed demon had put into your head?
+Indeed, mother, replied Abon Hassan, very rationally
+and calmly, I acknowledge my error, and beg of you
+to forgive the execrable crime which I have been
+guilty of towards you, and which I detest. I ask pardon
+also of my neighbours whom I have abused. I
+have been deceived by a dream; but by so extraordinary
+a one, and so like to truth, that any other person,
+to whom such a thing might have happened, would
+have been guilty of as great extravagances: and I am
+at this instant so much perplexed about it, that I can
+hardly persuade myself but that it was matter of
+fact. But whatever it was, I do and always will look
+upon it as a dream and illusion. I am convinced that
+I am not that shadow of a caliph and commander of
+the faithful, but Abon Hassan, your son; and shall
+never forget that fatal day which covered me with
+shame and confusion; but honour and respect you all
+my life as I ought.</p>
+<p>At these sensible words, the mother of Abon Hassan
+changed the tears of her sorrow and affliction into
+those of joy, to find her son so well recovered. My
+dear child, said she, transported with pleasure, my
+satisfaction and comfort is inexpressible, to hear you
+talk so reasonably, and gives me as much joy as if I
+had brought you into the world a second time. But
+I must observe one thing in this adventure, which you
+may not have taken notice of: the stranger that you
+brought home one night to sup with you, went away
+without shutting the chamber-door after him as you
+desired him; which I believe gave some demon an
+opportunity to enter, and put you into that horrible
+illusion you were in: and therefore, my son, you ought
+to return God thanks for your deliverance, and beseech
+him to keep you out of the snares of the evil
+spirit.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_303">[303]</div>
+<p>You have found out the source of my misfortunes,
+answered Abon Hassan; it was that very night I had
+this dream, which turned my brain. I bade the merchant
+expressly to shut the door after him; and now
+I find he did not do it. I am persuaded, as well as
+you, some devil came in, and filled my head full of
+these fancies. For they at Moussel are not so well
+convinced that the devil is the cause of troublesome
+dreams, as we are at Bagdad. But since, mother,
+you see I am so well recovered, for God&rsquo;s sake get me
+out of this hellish place. The mother, glad to find
+her son so well cured of his foolish imagination of
+being caliph, went immediately to the keeper, and
+assuring him that he was very sensible and well, he
+came and examined him, and afterwards gave him his
+liberty.</p>
+<p>When Abon Hassan came home, he staid within
+doors some days, to comfort himself by better food and
+nourishment than what he had at the hospital. But
+when he had recovered his strength, and refreshed
+himself after his harsh treatment, he began to be
+weary with spending his evenings alone, and so entered
+again upon the same way of living as before;
+which was to provide enough every day to regale a
+stranger at night.</p>
+<p>The day on which Abon Hassan renewed this custom,
+happened to be the first day of the month, which
+was the day that the caliph always sets apart to go
+disguised through the town, to observe what irregularities
+were committed in the government of the city.
+Towards the evening he went to the bridge, and set
+himself on a bench which was fixed to the parapet;
+where, looking about him, he perceived the caliph
+disguised again like a Moussel merchant, and followed
+by the same slave: and, persuaded that all his
+misfortunes were owing to the caliph&rsquo;s leaving his
+door open, whom he took for a merchant, he swooned
+<span class="pb" id="Page_304">[304]</span>
+at the sight of him. God preserve me, said he to
+himself; if I am not deceived, there is the magician
+again that enchanted me! and thereupon got up, and
+looked over the parapet into the river, that he might
+not see him.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who had a mind to carry on his joke
+farther, had taken a great deal of care to inform himself
+of all that had happened when Abon Hassan
+waked at home, and conceived a great pleasure at the
+relation given him, especially at his being sent to a
+mad-house. But that monarch was both just and generous,
+and had taken a great liking to Abon Hassan:
+he designed, after he had carried on this scene, to take
+him into his palace; and to pursue this project, he
+had dressed himself again like a merchant of Moussel.
+He perceived Abon Hassan at the same time that he
+saw him, and presently guessed by his actions that he
+was angry with him, and wanted to shun him. This
+made him walk close to the parapet Abon Hassan
+leaned over; and when he came nigh him, he put his
+head over to look him in the face. Ah, brother Abon
+Hassan, said he, is it you? give me leave to embrace
+you. Not I, replied Abon Hassan roughly, without
+looking at the pretended Moussel merchant: I will
+not embrace you; I have nothing to say to you; go
+along.</p>
+<p>What! answered the caliph, do you not know me?
+Do you not remember the evening we spent together
+at your house this day month, where you did me the
+honour to treat me very generously? No, replied
+Abon Hassan, I do not know you, nor what you talk
+about: go, I say again, about your business.</p>
+<p>The caliph was not to be dashed with this rude
+behaviour of Abon Hassan. He knew very well the
+law he had imposed on himself, never to have any
+commerce again with a stranger he had once entertained;
+but though Abon Hassan had declared so
+<span class="pb" id="Page_305">[305]</span>
+much to him, he pretended to be ignorant of it. I
+cannot believe, said he, but you must know me again;
+it is not possible that you should have forgot me in
+so short a time. Certainly some misfortune has befallen
+you, which gives you this aversion. However,
+you ought to remember that I show my acknowledgment
+by my good wishes; and that I have offered you
+my interest, which is not despicable, in an affair which
+you had very much at heart.</p>
+<p>I do not know, replied Abon Hassan, what your
+interest may be, and I have no desire to make use of
+it; but I am sensible the utmost of your wishes was
+to make me mad. In God&rsquo;s name, I say once more,
+go your way, and trouble me no more.</p>
+<p>Ah! brother Abon Hassan, replied the caliph, embracing
+him, I do not intend to part with you in this
+manner, since I have had the good fortune to meet
+with you a second time: you must exercise the same
+hospitality towards me again that you showed me
+a month ago, when I had the honour to drink with
+you.</p>
+<p>I have protested against it, said Abon Hassan, and
+have so much power over myself as not to receive such
+a man as you. You know the proverb, Take up your
+drum and be gone: make the application to yourself.
+God be with you; you have been the cause of my
+misfortune, and I will not venture myself with you
+again. My good friend Abon Hassan, said the caliph,
+embracing him again, I beg of you not to treat me
+after this injurious manner, but be better persuaded
+of my friendship. Do me the favour to tell me what
+has happened to you; for I assure you, I wish you
+well, and would be glad of an opportunity to make you
+amends for the trouble I have caused you, if it has
+been actually my fault. Abon Hassan yielded to the
+pressing instances of the caliph, and bade him sit down
+by him. Your incredulity and importunity have tired
+<span class="pb" id="Page_306">[306]</span>
+my patience; and what I am going to tell you, will
+show you that I do not accuse you wrongfully.</p>
+<p>The caliph sat down by Abon Hassan, while he
+told him all that happened to him, from his waking
+in the palace to his waking again in his own house,
+all as a mere dream, with all the circumstances, which
+the caliph knew as well as himself, and which renewed
+his pleasure. He exaggerated afterwards upon the
+impression that dream of being caliph made upon him,
+which, he said, threw him into such extravagances,
+that he was carried to the mad-house, and used very
+barbarously. But, said he, what will surprise you,
+and what you little think of, is, that it was altogether
+your fault that these things fell out: for, if you remember,
+I desired you to shut the door after you,
+which you neglected; and some devil finding it open,
+put this dream into my head, which, though it was
+very agreeable, was the cause of the misfortune I complain
+of; therefore you, for your negligence, are answerable
+for the horrid and detestable crime I was
+guilty of, in lifting my hand against my mother, whom
+I might have killed, and committed parricide, because
+she said I was her son, and she would not acknowledge
+me for the commander of the faithful: besides,
+I blush when I think of it, and that all my neighbours
+were witnesses of my folly. In short, Abon Hassan
+complained of his misfortunes with great heat and
+vehemence, and did not forget the least circumstance;
+which pleased the caliph to find he had succeeded so
+well, who could not help bursting out a-laughing at
+the simplicity wherewith he related them.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan, who thought that his story should
+rather move compassion, and that every one ought to
+be as much concerned at it as himself, very much resented
+the pretended Moussel merchant&rsquo;s laughter.
+What! said he, do you make a jest of me, to laugh in
+my face, or do you believe that I do not speak seriously?
+<span class="pb" id="Page_307">[307]</span>
+If you want proofs of what I advance, look
+and see whether or no I tell you the truth: with that,
+stooping down, and baring his shoulders, he showed
+the caliph the strokes and weals the bull&rsquo;s pizzle had
+made.</p>
+<p>The caliph could not behold these objects of horror
+without pitying poor Abon Hassan, and being sorry
+for carrying the jest so far. Come, rise, dear brother,
+said he, hugging Abon Hassan friendly in his arms;
+let me go and enjoy the happiness of being merry with
+you to-night; and to-morrow, if it please God, all
+things will go well.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan, notwithstanding his resolution and
+oath, could not resist the caliph&rsquo;s caresses. I will
+consent, said he to the pretended merchant, if you
+will swear to shut my door after you, that no demon
+may come in to distract my brain again. The caliph
+promised that he would; upon which they both got
+up, and, followed by the caliph&rsquo;s slave, reached Abon
+Hassan&rsquo;s house by the time it was dark.</p>
+<p>As soon as Abon Hassan entered the doors, he
+called for candles, and desired his guest to sit down
+upon a sofa, and then placed himself by him. A little
+time after, supper was brought up, and they both fell
+to without ceremony: afterwards there came up a
+small dessert of fruit, wine, and glasses. Abon Hassan
+first filled out his glass, and then the caliph&rsquo;s;
+and after they had drunk some time, and talked of
+indifferent matters, the caliph perceiving that his host
+grew warm with liquor, began to talk of love, and
+asked him if he had never been sensible of that passion.</p>
+<p>Brother, replied Abon Hassan familiarly, I never
+looked upon love or marriage but as bondage or slavery,
+to which I was always unwilling to submit; and
+must own to you that I never loved any thing but
+<span class="pb" id="Page_308">[308]</span>
+good cheer and good wine; in short, to divert and
+entertain myself agreeably with my friends. But yet
+I do not tell you that I am so indifferent for marriage,
+or incapable of an inclination, if I could meet with a
+woman of such beauty and sweetness of temper as
+those I saw in my dream that fatal night I first saw
+you, and received you into my house, and you, to my
+misfortune, left my door open, who would pass the
+whole night with me, drinking, and singing, and playing
+on some instrument, and who would study to
+please and divert me: I believe, on the contrary, I
+should change all my indifference to a perfect attachment
+to such a person, and I believe should live very
+happily with her. But where is such a woman to be
+found, but in the caliph&rsquo;s palace, or in those of the
+grand vizier, or some other great lords of the court,
+who want no money? I choose rather to stick close to
+my bottle, which is a pleasure much cheaper, and
+which I can enjoy as well as they. In saying, these
+words, he filled out his own and the caliph&rsquo;s glass,
+and said, Come, take your glass, and let us pursue this
+charming pleasure.</p>
+<p>When they had drunk off their wine, It is a great
+pity, said the caliph, that so gallant a man as you,
+who owns himself not insensible of love, should lead
+so solitary a life. I prefer the easy quiet life I live,
+replied Abon Hassan, before the company of a wife,
+whose beauty might not please, and who, besides,
+might create me a great deal of trouble by her imperfections,
+and perhaps ill humour. This subject lasted
+a long time; and the caliph, seeing Abon Hassan had
+drunk up to the pitch he wanted to have him, said,
+Let me alone; since you have so good a taste, I warrant
+you I will find you one that shall please you:
+and then taking Abon Hassan&rsquo;s glass, and putting a
+pinch of the same powder into it again, filled him up
+<span class="pb" id="Page_309">[309]</span>
+a bumper, and presenting it to him, said, Come, let
+us drink first the fair lady&rsquo;s health who is to make you
+happy.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan took the glass laughing, and shaking
+his head, said, Come, I will drink the lady&rsquo;s health you
+promised me, though I am very well contented as I
+am, and do not rely on your promise; but cannot be
+guilty of so great a piece of incivility, as to disoblige
+a guest of so much merit, in such a trifling matter.
+But as soon as he had drunk off his liquor, he was
+seized with as deep a sleep as before; and the caliph
+ordered the same slave to take him and carry him to
+the palace, and in the mean time shut the door after
+him, as he had promised, and followed him.</p>
+<p>When they arrived at the palace, the caliph ordered
+Abon Hassan to be laid on a sofa, in the fourth
+hall, from whence he was carried home: but first he
+bade them put him in the same habit which he acted
+the caliph in. After that, he charged all the eunuchs;
+officers, ladies, and musicians, who were in the hall
+when he drank the last glass of wine, to be there by
+daybreak, and to take care to act their parts well;
+and then went to bed, charging Mesrour to wake him
+before they went into the hall, that he might hide himself
+in the closet as before.</p>
+<p>Mesrour wakened the caliph at the hour appointed;
+who immediately rose, and went to the hall where
+Abon Hassan was laid fast asleep; and when he had
+placed himself in his closet, Mesrour and the other
+officers and ladies placed themselves about the sofa,
+so that the caliph might see what passed.</p>
+<p>Things being thus disposed, and the caliph&rsquo;s powder
+having had its effect, Abon Hassan began to stir,
+and the music to play a very agreeable concert. Abon
+Hassan was in a great surprise to hear that charming
+harmony; but when he opened his eyes, and saw the
+ladies and officers about him, and which he thought
+<span class="pb" id="Page_310">[310]</span>
+he knew again, his amazement was redoubled. The
+hall that he was in seemed to be the same he dreamed
+of; and he observed the same branches, and the same
+furniture and ornaments.</p>
+<p>When the concert was ended, he bit his finger and
+cried loud enough for the caliph to hear him, Alas!
+I am fallen again into the same dream and illusion
+that happened to me a month ago, and must expect
+again the bull&rsquo;s pizzle and mad-house. Almighty
+God, added he, I commit myself into the hands of thy
+divine providence. He was a wicked man that I entertained
+at my house last night, who has been the
+cause of this illusion, and the miserable hardships I
+must undergo. The base wretch swore to shut the
+door after him, and he did not do it; and the devil
+came in, and filled my head full of this wicked dream
+of being commander of the faithful, and other phantoms,
+which bewitch my eyes. May thou be confounded,
+Satan, and crushed under some mountain!</p>
+<p>After these words, Abon Hassan closed his eyes,
+and remained some time thoughtful, and very much
+perplexed; then opening them again, and looking
+about him, cried out a second time, Great God! I
+commit myself into the hands of thy providence; preserve
+me from the temptation of Satan. Then shutting
+them again, he said, All that I know is, I will
+go and sleep till Satan leaves me, and returns as he
+came; when one of the ladies approached, and sitting
+down on a sofa by him, said to him, Commander of the
+Faithful, I beg of your majesty to forgive me for taking
+the liberty to tell you not to go to sleep; day appears,
+and it is time to rise. Be gone, Satan! answered
+Abon Hassan, raising his voice: but looking upon
+the lady, he said, Is it I you call the commander of
+the faithful? Certainly you take me for somebody
+else. It is to your majesty I give that title, replied the
+lady, to whom it belongs, as you are sovereign of the
+<span class="pb" id="Page_311">[311]</span>
+world and the Mussulmans, and I am your most humble
+slave. Undoubtedly your majesty, added she,
+pretends to have forgot yourself, or this is the effect
+of some troublesome dream; but if you would but
+open your eyes, the mists which may disturb your
+imagination will soon be dispelled, and you will find
+yourself in your own palace, surrounded by your officers
+and slaves, who all wait your commands: and
+that your majesty may not be surprised to find yourself
+in this hall, and not in bed, I beg leave to tell
+you, that you fell so suddenly asleep last night, that
+we were unwilling to wake you, to conduct you to
+your own chamber, but laid you carefully upon this
+sofa. In short, she urged so many things to him that
+were so very probable, that at last he sat upon his
+breech, and knew all the ladies again. Then she who
+spoke first, assuming the discourse, said, Commander
+of the Faithful, and the prophet&rsquo;s vicar on earth, be
+not displeased if I acquaint your majesty once more,
+that it is time to rise, for day appears.</p>
+<p>You are very troublesome and importunate, replied
+Abon Hassan, rubbing his eyes: I am not the commander
+of the faithful, but Abon Hassan; and you
+shall not persuade me otherwise. We do not know
+that Abon Hassan your majesty speaks of, answered
+the lady; but know you to be the commander of the
+believers.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan looking about, and finding himself in
+the same hall, attributed all he saw and heard to be
+such a dream as he had before, and feared very much
+the dreadful consequences. Heaven have mercy on
+me! said he, lifting up his hands and eyes, like a man
+who knew not where he was; after what I have seen,
+there is no dispute but that devil who came into my
+chamber possesses me, and fills my imagination full
+of all these visions.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who saw him all the time, and heard
+<span class="pb" id="Page_312">[312]</span>
+these exclamations, almost killed himself with laughing;
+and had much ado to forbear bursting out into
+so loud a laughter, that the false caliph must have
+heard him.</p>
+<p>Afterwards Abon Hassan laid himself down again,
+and shutting his eyes, the same lady said again, Since
+your majesty does not rise, after we have, according
+to our duty, told you it was day, and the dispatch of
+business requires your presence, we shall use the liberty
+you give us in such like cases. Then taking
+him by one arm, and calling to one of the other ladies
+to do the same by the other, they lifted him up, and
+carried him into the middle of the hall, where they set
+him on his breech, and all taking hands, danced round
+him while the music played.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan was in an inexpressible perplexity of
+mind, and said, What! am I indeed caliph, and commander
+of the faithful? and in the uncertainty he was
+in, would have said something more, but the music was
+so loud that he could not be heard. At last he made
+a sign to two of the ladies who were dancing, that he
+wanted to speak with them; upon which they forbore,
+and went to him. Do not lie, now, said he, but
+tell me truly who I am.</p>
+<p>Commander of the Faithful, replied one of the ladies,
+your majesty would either surprise us by asking this
+question, or else you must have had some very extraordinary
+dream to-night; which may very well be,
+considering that your majesty has slept longer to-night
+than ordinary: however, if you will give me leave, I
+will refresh your memory with what passed yesterday.
+Then she told him how he went to the council, punished
+the iman and the four old men, and sent a present
+by his grand vizier, of a thousand pieces of gold,
+to the mother of one Abon Hassan: after that, continued
+she, your majesty dined in the three halls, and,
+in the fourth, did us the honour to make us sit down
+<span class="pb" id="Page_313">[313]</span>
+by you, to hear our songs, and receive wine from our
+hands, till your majesty fell so fast asleep, that you
+never awaked, contrary to custom, before day. All
+your slaves and officers can confirm what I say; and
+it is now time you should go to prayers.</p>
+<p>Very well, replied Abon Hassan, shaking his head,
+you would have me believe all this but I can tell
+you, you are all fools or mad; and that is a great pity,
+for you are very handsome: for I can tell you, that
+since I saw you, I have been at home, where I used
+my mother so ill, that they sent me to a mad-house,
+and kept me three weeks, and beat me every day with
+a bull&rsquo;s pizzle; and yet you would make me believe
+all this to be a dream. Commander of the Faithful
+answered the lady, we are all ready to swear by what
+your majesty holds most dear, that all you tell is a
+dream; for you never stirred out of this hall since
+yesterday, but slept here all night long.</p>
+<p>The confidence with which the lady assured Abon
+Hassan that all she said was truth, and that he had
+never been out of the hall since that time, made him
+not to know what to believe, but bewildered his senses.
+O Heaven! said he to himself, am I Abon Hassan,
+or the commander of the faithful? Almighty God, enlighten
+my understanding, and inform me of the truth.
+Then he bared his shoulders, and showed the ladies
+the livid weals. Look, and judge, said he, whether
+these strokes could come to me in a dream, or when
+I was asleep. For my part, I can affirm that they
+were real blows; for I feel the smart of them yet, and
+that is a testimonial there is no room to doubt of.
+Now, if I received these strokes in my sleep, it is the
+most surprising and extraordinary thing in the world,
+and what I cannot understand.</p>
+<p>In this uncertainty, Abon Hassan called to one of
+the officers that stood round him: Come hither, said
+he, and bite the tip of my ear, that I may know whether
+<span class="pb" id="Page_314">[314]</span>
+I am asleep or awake. The officer obeyed him,
+and bit so hard that he made him cry out horridly:
+the music struck up at the same time, and the officers
+and ladies all began to dance, and skip about Abon
+Hassan, and made such a noise, that he was in a perfect
+enthusiasm, and played a thousand merry tricks.
+He tore off his caliph&rsquo;s habit, threw off his turban,
+and jumped up in his shirt and drawers, and taking
+hold of two of the ladies&rsquo; hands, fell a-dancing and
+singing, and jumping and cutting capers, that the caliph
+could not contain himself, but burst into so violent
+a laughter at this sudden pleasantry of Abon
+Hassan&rsquo;s, that he fell backwards, and made a greater
+noise than the musicians and all of them together,
+and lay in that condition for some time. At last he
+got up again, and putting out his head, cried out,
+Abon Hassan, Abon Hassan, what! have you a mind
+to kill me with laughing?</p>
+<p>As soon as the caliph&rsquo;s voice was heard, every body
+was silent, and Abon Hassan among the rest; who,
+turning his head to see from whence the voice came,
+knew the caliph and the Moussel merchant, but was
+not in the least dashed; but, on the contrary, found
+that he was awake, and all that had happened to him
+was matter of fact, and not a dream. He entered into
+the caliph&rsquo;s pleasantry and intentions: Ha! ha!
+said he, looking at him with a good assurance, you
+are a merchant of Moussel, and complain that I would
+kill you, who have been the occasion of my using my
+mother so ill, and being sent to a mad-house. It was
+you who treated the iman and the four scheiks in the
+manner they were used, and not I; I wash my hands
+of it. It was you who have been the cause of all my
+disorders: in short, you are the aggressor, and I the
+injured person.</p>
+<p>Indeed you are in the right of it, Abon Hassan, answered
+the caliph, laughing all the while; but to
+<span class="pb" id="Page_315">[315]</span>
+comfort thee, and make thee amends for all thy troubles,
+I call Heaven to witness, I am ready and willing
+to make thee what reparation thou pleasest to ask.
+After these words, he came out of the closet into the
+hall, and ordered one of his most magnificent habits
+to be brought, and commanded the ladies to dress
+Abon Hassan in it; and when they had done so, he
+said, embracing him, Thou art my brother; ask what
+thou wilt, and thou shalt have it.</p>
+<p>Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan,
+I beg of your majesty to do me the favour to tell me
+what you did to disturb my brain in that manner, and
+what was your design; for that is a thing of the
+greatest importance for me to know, that I may perfectly
+recover my senses.</p>
+<p>The caliph promised to give him that satisfaction,
+and said, First you ought to know, that I often disguise
+myself, and particularly at night, to observe
+what irregularities are committed in Bagdad; besides,
+I set apart the first day of every month to make
+a tour about it, sometimes on one side and sometimes
+on another, but always return by the bridge.
+That evening that you invited me to supper, I had
+been taking my rounds; and in our discourse you told
+me, that the only thing you wished for was to be caliph
+for four and twenty hours, to punish the iman of
+your mosque and his four counsellors. I fancied that
+this desire of thine would afford me a great deal of
+diversion, and thought immediately how I might procure
+thee that satisfaction. I had about me a certain
+powder, which throws immediately the person that
+takes it into a sound sleep for such a time. I put a
+dose of it, without being perceived by thee, into the
+last glass I presented to thee; upon which you fell
+fast asleep, and I ordered my slave to carry you to
+my palace, and came away without shutting the door.
+<span class="pb" id="Page_316">[316]</span>
+I have no occasion to repeat what happened at my
+palace when you waked: but after you had been regaled
+all day, one of the slaves, by my order, put
+another dose of the same powder at night into a glass
+she gave you; you fell asleep as before, and the same
+slave carried you home, and left the door open. You
+told me all that happened to you afterwards. I never
+imagined that you could have suffered so much as you
+have done. But as I have a great regard for you, I
+will make you amends; and that you may have no
+cause to remember your ill treatment, think of what
+would please you, and ask me boldly for it.</p>
+<p>Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan,
+how great soever my tortures may have been, they
+were all blotted out of my remembrance, as soon as
+I understood my sovereign lord had any share in
+them, and doubt not in the least of your majesty&rsquo;s
+bounty; but as interest had never any sway over me,
+and I have the liberty to ask a favour, I beg that it
+may be that of having access to your person, to have
+the happiness of admiring, all my life-time, your
+grandeur.</p>
+<p>This last proof of Abon Hassan&rsquo;s generosity completed
+the esteem the caliph had entertained for him.
+I am mightily pleased with thy request, said the caliph,
+and grant thee free access to my person at all
+times and all hours. In short, he assigned him an
+apartment in the palace; and, in regard to his pension,
+told him, that he would not have him to have any
+thing to do with his treasurer, but to come always to
+him for an order upon him. Abon Hassan made a
+low bow, and the caliph left him to go to council.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan made use of this time to go and inform
+his mother of his good fortune, and what had
+happened, which, he told her, was not a dream; for
+that he had actually been caliph, and had acted as
+<span class="pb" id="Page_317">[317]</span>
+such, and received all the honours; and that she had
+no reason to doubt of it, since he had it confirmed, by
+the caliph himself.</p>
+<p>It was not long before this new story of Abon Hassan
+was spread all about Bagdad, and was carried
+into all the provinces both far and near, and not one
+single circumstance scarce omitted.</p>
+<p>The new favourite Abon Hassan was always with
+the caliph; for as he was a man of a pleasant temper,
+and created mirth by all his words and actions, the
+caliph could not live without him, and often carried
+him along with him to see his spouse Zobeide, to
+whom he told his story, and who was mightily pleased
+with him, and observed that every time he came with
+the caliph he had his eyes always fixed upon one of
+her slaves, called Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, (which is to
+say, Renewed Pleasure,) and resolved to tell the caliph
+of it. Commander of the Faithful, said that
+princess one day, you do not observe so well as I,
+that every time Abon Hassan attends you in your
+visits to me, he never keeps his eyes off Nouz-hatoul-aonadat,
+and makes her blush, which is almost a certain
+sign that she entertains no aversion for him. If
+you approve of it, we will make a match between
+them.</p>
+<p>Madam, replied the caliph, you put me in mind of
+a thing which I ought to have done before now. I
+know Abon Hassan&rsquo;s taste of marriage from himself,
+and have always promised him a wife that should
+please him. I am glad you mentioned it, for I know
+not how I came to forget it. But it is better that
+Abon Hassan has followed his own inclination, and
+chose for himself; and if Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is not
+averse to it, we ought not to hesitate upon their marriage;
+and since they are both present, let them declare
+that they give consent.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan threw himself at the caliph&rsquo;s and
+<span class="pb" id="Page_318">[318]</span>
+Zobeide&rsquo;s feet, to show the sense he had of their
+bounty; and, rising up, said, I cannot receive a wife
+from better hands, but dare not hope that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+will give me hers. After these words,
+he looked upon the princess&rsquo;s slave, who showed, by
+her respectful silence, and the sudden blush that rose
+in her cheeks, that she was disposed to obey the caliph
+and her mistress Zobeide.</p>
+<p>The marriage was solemnized, and the nuptials celebrated
+in the palace, with great rejoicings, which
+lasted several days. Zobeide, in respect to the caliph,
+made her slave considerable presents, and the
+caliph did the same to Abon Hassan. The bride was
+conducted to the apartment the caliph had assigned
+Abon Hassan, who waited for her with all the impatience
+of a bridegroom, and received her with the
+sounding of trumpets and all sorts of instruments,
+which played in concert, and made the air echo again
+their sweet and harmonious notes.</p>
+<p>After these feasts and rejoicings, which lasted several
+days, the new-married couple were left to pursue
+their loves peaceably. Abon Hassan and his
+spouse were charmed with each other, and lived together
+in perfect union, and seldom were asunder,
+but when either he paid his respects to the caliph, or
+she to Zobeide. Indeed Nouz-hatoul-aonadat was
+endued with all the qualifications capable of gaining
+Abon Hassan&rsquo;s love and attachment, and was just
+such a wife as he desired; therefore they could want
+nothing to render their lives agreeable. They always
+ate the nicest and choicest rarities in season, and had
+the best meats tossed up in fricasees and ragouts, &amp;c.
+by an excellent cook, who took upon him to provide
+every thing. Their beaufet was always stored with
+exquisite wines. At dinner they enjoyed themselves
+in this manner, and afterwards entertained each other
+with some pleasantry or other: and in the evenings,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_319">[319]</span>
+which they consecrated to mirth, they had generally
+some slight repast of dried sweetmeats, choice
+fruits, and other light meats, and invited each other
+by songs and catches to drink, and sometimes played
+to their voices on a lute, or other instruments which
+they could touch.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan and Nouz-hatoul-aonadat lived a
+long time in this manner, when the caterer, who disbursed
+the money for these expenses, put them in
+mind that he had gone his length, and parted with all
+his money; which they found, but too late, to be so
+considerable a sum, that all the presents that the caliph
+and the princess Zobeide had given them at their
+marriage, were but just enough to pay him. This
+made them reflect on what was past, and which at
+that time they could not remedy. However, they
+agreed to pay the cook; and sent for him, and paid
+him all they owed him, without showing the least
+trouble.</p>
+<p>The caterer went away very well pleased to receive
+so large a sum of money, though Abon Hassan and
+his wife were not so over-well satisfied with seeing
+the bottom of their purse, but remained a long time
+silent and very much embarrassed, to find themselves
+reduced to that condition the first year of their marriage.
+Abon Hassan remembered very well that the
+caliph, when he took him into the palace, promised
+never to let him want any thing. But when he considered
+how prodigal he had been of his money in so
+short a time, he was unwilling to expose himself to
+the shame of telling the caliph the ill use he had made
+of what he had given him, and that he wanted more.
+Besides, he had made over his patrimony to his mother,
+as soon as the caliph had received him nigh his
+person; and was afraid to go to her, lest she should
+find that he had returned to the same extravagance he
+had been guilty of after his father&rsquo;s death. His wife,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_320">[320]</span>
+on the other hand, looked upon Zobeide&rsquo;s generosity,
+and the liberty she had given her to marry, as more
+than a sufficient recompense for her service, and
+thought she could not ask any more.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan at last broke silence, and looking
+upon his wife, said, I see you are in the same embarrassment
+as myself, and am thinking what we must do
+in this unhappy juncture. I do not know what your
+sentiments may be; but mine are, let what will happen,
+not to retrench our expenses in the least; and, I
+believe you will come into my opinion: the point is,
+how to support them without asking the caliph or Zobeide;
+and I fancy I have thought on the means: but
+we must both assist each other.</p>
+<p>This discourse of Abon Hassan&rsquo;s very much pleased
+his wife, and gave her great hopes. I was thinking
+so as well as you, said she; but durst not explain my
+thoughts, because I did not know how to help ourselves;
+and must confess, that what you tell me gives
+me a great deal of pleasure. But since you say you
+have found out a way, and my assistance is necessary,
+you need but to tell me, and I will do all that lies in
+my power.</p>
+<p>I believe, replied Abon Hassan, that you will not
+fail in this affair, which concerns us both; and therefore
+I must tell you this want of money has made me
+think of a trick we will put upon the caliph and Zobeide,
+and at which, I am sure, they will both be
+pleased, and be diverted with the cheat; which is,
+you and I will both die. Not I indeed, interrupted
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat; you may die by yourself, if you
+will. I am not so weary of this life; and whether
+you are pleased or not, will not die so soon. If you
+have nothing else to propose than that, you may do it
+by yourself; for I shall not meddle with it.</p>
+<p>You are so quick and hasty, replied Abon Hassan,
+that you will not give me time to explain my meaning:
+<span class="pb" id="Page_321">[321]</span>
+have but a little patience, and you shall find that
+you will be ready enough; for sure you did not think
+I meant a real death. Well, said his wife, if it is but
+sham death you design, I am at your service, and
+you may depend on my zeal: but I must tell you
+truly, I am very unwilling to die as I apprehended
+you meant at first.</p>
+<p>Be but easy a little, said Abon Hassan, and I will
+tell you what I propose. I will feign myself dead,
+and you shall lay me out on a white sheet, in the middle
+of my chamber, with my feet towards Mecca, and
+my turban upon my face, just ready to be buried.
+When you have done so, you must cry and take on,
+as is usual in such cases, and tear your clothes, and
+with your hair loose about your ears, go to Zobeide.
+The princess will ask you the cause of your grief; and
+when you have told her, with words intermixed with
+sighs, she will pity you, and give you some money to
+defray the expense of my funeral, and a piece of gold
+brocade, to cover my body with, that my interment
+may be the more magnificent, and to make you a
+habit in the room of that you had torn; and as soon
+as you return with the money and the brocade, I will
+get up and lay you in my place, and go and act the
+same part with the caliph as you have done with Zobeide;
+and I dare say the caliph will be as generous
+to me as Zobeide will be to you.</p>
+<p>Nouz-hatoul-aonadat liked this project very well,
+and said to Abon Hassan, Come, lose no time; strip
+to your shirt and breeches, while I prepare a sheet.
+Abon Hassan did as his wife bade him, and laid himself
+all along on his back, with his feet towards Mecca,
+on the sheet which his wife spread on the carpet, just
+in the middle of the room. As soon as he had crossed
+his arms, his wife wrapped him up, and put a fine
+piece of muslin and his turban upon his face. After
+this, she pulled her hair over her face, and with a dismal
+<span class="pb" id="Page_322">[322]</span>
+crying and lamentation, ran across the court of
+Zobeide&rsquo;s apartment; who, hearing the voice of a
+person crying very loud, commanded some of her
+women to see who it was, who returned, and told her
+that it was Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, who was coming in
+a deplorable condition.</p>
+<p>The princess, impatient to know what had happened
+to her, rose up immediately, and went to meet
+her at the door of the antechamber. Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+played her part excellently well. As soon
+as she saw Zobeide, she redoubled her cries, tore her
+hair off by handfuls, beat her face and breast, and
+threw herself at her feet, bathing them with her
+tears.</p>
+<p>Zobeide, amazed to see her slave in so extraordinary
+an affliction, asked her, what misfortune had
+happened to her. But, instead of answering, she continued
+sighing and sobbing; and at last, feigning to
+strive to check herself, said, with words intermixed
+with sighs, Alas! my most honoured lady and mistress,
+what greater misfortune could have befallen
+me than this, which obliges me to throw myself at
+your highness&rsquo;s feet? May God prolong your days,
+my most respectable princess, in perfect health, and
+grant you many happy years. Abon Hassan! poor
+Abon Hassan! whom you honoured with your esteem,
+and gave me for a husband, is no more!</p>
+<p>Then Nouz-hatoul-aonadat redoubled her tears and
+sighs, and threw herself again at the princess&rsquo;s feet.
+Zobeide was extremely surprised at this news. Abon
+Hassan dead! cried she, that agreeable pleasant
+man! indeed I did not in the least expect his death
+so soon; he seemed to promise a long life, and well
+deserved one. Then she burst out also into tears, as
+did all her women, who had been often witnesses of
+Abon Hassan&rsquo;s pleasantries, when the caliph brought
+him to see the princess Zobeide, and continued a long
+<span class="pb" id="Page_323">[323]</span>
+time bewailing the loss of him. At last Zobeide
+broke silence, and ordered one of her slaves to go to
+her treasure, and fetch a hundred pieces of gold, and
+a piece of rich brocade.</p>
+<p>The slave returned soon with a purse and piece of
+brocade, which, by Zobeide&rsquo;s order, she put into
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat&rsquo;s hand; who threw herself
+again at the princess&rsquo;s feet, and thanked her with a
+great deal of satisfaction, to think she had succeeded
+so well. Go, said Zobeide, make use of that brocade
+to cover the corpse of thy husband, and with that
+money bury him handsomely, and as he ought to be.
+Moderate the transports of thy affliction: I will take
+care of thee.</p>
+<p>As soon as Nouz-hatoul-aonadat got out of the
+princess&rsquo;s presence, she dried up her tears, and returned
+with joy to Abon Hassan, to give him an account
+of her good success. When she came into her
+own apartment, and saw her husband still stretched
+out in the middle of the floor, she ran to him laughing,
+and bade him rise, and see the fruits of his project.
+Upon which he arose, and rejoiced with his
+wife at the sight of the purse and brocade, who, for
+her part, could, not contain herself. Come, husband,
+said she laughing, let me act the dead part, and see
+if you can manage the caliph as well as I have done
+Zobeide.</p>
+<p>This is the temper of all women, replied Abon
+Hassan, who, we may well say, have always the vanity
+to believe they can do things better than men,
+though, at the same time, what they do is by their
+advice. It would be odd indeed, if I, who laid this
+plot myself, could not carry it on likewise. But let
+us lose no time in idle discourse: lie down in my
+place, and see if I do not come off with as much applause.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan wrapped up his wife as she had done
+<span class="pb" id="Page_324">[324]</span>
+him; and with his turban undone, and set awry on
+his head, and like a man in the greatest affliction imaginable,
+he ran to the caliph, who was holding a private
+council with the grand vizier Giafar and some
+other viziers, and he having free access wheresoever
+he was, went with his handkerchief before his eyes,
+to hide the feigned tears which trickled down his
+cheeks, and striking his breast with the other, expressed
+an extraordinary grief.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who was ever used to see Abon Hassan
+gay and merry, was very much surprised to behold him
+in that sorrowful state, and asked him the cause of
+his grief. Commander of the Faithful, answered Abon
+Hassan, with repeated sighings and sobbings, may
+God preserve your majesty on the throne, which you
+fill so gloriously! Alas! Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, whom
+you in your bounty gave me for a wife, is &mdash;&mdash;. At
+this exclamation, Abon Hassan pretended to have
+his heart so full that he could not utter one syllable
+more, but poured forth a flood of tears.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who presently understood that Abon
+Hassan came to tell him of the death of his wife,
+seemed very much concerned, and said to him, God
+comfort thee; she was a good slave, and we gave her
+to thee with an intention to make thee happy: she
+deserved a longer life. Then the tears ran down his
+face, so that he was obliged to pull out his handkerchief
+to wipe them off. In short, Abon Hassan dissembled
+so well, that the caliph, who did not in the
+least doubt of his sincerity, ordered his treasurer, who
+was then present, to give Abon Hassan a purse of a
+hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of brocade. Abon
+Hassan immediately cast himself at the caliph&rsquo;s feet,
+and thanked him for his present. Follow the treasurer,
+said that monarch; throw the brocade over the
+corpse, and with the money show the last testimony
+of thy love for thy wife.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_325">[325]</div>
+<p>Abon Hassan made no reply to these obliging words
+of the caliph, but retired with a low bow, and followed
+the treasurer; and as soon as he had got the purse
+and piece of brocade, went home, very well pleased
+with having found out so quick and ready a way of
+supplying his necessity, which had given him some
+trouble.</p>
+<p>Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, weary with lying so long in
+that posture, never waited till Abon Hassan bade her
+rise; but as soon as she heard the door open, got up
+and ran to her husband, and asked him if he had
+cheated the caliph as well as she did Zobeide? You
+see, said he, showing her the stuff, and shaking the
+purse, that I can act a sorrowful husband as well as you
+can an afflicted wife. But for fear this trick of theirs
+should be attended with some ill consequences, he
+thought it would not be amiss to instruct his wife with
+what might happen, that they might act in concert.
+For, added he, the better we succeed in embarrassing
+the caliph and Zobeide, the more they will be pleased
+at last, and perhaps may show their satisfaction by a
+greater liberality. And this last consideration induced
+them to carry on this scene further.</p>
+<p>The caliph, though he had a great deal of business
+to transact in council, was nevertheless so impatient
+to go and condole with the princess upon the death of
+her slave, that he rose up as soon as Abon Hassan was
+gone, and put off the council to another day. Follow
+me, said he to Mesrour, who always attended him
+wherever he went, and let us go and share with the
+princess the grief which the death of her slave Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+causes her.</p>
+<p>Accordingly, they went to Zobeide&rsquo;s apartment,
+whom the caliph found seated on a sofa, very much
+afflicted, and all in tears. Madam, said the caliph,
+going up to her, it is necessary to tell you how much
+I partake with you in your affliction; since you are not
+<span class="pb" id="Page_326">[326]</span>
+insensible that what gives you pleasure or trouble,
+has the same effect on me. But we are all mortals,
+and must surrender up to God that life he gives us,
+when he requires it. Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, your faithful
+slave, was endued with qualifications that deserved
+all your esteem, and I do not disapprove your expressing
+it after her death; but consider, all your
+grief will not bring her to life again. Therefore,
+madam, if you love me, and would take my advice,
+be comforted for this loss, and take care of a life
+which you know is precious to me.</p>
+<p>If the princess was charmed with these tender sentiments
+which the caliph expressed in his compliments,
+she was much more amazed to hear of Nouz-hatoul-aonadat&rsquo;s
+death. This news put her into so great a
+surprise, that she was not able to return an answer
+for some time. At last, recovering, she said, Commander
+of the Faithful, I am very sensible of all your
+tender sentiments; but cannot comprehend the news
+you tell me of the death of my slave, who is in perfect
+health. My affliction is for the death of Abon Hassan,
+her husband, your favourite, whom you was so kind
+to let me know, who often diverted me very agreeably,
+and for whom I have as great a value as you
+yourself. But, sir, the little concern you show for
+his death, and your so soon forgetting a man in whom
+you have often told me you took a great deal of pleasure,
+amazes and surprises me very much; and this
+insensibility seems the greater, by your changing his
+death for that of my slave.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who thought that he was perfectly well
+informed of the death of the slave, and had just reason
+to believe so, because he had both seen and heard
+Abon Hassan, fell a-laughing and shrugging up his
+shoulders, to hear Zobeide talk after this manner.
+Mesrour, said he, turning himself about to that
+eunuch, what dost thou think of the princess&rsquo;s discourse?
+<span class="pb" id="Page_327">[327]</span>
+Do not women sometimes lose their senses?
+for, in short, thou hast heard and seen all as well as
+myself. Then turning about to Zobeide, Madam, said
+he, do not shed any more tears for Abon Hassan, for
+I can assure you he is well; but rather bewail the death
+of your dear slave. It is not many moments since her
+husband came all in tears, and the most inexpressible
+affliction, to tell me of the death of his wife. I gave
+him a purse of a hundred pieces of gold, and a
+piece of brocade, to comfort him, and bury her with;
+and Mesrour here, who was by, can tell you the
+same.</p>
+<p>The princess took this discourse of the caliph to be
+all a jest, and that he had a mind to impose upon her
+credulity. Commander of the Faithful, replied she,
+though you are used to banter, I must tell you this is
+not a proper time. What I tell you is very serious:
+I do not talk of my slave&rsquo;s death, but of Abon Hassan
+her husband&rsquo;s, whose fate I bewail, and so ought you
+too. Madam, said the caliph, putting on a grave
+countenance, I tell you, without raillery, that you are
+deceived; Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is dead, and Abon
+Hassan is alive, and in perfect health.</p>
+<p>Zobeide was very much piqued at this answer of
+the caliph. Commander of the Faithful, replied she
+smartly, surely you would make me think that you
+were mad; give me leave to repeat to you once more
+that it is Abon Hassan who is dead, and that my
+slave Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is living; it is not an hour
+ago since she went from hence; she came here in so
+disconsolate a state, that the sight of her was enough
+to have drawn tears from my eyes, if she had not told
+me her affliction. All my women, who cried with me,
+can bear me witness, and tell you also, that I made
+her a present of a hundred pieces of gold, and a
+piece of brocade; and the grief which you found me
+in was upon the death of her husband; and just that
+<span class="pb" id="Page_328">[328]</span>
+instant that you came in, I was going to send you a
+compliment of condolence.</p>
+<p>At these words of Zobeide, the caliph cried out, in
+a fit of laughter, This, madam, is a strange piece of
+obstinacy; but, continued he seriously, you may depend
+upon Nouz-hatoul-aonadat&rsquo;s being dead. I tell
+you not, sir, replied Zobeide instantly; it is Abon
+Hassan that is dead, and you shall never make me
+believe otherwise.</p>
+<p>Upon this the caliph began to be angry, and set
+himself upon a sofa, some distance from the princess,
+and, speaking to Mesrour, said, Go immediately, and
+see which it is, and bring me word; for though I
+am certain that it is Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, I would
+rather take this way, than be any longer obstinately
+positive. For my part, replied Zobeide, I know very
+well that I am in the right, and you will find it to be
+Abon Hassan. And for mine, replied the caliph, I
+am so sure that it is Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, that I
+will lay you what wager you will that Abon Hassan
+is well.</p>
+<p>Do not think to come off there, said Zobeide: I
+accept of your wager, and I am so well persuaded of
+his death, that I would willingly lay the dearest thing
+in the world to me. You know what I have in my
+disposal, and what I value most; propose the bet,
+and I will stand to it.</p>
+<p>Since it is come to that, said the caliph, I will
+lay my garden of pleasures against your palace of
+paintings, though the one is worth much more than
+the other. It is no matter for that, replied Zobeide;
+if your garden is more valuable, you have made choice
+of what you thought fit, and what belonged to me, as
+an equivalent against what you lay; and I say done
+to the wager, and will not turn back. The caliph
+said the same, and both waited until Mesrour returned.</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_329">[329]</div>
+<p>While the caliph and Zobeide were disputing so
+earnestly, and with so much heat, Abon Hassan, who
+foresaw their difference, was very attentive to whatever
+might happen. As soon as he perceived Mesrour
+through a window, over against which he sat,
+talking with his wife, and observed that he was coming
+directly to their apartment, he presently guessed
+what he was coming about, and bade his wife make
+haste to act the dead part once more, as they had
+agreed on; and, in short, they were so pinched for
+time, that Abon Hassan had much ado to wrap up his
+wife, and lay the piece of brocade upon her, before
+Mesrour came. As soon as he had done that, he
+opened the door of his apartment, and with a melancholy
+dejected countenance, and his handkerchief
+before his eyes, went and sat down at the head of the
+pretended deceased.</p>
+<p>By that time he was seated Mesrour came into the
+room. The dismal sight that saluted his eyes gave
+him a secret joy, on account of the errand the caliph
+sent him on. As soon as Abon Hassan perceived
+him, he rose up to meet him, and kissing his hand
+out of respect, said, sighing and groaning, You see
+me, sir, in the greatest affliction that ever could befall
+me; the death of my wife Nouz-hatoul-aonadat,
+whom you honoured with your favours.</p>
+<p>Mesrour, softened by this discourse, could not refuse
+some tears to the memory of the deceased. He
+lifted up the pall a little at the head, which was uncovered,
+and peeping under it, let it down again, and
+said, with a deep sigh, There is no other god but
+God; we must all submit to his will, and return to
+him. Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, my good sister, added
+he, thy days have been very few: God have mercy
+on thee. Then turning to Abon Hassan, who was all
+the time in tears, We may well say, said he, that
+women sometimes have whims, and lose their senses;
+<span class="pb" id="Page_330">[330]</span>
+for Zobeide will maintain to the caliph, that you are
+dead, and not your wife; and whatever the caliph
+can say to the contrary, he cannot persuade her otherwise.
+He called me to witness the truth of what he
+affirms; for you know I was by when you came and
+told him the sorrowful news: but all signifies nothing;
+they are both positive; and the caliph, to convince
+Zobeide, has sent me to know the truth; but I fear
+I shall not be believed; for when women once take
+a thing, they are not to be beat out of it.</p>
+<p>God keep the commander of the faithful in the
+right use of his senses, replied Abon Hassan, still
+sighing and crying; you see how it is, and that I have
+not imposed upon his majesty; and I wish to heaven,
+continued he, to dissemble the better, that I had no
+occasion to tell him the melancholy and afflicting
+news. Alas! I cannot enough express my irreparable
+loss. That is true, replied Mesrour; and I can
+assure you, I have a great share in your affliction;
+but you must comfort, and not abandon yourself to
+your grief. I leave you against my will, to return to
+the caliph; but I beg the favour of you not to bury
+the corpse until I come again, for I will assist at the
+interment.</p>
+<p>Abon Hassan waited on him to the door, and told
+him that he did not deserve the honour that he did
+him; and for fear Mesrour should return to say something
+else to him, he followed him with his eyes for
+some time, and then returned to his wife, and unloosed
+her. This is already, said he, a new scene of
+mirth; but I fancy it will not be the last; for certainly
+the princess Zobeide will not believe Mesrour,
+but laugh at him, since she has too substantial a reason
+to the contrary; therefore we must expect some
+new event. Whilst Abon Hassan and Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+were talking thus, she had time enough to
+put on her clothes again; and both went and sat down
+<span class="pb" id="Page_331">[331]</span>
+on a sofa, opposite to the window, where they could
+see all that passed.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, Mesrour reached Zobeide&rsquo;s
+apartment, and going into her closet laughing, clapped
+his hands, like one who had something very agreeable
+to tell.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who was naturally impatient, would
+presently be informed of the truth of the matter; for
+he was piqued a little at the princess&rsquo;s diffidence:
+therefore, as soon as he saw Mesrour, Vile slave, said
+he, is this a time to laugh? Why do you not tell me
+which is dead, the wife or the husband?</p>
+<p>Commander of the Faithful, answered Mesrour,
+putting on a serious countenance, it is Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+who is dead; for the loss of whom Abon
+Hassan is as much afflicted as when he appeared before
+your majesty. The caliph, not giving him time
+to pursue his story, interrupted him, and cried out,
+laughing heartily, Good news; Zobeide was a moment
+ago mistress of the palace of paintings, which she
+staked against my garden of pleasures, since you
+went, and now it is mine; therefore thou couldst not
+have done me a greater pleasure: but give me a true
+account of what thou sawest.</p>
+<p>Commander of the Faithful, said Mesrour, when I
+came to Abon Hassan&rsquo;s apartments, I found the door
+open, and he bewailing the death of his wife Nouz-hatoul-aonadat.
+He was seated at the head of the deceased,
+who was laid out in the middle of the room,
+with her feet towards Mecca, and was covered with
+that piece of brocade which your majesty made a present
+of to Abon Hassan. After I had expressed the
+share I had in his grief, I went and lifted up the pall
+at the head, and knew Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, though
+her face was very much swelled. I exhorted Abon
+Hassan the best I could to comfort himself; and when
+I came away, I told him I would attend at his wife&rsquo;s
+<span class="pb" id="Page_332">[332]</span>
+funeral, and desired him not to stir the corpse till I
+came. This is all I can tell your majesty. I ask no
+more, said the caliph, laughing heartily; and I am
+very well satisfied with thy exactness. Then addressing
+himself to Zobeide, Well, madam, said he,
+have you yet any thing to say against so certain a
+truth? Will you always believe that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+is alive, and that Abon Hassan is dead? And
+will you not own that you have lost your wager?</p>
+<p>How, sir, replied Zobeide, who would not believe
+one word Mesrour said, do you think that I regard
+that impertinent slave, who knows not what he says?
+I am not so blind or mad. With these eyes I saw
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat in the greatest affliction: I
+spoke to her myself, and she told me that her husband
+was dead.</p>
+<p>Madam, replied Mesrour, I swear to you by your
+own life, and that of the commander of the faithful,
+which are both dear to me, that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+is dead, and Abon Hassan is living.</p>
+<p>Thou art a base despicable slave, said Zobeide, in
+a rage, and I will confound thee immediately; and
+thereupon she called her women, by clapping her
+hands together, who all came in. Come hither, said
+the princess to them, and speak the truth: Who was
+that who came and spoke with me a little before the
+caliph came here? The women all answered, that it
+was poor afflicted Nouz-hatoul-aonadat. And what,
+added she, addressing herself to her that was treasurer,
+did I order you to give her? Madam, answered
+the treasurer, I gave Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, by your
+orders, a purse of a hundred pieces of gold, and a
+piece of brocade, which she carried along with her.
+Well then, sorry slave, said Zobeide to Mesrour, in a
+great passion, what hast thou to say to all this? What
+dost thou think now, that I ought to believe thee, or
+my treasurer, my other women, or myself?</p>
+<div class="pb" id="Page_333">[333]</div>
+<p>Mesrour did not want for arguments to contradict
+the princess; but, as he was afraid of provoking her
+too much, he chose rather to be silent, though he
+was satisfied within himself that the wife was dead,
+and not the husband.</p>
+<p>All the time of this dispute between Zobeide and
+Mesrour, the caliph, who heard what was said on both
+sides, and was against the princess, because he had
+seen and spoke to Abon Hassan himself, laughed
+heartily to see Zobeide so exasperated against Mesrour.
+Madam, said he to Zobeide, I know not indeed
+who was the author of that saying, That women sometimes
+lose their wits; but I am sure you make it good.
+Mesrour came just now from Abon Hassan&rsquo;s, and
+tells you that he saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat lying dead
+in the middle of the room, Abon Hassan alive, and
+sitting by her; and yet you will not believe this
+evidence, which nobody can reasonably refuse: I
+think it is very strange.</p>
+<p>Zobeide would not hear what the caliph represented.
+Pardon me, Commander of the Faithful, replied
+she, if I suspect you: I see very well that you
+have contrived with Mesrour to chagrin me, and try
+my patience. And as I perceive that this report was
+concerted between you, I beg leave to send a person
+to Abon Hassan&rsquo;s, to know whether or no I am in
+the wrong.</p>
+<p>The caliph consented, and the princess charged an
+old nurse, who had lived a long time with her, with
+that important commission. Hark ye, nurse, said
+she, you see the dispute between the caliph and me;
+therefore go to Abon Hassan&rsquo;s, or rather Nouz-hatoul-aonadat&rsquo;s,
+for he is dead, and clear up this
+matter. If thou bringest me good news, a handsome
+present is thy reward. Make haste and return quickly.</p>
+<p>The caliph was overjoyed to see Zobeide in this
+embarrassment; but Mesrour, extremely mortified to
+find the princess so angry with him, did all he could
+<span class="pb" id="Page_334">[334]</span>
+to appease her, insomuch that she and the caliph
+were both satisfied with him. He was overjoyed
+when Zobeide sent the nurse; because he was persuaded
+that the report she would make would agree
+with his, and would justify him, and restore him
+to her favour.</p>
+<p>In the mean time, Abon Hassan, who watched the
+window, perceived the nurse at a distance, and guessing
+that she was sent by Zobeide, called his wife, and told
+her that the princess&rsquo;s nurse was coming to know the
+truth; therefore, said he, make haste and lay me out.
+Accordingly Nouz-hatoul-aonadat did so, and covered
+him with the piece of brocade Zobeide had given her,
+and put his turban upon his face. The nurse, eager
+to acquit herself of her commission, came a good
+round pace, and entering the room, perceived Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+all in tears, her hair dishevelled, and
+seated at the head of her husband, beating her breast,
+and expressing a violent grief.</p>
+<p>The good old nurse went directly to the false widow.
+My dear Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, said she, with
+a sorrowful face, I come not to interrupt your grief and
+tears for a husband who loved you so tenderly. Ah!
+good mother, replied the counterfeit widow, you see
+my misfortune, and how unhappy I am by the loss of
+my beloved Abon Hassan. Abon Hassan, my dear
+husband! cried she, what have I done that you should
+leave me so soon? Have I not always rather obeyed
+your will than my own? Alas! what will become of
+poor Nouz-hatoul-aonadat?</p>
+<p>The nurse was in a great surprise to see every
+thing quite the reverse of what the chief of the eunuchs
+had told the caliph. This black-faced Mesrour,
+said she, lifting up her hands, deserves to be impaled
+for having made so great a difference between my
+good mistress and the commander of the faithful, by
+the notorious lie he told them. I will tell you daughter,
+said she, the wickedness of that villain Mesrour,
+<span class="pb" id="Page_335">[335]</span>
+who has asserted, with an inconceivable impudence,
+before my mistress&rsquo;s face, that you were dead, and
+Abon Hassan was alive.</p>
+<p>Alas! my good mother, cried Nouz-hatoul-aonadat,
+I wish to heaven that it was true! I should not be in
+this sorrowful state, nor bewail a husband so dear to
+me. At these words she burst out into tears, and
+feigned a most desperate trouble.</p>
+<p>The nurse was so much concerned for her tears,
+that she sat down by her, and cried too: then gently
+lifting up the turban and cloth, looked on the face of
+the corpse. Ah! poor Abon Hassan, cried she, covering
+the face again, God have mercy upon thee. Adieu,
+child, said she to Nouz-hatoul-aonadat; if I could
+stay longer with you, I would, with all my heart: but
+I am obliged to return immediately, to free my mistress
+from the uneasiness that black villain has given
+her by his impudent lie, assuring her with an oath
+that you was dead.</p>
+<p>As soon as the nurse was gone, and had pulled the
+door after her, and Nouz-hatoul-aonadat thought she
+would not come back again, she wiped her eyes, and
+went and unloosed Abon Hassan, and then both went
+and sat down on a sofa against the window, expecting
+what would be the end of this cheat, and to be ready
+to act according as things should offer.</p>
+<p>The nurse, in the mean time, made all the haste
+she could to Zobeide. The pleasure of carrying the
+princess good news, and hopes of a good reward,
+added wings to her feet; and running into the princess&rsquo;s
+closet, quite out of breath, there gave her a true
+account of all she had seen. Zobeide hearkened to
+the old woman&rsquo;s relation with a most sensible pleasure;
+and when she had done, she said, Repeat it
+once more before the caliph, who looked upon us all
+to be fools, and would make us believe we have no
+sense of religion, nor fear of God; and tell your story
+<span class="pb" id="Page_336">[336]</span>
+to that wicked black slave, who had the insolence to
+assert a falsity, and which I know to be one.</p>
+<p>Mesrour, who expected the nurse&rsquo;s report would
+prove favourable on his side, was very much mortified
+to find it so much the contrary. He was so vexed at
+the rage Zobeide expressed against him, for a thing
+he believed to be very true, that he was glad of having
+an opportunity of speaking his mind freely to the
+nurse, which he durst not do to the princess. Old
+toothless, said he to the nurse, thou tellest lies, and
+there is no truth in what thou sayest; for I saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat,
+with these eyes, laid out in the midst
+of the room.</p>
+<p>Thou art a notorious liar thyself, replied the nurse,
+with an insulting air, to dare to maintain before my
+face so great a falsity, since I saw Abon Hassan dead,
+and laid out, and left his wife alive. Thou art an
+impostor, replied Mesrour, and endeavourest to put
+us all into confusion.</p>
+<p>There is impudence for you, said the nurse, to dare
+to tell me I lie, in the presence of their majesties,
+when I saw just now, with my own eyes, what I have
+had the honour to tell them. Indeed, nurse, answered
+Mesrour again, you had better hold your tongue, for
+you certainly dote.</p>
+<p>Zobeide, who could not support this want of respect
+in Mesrour, who, without any regard to her,
+treated her nurse injuriously, without giving the nurse
+time to reply to so gross an affront, said to the caliph,
+Commander of the Faithful, I demand justice for this
+insolence in our presence; and could say no more,
+she was so enraged, and burst out into tears.</p>
+<p>The caliph, who had heard all this dispute, thought
+it very intricate, and mused some time, and could not
+tell what to think of so many contradictions. The
+princess, for her part, as well as Mesrour, the nurse,
+and all the women slaves who were present, were as
+<span class="pb" id="Page_337">[337]</span>
+much puzzled, and remained silent. At last the caliph
+taking up the cudgels, and addressing himself to
+Zobeide, said, I see very well we are all liars; myself
+first, and then you, Mesrour, and your nurse; or at
+least it seems not one can be believed before the
+other: therefore, let us go ourselves to know the
+truth; for I can see no other way to clear up these
+doubts.</p>
+<p>After these words the caliph got up, the princess
+followed him, and Mesrour went before to open the
+doors. Commander of the Faithful, said he, I am
+overjoyed that your majesty has taken this course,
+and much more, when I shall make it plainly appear
+that the nurse dotes, though the expression is displeasing
+to my good mistress.</p>
+<p>The nurse, who wanted not to reply, said, Hold thy
+tongue, black face; thou dotest thyself.</p>
+<p>Zobeide, who was very much provoked at Mesrour,
+could not bear to hear him attack her nurse again
+without taking her part. Vile slave, said she, say
+what thou wilt, I maintain my nurse is in the right,
+and look upon thee as a liar. Madam, replied Mesrour,
+if the nurse is so very certain that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+is alive, and Abon Hassan is dead, I will lay
+her what she dare of it. The nurse was as ready as
+he; and, in short, they laid a piece of gold and silver
+stuff.</p>
+<p>The apartment the caliph and Zobeide came out
+of, though it was a great way from Abon Hassan&rsquo;s,
+was nevertheless just over against it, and Abon Hassan
+could perceive them coming, and told his wife,
+that the caliph and Zobeide, preceded by Mesrour,
+and followed by a great number of women, were
+coming to do them the honour of a visit. At this news
+she seemed frightened, and cried out, What shall we
+do? we are ruined! Fear nothing, replied Abon Hassan:
+What! have you forgot what we agreed on? We
+<span class="pb" id="Page_338">[338]</span>
+will both be dead, and you shall see all will go well.
+At the slow rate they come, we shall be ready before
+that time they get to the door. Accordingly Abon
+Hassan and his wife wrapped up and covered themselves
+with the piece of brocade, and waited patiently
+for their visitors.</p>
+<p>Mesrour, who came first, opened the door, and the
+caliph and Zobeide, followed by their attendants,
+entered the room; but were extremely surprised, and
+stood motionless, at the dismal sight which saluted
+their eyes. At last, Zobeide breaking silence, said to
+the caliph, Alas! they are both dead! You have done
+finely, continued she, looking at the caliph and Mesrour,
+to endeavour to make me believe that my slave
+was dead; and I find it true at last: it is dangerous
+jesting with edge-tools: the grief of losing her husband
+has certainly killed her. Say rather, madam,
+answered the caliph, prepossessed to the contrary, that
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat died first, and the afflicted Abon
+Hassan could not survive his dear wife: therefore you
+ought to agree that you have lost your wager, and
+your palace of paintings is mine.</p>
+<p>Hold there, answered Zobeide, animated with the
+same spirit of contradiction; I will maintain it, you
+have lost your garden of pleasures to me. Abon Hassan
+died first; since my nurse told you, as well as me,
+that she saw her alive, and crying for the death of her
+husband.</p>
+<p>The dispute of the caliph and Zobeide brought on
+another between Mesrour and the nurse, who had
+wagered as well as they; and each pretended to win,
+and came at last to abuse each other very grossly.</p>
+<p>After all, the caliph reflecting on what had passed,
+began to think that Zobeide had as much reason as
+himself to maintain that she had won. In the embarrassment
+he was, of not being able to find out the
+truth, he advanced towards the two corpses, and sat
+<span class="pb" id="Page_339">[339]</span>
+himself down at the head, searching after something
+that might gain him the victory over Zobeide. Well,
+cried he, presently after, I swear, by the holy name of
+God, that I will give a thousand pieces of gold to him
+that can tell me which of these two died first.</p>
+<p>No sooner were these words out of the caliph&rsquo;s
+mouth, but he heard a voice under Abon Hassan&rsquo;s
+pall, say, Commander of the Faithful, I died first,
+give me the thousand pieces of gold. At the same
+time he saw Abon Hassan throw off the piece of brocade,
+and come and prostrate himself at his feet,
+while his wife did the same to Zobeide, keeping on
+her pall of brocade, out of decency. The princess at
+first shrieked out, and frightened all about her; but
+recovering herself at last, expressed a great joy to see
+her slave rise again alive. Ah! wicked Nouz-hatoul-aonadat,
+cried she, what affliction have I been in for
+thy sake! However, I forgive thee from my heart,
+and am glad to see thee well.</p>
+<p>The caliph, for his part, was not so much surprised
+when he heard Abon Hassan&rsquo;s voice; but thought he
+should have died away with laughing at this unravelling
+of the mystery, and to hear Abon Hassan ask so
+seriously for the thousand pieces of gold. What,
+Abon Hassan, said he, hast thou conspired against my
+life, to kill me a second time with laughing? How
+came this thought into your head, to surprise Zobeide
+and me thus, when we least thought on such a
+trick?</p>
+<p>Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan,
+I will declare to your majesty the whole truth, without
+the least reserve. Your majesty knows very well,
+that I always loved to eat and drink well; and the
+wife you gave me rather increased than restrained
+that inclination. With these dispositions, your majesty
+may easily suppose we might spend a good
+estate; and, to make short of my story, we were not
+<span class="pb" id="Page_340">[340]</span>
+the least sparing of what your majesty so generously
+gave us. This morning, accounting with our caterer,
+who took care to provide every thing for us, and paying
+what we owed him, we found we had nothing
+left. Then reflections of what was past, and resolutions
+to manage better for the future, crowded into
+our thoughts apace, and after them a thousand projects,
+all which we refused. At last, the shame of
+being reduced to so low a condition, and not daring to
+tell your majesty, made us contrive this trick to relieve
+our necessities, and to divert your majesty, hoping
+that you would be pleased to pardon us.</p>
+<p>The caliph and Zobeide were very well satisfied
+with Abon Hassan&rsquo;s sincerity; and then Zobeide, who
+had all along been very serious, began to laugh, and
+could not help thinking of Abon Hassan&rsquo;s scheme;
+when the caliph, who had laughed his sides sore at
+the singularity of this adventure, rising up, said, Follow
+me both of you, and I will give you the thousand
+pieces of gold I promised you. Zobeide desired him
+to let her make her slave a present of that sum. By
+this means Abon Hassan and his dear wife Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+preserved the favour of the caliph
+Haroun Alraschid and the princess Zobeide; and by
+their liberalities were made capable of pursuing their
+pleasures.</p>
+<h2 id="c8"><br />Footnotes</h2>
+<div class="fnblock"><div class="fndef"><a class="fn"  id="fn_1" href="#fr_1">[1]</a>A famous player on the lute, that lived at Bagdad at that time.
+</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn"  id="fn_2" href="#fr_2">[2]</a>Giauhara, in Arabic, signifies a Precious Stone.
+</div>
+</div>
+<p class="tbcenter"><span class="small">END OF THE THIRD VOLUME.</span></p>
+<p class="center"><span class="small">LONDON:</span>
+<br /><span class="smaller">PRINTED BY THOMAS DAVISON, WHITEFRIARS.</span></p>
+<h2 id="c9"><br />Transcriber&rsquo;s notes</h2>
+<ul><li>Silently corrected several palpable typos.</li>
+</ul>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4), by Anonymous
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+Project Gutenberg's The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4), by Anonymous
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4)
+
+Author: Anonymous
+
+Illustrator: Richard Westall
+
+Release Date: November 5, 2013 [EBook #44105]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ARABIAN NIGHTS, VOL III ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Delphine Lettau, Stephen Hutcheson and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Canada Team at
+http://www.pgdpcanada.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                                  THE
+                            ARABIAN NIGHTS.
+
+
+                              ILLUSTRATED
+                            WITH ENGRAVINGS,
+                              FROM DESIGNS
+                          BY R. WESTALL, R.A.
+
+
+                            IN FOUR VOLUMES.
+                               VOL. III.
+
+
+                                LONDON;
+        Printed for Rodwell & Martin; and the other Proprietors.
+                                 1819.
+
+   PRINTED FOR C. AND J. RIVINGTON; J. BOOKER; LONGMAN, HURST, REES,
+     ORME, AND CO.; BALDWIN, CRADOCK, AND JOY; RODWELL AND MARTIN;
+  G. B. WHITTAKER; SIMPKIN AND MARSHALL; AND HURST, ROBINSON, AND CO.
+
+                                 1825.
+
+                PRINTED BY THOMAS DAVIDSON, WHITEFRIARS.
+
+
+
+
+                               CONTENTS.
+
+
+                               VOL. III.
+
+
+                                                                    PAGE
+  The Story of Noureddin and the Fair Persian                          1
+  The Story of Beder, prince of Persia, and Giahaure, princess of
+          Samarcand                                                   70
+  The Story of Ganem, son to Abou Ayoub, and known by the surname
+          of Love's Slave                                            155
+  The Story of Prince Zeyn Alasnam, and the king of the Genii        212
+  The Story of Codadad and his Brothers                              233
+  The Story of the princess of Deryabar                              243
+  The Story of the Sleeper awakened                                  269
+
+
+
+
+                            ARABIAN NIGHTS'
+                            ENTERTAINMENTS.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+                    NOUREDDIN AND THE FAIR PERSIAN.
+
+
+Balsora was for many years the capital of a kingdom tributary to the
+caliphs of Arabia. The king who governed it in the days of caliph Haroun
+Alraschid was named Zinchi. They were both cousins, the sons of two
+brothers. Zinchi not thinking it proper to commit the administration of
+his affairs to one single vizier, made choice of two, Khacan and Saouy.
+
+Khacan was of a sweet, generous, and affable temper, and took a wonderful
+pride in obliging those with whom he had any concern, to the utmost of
+his power, without the least hinderance or prejudice to justice, whenever
+it was demanded of him; so that he was universally respected both at
+court, in the city, and throughout the whole kingdom; and every body's
+mouth was full of the praises he so highly deserved.
+
+Saouy was of a quite different character: he was always sullen and
+morose, and treated every body after a disrespectful manner, without any
+regard to their rank or quality; instead of making himself beloved and
+admired for his riches, he was so perfect a miser, as to deny himself the
+necessaries of life. In short, nobody could endure him; and if ever any
+thing was said of him, to be sure it was something of ill. But what
+increased the people's hatred against him the more was his implacable
+aversion for Khacan; always interpreting in the worst sense the actions
+of that worthy minister, and endeavouring to do him all the ill offices
+imaginable with the king.
+
+One day, after council, the king of Balsora diverted himself with his two
+viziers, and some other members of the council: they fell into discourse
+about the women slaves, that with us are daily bought and sold, and are
+almost reckoned in the same rank with our wives. Some were of opinion,
+that it was enough if the slave that one bought was beautiful and well
+shaped, to make us amends for the wives, which, very often, upon the
+account of alliance or interest in families, we are forced to marry, who
+are not always the greatest beauties, nor mistresses of any perfection,
+either of mind or body. Others maintained, and amongst the rest Khacan,
+that neither beauty, nor a thousand other charming perfections of the
+body, were the only things to be coveted in a mistress; but they ought to
+be accompanied with a great deal of wit, prudence, modesty, and
+agreeableness; and, if possible, abundance of sense and penetration. The
+reason they gave for it was, that nothing in the world could be more
+agreeable to persons on whom the management of important affairs depend,
+than, after having spent the day in that fatiguing employment, to have a
+companion in their retirement whose conversation is not only agreeable,
+but useful and diverting; for, in short, continued they, there is but
+little difference between brutes and those men who keep a mistress only
+to look upon her, and gratify a passion that we have in common with them.
+
+The king was entirely of their opinion who spoke last, and he quickly
+gave some demonstration of it, by ordering Khacan to buy him a slave, one
+that was a perfect beauty, mistress of all those qualifications they had
+just mentioned, and especially very ingenious.
+
+Saouy, jealous of the honour the king had done Khacan, and vexed at his
+being of a contrary opinion, Sir, says he, it will be very difficult to
+find a slave so accomplished as to answer your majesty's demand; and,
+should they light upon such a one, (as I scarce believe they will,) she
+will be a cheap bargain at ten thousand pieces of gold. Saouy, replied
+the king, I perceive plainly you think it too great a sum: it may be so
+for you, though not for me. Then turning to the chief treasurer, he
+ordered him to send the ten thousand pieces of gold to the vizier's
+house.
+
+Khacan, as soon as he came home, sent for all the courtiers who used to
+deal in women slaves, and strictly charged them, that, if ever they met
+with a slave that answered the description he gave them, they should come
+and acquaint him with it. The courtiers, partly to oblige the vizier, and
+partly for their own interest, promised to use their utmost endeavours to
+find out one to his liking. Accordingly there was scarce a day past but
+they brought him one, yet he always found some fault or other with them.
+
+One day as Khacan was getting on horseback very early in the morning to
+go to court, a courtier came to him, and, with a great deal of eagerness,
+catching hold of the stirrup, told him there was a Persian merchant
+arrived very late the day before, who had a slave to sell so surprisingly
+beautiful, that she excelled all women that his eyes ever beheld; and, as
+for her parts and learning, the merchant engaged she could cope with the
+finest wits and the most knowing persons of the age.
+
+Khacan, overjoyed at this news, which made him hope for a favourable
+reception at court, ordered him to bring the slave to his palace against
+his coming back, and so continued his journey.
+
+The courtier failed not of being at the vizier's at the appointed hour;
+and Khacan, finding the lovely slave so much beyond his expectation,
+immediately gave her the name of the Fair Persian. As she had an infinite
+deal of wit and learning, he soon perceived by her conversation that it
+was in vain to search any farther for a slave that surpassed her in any
+of those qualifications required by the king, and therefore he asked the
+courtier at what rate the Persian merchant valued her.
+
+Sir, replied the courtier, he is a man of few words in bargaining, and he
+tells me, that the very lowest rate he can part with her at, is ten
+thousand pieces of gold: he has also sworn to me, that without reckoning
+his pains and trouble from the time of his first taking care of her, he
+has laid out pretty near the sum upon her education, on masters to
+instruct and teach her, besides clothes and maintenance; and, as he
+always thought her fit for a king, so from her very infancy, in which he
+bought her, he has not been sparing in any thing that might contribute
+towards advancing her to that high honour. She plays on all sorts of
+instruments to perfection, she dances, sings, writes better than the most
+celebrated authors, understands poetry; and, in short, there is scarce
+any book but what she has read; so that there never was a slave of so
+vast a capacity heard of before.
+
+The vizier Khacan, who understood the merit of the Fair Persian better
+than the courtier, that only reported what he had heard from the
+merchant, was unwilling to drive off the bargain to another time; and
+therefore he sent one of his servants to look after the merchant, where
+the courtier told him he was to be found.
+
+As soon as the Persian merchant came, It is not for myself, but the king,
+says the vizier Khacan, that I buy your slave; but, however, you must let
+him have her at a more reasonable price than what you have already set
+upon her.
+
+Sir, replied the merchant, I should do myself an unspeakable honour in
+offering her as a present to his majesty, were I able to make him one of
+so inestimable a value. I barely ask no more than what her education and
+breeding up has cost me; and all I have to say is, that I believe his
+majesty will be extremely pleased with the purchase.
+
+The vizier Khacan would stand no longer bargaining with the merchant, but
+paid him the money down immediately. Sir, says he to the vizier, upon
+taking his leave of him, since the slave is designed for the king's use,
+give me leave to tell you, that being extremely fatigued with our long
+journey together, you see her at a great disadvantage; and though she has
+not her equal in the world for beauty, yet if you please to keep her at
+your own house but for a fortnight, and strive a little to please and
+humour her, she will appear quite another creature: after that, you may
+present her to the king with abundance of honour and credit; for which, I
+doubt not but you will think yourself much obliged to me. The sun, you
+see, has a little tarnished her complexion; but after two or three times
+bathing, and when you have dressed her according to the fashion of your
+country, she will appear to your eyes infinitely more charming than now.
+
+Khacan was mightily pleased with the advice the merchant gave him, and
+was resolved to follow it. Accordingly the Fair Persian was lodged in a
+particular apartment near his lady's, whom he desired to invite her to an
+entertainment, and henceforth to treat her as a mistress designed for the
+king: he also entreated his lady to get the richest clothes for her that
+possibly could be had, and especially those that became her best. Before
+he took his leave of the Fair Persian, he says, Your happiness, madam,
+cannot be greater than what I am about to procure for you, since it is
+for the king himself I have bought you; and I hope he will be better
+pleased with the enjoyment of you, than I am in discharging the trust his
+majesty has laid upon me: however, I think it my duty to warn you of my
+son, who, though he has a tolerable share of wit, yet is a young, wanton,
+forward youth; and therefore have a care how you suffer him to come near
+you. The Fair Persian thanked him for his good advice; and after she had
+given him an assurance of her intention to follow it, he withdrew.
+
+Noureddin, for so the vizier's son was named, had all the liberty
+imaginable in his mother's apartment, with whom he usually ate: he was
+very genteel, young, agreeable, and bold; and being master of abundance
+of wit and readiness of expression, he had the art of persuading people
+to whatever he pleased. He saw the Fair Persian; and from their first
+interview, though he knew his father had bought her purposely for the
+king, and he himself had declared the same, yet he never used the least
+endeavour to put a stop to the violence of his passion. In short, he
+resigned himself wholly to the power of her charms, by which his heart
+was at first conquered: and being ravished with her conversation, he was
+resolved to employ his utmost endeavours to get her from the king.
+
+On the other hand, the Fair Persian had no dislike to Noureddin. The
+vizier, says she to herself, has done me a particular honour in buying me
+for the king of Balsora; but I should have thought myself very happy if
+he had designed me only for his son.
+
+Noureddin was not backward in making use of the advantage of seeing,
+entertaining, and conversing with a beauty he was so passionately in love
+with; for he would never leave her until his mother forced him to do it.
+My son, she would say, it is not proper for a young man, as you are, to
+be always amongst the ladies; go mind your studies, that in time you may
+be worthy to succeed your father in his high posts and honours.
+
+It being a great while since the Fair Persian had bathed, on account of
+her late fatiguing journey, the vizier's lady, five or six days after she
+was bought, ordered a private bath in her own house to be got ready
+purposely for her. She had a great many women slaves to wait upon her,
+who were charged by the vizier's lady, to be as careful of her as of her
+own person, and, after bathing, to put on her a very rich suit of clothes
+that she had provided for her; and all this pains and care was taken
+purely to ingratiate herself the more into her husband's affection, by
+letting him see how much she concerned herself in every thing that
+contributed to his pleasure.
+
+As soon as she came out of the bath, the Fair Persian, a thousand times
+more beautiful than ever she appeared to Khacan when he bought her, went
+to make a visit to his lady, who at first sight hardly knew her. After
+having saluted her in a very graceful manner, Madam, says she, I know not
+how you like me in this dress you have been pleased to order for me; but
+your women, who tell me it becomes me so extremely well they should
+scarce know me, are such gross flatterers, that it is from you alone I
+expect to hear the truth: but, however, if what they say be really so, it
+is to you entirely, madam, that I owe the advantage it has given me.
+
+Oh! my daughter, cries the vizier's lady, quite transported with joy, you
+have no reason in the world to believe my women have flattered you: I am
+better skilled in beauty than they are; and, setting aside your dress,
+which becomes you admirably well, you appear so much handsomer than you
+did before your bathing, that I hardly knew you myself: if I thought the
+bath was yet hot enough, I would willingly take my turn, for I am now of
+an age that requires frequent use of it. Madam, replies the Fair Persian,
+I have nothing to say to the undeserved civilities you have been pleased
+to show me; but, as for the bath, it is wonderfully fine; and if you
+design to go in, you must be quick, for there is no time to be lost, as
+your women can inform you as well as I.
+
+The vizier's lady, considering that she had not bathed for some days
+past, was willing to make use of that opportunity; and accordingly she
+acquainted her women with her intention, who immediately prepared all
+things necessary on such an occasion. The Fair Persian withdrew to her
+apartment; and the vizier's lady, before she went to bathe, ordered two
+little slaves to stay with her, with a strict charge, that if Noureddin
+came they should not give him admittance.
+
+While the vizier's lady was bathing, and the fair slave alone in her
+apartment, in came Noureddin, and not finding his mother in her chamber,
+went directly to the Fair Persian's, where he found the two little slaves
+in the antechamber: he asked them where his mother was. They told him, in
+the bath. Where is the Fair Persian, then? replied Noureddin. In her
+chamber, answered the slaves; but we have positive orders from your
+mother not to let you go in.
+
+The entrance into the Fair Persian's chamber being only covered with a
+piece of tapestry, Noureddin went to lift it up in order to go in, but
+was opposed by the two slaves, who clapped themselves just before it on
+purpose to stop his passage: he presently caught hold of both their arms,
+and thrusting them out of the antechamber, locked the door upon them.
+Away they immediately ran with a great outcry to the bath, and with
+weeping eyes told their lady that Noureddin, having driven them away by
+force, had got into the Fair Persian's chamber.
+
+The vizier's lady received the astonishing news of her son's presumption
+with the greatest concern that could be: she immediately left off
+bathing, and dressing herself with all possible speed, came directly to
+the Fair Persian's chamber; but before she could get thither, Noureddin
+was fairly marched off.
+
+The Fair Persian was extremely surprised to see the vizier's lady enter
+her chamber all in tears, and in the utmost confusion imaginable: Madam,
+says she to her, may I presume to ask you the occasion of your concern;
+and what accident has happened in the bath, that makes you leave it so
+soon?
+
+What! cries the vizier's lady, can you so calmly ask that question, after
+your entertaining my son Noureddin alone in your chamber? or can there
+happen a greater misfortune either to him or me?
+
+I beseech you, madam, says the fair slave, what injury can this action of
+Noureddin's do either to you or him?
+
+How! replied the vizier's lady, did not my husband tell you that you were
+designed for the king, and sufficiently caution you to have a care of
+Noureddin?
+
+I have not forgot it, madam, replied the Fair Persian; but your son came
+to tell me the vizier his father had changed his mind, and, instead of
+reserving me for the king, as he first designed, has made him a present
+of my person. I easily believed him, madam; for oh! think how a slave as
+I am, accustomed from my infant years to the bonds of servitude, could
+have the heart and power to resist him! I must own I did it with the less
+unwillingness on account of a violent passion for him, which the freedom
+of conversation, and seeing one another daily, has raised in my soul. I
+could freely lose the hopes of ever being the king's, and think myself
+the happiest of creatures in spending my whole life with Noureddin.
+
+At this discourse of the Fair Persian's, Would to God, cries the vizier's
+lady, that what you say were true! for then I should have no reason to be
+concerned: but, believe me, Noureddin is an impostor, and you are
+deceived; for it is impossible his father should ever make him the
+present you spoke of. Ah! wretched youth, how miserable hast thou made
+me, but more thy father, by the dismal consequences we must all expect to
+share with him! Neither my prayers nor tears will be able to prevail, or
+obtain a pardon for him; but, as soon as his father hears of his violence
+to you, he will inevitably sacrifice him to his just resentment. At the
+end of these words she fell a-weeping bitterly; and the slaves, who had
+as tender a regard for Noureddin as herself, bore her company.
+
+A little after this, in came the vizier Khacan; and being mightily
+surprised to find his lady and her slaves all in tears, and the Fair
+Persian very melancholy, asked the reason of it; but they, instead of
+answering him, kept on weeping and making hideous lamentations. He was
+more astonished at this than he was before; at last, addressing himself
+to his wife, I command you, says he, to let me know the occasion of your
+tears, and to tell me the whole truth of the matter.
+
+The poor disconsolate lady being forced to satisfy her husband, Sir, says
+she, you shall first promise not to use me unkindly upon the discovery of
+what you are desirous to know, since I tell you beforehand that what has
+happened has not been occasioned by any fault of mine. While I was
+bathing with my women, continued she, your son, laying hold of that fatal
+opportunity to ruin us both, came hither, and made the Fair Persian
+believe that, instead of reserving her for the king, as you once
+designed, you had given her to him as a present: I do not say he has done
+this out of any ill design, but shall leave you to judge of it yourself.
+It is upon your account, and his, for whom I want confidence to implore
+your pardon, that I am so extremely concerned.
+
+It is impossible to express the vizier Khacan's distraction upon the
+hearing of the insolence of his son Noureddin: Ah! cried he, beating his
+breast, and tearing his beard, Miserable son! unworthy of life! hast thou
+at last thrown thy father from the highest pinnacle of happiness into a
+misfortune that must inevitably involve thee also in its ruin? Neither
+will the king be satisfied with thy blood nor mine, but will revenge
+himself after a more severe manner for the affront offered to his royal
+person.
+
+His lady used her utmost endeavours to comfort and assuage his sorrow.
+Concern yourself no more about the matter, my dear, said she; I will sell
+part of my jewels for ten thousand pieces of gold, with which you may buy
+another slave, handsomer, and more agreeable to the king's fancy than
+this.
+
+Ah! replied the vizier, could you think me of so mean a spirit, as to be
+so extremely afflicted at the losing ten thousand pieces of gold? It is
+not that, nor the loss of all my goods, which I can easily part with; but
+the forfeiting of my honour, more precious than all the riches in the
+world, that torments and touches me so nearly. However, methinks, replied
+the lady, this can be no very considerable damage, since it is in the
+power of money to repair it.
+
+How! cried the vizier, you know Saouy is my mortal enemy; and as soon as
+this affair comes to his knowledge, do you think he will not insult over
+me, and mock my misfortunes before the king? Your majesty, he will say to
+him, is always talking of Khacan's zeal and affection for your service:
+but see what a proof he has lately given of his being worthy the respect
+you have hitherto shown him. He has received ten thousand pieces of gold
+to buy a slave with; and, to do him justice, he has honourably performed
+that commission, in buying the most beautiful that ever eyes beheld; but,
+instead of bringing her to your majesty, he has thought it better to make
+a present of her to his son: Here, my son, said he, take this slave,
+since thou art more worthy of her than the king. Then, with his usual
+malice, will he go on: His son has her now entirely in his possession,
+and every day revels in her arms, without the least disturbance: this,
+sir, is the whole truth of the matter, that I have done myself the honour
+of acquainting you with; and if your majesty questions the truth of it,
+you may easily satisfy yourself. Do you not plainly see, my dear,
+continued the vizier, how, upon such a malicious insinuation as this, I
+am every moment liable to have my house forced open by the king's guards,
+and the Fair Persian taken from me, besides a thousand other misfortunes
+that will unavoidably follow? Sir, said the vizier's lady to her husband,
+after he had finished his discourse, I am sensible the malice of Saouy is
+very great, and that, if he has had but the least intimation of this
+affair, he will certainly give it a turn very disadvantageous to your
+interest: but how is it possible that he or any body else should come to
+the knowledge of what has been privately transacted in your family?
+Suppose it comes to the king's ear, and he should ask you about it,
+cannot you say, that upon strict examination, you did not think the slave
+so fit for his majesty's use as you did at the first view; that the
+merchant has cheated you; that, indeed, she has a great deal of beauty,
+but is nothing near so witty or agreeable as she was reported to be? The
+king will certainly believe what you say, and Saouy be vexed to the soul
+to see all his malicious designs of ruining you eternally disappointed.
+Take courage, then, and, if you will follow my advice, send for all the
+courtiers, tell them you do not like the Fair Persian, and order them to
+be as expeditious as possible in getting another slave.
+
+The vizier Khacan, highly approving of this advice, was resolved to make
+use of it; and though his passion began to cool a little, yet his
+indignation against his son Noureddin was not in the least abated.
+
+Noureddin came not in sight all that day; and, not daring to hide himself
+among his companions, lest his father should search their houses for him,
+he went a little way out of town, and took sanctuary in a garden where he
+had never been before, and where his person was utterly unknown. It was
+very late when he came back, being willing to stay till his father was
+a-bed, and then his mother's women opening the door very softly, let him
+in without any manner of noise. The next morning he went out before his
+father was stirring; and thus for a whole month was he put to his shifts,
+which was a terrible mortification to him. Indeed the women never
+flattered him, but told him plainly his father's anger was as great as
+ever, and if he came in his sight he would certainly kill him.
+
+Though the vizier's lady was informed by her women of Noureddin's lying
+every night in the house, yet she durst not presume to entreat her
+husband to pardon him. At last, one day, says she to him; I have hitherto
+been silent, not daring to take the liberty of talking to you about your
+son; but now give me leave to ask you what you design to do with him.
+Indeed it is impossible for a son to be more criminal towards a father
+than Noureddin has been towards you; he has robbed you of the honour and
+satisfaction of presenting the king with a slave so accomplished as the
+Fair Persian: but, after all, are you absolutely resolved to destroy him;
+and, instead of a light evil, draw upon yourself a far greater than
+perhaps you imagine at present? Are you not afraid that the world, which
+spitefully inquires after the reason of your son's absconding, should
+find out the true cause which you are so desirous of keeping secret? and
+if that should happen, you would justly fall into a misfortune which it
+is so much your interest to avoid.
+
+Madam, said the vizier, there is abundance of sound reasoning in what you
+have urged: however, I cannot think of pardoning Noureddin till I have
+humbled him a little more. He shall be sufficiently mortified, replied
+the lady, if you will put in execution what is just come into my mind.
+You must know, then, your son comes hither every night after you are
+a-bed; he lies here, and steals out every morning before you are
+stirring: you shall wait for his coming in to-night; make as if you
+designed to kill him; upon which I will run to his assistance, and when
+he finds his life entirely owing to my prayers and entreaties, you may
+oblige him to take the Fair Persian on what condition soever you please.
+He loves her, and I am sensible the fair slave has no aversion for him.
+
+Khacan was very willing to make use of this stratagem: so, when Noureddin
+came at the usual hour, before the door was opened, he placed himself
+behind it: as soon as ever he entered, he rushed suddenly upon him, and
+got him down under his feet. Noureddin, lifting up his head, saw his
+father with a dagger in his hand, ready prepared to stab him.
+
+At that very instant, in came his mother, and, catching hold of the
+vizier's arm, Sir, cried she, what are you a-doing? Let me alone, replied
+the vizier, that I may kill this base unworthy son. You shall kill me
+first, cried the mother; nor will I suffer you to imbrue your hands in
+your own blood: speak to him, Noureddin, speak to him, and improve this
+tender moment. My father, cried he, with tears in his eyes, I implore
+your clemency and compassion; nor must you deny me pardon, since I ask it
+in His name before whom we must all appear at the last day.
+
+Khacan suffered the poniard to be taken out of his hand; and as soon as
+Noureddin was released, he threw himself at his father's feet, and kissed
+them, to show how sincerely he repented of his having ever offended him.
+Noureddin, said he, return your mother thanks, since it is purely for her
+sake I pardon you. I design also to give you the Fair Persian, on
+condition that you will oblige yourself by an oath not to look upon her
+any longer as a slave, but as your wife, that you will not sell her, nor
+ever be divorced from her; for, having abundance of wit and prudence,
+besides much better conduct than you, I am persuaded she will be able to
+moderate those rash sallies of youth which are enough to ruin you.
+
+Noureddin, who little expected to be treated after so kind and indulgent
+a manner, returned his father a thousand thanks, with all the gratitude
+and sincerity imaginable; and, in the conclusion, the vizier, the Fair
+Persian, and he, were well pleased and satisfied with the match.
+
+The vizier Khacan would not stay in expectation of the king's asking him
+about the order he had given him, but took particular care to mention it
+often, in representing to his majesty the many difficulties he met with
+in that affair, and how fearful he was of not acquitting himself to his
+majesty's satisfaction. In short, he managed the business with so much
+cunning and address, that the king insensibly forgot it; and, though
+Saouy had got some small information of the matter, yet Khacan was so
+much in the king's favour, that he was afraid to speak of it.
+
+It was now above a year that this nice affair had been kept with greater
+secrecy than at first the vizier expected; when, being one day in the
+bath, and some important business obliging him to leave it all in a
+sweat, the air, which was then a little moist, struck a damp to his
+breast, caused a defluxion of rheum to fall upon his lungs, which threw
+him into a violent fever, and confined him to his bed. His illness
+growing every day worse, and perceiving he had but a few moments to live,
+he thus addressed himself to his son Noureddin, who never stirred from
+him during his whole sickness: My son, I know not whether I have made a
+good use of the riches Heaven has blessed me with, but you see they are
+not able to save me from the hands of death: the last thing I desire of
+you, with my dying breath, is, that you would be mindful of the promise
+you made concerning the Fair Persian; and, with a certainty of that, I
+shall die pleased and well contented.
+
+These were the vizier's last words; who, dying a few moments after, left
+his family, the court, and the whole city in great affliction for his
+death. The king lamented him, as having lost a wise, zealous, and
+faithful minister; and the whole city wept for him as their protector and
+benefactor. Never was there a funeral at Balsora solemnized with greater
+pomp and magnificence; the viziers and emirs, and, in general, all the
+grandees of the court, strove for the honour of bearing his coffin, one
+after another, upon their shoulders to the place of burial; and both rich
+and poor accompanied him thither with tears.
+
+Noureddin gave all the demonstration of a sorrow equal to the loss he had
+lately sustained, and lived a great while without ever seeing any
+company. At last, he admitted of a visit from an intimate friend of his.
+His friend endeavoured to comfort him all he could; and, finding him a
+little inclinable to hear reason, he told him, that, having paid what was
+due to the memory of his father, and fully satisfied all that custom and
+decency required of him, it was now high time to appear again in the
+world to converse with his friends, and maintain a character suitable to
+his birth and merit: For, continued he, we should sin both against the
+laws of nature and civility, and be thought insensible, if, upon the
+death of our fathers, we neglected to pay them what filial love and
+tenderness require at our hands; but having once performed that duty, and
+put it out of the power of any man to reproach us upon that account, we
+are obliged to return to our usual method of living. Dry up your tears
+then, and re-assume that wonted air of gaiety which always inspires with
+joy those that have the honour of your conversation.
+
+This advice seeming very reasonable to Noureddin, he was easily persuaded
+to follow it; and, if he had been ruled by his friend in every thing, he
+would certainly have avoided all the misfortunes that afterwards befell
+him. He treated him very nobly; and, when he took his leave, Noureddin
+desired him to come the next day, and bring three or four friends of
+their acquaintance. By this means he insensibly fell into the society of
+about ten young gentlemen, pretty near his own age, with whom he spent
+his time in continual feasting and entertainments; and scarce a day came
+over his head but he made every one of them some considerable present.
+
+Sometimes, to oblige his friends after a more particular manner,
+Noureddin would send for the Fair Persian to entertain them; who,
+notwithstanding her obedience to his command, never approved of his
+extravagant way of living, and often took the liberty of speaking her
+mind freely. Sir, said she, I question not but your father has left you
+abundance of riches; but, how great soever they are, be not angry with
+your slave for telling you that, at this rate of living, you will quickly
+see an end of them. We may indeed sometimes afford to treat our friends,
+and be merry with them; but, to make a daily practice of it, is certainly
+the high road to ruin and destruction. Therefore, for your own honour and
+reputation, you would do much better to follow the footsteps of your
+deceased father, that, in time, you may rise to that dignity by which he
+acquired so much glory and renown.
+
+Noureddin hearkened to the fair Persian's discourse with a smiling
+countenance; and, when she had done, My charmer, said he, with the same
+air of mirth, say no more of that; let us talk of nothing but mirth and
+pleasure. In my father's lifetime I was always under restraint, and I am
+now resolved to enjoy the liberty I so much sighed for before his death.
+It is time enough for me to think of leading a sober regular life; and a
+man of my age ought to taste the pleasures of youth.
+
+What contributed very much towards ruining Noureddin's fortune, was his
+unwillingness to reckon with his steward; for, whenever he brought in his
+accounts, he still sent him away without examining them. Go, go, said he,
+I trust wholly to your honesty; therefore only take care to let me have
+wherewith to make merry.
+
+You are the master, sir, replied he, and I but the steward; however, you
+would do well to think upon the proverb, He that spends much and has but
+little, must at last insensibly be reduced to poverty. You are not
+contented with keeping an extravagant table, but you must lavish away
+your estate with both hands: and were your coffers as large as mountains,
+they would not be sufficient to maintain you. Begone, replied Noureddin;
+your grave lessons are needless; only take care to provide good eating
+and drinking, and trouble your head no farther about the rest.
+
+In the mean time Noureddin's friends were constant guests at his table,
+and never failed making some advantage of the easiness of his temper.
+They praised and flattered him, extolling his most indifferent actions to
+the very skies. But, above all, they took particular care to commend
+whatever belonged to him and his; and this, they found, turned to some
+account. Sir, says one of them, I came the other day by your estate that
+lies in such a place: certainly there is nothing so magnificent, or so
+handsomely furnished, as your house; and the garden belonging to it is a
+paradise upon earth. I am very glad it pleases you, says Noureddin. Here,
+bring me pen, ink, and paper: but, without more words, it is at your
+service, and I make you a present of it. No sooner had others commended
+his house, baths, and some public buildings erected for the use of
+strangers, the yearly revenue of which was very considerable, than he
+immediately gave them away. The Fair Persian could not forbear letting
+him know how much injury he did himself; but, instead of taking any
+notice of it, he continued his extravagances, and, upon the first
+opportunity, squandered away the little he had left.
+
+In short, Noureddin did nothing for a whole year together, but feasted
+and made himself merry, wasting and consuming, after a prodigal manner,
+the riches that his predecessors, and the good vizier his father, had,
+with so much pains and care, heaped together and preserved.
+
+The year was but just expired, when somebody one day knocked at the hall
+door, where he and his friends were at dinner together by themselves,
+having sent away their slaves, that they might enjoy a greater liberty
+and freedom of conversation.
+
+One of his friends offered to rise, but Noureddin stepped before him, and
+opened the door himself. It seems it was the steward; and Noureddin going
+a little out of the hall to know his business, left the door half open.
+
+The friend that offered to rise from his seat, seeing it was the steward,
+and being somewhat curious to know what he had to say to Noureddin,
+placed himself between the hangings and the door, where he plainly
+overheard the steward's discourse to his master. Sir, said the steward, I
+ask a thousand pardons for my coming to disturb you in the height of your
+joys; but this affair is of such importance, that I thought myself bound
+in duty to acquaint you with it. I come, sir, to make up my last
+accounts, and to tell you that what I all along foresaw, and have often
+warned you of, is at last come to pass. Behold, sir, says he, (showing
+him a small piece of money,) the remainder of all the sums I have
+received from you during my stewardship; the other funds you were pleased
+to assign me are all exhausted. The farmers, and those that owe you rent,
+have made it so plainly appear to me that you have assigned over to
+others whatever remains in their hands due to you, that it is impossible
+for me to get any more from them upon your account. Here are my books; if
+you please, examine them: and if you think fit to continue me in the
+place I am now in, order me some other funds, or else give me leave to
+quit your service. Noureddin was so astonished at this discourse, that he
+gave him no manner of answer.
+
+The friend who had been listening all this while, and had heard every
+syllable of what the steward said, immediately came in and told the
+company what he had lately overheard. It is your business, gentlemen,
+says he, to make use of this caution; for my part, I declare it openly to
+you, this is the last visit I design to make Noureddin. Nay, replied
+they, if matters go thus, we have as little business here as you; and,
+for the future, shall take care not to trouble him with our company.
+
+Noureddin returned presently after; yet, notwithstanding his carrying it
+pleasantly to his guests, by putting them into a merry humour again, he
+could not so handsomely dissemble the matter but they plainly perceived
+the truth of what they had been informed of. He was scarce sat down in
+his place, when one of his friends rose up, saying, Sir, I am sorry I
+cannot have the honour of your company any longer; and, therefore, I hope
+you will excuse my rudeness of leaving you so soon. What urgent affair
+have you, replied Noureddin, that obliges you to be going? My wife, sir,
+said he, was brought to bed to-day, and upon such an occasion, you know a
+husband's company is very acceptable; so, making a very low bow, away he
+went. A minute afterwards, a second took his leave upon another sham
+excuse; and so one after another, till at last not one of those ten
+friends that had hitherto kept Noureddin company, was left in the room.
+
+As soon as they were gone, Noureddin, little suspecting the resolution
+they had made of never visiting him, went directly to the Fair Persian's
+apartment, to whom, in private, he related all the steward had told him,
+and seemed extremely concerned at the ill posture of his affairs. Sir,
+said the Fair Persian to him, you would never take my advice, but always
+managed your concerns after your own way, and now you see the fatal
+consequences of it. I find I was not mistaken, when I presaged to what a
+miserable condition you would bring yourself at last; but what afflicts
+me the more, is, that at present you do not see the worst of your
+misfortunes. Whenever I presumed freely to impart my thoughts to you, Let
+us be merry, said you, and in pleasures improve the time that fortune has
+kindly given us; perhaps she will not always be so prodigal of her
+favours. But was I now to blame in telling you that we are the makers or
+undoers of our own fortunes, by a prudent or foolish management of them?
+You indeed would never hearken to me; so, at last, much against my will,
+I was forced to desist, and let you alone.
+
+I must own, replied Noureddin, I was extremely in the wrong in not
+following the advice that you, out of your abundance of prudence and
+discretion, was pleased to give me. It is true I have spent my estate;
+but do you not consider it is among friends of a long acquaintance, who,
+I am persuaded, have more generosity and gratitude in them than to
+abandon and forsake me in distress? Sir, replied the Fair Persian, if you
+have nothing but the gratitude of your friends to depend on, you are in a
+desperate condition; for, believe me, that hope is vain and ill-grounded,
+and you will tell me so yourself in a very little time.
+
+To this Noureddin replied, Charming Persian, I have a much better opinion
+of my friends' generosity than you. To-morrow I design to make a visit to
+them all, before the usual time of their coming hither, and you shall see
+me return with a vast sum, that they will raise among them to support me.
+I am resolved to change my way of living, and, with the money they lend
+me, set up for a merchant.
+
+The next morning, Noureddin failed not to visit his ten friends, who
+lived in the very same street. He knocked at the first door he came at,
+where one of the richest of them lived. A slave came to the door; but,
+before he would open it, he asked who was there? Go to your master, says
+he to the slave, and tell him it is Noureddin, the late vizier's son.
+Upon this the slave opens the door, and shows him into a hall, where he
+left him to go and tell his master, who was in an inner room, that
+Noureddin was come to wait on him. Noureddin! cried he, in a disdainful
+tone, loud enough for Noureddin to hear it with surprise. Go, tell him I
+am not at home; and whenever he comes hither, be sure you give him the
+same answer. The slave came back, and told Noureddin he thought his
+master was within, but he was mistaken.
+
+Noureddin came away in the greatest confusion in the world. Ah! base,
+ungrateful wretch! said he to himself, to treat me so basely to-day,
+after the vows and protestations of love and friendship that you made me
+yesterday! From thence he went to another door, but that friend ordered
+his slaves also to say he was gone out. He had the same answer at the
+third; and, in short, all the rest denied themselves, though every one of
+them was at home at the same time.
+
+It was now that Noureddin began in earnest to reflect with himself, and
+be convinced of the folly of his too credulous temper, in relying so much
+upon the vows and protestations of amity, that his false friends in the
+time of his prosperity had solemnly made him. It is very true, said he to
+himself, that a fortunate man, as I was, may be compared to a tree laden
+with fruit, which, as long as there is any remaining on its boughs,
+people will be crowding round; but, as soon as it is stripped of all,
+they immediately leave it, and go to another. He smothered his passions
+as much as possible while he was abroad; but, no sooner was he got home,
+than he gave loose to his sorrow, and resigned himself wholly to it.
+
+The Fair Persian, seeing him so extremely concerned, fancied he had not
+found his friends so ready to assist him as he expected. Well, sir, said
+she, are you now convinced of the truth of what I told you? Ah! cried he,
+my dear, thou hast been too true a prophetess; for not one of them would
+so much as know me, see me, or speak to me. Oh! who could ever have
+believed that persons so highly obliged to me as they are, and on whom I
+have spent my estate, could ever have used me so barbarously? I am
+distracted, and I fear committing some dishonourable action, below
+myself, in the deplorable condition I am reduced to, without the aid and
+assistance of your prudent advice. Sir, replied the Fair Persian, I see
+no other way of supporting yourself in your misfortunes, but selling off
+your slaves and moveables, and living upon the money, till Heaven shall
+find out some other means to deliver you from your present misery.
+
+Noureddin was very loath to make use of this expedient; but what could he
+do in the necessitous circumstance he was in? He first sold off his
+slaves; those unprofitable mouths, which were a greater expense to him
+than what his present condition could bear. He lived on the money for
+some time; and when all of it was spent, he ordered his goods to be
+carried into the market-place, where they were sold for half their worth;
+among which were several valuable things that cost immense sums. Upon
+this he lived for a considerable time: but that supply failing at last,
+he had nothing at all left by which he could raise any more money; of
+which he complained to the Fair Persian in the most tender expressions
+that sorrow could inspire.
+
+Noureddin only waited to hear what answer this prudent creature would
+make. Sir, said she, at last, I am your slave, and you know that the late
+vizier your father gave ten thousand pieces of gold for me: perhaps I am
+a little sunk in value since that time, but I believe I shall sell for
+pretty near that sum yet. Let me entreat you then instantly to carry me
+to the market, and expose me to sale; and with the money that you get for
+me, which will be very considerable, you may turn merchant in some city
+where you are unknown, and by that means find a way of living, if not in
+splendour, yet with happiness and content.
+
+
+         THE STORY OF NOUREDDIN AND THE FAIR PERSIAN CONTINUED.
+
+Ah! lovely and adorable Persian, cried Noureddin, is it possible you can
+entertain such a thought of me? Have I given you such slender proofs of
+my love, that you should think me capable of so base an action? But
+suppose me so vile a wretch, could I do it without being guilty of
+perjury, after the oath I have taken never to sell you? No, I could
+sooner die than part with you, whom I love infinitely beyond myself;
+though by the unreasonable proposition you have made me, it is plain your
+love is not so tender as mine.
+
+Sir, replied the Fair Persian, I am sufficiently convinced that your
+passion for me is as violent as you say it is; and Heaven, who knows with
+what reluctance I have made this proposition that you dislike, is my
+witness, that mine is as great as yours; but, to silence reason at once,
+I need only bid you remember that necessity has no law. I love you to
+that degree, it is impossible for you to love me more: and be assured,
+that to what master soever I shall belong, my passion shall always
+continue the same: and if you are ever able to redeem me, as I hope you
+may, it will be the greatest pleasure in the world to be in your
+possession again. Alas! to what a fatal and cruel necessity are we
+driven! But I see no other way of freeing ourselves from the misery that
+involves us both.
+
+Noureddin, who very well knew the truth of what the Fair Persian had
+spoken, and that there was no other way of avoiding a shameful poverty,
+was in the end forced to yield to her first request. Accordingly he led
+her to the market, where the women-slaves are exposed to sale, with a
+regret that cannot be easily expressed. He applied himself to a courtier
+named Hagi Hassan: Hagi Hassan, said he, here is a slave that I have a
+mind to sell; I pray thee to see what they will give for her. Hagi Hassan
+desired Noureddin and the Fair Persian to walk into a room; and when she
+had pulled off the veil that covered her face, Sir, said Hagi Hassan to
+Noureddin, in a great surprise, if I am not mistaken, this is the slave
+your father, the late vizier, gave ten thousand pieces of gold for?
+Noureddin assured him it was the same; and Hagi Hassan gave him some
+hopes of selling her at a good rate, and promised to use all his art and
+cunning to raise her price as high as it would bear.
+
+Hagi Hassan and Noureddin went out of the room, and locked the Fair
+Persian in; after which Hagi Hassan went to look after the merchants; but
+they being busy in buying slaves that came from different countries, he
+was forced to stay till the market was done. When their sale was over,
+and the greatest part of them got together, My masters, said he to them,
+with an air of gaiety in his looks and actions, every thing that is round
+is not a nut; every thing that is long is not a fig; all that is red is
+not flesh; and all eggs are not fresh. It is true you have seen and
+bought a great many slaves in your lives, but you never yet saw one
+comparable to her I am going to tell you of; in short, she is the very
+pearl of slaves. Come, follow me, and you shall see her yourselves, and
+by that judge at what rate I shall cry her.
+
+The merchants followed Hagi Hassan into the chamber where the Fair
+Persian was; and, as soon as they beheld her, they were so surprised at
+her beauty, that at the first word they unanimously agreed that four
+thousand pieces of gold was the very lowest price that they could set
+upon her. The merchants then left the room, and Hagi Hassan, who came out
+with them, without going any farther, proclaimed with a loud voice, Four
+thousand pieces of gold for the Persian slave.
+
+None of the merchants had yet offered any thing, and they were but just
+consulting together about what they might afford to give for her, when
+the vizier Saouy, perceiving Noureddin in the market, appeared. Said he
+to himself, Noureddin has certainly made some more money of his goods,
+(for he knew of his exposing them to sale,) and is come hither to buy a
+slave with it. Upon this he advanced forward just as Hagi Hassan began to
+proclaim a second time, Four thousand pieces of gold for the Persian
+slave.
+
+The vizier Saouy, concluding by the extravagance of the price, that she
+must be some extraordinary piece of beauty, had a longing desire to see
+her; so spurring his horse forward, he rode directly up to Hagi Hassan,
+who was in the very middle of the merchants. Open the door, said he, and
+let me see this slave. It was never the custom to show their slaves to
+any particular person, till after the merchants had seen her, and had the
+refusal: but Saouy being a person of so great authority, none of them
+durst dispute their right with him; and Hagi Hassan being forced to open
+the door, beckoned the fair slave to come forward, that Saouy might have
+a sight of her without the trouble of alighting from his horse.
+
+The vizier was astonished at the sight of so beautiful a slave; and
+knowing the courtier's name, (having formerly dealt with him,) Hagi
+Hassan, said he, is it not at four thousand pieces of gold that you cry
+her? Yes, sir, answered he, it is but a moment since I cried her at that
+price, and the merchants you see gathered together here are come to bid
+money for her; and I question not but they will give a great deal more
+than that.
+
+If nobody offers any higher, I will give that sum, replied Saouy, looking
+upon the merchants at the same time with a countenance that forbade them
+to advance any more. In short, he was so universally dreaded, that nobody
+durst speak a word, not so much as to complain of his encroaching upon
+their privilege.
+
+The vizier Saouy having staid some time, and finding none of the
+merchants outbid him, What do you stay for? said he to Hagi Hassan: go,
+look after the seller, and strike a bargain with him at four thousand
+pieces of gold, or more if he demands it; not knowing yet the slave
+belonged to Noureddin.
+
+Hagi Hassan having locked the chamber-door, went to confer notes with
+Noureddin: Sir, said he to him, I am very sorry to bring you the ill news
+of your slave's being just going to be sold for nothing. How so? replied
+Noureddin. Why sir, said Hagi Hassan, you must know that the business at
+first went on rarely; for, as soon as the merchants had seen your slave,
+they ordered me to cry her at four thousand pieces of gold. Accordingly I
+cried her at the price; upon which the vizier Saouy came, and his
+presence has stopped the mouths of all the merchants, who seemed
+inclinable to raise her, at least to the same price your deceased father
+gave for her. Saouy will give no more than four thousand pieces, and it
+is much against my inclination that I am come to tell you the despicable
+price he offers. The slave indeed is your own; but I will not advise you
+to part with her upon those terms, since you and every body else are
+sensible of her being worth infinitely more: besides, he is base enough
+to contrive a way to trick you out of the money.
+
+Hagi Hassan, replied Noureddin, I am highly obliged to thee for thy
+advice; but do not think I will ever sell my slave to an enemy of our
+family. My necessities indeed are at present very great, but I would
+sooner die in the most shameful poverty, than ever consent to the
+delivering her up to his arms. I have only one thing to beg of thee, who
+art skilful in all the turns and shifts of life, that thou wouldst put me
+in a way to prevent the sale of her.
+
+Sir, said Hagi Hassan, there is nothing more easy: you must pretend,
+that, being in a violent passion with your slave, you swore to expose her
+in the market, and for the sake of your oath you have now brought her
+hither, without any manner of intention of selling her. This will satisfy
+every body, and Saouy will have nothing to say against it. Come along
+with me then; and just as I am presenting her to Saouy, as if it were by
+your own consent, pull her to you, give her two or three blows, and send
+her home. I thank thee for thy counsel, said Noureddin, and thou shalt
+see I will make use of it.
+
+Hagi Hassan went back to the chamber, and having in two words acquainted
+the Fair Persian with their design, that she might not be surprised at
+it, he took her by the hand, and led her to the vizier Saouy, who was
+still, on horseback at the door: Sir, said he, here is the slave: she is
+yours; pray take her.
+
+These words were scarce out of Hagi Hassan's mouth, when Noureddin,
+catching hold of the Fair Persian, pulled her to him, and giving her a
+box on the ear, Come hither, impertinence, said he, and get you home
+again; for though your ill humour obliged me to swear I would bring you
+hither, yet I never intended to sell you; I have business for you to do
+yet, and it will be time enough to part with you when I have nothing else
+left.
+
+This action of Noureddin's put the vizier Saouy into a violent passion.
+Miserable debauchee, cried he, wouldst thou have me believe thou hast any
+thing else left to make money of but thy slave? And at the same instant,
+spurring his horse directly against him, endeavoured to have carried off
+the Fair Persian. Noureddin, nettled to the quick at the affront the
+vizier had put upon him, quits the Fair Persian, and, laying hold of his
+horse's bridle, made him run two or three paces backwards. Vile dotard,
+said he to the vizier, I would tear thy soul out of thy body this very
+moment, were it not for the crowd of people here present.
+
+The vizier Saouy being loved by nobody, but, on the contrary, hated by
+all, there was not one among them but was now pleased to see Noureddin
+mortifying him a little; and, by shrewd signs, they let him understand he
+might revenge himself upon him as much as he pleased, for nobody would
+meddle with their quarrel.
+
+Saouy endeavoured all he could to make Noureddin quit the bridle; but he
+being a lusty vigorous man, and encouraged by those that stood by, pulled
+him off his horse, in the middle of a brook, gave him a thousand blows,
+and dashed his head against the stones till it was all of a gore of
+blood. The slaves that waited upon the vizier would fain have drawn their
+scimitars and fallen upon Noureddin, but the merchants interposing
+prevented them from doing it. What do you mean? said they to them; do not
+you see the one is a vizier, and the other a vizier's son? Let them
+dispute their quarrel themselves; perhaps they will be reconciled one
+time or other; whereas, if you had killed Noureddin, your master, with
+all his greatness, could not have been able to protect you against the
+law.
+
+Noureddin having given over beating the vizier Saouy, left him in the
+middle of the brook, and taking the Fair Persian, marched home with her,
+being attended by the people with shouts and acclamations for the action
+he had performed.
+
+The vizier Saouy, cruelly bruised with the strokes he had received, by
+the assistance of his slaves made shift to get up, and had the
+mortification to see himself besmeared all over with blood and dirt. He
+leaned upon the shoulders of two slaves, and in that condition went
+straight to the palace, in the sight of all the people, with so much
+greater confusion because nobody pitied him. As soon as he reached the
+king's apartment, he began to cry out, and call for justice, after a
+lamentable manner. The king ordered him to be admitted; and as soon as he
+came, he asked him who it was that had abused and put him into that
+miserable pickle. Sir, cried Saouy, your majesty ought to afford me a
+large share of your favour, and to take into your royal consideration my
+late abuse, since it was chiefly upon your account that I have been so
+barbarously treated. Say no more of that, replied the king, but let me
+hear the whole story, simply as it is, and who the offender is; and if he
+is in the wrong, you may depend upon it he shall be severely punished.
+
+Sir, said Saouy then, telling the whole matter to his own advantage,
+having an occasion for a cook-maid, I went to the market of women-slaves
+to buy me one. When I came thither, there was a slave just cried at four
+thousand pieces of gold: I ordered them to bring the slave before me, and
+I think my eyes never did, nor ever will, behold a more glorious creature
+than she is. I had not time to examine her beauty thoroughly: but,
+however, I immediately asked to whom she belonged; and upon inquiry I
+found that Noureddin, son to the late vizier Khacan, had the disposing of
+her.
+
+Sir, you may remember that, about two or three years ago, you gave that
+vizier ten thousand pieces of gold, strictly charging him to buy you a
+slave with it. The money indeed was laid out upon this very slave; but
+instead of bringing her to your majesty, thinking his son deserved her
+better, he made him a present of her. Noureddin, since his father's
+death, having wasted his whole fortune in riot and feasting, has nothing
+left but this slave, which he intended to part with, and therefore she
+was to be sold in his name. I sent for him, and without mentioning any
+thing of his father's baseness, or rather treachery, to your majesty, I
+very civilly said to him, Noureddin, the merchants, I perceive, have put
+your slave up at four thousand pieces of gold; and I question not but, in
+emulation of each other, they will raise the price considerably: let me
+have her for the four thousand pieces; I am going to buy her for the
+king, our lord and master: this will be a handsome opportunity of making
+your court to him, and his favour will be worth a great deal more than
+the merchants can propose to give you.
+
+Instead of returning me a civil answer, as in good manners he ought to
+have done, the insolent wretch beholding me with an air of fierceness,
+Decrepit villain, said he, I would rather sell my slave to a Jew for
+nothing than to thee for money. Noureddin, replied I, without any manner
+of passion, though I had some reason to be a little warm, you do not
+consider that in talking at this rate you affront the king, who has
+raised your father and me to the honours we have enjoyed.
+
+This admonition, instead of moving him to a compliance, provoked him to a
+higher degree; so that, falling upon me like a madman, he pulled me off
+my horse, beat me as long as he could stand over me, and has put me into
+this miserable plight your majesty sees me in; and therefore I beseech
+you, sir, to consider me, since it is upon your account I have been so
+openly affronted. At the end of these words, he bowed his head, and
+turning about, wept a plentiful shower of tears.
+
+The abused king, highly incensed against Noureddin by this relation, full
+of malice and artifice, discovered by his countenance the violence of his
+anger; and, turning to the captain of his guards that stood near him,
+Take forty of your soldiers, said he, and immediately go plunder
+Noureddin's house; and, having ordered it to be razed to the ground,
+bring him and his slave along with you.
+
+The captain of the guards was not gone out of the king's presence, when a
+gentleman-usher belonging to the court, who overheard the order that had
+been given, got before him. His name was Sangiar, and he had been
+formerly the vizier Khacan's slave, by whose favour he was brought into
+the court service, where by degrees he was advanced higher.
+
+Sangiar, full of gratitude to his old master, and affection for
+Noureddin, with whom in his infancy he had often played, and being no
+stranger to Saouy's hatred to Khacan's family, could not hear the orders
+without concern and trembling. May be, said he to himself, this action of
+Noureddin's is not altogether so black as Saouy has represented it; but,
+however, the king is prejudiced against him, and will certainly put him
+to death without allowing him time to justify himself.
+
+Sangiar made so much haste to Noureddin's house, as to get thither time
+enough to acquaint him with what had passed at court, and to desire him
+to provide for his own and the Fair Persian's safety. He knocked so
+violently loud at the door, that Noureddin, who had been a great while
+without any servant, ran immediately to open it: My dear lord, said
+Sangiar, here is no more staying for you in Balsora: if you design to
+save yourself, you must lose no time, but depart hence this very moment.
+
+Why so? replied Noureddin; what is the reason I must be gone so soon? Ah!
+sir, said Sangiar, make haste away, and take your slave with you; for, in
+short, Saouy has been just now acquainting the king, after his own way of
+telling it, all that happened between you and him; and the captain of the
+guards will be here in an instant, with forty soldiers, and seize you and
+the Fair Persian. Here, sir, take these forty pieces of gold; it is all I
+have about me, to assist you in finding out some other place of safety.
+Excuse my not staying any longer with you: I leave you with a great deal
+of unwillingness; but I do it for the good of us both. I have so much
+interest with the captain of the guards, that he will take no notice of
+me. Sangiar gave Noureddin but just time to thank him, and away he went.
+
+Noureddin presently acquainted the Fair Persian with the absolute
+necessity of their going that moment. She only staid to put on her veil,
+and then they both stole out of the house together, and were so very
+lucky, as not only to get clear of the city, without the least notice
+being taken of their escape, but also safely to arrive at the mouth of
+the Euphrates, where they embarked in a vessel that lay ready to weigh
+anchor.
+
+They were no sooner on ship-board than the captain came upon deck amongst
+his passengers: My children, said he to them, are you all here? have any
+of you any more business to do in the city? or have you left any thing
+behind you? They answered him they were all there, and ready prepared; so
+that he might set sail as soon as he pleased. When Noureddin came aboard,
+the first question he asked was, whither the ship was bound? and being
+told for Bagdad, he greatly rejoiced at it. And now the captain having
+weighed anchor, set sail, and the vessel with a very favourable wind lost
+sight of Balsora.
+
+But now let us see how matters went at Balsora, in the mean time, while
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian made their escape from the fury of the
+enraged king.
+
+The captain of the guards came to Noureddin's house and knocked at the
+door, but nobody coming to open it, he ordered his soldiers to break it
+down, who immediately obeyed him, and in they rushed in a full body. They
+searched every hole and corner of the house, but neither he nor the Fair
+Persian were to be found. The captain of the guards made them inquire of
+the neighbours, and he asked himself if they had seen them lately: it was
+all in vain; for, though they had seen him go out of his house, so
+universally beloved was Noureddin, that not one of them would have said
+the least word that might be injurious to him. As soon as they had rifled
+the house and levelled it to the ground, they went to acquaint the king
+with the news. Look for them, said he, in some other places, for I am
+resolved to have them found.
+
+The captain of the guards made a second search after them; and the king
+dismissed the vizier Saouy with a great deal of honour. Go home, said he
+to him; trouble yourself no farther with Noureddin's punishment; for with
+my own hand I will revenge the insolence he has offered your person.
+
+Without any farther delay, the king ordered the public criers to proclaim
+throughout the whole city a reward of a thousand pieces of gold for any
+person that should apprehend Noureddin and the Fair Persian, with a
+severe punishment upon whomsoever should conceal them. But after all this
+pains and trouble, there was no news to be heard of them; and the vizier
+Saouy had only the comfort of seeing the king espouse his quarrel.
+
+In the mean time, Noureddin and the Fair Persian, after a prosperous
+voyage, landed safe at Bagdad. As soon as the captain came within sight
+of that city, pleased that his voyage was at an end, Children, cried he
+to the passengers, cheer up, and be merry! look, yonder is that great and
+wonderful city, where there is perpetual concourse of people from all
+parts of the world: there you shall meet with innumerable crowds every
+day, and never feel the extremity of cold in winter, nor the excess of
+heat in summer; but enjoy an eternal spring, always crowned with flowers,
+and the delicious fruits of autumn.
+
+When the vessel came to anchor a little below the city, the passengers
+got ashore, and every body went to the place they designed to lie at that
+night. Noureddin gave the captain five pieces of gold for his passage,
+and went ashore also with the Fair Persian; but being a perfect stranger
+in Bagdad, he was at a loss for a lodging. They rambled a considerable
+time about the gardens that bordered on the Tigris; and, keeping close to
+one of them that was enclosed with a very high wall, at the end of it
+they turned into a street finely paved, where they perceived a garden
+door, and a charming fountain near it.
+
+The door, which was very magnificent, happened to be shut, but the porch
+was open, in which there stood a sofa on each side. This is a very
+convenient place for us, said Noureddin to the Fair Persian: night comes
+on apace; and though we have eaten nothing since our landing, yet I
+believe we must even lie here to-night, and to-morrow we shall have time
+enough to get a lodging; what say ye to it, my dear? Sir, replied the
+Fair Persian, you know very well I am never against what you propose;
+therefore let us go no farther, since you are willing to stay here. Each
+of them having drunk a draught of water at the fountain, they laid
+themselves down upon one of the sofas; and, after a little chat, being
+invited by the agreeable murmur of the water, they fell fast asleep.
+
+The garden, it seems, belonged to the caliph; and in the middle of it
+there was a pavilion, called the Pavilion of Pictures, because its chief
+ornament was pictures, after the Persian manner, drawn by the most
+celebrated limners in Persia, whom the caliph sent for on purpose. The
+stately hall beneath this pavilion was adorned with fourscore windows,
+and in every window a branched candlestick. The candles were never
+lighted but when the caliph came thither to spend the evening, which was
+never but when the weather was so very calm that not a breath of air was
+stirring. Then, indeed, they made a glorious illumination, and could be
+plainly discerned at a vast distance in the country on that side, and by
+the greatest part of the city.
+
+There was but one person that had the charge of this fine garden, and the
+place was at this time enjoyed by a very ancient officer, named Scheich
+Ibrahim, whom the caliph himself, for some important service, put into
+that employment, with a strict charge not to let all sorts of people in,
+but especially to suffer nobody either to sit or lie down on the sofas
+that stood at the outward door, that they might always be clean and
+handsome; and whenever he found any body there, to punish them severely.
+
+Some business had obliged this officer to go abroad, and he was not as
+yet returned. When he came back, there was just daylight enough for him
+to discern two persons asleep upon one of the sofas, with both their
+heads under a piece of linen cloth, to secure them from the gnats. Very
+well, said Scheich Ibrahim to himself, here are brave people, to disobey
+the caliph's orders; but I shall take care to pay them handsomely what
+they deserve. Upon this, he opens the door very softly, and a moment
+after returns with a swinging cane in his hand, and his sleeve tucked up
+to the elbow. He was just going to lay on them with all his force; but,
+withholding his arm, he began to reason with himself after this manner:
+Thou wast going to strike, without any consideration that these perhaps
+are strangers, destitute of a lodging, and utterly ignorant of the
+caliph's order; for that reason, it would be advisable in thee to know
+first who they are. Upon this, he gently lifts up the linen that covered
+their heads, and being wonderfully astonished to see two persons so
+mightily beautiful and well-shaped, waked Noureddin, with pulling him
+softly by the feet.
+
+[Illustration p45:  Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chad Heath.]
+
+Noureddin presently lifting up his head, and seeing an old man with a
+long white beard standing at his feet, got up, and throwing himself upon
+his knees, Good father, said he, Heaven preserve you! What do you want,
+my son? replied Scheich Ibrahim: who are you, and from whence came you?
+We are strangers newly arrived, answered Noureddin, and we would fain
+tarry here till to-morrow. This is not a proper place for you, said
+Scheich Ibrahim: but come in with me, and I will find one fitter for you
+to sleep in than this; and I fancy the sight of the garden, which is very
+fine, will please you, when you see it to-morrow by daylight. Is this
+garden your own? said Noureddin. Yes, replied Scheich Ibrahim; it is an
+inheritance left me by my father: pray walk in, for I am sure you will
+not repent your seeing it.
+
+Noureddin rose up to thank Scheich Ibrahim for the civility he had shown
+them, and afterwards the Fair Persian and he went into the garden.
+Scheich Ibrahim locked the door, and going before, led them to an
+eminence, from whence at one look they might almost take a view of the
+grandeur, order, and beauty of the whole garden.
+
+Noureddin had seen very fine gardens in Balsora, but never any comparable
+to this. Having satisfied his curiosity in looking upon every thing worth
+taking notice of, as he was walking in one of the alleys, he turned about
+to the officer that was with him, and asked what his name was. As soon as
+he told him it was Scheich Ibrahim; Scheich Ibrahim, said he to him, I
+must confess this is a charming garden indeed. Heaven send you long to
+enjoy the pleasures of it; and we cannot sufficiently thank you for the
+favour of showing us a place so worthy our seeing. However, it is but
+just that we should make you some amends for your kindness: therefore,
+here are two pieces of gold; take them, and get us something to eat, that
+we may be merry together before we part.
+
+At the sight of the two pieces of gold, Scheich Ibrahim, who was a great
+admirer of that metal, laughed in his sleeve: he took them, and leaving
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian by themselves, went to provide what he was
+sent about. As soon as he was alone, said he to himself with abundance of
+joy, These are generous people; I should highly have injured myself, if,
+through imprudence or rashness, I had abused or driven them hence: the
+tenth part of the money will treat them like princes, and the rest I will
+keep for my pains and trouble.
+
+While Scheich Ibrahim was gone to fetch something for his own supper, as
+well as for his guests, Noureddin and the Fair Persian took a walk in the
+garden, sometimes in one place and sometimes in another, till at last
+they came to the pavilion of pictures that was in the middle of it. They
+stood a pretty while to admire its wonderful structure, beauty, and
+loftiness; and, after taking a full view of it on every side, they went
+up a great many steps of fine white marble, to the hall door, which they
+found locked.
+
+They were but just got to the bottom of the steps as Scheich Ibrahim
+returned, loaded with provisions. Scheich Ibrahim, said Noureddin in a
+great surprise, did you not tell us that this was your garden? I did,
+replied Scheich Ibrahim, and do so still. And does this magnificent
+pavilion also belong to you? said Noureddin. Scheich Ibrahim was put to a
+nonplus, and would not hearken to any more questions: For, said he to
+himself, if I should say it is none of mine, he will presently ask me how
+I can be the master of the garden and not the pavilion? So, being willing
+to make them believe the garden was his, he said the same of the
+pavilion. My son, said he, the pavilion is not distinct from the garden,
+but they both belong to me. If so, said Noureddin, since you are willing
+to let us be your guests to-night, do us the favour to show us the inside
+of it; for, if we may judge by the outward appearance, it must certainly
+be very splendid and magnificent.
+
+It would have been a great piece of incivility in Scheich Ibrahim to have
+refused Noureddin that favour, after the returns he had made him:
+moreover, he considered that the caliph not having given any notice,
+according to the usual custom, it was likely he would not be there that
+night, and therefore resolved to treat his guests, and sup with them in
+that room. He laid the provisions upon the first step, while he went to
+his chamber to fetch the key. He soon returned with a light, and opened
+the door.
+
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian entered the hall; and finding it so
+extravagantly surprising, could not forbear admiring the beauty and
+richness of the place. Indeed, without saying anything of the pictures,
+which were admirably well drawn, the sofas were very noble and costly;
+and, besides the branched candlesticks that were fixed to every window,
+there was a silver spring between each cross bar, with a wax candle in
+it. Noureddin could not behold those glorious objects, which put him in
+mind of his former greatness, without sighing.
+
+In the mean time, Scheich Ibrahim was getting supper ready; and the cloth
+being laid upon a sofa, and every thing in order, Noureddin and the Fair
+Persian and he sat down and ate together. When supper was done, and they
+had washed their hands, Noureddin opened the casement, and calling the
+Fair Persian to him, Come hither, my dear, said he, and with me admire
+the charming prospect and beauty of the garden by moonlight; for
+certainly nothing can be more agreeable. She came to him, and they both
+together diverted themselves with that lovely object, while Scheich
+Ibrahim was busy in taking away the cloth.
+
+When Scheich Ibrahim came to his guests again, Noureddin asked him
+whether he had any good liquor in his lodgings to treat them with. What
+liquor would you have? replied Scheich Ibrahim. Sherbet, I have the best
+in the world; but sherbet, you know, my son, is never drunk after supper.
+
+I know that very well, said Noureddin; it is not sherbet, but another
+sort of liquor that we ask you for; and I am surprised at your not
+understanding me. It is wine that I perceive you speak of, said Scheich
+Ibrahim. You have hit right, replied Noureddin; and if you have any, pray
+let us have a bottle: you know a bottle after supper is a very proper
+companion to spend the hours with till bed-time.
+
+Heaven defend me from keeping wine in my house, cried Scheich Ibrahim,
+and from ever coming to a place where any is to be sold! A man as I am,
+who has been a pilgrimage four times to Mecca, has renounced wine for
+ever.
+
+However, said Noureddin, you would do us a singular kindness in getting
+us a little for our own drinking: and if it be not too much trouble, I
+will put you in a way how you may do it, without ever going into the inn,
+or so much as laying your hand upon the vessel that contains it. Upon
+that condition, I will do it, replied Scheich Ibrahim; therefore pray let
+me know how I am to manage it.
+
+Why then, said Noureddin to him, we just now saw an ass tied at the
+entrance of the garden, which certainly must be yours, and which you may
+make use of in this extremity. Here are two pieces of gold more; take
+them, and lead your ass with the panniers towards the next inn: you may
+stand at as great a distance as you please; only give something to the
+next passenger that comes by, and desire him to go with your ass to the
+inn, there load him with two pitchers of wine, one in one pannier and
+another in another, which he must pay for out of the money we have given
+you; and so let him bring the ass back to you: you will have nothing to
+do but drive the beast hither before you; for we will take the wine out
+of the panniers; and by this means you will act nothing but what you may
+do without any scruple at all.
+
+The two last pieces of gold that Scheich Ibrahim was going to receive,
+wrought wonderfully upon his temper. Ah! my son, cried he, after
+Noureddin had done speaking, you have contrived the matter rarely; and
+had it not been for your invention, I should never have found out a way
+of getting you some wine, without a little scruple of conscience. Away he
+went to execute the orders he had received; and upon his return, which
+was in a little time, Noureddin went down stairs, and taking the wine out
+of the panniers, carried it into the hall.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim having led the ass back to the place from whence he took
+him, came back again. Scheich Ibrahim, said Noureddin to him, we cannot
+enough thank you for the trouble we have already given you; but, my
+friend, we want something yet. What is that? replied Scheich Ibrahim; is
+it anything that I can be farther serviceable to you in? Why, said
+Noureddin, we have no cups to drink out of; and a little choice fruit, if
+you have any, would be very acceptable to us. Do but say what you have a
+mind to, replied Scheich Ibrahim, and you shall have every thing to your
+heart's content.
+
+Down went Scheich Ibrahim, and in a short time spread a table for them
+with porcelain dishes, full of all sorts of delicious fruits, besides a
+great number of gold and silver cups to drink out of; and having asked
+them if they wanted any thing else, he withdrew, though they pressed him
+earnestly to stay.
+
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian sat down again, and after a cup a-piece,
+they were mightily pleased with the wine. Well, my dear, said Noureddin
+to the Fair Persian, are we not the most fortunate persons in the world,
+after so many dangers, to meet with so charming and agreeable a place?
+come, let us be merry, and think no more on the hardships of our voyage.
+Can my happiness be greater in this world, than to have you on one side
+of me, and my bottle on the other? They took off their cups pretty
+heartily, and diverted themselves very agreeably, in singing each of them
+a song.
+
+Both of them having very fine voices, but especially the Fair Persian,
+Scheich Ibrahim, who had stood hearkening a great while on the steps
+without discovering himself, was perfectly charmed with their songs. He
+could contain himself no longer; but, thrusting his head in at the door,
+Courage, sir, said he to Noureddin, whom he took to be quite drunk; I am
+overjoyed to see you so merry.
+
+Ah! Scheich Ibrahim, cried Noureddin, turning to him, you are a glorious
+man, and we are extremely obliged to you. We dare not ask you to drink a
+cup; but pray walk in, and let us have the honour at least of your
+company. Excuse me, sir, said Scheich Ibrahim; the pleasure of hearing
+your songs is sufficient for me. Upon this, he immediately retired.
+
+The Fair Persian perceiving Scheich Ibrahim, through one of the windows,
+standing upon the steps without the door, told Noureddin of it. Sir, said
+she, you see what an aversion he has for wine; yet I question not in the
+least to make him drink some, if you would do as I would have you.
+Noureddin asked her what it was. Do but say the word, replied he, and I
+am ready to do what you please. Prevail with him, then, only to come in
+and bear us company: some time after, fill up a bumper, and give it him;
+if he refuses it, drink it off, feign yourself to be asleep, and leave
+the rest to me.
+
+Noureddin quickly finding out the drift of the Fair Persian's design,
+called to Scheich Ibrahim, who came again to the door: Scheich Ibrahim,
+said he, we are your guests; you have entertained us after the most
+obliging manner in the world; and will you now refuse us the honour of
+bearing us company? We do not ask you to drink, but only the favour of
+seeing you.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim being at last prevailed upon, came into the hall, and sat
+down upon the edge of a sofa that stood the nearest to the door. You do
+not sit well there, said Noureddin; besides, you are too far off for us
+to converse with you: pray come nearer, and sit down by the lady, since
+she will have it so. I will obey you, replied Scheich Ibrahim; so, coming
+forward with a simpering countenance, to think he should be seated near
+so beautiful a creature, he placed himself at some distance from the Fair
+Persian. Noureddin desired a song of her, upon the account of the honour
+that Scheich Ibrahim had done them; and she sang one that charmed him to
+an ecstasy.
+
+When the Fair Persian had ended her song, Noureddin poured out a cup of
+wine, and presented it to Scheich Ibrahim; Scheich Ibrahim, said he,
+here, drink this to our healths. Sir, replied he, starting back, as if
+the very sight of the wine had put him into a horror and confusion, I
+beseech you to excuse me; I have already told you, that I have forsworn
+the use of wine these many years. Then positively you will not drink our
+healths, said Noureddin; however, give me leave to drink yours.
+
+While Noureddin was drinking, the Fair Persian cut a piece of apple, and
+presented it to Scheich Ibrahim. Though you refused drinking, said she,
+yet I believe you will not refuse eating this piece of apple, since it is
+a very good one. Scheich Ibrahim had no power to refuse it from so fair a
+hand; but taking it with a very low bow, kissed it, and put it in his
+mouth. She said a great many amorous things upon that occasion; and
+Noureddin tumbling back upon a sofa, pretended to fall fast asleep. The
+Fair Persian presently advanced towards Scheich Ibrahim; and speaking in
+a very low voice, See, said she, the sleepy sot! thus, in all our merry
+bouts, he constantly serves me; and no sooner has he drunk a cup or two,
+than he falls asleep, and leaves me alone; but I hope you will have the
+goodness to keep me company till he awakes.
+
+At this, the Fair Persian took a cup, and filling it to the brim with
+wine, offered it to Scheich Ibrahim: Here, said she, drink off this to my
+health: I am going to pledge you. Scheich Ibrahim made a great many
+difficulties of the matter at first, and begged her to excuse him from
+drinking; but, at last, overcome by her charms and entreaties, he took
+the cup, and drank every drop of the wine off.
+
+The good old man loved a cheruping cup to his heart, but was ashamed to
+drink among strangers. He often went to the tavern in private, as
+abundance of people do; and now his hand being once in, without any more
+ceremony, or round-about ways, as Noureddin had instructed him, he goes
+directly to the next inn, where he was very well known, and fetches some
+more wine (the night serving him instead of a cloak) with the money that
+Noureddin had ordered him to give the messenger that went for the first.
+
+As soon as Scheich Ibrahim had taken off his cup, and made an end of the
+piece of apple, the Fair Persian filled him out another, which he
+received with less difficulty than the former, but made none at all at
+the third. In short, he drank four times before ever Noureddin discovered
+his pretended sleeping; but then bursting out into a violent fit of
+laughter, he rose up, and looking upon him, Ha! ha! said he, Scheich
+Ibrahim, are you caught at last? did you not tell me you had forsworn
+wine? and now you have drank it all up from me.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, not expecting to be surprised after that manner, blushed
+a little: however, that did not spoil his draught: but when he had done,
+Sir, said he to Noureddin, laughing, if there is any crime in what I have
+done, it lies at this fair lady's door, not mine; for who could possibly
+resist so many charms?
+
+The Fair Persian, who knew well enough what Noureddin would be at, took
+Scheich Ibrahim's part: Let him talk, said she; Scheich Ibrahim, take no
+notice of him; but let us drink on, and be merry. A while after,
+Noureddin fills out a cup for himself and the Fair Persian; but when
+Scheich Ibrahim saw that Noureddin had forgot him in his turn, he took
+his cup, and presenting it to the Fair Persian, Madam, said he, do I
+pretend I cannot drink now?
+
+At these words of Scheich Ibrahim's, Noureddin and the Fair Persian were
+ready to split their sides with laughing. Noureddin poured him out some
+wine; and there they sat laughing, chatting, and drinking, till pretty
+near midnight. About that hour, the Fair Persian began to take notice of
+there being but one candle upon the table. Scheich Ibrahim, said she to
+the good old officer, methinks you might have afforded us another candle,
+since there are so many wax-lights yonder: pray do us the favour to light
+some of them, that we may see a little better what we are doing here.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim making use of the liberty that wine gives a man, when it
+gets up into the crown-office, and not caring to be interrupted in his
+discourse with Noureddin, bid the Fair Persian light them herself: It is
+fitter for you to do it than me, said he: but, hark ye, be sure not to
+light above five or six; for this is enough. Up rose the Fair Persian
+immediately, and taking a wax-candle in her hand, lights it with that
+which stood upon the table; and, without any regard to Scheich Ibrahim's
+orders, set fire to the whole fourscore.
+
+By and by, while Scheich Ibrahim was entertaining the Fair Persian with
+some other discourse, Noureddin took his turn to desire him to light up
+some of the candles in the branched candlesticks, not taking notice that
+all the wax-lights were already in a blaze: Certainly, replied Scheich
+Ibrahim, you are lazier, or less vigorous, than I am, that you are not
+able to light them yourself: get you gone; but be sure you light no more
+than three. To work he went; but, instead of that number, he lighted them
+all, and opened the shutters of the fourscore windows, before Scheich
+Ibrahim, who was deeply engaged with the Fair Persian, knew any thing of
+the matter.
+
+The caliph Haroun Alraschid being not yet gone to bed, was in a parlour
+at his palace by the river Tigris, from whence he could take a side-view
+both of the garden and pavilion. By chance, he opened the casement, and
+seeing the pavilion was illuminated, was mightily surprised at it; and at
+first, by the greatness of the light, thought the city was on fire. The
+grand vizier Giafar was still with him, who only waited for his going to
+rest, and then designed to go home too. The caliph, in a great rage,
+called the vizier to him: Careless vizier, said he, come hither, look
+upon the pavilion of pictures, and tell me the reason of its being
+illuminated, now I am not there.
+
+The grand vizier Giafar, upon this news, fell into a violent trembling,
+fearing something else was the matter; but, when he came nearer, and with
+his own eyes saw the truth of what the caliph had told him, he was more
+astonished than before. However, being obliged to make some excuse to
+appease the caliph's anger, he said, Commander of the true believers, all
+that I can say to your majesty about this matter is, that about five or
+six days ago, Scheich Ibrahim came to acquaint me, that he had a design
+to call an assembly of the ministers of his mosque, to assist at a
+ceremony he was ambitious of performing in your majesty's auspicious
+reign. I asked him if I could be any way serviceable to him in this
+affair; upon which he entreated me to get leave of your majesty to
+perform the ceremony in the pavilion. When he left me, I told him he
+might do it, and I would take care to acquaint your majesty with it; but
+indeed I had quite forgot it, and I heartily ask pardon. Scheich Ibrahim,
+continued he, has certainly made choice of this day for the ceremony;
+and, after treating the ministers of his mosque, he was willing to divert
+them with the sight of this illumination.
+
+Giafar, said the caliph, with a tone that plainly showed his anger was a
+little mollified, according to thy own words, thou hast committed three
+faults that are unpardonable: the first, in giving Scheich Ibrahim leave
+to perform his ceremony in my pavilion; for a person in so mean an office
+as his, is not worthy of so great an honour: the second, in not
+acquainting me with it: and the third, in not diving into the bottom of
+the good old man's intention. For my part, I am persuaded he only did it
+to try if he could get any money towards bearing the charge of it; but
+perhaps that never came into thy head: and sure I shall not wrong him, in
+forgiving him the expense of the night's illumination, which will be some
+amends for thy presenting him with nothing.
+
+The grand vizier Giafar, overjoyed to hear the caliph put the matter upon
+that foot, very willingly owned the faults he reproached him with, and
+freely confessed he was to blame in not giving Scheich Ibrahim a few
+pieces of gold. Since the case is so, added the caliph, it is just that
+thou shouldst be punished for thy mistakes; but thy punishment shall be
+light: thou shalt spend the remainder of the night as I do, with these
+honest souls, whose company I am very well pleased with; and while I am
+putting on a citizen's habit, go thou and disguise thyself, with Mesrour,
+and come both of you along with me. The vizier Giafar told him it was
+late, and that all the company would be gone before he could get thither;
+but the caliph said he would positively go. The vizier, who knew that not
+a syllable of what he said before was true, began to be in great
+consternation; but there was no reply to be made, and go he must.
+
+The caliph then, disguised like a citizen, with the grand vizier Giafar,
+and Mesrour, chief of the eunuchs, stole out of the palace together. They
+rambled through the streets of Bagdad, till at last they came to the
+garden: the door, through the carelessness of Scheich Ibrahim, was open,
+having forgot to shut it when he came back from buying the wine. The
+caliph was very angry at it: Giafar, said he to the grand vizier, what
+excuse have you for the door's being open at this unseasonable hour? Is
+it possible that Scheich Ibrahim makes a custom of leaving it thus all
+night? No; I rather believe the hurry of the feast has been the occasion
+of this neglect.
+
+The caliph went into the garden; and when he came to the pavilion,
+resolving not to go into the hall till he knew what they were doing
+there, he consulted with the grand vizier, whether it was not his best
+way to climb up into one of the trees that was near it, to make a
+discovery. The grand vizier at last casting his eye upon the door,
+perceived it stood half open, and told the caliph of it. It seems Scheich
+Ibrahim had left it so, when he was prevailed upon to come in and bear
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian company.
+
+The caliph laying aside his first design, stole softly up to the
+hall-door, which standing half-open, he had the conveniency of seeing all
+the company that were within, without being discovered himself.
+
+Never was any person so surprised as he, when he saw a lady of an
+incomparable beauty, and a young, handsome, fine-shaped man, sitting at
+the table, with Scheich Ibrahim by them. Scheich Ibrahim had just then
+got a cup in his hand: My dear creature, said he to the Fair Persian, a
+right toper never drinks without singing a brisk tune first. If you
+please to hear, I will give you one of my best songs.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim sang; and the caliph wondered at it more, because till
+that very moment he never knew any thing of his drinking wine, but always
+took him for a grave solid man, as he seemed to be to outward appearance.
+The caliph retired from the door with the same caution as he made his
+approach to it; and coming to the grand vizier Giafar, who was standing
+upon the steps a little lower, Come up, said he to him, and see if those
+within yonder are the ministers of the mosque, as you would fain have me
+believe.
+
+By the tone of the voice in which the caliph spoke these last words, the
+vizier understood that things went ill on his side: however, he went up
+the steps; but when he had peeped in at the door, and saw them all three
+sitting, and in that condition, he fell a-trembling for fear of his life.
+He went back to the caliph, but in so great a confusion, that he had not
+a word to say to him. What riotous doings are here? said the caliph to
+him: who are those people that have presumed to take the liberty of
+diverting themselves in my garden and pavilion? and how durst Scheich
+Ibrahim give them admittance, and partake of the diversion with them?
+However, I must confess, I never saw two persons more beautiful, or
+better paired, in my life; and therefore, before I discover my anger, I
+will inform myself a little better, and inquire who they are, and the
+reason of their being here. He went to the door again, to observe them
+more narrowly; and the vizier who followed, stood behind him, and fixed
+his eyes upon them. They both of them plainly heard every word that
+Scheich Ibrahim spoke to the Fair Persian. Is there any thing, my
+charming lady, wanting to render the pleasures of this night complete?
+Nothing but a lute, replied the Fair Persian; and methinks, if you could
+get me one, all things would be very well. Can you play upon it? said
+Scheich Ibrahim. Fetch me one, replied the Fair Persian, and you shall
+hear whether I can or not.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, without stirring very far from his place, pulled a lute
+out of a cupboard, and presented it to the Fair Persian, who began to put
+it in tune. The caliph, in the mean time, turning to the grand vizier;
+Giafar, said he, the young lady is going to play upon the lute; and if
+she performs well, I will forgive her, and the young man for her sake;
+but, as for thee, thou mayest go hang thyself. Commander of the true
+believers, replied the grand vizier, if that is your intention I wish she
+may play ill. Why so? said the caliph. Because, replied the grand vizier,
+the longer we live in this world, the more time we shall have to comfort
+ourselves with the hopes of dying in good social company. The caliph, who
+loved a jest dearly, began to laugh at this repartee; and putting his ear
+to the open side of the door, he listened to hear the Fair Persian play.
+
+The Fair Persian made such artful flourishes upon the lute, that from the
+first moment of her touching it, the caliph perceived that she did it
+with a masterly hand. Afterwards, she began to sing; and suiting her
+voice, which was admirably fine, to the lute, she sang and played with so
+much skill and sweetness, that the caliph was quite ravished to hear her.
+
+As soon as the Fair Persian had finished her song, the caliph went down
+the steps, and the vizier Giafar after him. When he came to the bottom,
+By my soul, said he to the vizier, I never heard a more charming voice,
+or a lute better touched in my life. Isaac[1], that hitherto I thought
+the most skilful player in the world, does not come up to her. In short,
+I am so charmed with her music, that I must hear her play before me; and
+therefore contrive some way how to bring it about.
+
+Commander of the true believers, said the grand vizier, if you should go
+in, and Scheich Ibrahim chance to know you, he would infallibly die with
+the fright. I should be extremely concerned at that, replied the caliph,
+and should be loath to be the occasion of his death, after so many years'
+service. But there is a thought just come into my head, how to compass my
+design: stay here with Mesrour, and wait for me in the next alley till I
+come.
+
+The neighbourhood of the Tigris had given the caliph the conveniency of
+turning a sufficient quantity of water under a stately bridge, well
+terraced, into his garden, to make a fine canal, whither the choicest
+fish of the whole river used to retire. The fishermen knew it very well,
+and would have given the world to fish there; but the caliph had
+expressly charged Scheich Ibrahim not to suffer any of them to come near
+it. However, that very night, a fisherman passing by the garden door,
+which the caliph had left open as he found it, made use of this
+opportunity, and going in, went directly to the canal.
+
+The fisherman immediately fell to work with his casting-nets, and was
+just ready to draw them, when the caliph, fearing what would be the
+effect of Scheich Ibrahim's negligence, but willing to make use of it, to
+bring his design about, came to the same place. The fisherman, in spite
+of his disguise, knew him, and throwing himself at his feet, humbly
+implored his pardon, and excused himself upon account of his poverty.
+Rise, saith the caliph, and be not afraid; only draw your nets, that I
+may see what fish you have got.
+
+The fisherman, recovered of his fright, quickly obeyed the caliph's
+orders. He drew out five or six very large fishes; and the caliph,
+choosing the two largest, tied them together by the head with a sprig of
+a tree. After this, said he to the fisherman, Give me thy clothes, and
+here take mine. The exchange was soon made; and the caliph being dressed
+like a fisherman, even to his boots and turban, Take thy nets, said he to
+the fisherman, and get thee about thy business.
+
+When the fisherman, very well pleased with his good fortune, was gone,
+the caliph, taking the two fishes in his hand, went to look after the
+grand vizier Giafar and Mesrour. He made a full stop at the grand vizier,
+who, not knowing him, asked him what he wanted, and bade him go about his
+business. Upon this, the caliph fell a-laughing; by which the vizier
+finding it to be him, Commander of the true believers, said he, is it
+possible it can be you? I knew you not; and I ask a thousand pardons for
+my rudeness: you are so strangely disguised now, that without any fear of
+being discovered by Scheich Ibrahim, you may venture into the hall. Stay
+you here with Mesrour, said the caliph, while I go yonder and play my
+part.
+
+The caliph went up to the hall, and knocked at the door. Noureddin
+hearing him first, told Scheich Ibrahim of it, who asked who was there.
+The caliph opened the door, and stepping a little way into the hall to
+show himself, Scheich Ibrahim, said he, I am the fisherman Kerim, who
+being informed of your design to treat some of your friends, have brought
+two very large fishes, fresh caught, to see if you have any occasion for
+them.
+
+Noureddin and the Fair Persian, mightily pleased to hear him name fish,
+Pray, said she to Scheich Ibrahim, let him come in, that we may look upon
+them. Scheich Ibrahim, by this time, was incapable of asking this
+counterfeit fisherman how or what way he came thither; but his whole
+design being only to oblige the Fair Persian, with much ado he turns his
+head towards the door, being quite drunk, and in a stammering tone,
+calling to the caliph, whom he took to be a fisherman, Come hither, thou
+nightly thief, said he, and let us see what thou hast got.
+
+The caliph went forwards, and counterfeiting all the humours and actions
+of a fisherman to a nicety, presented them with the two fishes. These are
+very fine ones indeed, said the Fair Persian; and if they were well
+ordered, and delicately dressed, I should be glad to eat some of them.
+The lady is in the right, answered Scheich Ibrahim; but what the plague
+can we do with your fish, unless it was dressed? Go, dress it thyself,
+and bring it to us; thou wilt find every thing necessary for thee in my
+kitchen.
+
+The caliph went back to the grand vizier: Giafar, said he, I have been
+very well received; but they want the fish to be dressed. I will take
+care to dress it myself, said the grand vizier, and they shall have it in
+a moment. Nay, replied the caliph, so eager am I to accomplish my design,
+that I will take abundance of pains about it too; for since I have
+personated the fisherman so well, sure I can play the cook for once:
+besides, in my younger days, I dealt a little in cookery, and always came
+off with flying colours. In saying these words, he went directly towards
+Scheich Ibrahim's lodgings, and the grand vizier and Mesrour followed
+him.
+
+All three of them presently fell to work, and though Scheich Ibrahim's
+kitchen was not very large, yet there was every thing in it that they
+wanted. The fish was quickly cooked, and the caliph served it up, putting
+to every one's plate a lemon to squeeze, if they thought it proper, into
+the sauce. They all ate very heartily, but especially Noureddin and the
+Fair Persian; and the caliph sat down with them at the lower end of the
+table.
+
+As soon as the repast was over, Noureddin looking upon the caliph,
+Fisherman, said he, never were better fish eaten, and you have done us
+the greatest favour in the world. At the same time putting his hand into
+his bosom, and pulling out a purse of thirty pieces of gold, the
+remainder of the forty that Sangiar, gentleman-usher to the king of
+Balsora, had given him just upon his departure; Here, said he to him,
+take that, and if I had any more, thou shouldst have it: had I known thee
+in my prosperity, I would have taken care of securing thee from ever
+wanting: do not refuse the small present I make thee, but accept of it as
+kindly as if it was much greater.
+
+The caliph took the purse, and perceiving by the weightiness that it was
+all gold, Sir, said he, I cannot enough thank you for your liberality,
+and I think myself very fortunate in having to do with a person of your
+generosity; but before I take my leave, I have a favour to ask, which I
+beg you not to deny me. Yonder is a lute, which makes me believe that the
+lady understands playing upon it; and if you can prevail with her to play
+but one tune, I shall go away the best satisfied in the world: a lute,
+sir, is an instrument I greatly admire.
+
+Fair Persian, said Noureddin, immediately addressing himself to her, I
+ask that favour of you, and I hope you will not refuse me. She took up
+the lute without more entreaties, and putting it presently in tune,
+played and sang with such an air as charmed the very soul of the caliph
+with its harmony. Afterwards she played upon the lute without singing,
+but with so much skill and softness that it transported him into an
+ecstasy of joy.
+
+When the Fair Persian had given over playing, the caliph cried out, What
+a voice! What a hand! What skill is here! Was there ever finer singing,
+or better playing upon the lute? Never was there any heard or seen like
+it.
+
+Noureddin, who was a person of breeding, and always returned the
+compliment that was made him; Fisherman, said he, I find thou hast some
+taste for music, since thou art delighted with her performance; and if
+thou likest her she is thine; I make thee a present of her. At the same
+time he rose up, and taking his robe, which he had laid by, was for going
+away and leaving the pretended fisherman in possession of the Fair
+Persian.
+
+The Fair Persian was extremely surprised at Noureddin's liberality; she
+took hold of him, and looking very wishfully at him, Whither, sir, are
+you going? said she; sit down in your place, I entreat you, and hearken
+to the song I am going to sing and play. He did as she desired him, and
+then the Fair Persian touching her lute, and looking upon him with tears,
+sang some verses that she had made _extempore_ to reproach him with his
+indifference, and the easiness as well as cruelty of resigning her to
+Kerim. She only hinted, without explaining herself any farther to the
+fisherman, for she was ignorant of his being the caliph, as well as
+Noureddin. When she had done playing, she put the lute down by her, and
+clapped a handkerchief to her face to hide the tears she could not help
+shedding.
+
+Noureddin made no answer to all these reproaches, but by his silence
+seemed to declare he did not repent of what he had done. The caliph
+surprised at what he had newly heard, Sir, said he, as far as I see, this
+beautiful lady, that so generously you have made me a present of just
+now, is your slave, and you are her master. It is very true, Kerim,
+replied Noureddin, and thou wouldst be more surprised than thou art now,
+should I tell thee all the misfortunes that have happened to me on her
+account. Ah! I beseech you, sir, replied the caliph, still behaving
+himself like a fisherman, oblige me so far as to let me hear part of your
+story.
+
+Noureddin, who had already obliged him in several things of a higher
+nature than this, was so complaisant as to relate the whole story to him.
+He began with his father's buying the Fair Persian for the king of
+Balsora, and omitted nothing of what he had done, or what had happened to
+him, from that time to their arrival at Bagdad, and since, to that very
+moment he was talking to him.
+
+When Noureddin had ended his story, Whither are you going now? said the
+caliph. Even where Heaven shall direct me, answered Noureddin. Believe
+me, replied the caliph, you shall go no farther, but on the contrary,
+return to Balsora: I will go and write a short letter, which you shall
+give the king in my name; and you shall see upon the reading of it, he
+will give you a very handsome reception, and nobody will dare to speak
+against you.
+
+Kerim, said Noureddin, what thou hast told me is very unaccountable and
+singular: didst thou ever hear that a poor fisherman, as thou art, had
+any correspondence with a king? Be not astonished at that, replied the
+caliph; you must know then, that we both studied together under the same
+masters, and were always the best friends in the world. It is true,
+fortune has not been equally favourable to us both; she has made him a
+king, and me but a fisherman. However, this inequality has not at all
+lessened our friendship: he has often expressed a readiness and desire to
+advance my fortune, but I always refused it; and am better pleased with
+the satisfaction of knowing that he never will deny me whatever I ask for
+the service and advantage of my friends. Let me do it then, and you shall
+see the success.
+
+Noureddin consented to what the caliph had proposed; and there being
+every thing necessary for writing in the hall, the caliph wrote a letter
+to the king of Balsora; at the top of which, pretty near the edge of the
+paper, he placed this set form, in three small characters: 'In the name
+of the most merciful God,' to show he would be absolutely obeyed.
+
+
+      THE LETTER OF CALIPH HAROUN ALRASCHID TO THE KING OF BALSORA
+
+'Haroun Alraschid, son of Mandi, sends this letter to Mohammed Zinchi,
+his cousin, greeting. As soon as Noureddin, son to the late vizier
+Khacan, the bearer, has delivered you this letter and you have read it,
+pull off the royal mantle, put it on his shoulders, and place him in thy
+seat: fail not. So farewell.'
+
+
+The caliph folded up the letter, and sealed it, and giving it to
+Noureddin, without saying any thing of what was in it, Go, said he, and
+embark immediately in a vessel that is ready to go off, (as there did
+constantly every day at the same hour), and you may sleep when you are
+aboard.
+
+Noureddin took the letter, and away he went with the little money he had
+about him when Sangiar gave him his purse; and the Fair Persian,
+distracted with grief at his departure, retired by herself to one of the
+sofas, and fell a-weeping bitterly.
+
+Noureddin was scarce gone out of the hall, when Scheich Ibrahim, who had
+been silent during the transaction of this affair, looking steadfastly
+upon the caliph, whom he still believed to be a fisherman: Hark you, said
+he, Kerim, thou hast brought us two fishes that are worth twenty pieces
+of leather or more, and thou hast got a purse and a slave: but dost thou
+think to have it all for thyself? I here declare that I will go halves
+with thee in the slave; and as for the purse, show me what is in the
+inside: if it is silver, thou shalt have one piece for thyself; but if it
+is gold, I will have it all, and in exchange, give thee some pieces of
+leather I have in my pocket.
+
+(For the better understanding of what follows, said Scheherazade,
+interrupting herself here, we must observe to you, that the caliph,
+before his serving up the fish, had despatched the grand vizier Giafar to
+his palace, with orders to get four slaves with a rich habit, and to wait
+on the other side of the pavilion till he gave a signal with his finger
+against the window. The grand vizier receiving his commission, he,
+Mesrour, and the four slaves, waited at the appointed place, expecting
+the sign).
+
+The caliph, still personating the fisherman, answered Scheich Ibrahim
+very boldly, I know not what there is in the purse, gold or silver:
+whatever it is, you shall freely go my halves; but, as to the slave, I
+will have her all to myself; and if you will not accept of these
+conditions, you shall have nothing at all.
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, enraged to the last degree at this insolence,
+considering him only as a fisherman, snatched up one of the china dishes,
+and flung it at the caliph's head. The caliph easily avoided the blow,
+being thrown by a person in drink; but the dish striking against the
+wall, was dashed into a thousand pieces. Scheich Ibrahim having missed
+his aim, grew more enraged, and catching up the candle that stood upon
+the table, rose from his seat, and staggering along, went down a back
+pair of stairs to look for a cane.
+
+The caliph made use of this opportunity, and striking his hands against
+the window, the grand vizier, Mesrour, and the four slaves were with him
+in a trice, who quickly pulled off the fisherman's clothes, and put on
+him the habit they had brought. They had not quite dressed the caliph,
+(who had seated himself upon the throne that was in the hall), but they
+were very busy about him, when Scheich Ibrahim, spurred on by interest,
+came back, with a swinging cane in his hand, with which he designed to
+pay the pretended fisherman soundly; but, instead of finding him, he saw
+his clothes in the middle of the hall, and the caliph upon his throne,
+with the grand vizier and Mesrour on each side of him. He stood a while
+gazing upon this unexpected sight, doubting whether he was awake or
+asleep. The caliph fell a-laughing at his astonishment; and, calling to
+him, Scheich Ibrahim, said he, what dost thou want? whom dost thou look
+after?
+
+Scheich Ibrahim, no longer doubting that it was the caliph, immediately
+threw himself at his feet, with his face to the ground: Commander of the
+true believers, cried he, your vile slave has offended you; but he
+implores your clemency, and asks a thousand pardons for his offence. As
+soon as the slaves had made an end of dressing him, he came down from his
+throne, and advancing towards him, Rise, said he; I forgive thee.
+
+Afterwards the caliph addressed himself to the Fair Persian, who had
+suspended her sorrow, as soon as she understood that the garden and
+pavilion belonged to that prince, and not to Scheich Ibrahim, as he had
+all along made her believe, and that it was he himself disguised in the
+fisherman's clothes. Fair Persian, said he, rise and follow me: by what
+you have lately seen, you ought to know who I am, and to believe that I
+am above taking any advantage of Noureddin's humour, who, with a
+generosity not to be paralleled, has made me a present of your person. I
+have sent him to Balsora to be king there; and when I have despatched
+some business necessary for his establishment, you shall also go thither
+and be a queen. In the mean time, I am going to order an apartment for
+you in my palace, where you shall be treated according to your desert.
+
+This discourse put the Fair Persian in heart again, and comforted her
+after a very sensible manner. The joy of Noureddin's advancement, whom
+she passionately loved, to so high an honour, made her sufficient amends
+for her affliction. The caliph kept his promise, and recommended her to
+the care of his lady Zobeide, whom he acquainted with the esteem he had
+lately entertained for Noureddin.
+
+Noureddin's return to Balsora was more fortunate and speedier by some
+days than he could have expected. Upon his arrival, without visiting any
+of his friends or relations, he went directly to the palace, where the
+king at that time was giving public audience. He pressed through the
+crowd with the letter held up in his hand, who presently made way for him
+to come forward and deliver it. The king took and opened it; and his
+colour changed in reading it: he kissed it thrice, and was just about to
+obey the caliph's orders, when he bethought himself of showing it to the
+vizier Saouy, Noureddin's irreconcileable enemy.
+
+Saouy, who had discovered Noureddin, and began to think with himself,
+with a great deal of uneasiness, what might be the design of his coming,
+was no less surprised than the king, at the order contained in the
+letter; and being as much concerned in it, he thought upon a way that
+very moment how to evade it. He pretended not to have read the letter
+quite through, and therefore desired a second view of it; he turned
+himself a little on one side, as if he wanted a better sight, and without
+being perceived by any body, dexterously tore off the set form that
+showed the caliph would be absolutely obeyed, from the top of it, and
+putting it into his mouth, swallowed it down.
+
+After this notorious piece of villany, Saouy turned to the king, and
+giving him the letter, Sir, said he to him, in a low voice, what does
+your majesty intend to do? What the caliph has commanded me, replied the
+king. Have a care, sir, said the wicked vizier, what you do: it is true,
+this is the caliph's hand; but the set form is not to it. The king had
+observed that very well, but in the confusion he was in, he thought his
+eyes deceived him, when he saw it was gone.
+
+Sir, continued the vizier, we have no reason to doubt, but that the
+caliph upon the complaints he has made against your majesty and me, has
+granted him this letter purely to get rid of him, not with any intention
+of having the order contained in it executed. Besides, we must consider,
+he has sent no express with a patent: and without that, the order is of
+no force: and since a king of your majesty's grandeur was never deposed
+without that formality, let who will bring such a letter as this, it
+ought not to be put in execution. Your majesty may depend upon what I
+have said; and how dangerous soever the consequence of disobeying this
+order may be, I will take it all upon myself.
+
+King Zinchi, easily persuaded by this pernicious counsel, left Noureddin
+entirely to the discretion of the vizier Saouy, who led him to his house
+after a very insulting manner; where, after causing him to be bastinadoed
+till he was almost dead, he ordered him to a prison, where he commanded
+him to be put in the darkest dungeon, with a strict charge to the gaoler
+to give him nothing but bread and water.
+
+When Noureddin, sadly bruised with the strokes, came to himself, and
+found what a nasty dungeon he was in, he bewailed his misfortunes after
+the most pathetic manner imaginable. Ah! fisherman, cried he, how hast
+thou cheated me; and how easy have I been in believing thee! Could I,
+after the civility I showed thee, expect so inhuman and barbarous usage!
+However, may Heaven reward thee: for I cannot persuade myself, that thy
+intention was so base, and I will with patience wait the end of my
+afflictions.
+
+The poor disconsolate Noureddin remained six whole days in this miserable
+condition, and Saouy did not forget that he had confined him there, but
+being resolved to put him to a shameful death, and not daring to do it by
+his own authority, to accomplish his villanous design, he ordered some of
+his slaves to prepare some very rich presents, which he, at the head of
+them, went and presented to the king, saying, Behold, sir, what the new
+king hath sent you upon his accession to the crown, and begs your majesty
+to accept of it.
+
+The king taking the matter just as Saouy intended it, What! replied he,
+is the wretch still living? I thought you had put him to death already.
+Sir, I have no power, answered the vizier, to take any person's life
+away; that only belongs to your majesty. Go, said the king, behead him
+instantly; I give you full authority. Sir, replied the vizier Saouy, I am
+infinitely obliged to your majesty for the justice you do me; but, since
+Noureddin has publicly affronted me, I humbly beg the favour that his
+execution may be performed before the palace, and, that the criers may
+publish it in every quarter of the city, that every body may be satisfied
+that he has made sufficient reparation for the affront. The king granted
+the request, and the criers, in performing their office, diffused a
+universal sorrow through the whole city. The memory of his father's
+virtues being yet fresh among them, there was no one could hear of the
+ignominious death the son was going to suffer, through the villany and
+instigation of the vizier Saouy, without horror and indignation.
+
+Saouy went in person to the prison, accompanied with twenty slaves, his
+ministers of cruelty, who took Noureddin out of his dungeon, and put him
+on a shabby horse without a saddle. When Noureddin saw himself in the
+hands of his enemy, Thou triumphest now, said he, but thou abusest thy
+power. Yet, I have still some confidence in the truth of what is written
+in one of our books: 'You judge unjustly, and in a little time you shall
+be judged yourself.' The vizier Saouy, who really triumphed in his heart,
+What! insolent, said he, darest thou insult me yet? but go, I pardon
+thee, and care not whatever happens to me, so I have the pleasure of
+seeing thee lose thy head in the public view of all Balsora. Thou
+oughtest also to remember what another of our books says: 'What signifies
+dying the next day the death of his enemy?'
+
+The vizier, still implacable and full of malice, surrounded by one part
+of his slaves in arms, ordered Noureddin to be conducted by the other
+towards the palace. The people were ready to fall upon him as they went
+along; and, if any body had set them the example, they would certainly
+have stoned him to death. When he had brought him to the place of
+suffering, which was in sight of the king's apartment, he left him in the
+executioner's hands, and went straight to the king, who was in his closet
+ready to glut his eyes with the bloody spectacle he had prepared.
+
+The king's guard and the vizier's slaves, who made a circle round
+Noureddin, had much ado to withstand the people, who made all the efforts
+possible, but in vain, to break through them and carry him off by force.
+The executioner coming up to him, Sir, said he, I hope you will forgive
+me; I am but a slave, and cannot help doing my duty. If you have no
+occasion for any thing, I beseech you prepare yourself, for the king is
+just going to give me orders to strike the blow.
+
+The poor unfortunate Noureddin, at that cruel moment, looked round upon
+the people: Will no charitable body, cried he, bring me a little water to
+quench my thirst? which immediately they did, and handed it up to him
+upon the scaffold. The vizier Saouy, perceiving this delay, called out to
+the executioner from the king's closet window, where he had planted
+himself, Strike, what dost thou stay for? At these barbarous and inhuman
+words the whole palace echoed with loud imprecations against him; and the
+king, jealous of his authority, made it appear, by ordering him to stay a
+while, that he was angry at his presumption. But there was another
+reason; for the king that very moment casting his eyes up into a large
+street that faced him and joined to the place of execution, saw about the
+middle of it a troop of horsemen coming with full speed towards the
+palace. Vizier, said the king immediately, look yonder, what is the
+meaning of those horsemen? Saouy, who knew not what it might be,
+earnestly pressed the king to give the executioner the sign. No, replied
+the king, I will first see who these horsemen are. It was the vizier
+Giafar and his train, who came in person from Bagdad by the caliph's
+order.
+
+To make the occasion of this minister's coming to Balsora a little
+plainer, we must observe, that after Noureddin's departure with the
+caliph's letter, the caliph the next day, nor several days after, ever
+thought of sending the patent that he mentioned to the Fair Persian. He
+happened one day to be in the inner palace, which was the women's, and
+passing by the apartment, he heard the sound of a fine voice: he listened
+to it, and he had no sooner heard the words of one complaining for the
+absence of somebody, than he asked the officer of his eunuchs that
+attended him, who that woman was that belonged to that apartment. The
+officer told him that it was the young stranger's slave, whom he had sent
+to Balsora to be king in the room of Mohammed Zinchi.
+
+Ah! poor Noureddin, cried the caliph presently, I had forgot thee; but
+haste, said he to the officer, and bid Giafar come to me. The vizier was
+with him in an instant. As soon as he came, Giafar, said he, I have
+hitherto neglected sending the patent to Noureddin, which was to confirm
+him king of Balsora; but we have no time now to draw up one, therefore
+immediately take post-horses, and, with some of your servants, make what
+haste you can to Balsora. If Noureddin is dead, and put to death by them,
+order the vizier Saouy to be hanged; but, if he be living, bring him to
+me with the king and the vizier.
+
+The grand vizier staid no longer than just the time of getting on
+horseback, and being attended by a great train of officers belonging to
+his house, he set forward for Balsora, where he arrived after the manner,
+and at the time above mentioned. As soon as he came to the palace-yard
+the people cleared the way for him, crying out, A pardon for Noureddin!
+and with his whole train he rode into the palace, even to the very
+stairs, where he alighted.
+
+The king of Balsora knowing him to be the caliph's chief minister, went
+to meet him, and received him at the entrance of his apartment. The first
+question the vizier asked was, if Noureddin was living; and, if he was,
+that he might be sent for. The king made answer, He was alive, and gave
+orders to have him brought in. Accordingly he soon made his appearance as
+he was, tied, and bound with cords. The grand vizier Giafar caused him to
+be untied, and setting him at liberty, ordered the vizier Saouy to be
+seized, and bound with the same cords.
+
+The grand vizier Giafar lay but one night in Balsora. The next day he set
+out again for Bagdad; and, according to the order he had received,
+carried Saouy, the king of Balsora, and Noureddin along with him. As soon
+as he came to Bagdad, he presented them all to the caliph; and after he
+had given him an account of his journey, and particularly of the
+miserable condition he found Noureddin in, and that all his ill usage was
+purely by the advice and malice of Saouy, the caliph desired Noureddin to
+behead the vizier himself. Commander of the true believers, said
+Noureddin, notwithstanding the injury this wicked man has done me, and
+the mischief he endeavoured to do my deceased father, I should think
+myself the basest of mankind if I had stained my hands with his blood.
+The caliph was extremely pleased with his generosity, and ordered justice
+to be done by the executioner's hand.
+
+The caliph would fain have sent Noureddin back to Balsora to have been
+king there; but Noureddin humbly begged to be excused from accepting the
+offer, saying, Commander of the true believers, the city of Balsora,
+after the misfortunes that have happened to me there, is so much my
+aversion, and will always continue to be so, that I beseech your majesty
+to give me leave to keep the oath I have made of never returning thither
+again: and I shall think it my greatest glory to do you some services
+near your royal person, if you are pleased to do me the honour. The
+caliph consented to it; and placing him among the number of those
+courtiers who were his greatest favourites, restored the Fair Persian to
+him again. To all these favours he added a plentiful fortune; and he and
+the Fair Persian lived together to their dying day, with all the
+satisfaction they could both desire.
+
+As for the king of Balsora, the caliph contented himself with only
+letting him see how careful he ought to be in the choice of his viziers,
+and so sent him back into his kingdom.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+     BEDER, PRINCE OF PERSIA, AND GIAHAURE, PRINCESS OF SAMARCAND.
+
+
+Persia is a country of so vast extent, that their ancient monarchs have,
+not without some colour of reason, assumed the haughty title of king of
+kings. For, not to mention those nations subdued by their arms, there are
+whole kingdoms and provinces whose kings are not only tributary, but also
+in as great subjection to them as petty governors in other nations are to
+kings.
+
+Some ages ago one of these kings, who, in the beginning of his reign, had
+signalized himself by many glorious and successful conquests, enjoyed so
+profound and lasting a peace and tranquillity as rendered him the
+happiest of monarchs. The only thing in which he could be termed
+unfortunate was, that amongst all his mistresses not one of them ever
+brought him a son; and being now far advanced in years, he was desirous
+of an heir to succeed him after his death. However, he had above a
+hundred ladies all lodged in separate apartments, after a magnificent
+manner, with women slaves and eunuchs to wait upon and take care of them.
+Yet, notwithstanding all his endeavours to please and humour them in
+every thing, there was not one that answered his expectation. He had
+women very often brought him from the most remote countries, and if they
+pleased him, he not only gave the merchants their full price at the first
+word, but treated them with all respect and civility imaginable, and by
+considerable presents obliged them still to bring others, flattering
+himself, that at last he might be so happy as to meet with one by whom he
+might have a son. There was scarce any act of charity but what he
+performed, fancying by that means to prevail with Heaven. He gave immense
+sums to the poor, besides large donatives to the religious of his own
+persuasion, building for their use many noble colleges richly endowed, in
+hopes of obtaining by their prayers what he earnestly desired.
+
+One day, according to the custom of his royal predecessors, during their
+residence in the capital city, he gave his mistresses a ball, at which
+all the ambassadors and strangers of quality about the court were
+present; and where they not only entertained one another with talking of
+news and politics, but also of learning, history, poetry, and whatever
+else was capable of diverting the understanding after the most agreeable
+manner. It was upon that day that an eunuch came to acquaint him with the
+arrival of a certain merchant from a far country, who, having brought a
+slave along with him, desired leave to show her to his majesty. Give him
+admittance instantly, says the king, and after the ball is done I will
+talk with him: the merchant was introduced, and seated in a convenient
+place, from whence he might easily have a full view of the king, and hear
+him talk with abundance of familiarity to those that stood near his
+person. The king was extremely civil in his conversation with strangers,
+with a design, that by degrees they might grow acquainted with him; so
+that when they saw with what freedom and civility he addressed himself to
+the whole assembly, they took courage and began to discourse with him
+also, without being the least surprised at the dazzling pomp and
+splendour of his appearance, which was enough to deprive those of their
+power of speech that were not used to such glorious sights. He treated
+the ambassadors also after the same manner: first he ate with them, and
+during the repast, he asked them several questions concerning their
+health, of their voyage, and the affairs of their country; and, after
+they had been encouraged by his generous entertainment, he gave them
+audience.
+
+When the ball was over, all the company retired; the merchant, who was
+the only person left, fell prostrate before the king's throne with his
+face to the earth, wishing his majesty an accomplishment of all his
+desires. As soon as he rose up, the king asked him if the news of his
+having brought a slave for him was true, and whether she was handsome.
+
+Sir, replied the merchant, I doubt not in the least but your majesty has
+very beautiful women, since you search every corner of the earth for
+them; but I may boldly affirm, without overvaluing my merchandise, that
+you never saw a woman that could stand in competition with her for shape
+and beauty, besides a thousand other agreeable qualifications that she is
+mistress of. Where is she? says the king; bring her to me instantly. Sir,
+replied the merchant, I have delivered her into the hands of one of your
+chief eunuchs, and your majesty may send for her at your pleasure.
+
+The fair slave was immediately brought in, and no sooner had the king
+cast his eyes on her, than the genteelness of her mien and shape charmed
+him. He went presently into his closet, whither the merchant, with a few
+eunuchs, followed him. The slave wore a red satin veil, striped with
+gold, over her face; and when the merchant had taken it off, the king of
+Persia beheld a lady that surpassed in beauty, not only his present
+mistresses, but even all that ever he had before; in short, he
+immediately fell passionately in love with her, and bade the merchant
+name his price.
+
+Sir, said he, I gave a thousand pieces of gold to the persons of whom I
+bought her, and in my three years' journey to your court, I have spent as
+much: but I shall forbear setting any price to so great a monarch; and,
+therefore, if your majesty likes her, I humbly beg you would accept of
+her as a present. I am highly obliged to you, replied the king; but it is
+never my custom to treat merchants, who come hither purely for my
+pleasure, after so ungenerous a manner. I am going to order thee ten
+thousand pieces of gold; therefore speak, whether thou art pleased with
+that sum or not. Sir, answered the merchant, though I should have
+esteemed myself very happy in your majesty's acceptance of her for
+nothing, yet I dare not refuse so generous an offer. I shall take care to
+publish it, not only in my own country, but also in every place through
+which I pass. The money was presently paid him; and, before he stirred
+out of his presence, the king made him put on a rich suit of cloth of
+gold.
+
+The king caused the fair slave to be lodged in the finest apartment next
+his own, and gave particular orders to the matrons and to the women
+slaves appointed to attend her, that after bathing they should dress her
+in the richest clothes the kingdom afforded. He also commanded them to
+carry her some pearl-necklaces, with abundance of diamonds, and other
+precious stones, that she might have the liberty of choosing those she
+liked best.
+
+The officious matrons, whose only care it was to please the king, were
+astonished with admiration at her beauty; and being well skilled in that
+affair, they told his majesty, that, if he would allow them but three
+days, they would engage to make her so much handsomer than she was at
+present, that he should scarce know her again. The king at first was very
+loath to defer the pleasure of enjoyment so long; but at last he
+consented, upon condition they would be as good as their word.
+
+The king of Persia's capital was situated in an island, and his palace,
+which was very magnificent, was built upon the sea-shore: his apartment
+looked upon that element; and the fair slave's, which was pretty near it,
+had also the same prospect; and it was the more agreeable upon the
+account of the sea beating almost against the foot of the wall.
+
+At the three days' end, the fair slave, gloriously dressed and set off,
+was alone in her chamber, sitting upon a sofa, and leaning against one of
+the windows that faced the sea, when the king, being informed that he
+might visit her, came in. The slave hearing somebody walk in the room,
+with an air quite different from that of the women slaves who had
+hitherto attended her, immediately turned her head about to see who it
+was. She knew him to be the king; but without discovering the least
+surprise, or so much as rising from her seat to salute or receive him, as
+if he had been the meanest person in the world, she put herself in the
+same posture again.
+
+The king of Persia was extremely surprised to see a slave of so beauteous
+a form so ignorant of the world. He attributed this piece of ill breeding
+to the narrowness of her education, and the little care that was taken of
+instructing her at first in the rules of civility and good manners. He
+went to her at the window, where, notwithstanding the coldness and
+indifferency with which she had just now received him, she suffered
+herself to be admired, caressed, and embraced, as much as he pleased.
+
+In the midst of these amorous embraces and tender endearments, this
+monarch paused a while to gaze upon, or rather to devour her with his
+eyes: My goddess! my angel! my charmer! cried the king; whence came you?
+and where do those happy parents live that brought into the world so
+surprising a masterpiece of nature as you are? Ah! how I adore you! and
+my passion shall continue the same. Never did I feel for a woman what I
+now suffer for you: and though I have seen, and do see every day, a vast
+number of beauties, yet never did my eyes behold so many charms in one
+single person, which have so transported me out of myself, that I am no
+longer at my own, but entirely at your disposal. My dearest life,
+continued he, you neither answer me, nor by any visible token give me the
+least reason to believe that you are sensible of the many demonstrations
+I have given you of the violence of my passion; neither will you turn
+your eyes on me, to afford mine the pleasure of meeting them with an
+amorous glance, and to convince you that it is impossible to love more
+than I do you. Why will you still keep this obstinate silence, which
+freezes me to death? and whence proceeds the seriousness, or rather
+sorrow, that torments me to the soul? Do you mourn for your country, your
+friends, or your relations? Alas! is not the king of Persia, who loves
+and adores you, capable of comforting and making you amends for the loss
+of every thing in the world?
+
+What protestations of love soever the king of Persia made the fair slave
+to oblige her to speak to him, she continued her astonishing
+reservedness, and keeping her eyes still fixed on the ground, would not
+so much as open her lips.
+
+The king of Persia, charmed with the purchase he had made of a slave that
+pleased him so well, pressed her no farther, in hopes that, by treating
+her civilly, he might prevail upon her to change her mind. He presently
+gave the usual sign to the women that waited in an outward room; and as
+soon as they entered, he commanded them to bring in supper. When it was
+on the table, My dear, said he to the slave, come hither and sup with me.
+She rose up from her seat, and being placed over against the king, his
+majesty helped her before he began eating himself; and so he did of every
+dish during the whole supper. The slave ate with downcast eyes, and
+without speaking one word, though he often asked her how she liked the
+entertainment, and whether it was dressed to her taste.
+
+The king, willing to change the discourse, asked her what her name was,
+how she liked the clothes and the jewels she had on, what she thought of
+her apartment and the rich furniture, and whether the prospect of the sea
+was not very agreeable and charming. But to all these questions she
+answered not a word; so that the king was at a loss what to think of her
+silence. He imagined at first, that perhaps she might be dumb: But then,
+said he to himself, can it be possible that Heaven should form a creature
+so beautiful, so perfect, and so accomplished, and yet at the same time
+with so great an imperfection? However, I cannot love with less passion
+than I do.
+
+When the king of Persia rose from the table, he washed his hands on one
+side, while the fair slave washed hers on the other. He took that time to
+ask the women that held the basin and the towel, if ever they had heard
+her speak. One of them presently made answer, Sir, we have neither seen
+her open her lips, nor heard her speak, any more than your majesty has
+just now: we have taken care of her in the bath, we have combed and
+dressed her head, put on her clothes, and waited upon her in her chamber;
+but she has never opened her lips, so much as to say, That is well, or, I
+like this. We have often asked her, Madam, do you want any thing? let us
+know what you would have; do but ask, and we are ready to get it for you:
+but we have never been able to draw a word from her; so that we cannot
+tell whether her silence proceeds from pride, sorrow, stupidity, or
+dumbness; and this is all we can inform your majesty.
+
+The king of Persia was more astonished at hearing this than he was
+before: however, believing the slave might have some reason for her
+sorrow, he was willing to endeavour to divert it, and make her merry.
+Accordingly, he made a very splendid ball, to which all the fine ladies
+of the court came, and those who were skilful in playing upon musical
+instruments showed their parts, while others sang or danced, or did both
+together: in short, they played at a great many sorts of games, which
+mightily diverted the king. The fair slave was the only person that took
+no pleasure in those diversions: she never stirred out of her place, but
+with her eyes still fixed on the ground, without taking any notice of the
+entertainment, behaved herself with so much indifferency that all the
+ladies were no less surprised at it than the king. After the ball was
+done, every one retired to her apartment; and the king, who was left
+alone with the fair slave, lay with her that night.
+
+The next morning, the king of Persia arose more pleased than he had been
+with all the women he had ever seen, and more enamoured with the fair
+slave than he was before. Indeed, he soon made it appear, by resolving
+henceforth to keep constant to her; and he performed his resolution. On
+the very same day he dismissed all his other women, giving every one of
+them their jewels and other valuable things, besides a considerable
+fortune, with free leave to marry whom they thought fit, and only kept
+the matrons, and a few other old women, to wait upon and attend the fair
+slave. However, for a whole year together, she never afforded him the
+pleasure of one single word; yet the king took abundance of pains to
+please her, and, with all complaisance imaginable, to give her the most
+signal proofs of his violent passion.
+
+The year was now expired, when the king, sitting one day by his mistress,
+protested to her that his love, instead of being diminished, grew every
+day more violent: My queen, said he, I cannot conceive what your thoughts
+are; but, however, nothing is more true, and I swear to you the same,
+that in having the happiness of possessing you, there remains nothing for
+me to desire: I esteem my kingdom, great as it is, less than an atom,
+when I have the pleasure of beholding your eyes, and of telling you a
+thousand times how I adore you. You see I have given you some other
+proofs of my affection than bare words; and therefore surely you can
+never doubt of it, after the vast number of women I have sacrificed to
+your beauty. You may remember, it is about a year since I sent them away
+from my court; and I repent of it as little even now I am talking with
+you, as I did the first moment of their departure, and I believe I never
+shall. Nothing would be wanting to complete my happiness, and crown my
+joys for ever, would you speak but one single word to me, by which I
+might be assured that you thought yourself in some measure obliged to me.
+But how can you speak to me if you are dumb? and alas! how fearful I am
+lest it should be true! yet what reason have I to doubt of it, since you
+still torment me with silence, after a whole year's entreating you every
+hour to speak to me! However, if it is impossible for me to obtain that
+consolation, may Heaven, at least, grant me the blessing of a son by you
+to succeed me after my death. I find myself growing old every day, and I
+begin to want one to assist me in bearing the weight of a crown. But
+still I cannot refrain from the desire I have of hearing you speak; for
+methinks something within me tells me you are not dumb; and, therefore,
+dear madam, I beseech, I conjure you, to break through this obstinate
+humour, and speak but one word to me; and after that, I care not how soon
+I die.
+
+At this discourse, the fair slave, who, according to her usual custom,
+had hearkened to the king with downcast eyes, and had given him cause to
+believe, not only that she was dumb, but that she never had laughed in
+her life, began to look up and smile a little. The king of Persia
+perceived it with a surprise that made him break forth into an
+exclamation of joy; and no longer doubting but that she was going to
+speak, he waited for that happy moment with an eagerness and attention
+that cannot be easily expressed.
+
+At last, the fair slave, breaking her long silence, thus addressed
+herself to the king: Sir, said she, I have so many things to say to your
+majesty, that, having once broke silence, I know not where to begin.
+However, in the first place, I think myself obliged in duty to thank your
+majesty for all the favours and honours you have been pleased to confer
+upon me, and to implore the gods to bless and prosper you, to prevent the
+wicked designs and intentions of your enemies, and that they would not
+suffer you to die after hearing me speak, but grant you a long and happy
+reign. After this, sir, I cannot give you a greater satisfaction than
+acquainting you with my being with child; and I wish, as you do, it may
+be a son. Had it never been my fortune to have been breeding, I was
+resolved (I beg your majesty to pardon the sincerity of my intention)
+never to have loved you, as well as to have kept an eternal silence; but
+now I love and respect you as I ought to do.
+
+The king of Persia, ravished to hear the fair slave not only speak, but
+at the same time tell him news in which he was so nearly concerned,
+embraced her tenderly: Shining light of my eyes, said he, it is
+impossible for me to receive a greater joy than what you have now given
+me: you have spoken to me, and declared your being with child; so that I
+am fully satisfied in myself, that after these two signal occasions of
+joy, I ought to expect no other.
+
+The king of Persia, in the transport of joy he was in, said no more to
+the fair slave. He left her; but after such a manner as made her perceive
+his intention was speedily to return; and being willing that the occasion
+of his joy should be made public, he declared it to his officers, and
+sent in all haste for the grand vizier. As soon as he came, he ordered
+him to distribute a thousand pieces of gold among the holy men of his
+religion, who had made vows of poverty; as also among the hospitals and
+the poor, by way of returning thanks to Heaven; and his will was obeyed,
+by the direction of that minister.
+
+After the king of Persia had given this order, he came to the fair slave
+again: Madam, said he, pardon me for leaving you so abruptly, since you
+have been the occasion of it; but I hope you will entertain me some other
+time, since I am desirous to know of you several things of a much greater
+consequence. However, in the mean time, tell me, I beseech you, my
+dearest charmer, what were the powerful reasons that induced you to
+persist in that obstinate silence for a whole year together, though every
+day you saw me, heard me talk to you, ate and drank with me, and every
+night lay with me? I shall pass by your not speaking; but how you could
+carry yourself after such an indifferent manner, that I could never
+discover whether you were sensible of what I said to you, or no, I must
+confess it surpasses my understanding: and I cannot yet comprehend, how
+you could contain yourself so long: therefore I must conclude the
+occasion of it to be very extraordinary.
+
+To satisfy the king of Persia's curiosity, this fair person replied,
+Think whether or no to be a slave, far from my own country, without any
+hopes of ever seeing it again, to have a heart torn with grief, for being
+separated from my mother, my brother, my friends, and my acquaintance,
+are not sufficient reasons for my keeping a silence your majesty has
+thought so strange and unaccountable. The love of our native country is
+as natural to us as that of our parents; and the loss of liberty is
+unsupportable to every one, who is not wholly destitute of sense and
+reason, and knows how to set a value on it. The body indeed may be
+enslaved, and under the subjection of a master who has the power and
+authority in his hands; but the will can never be conquered or domineered
+over, but still remains free and unconfined, depending on itself alone,
+and your majesty has found an example of it in me; and it is a wonder
+that I have not followed the example of abundance of unfortunate
+wretches, whom the loss of liberty has reduced to the mournful resolution
+of procuring their own deaths a thousand ways, rather than survive it,
+and wear out a wretched life in shameful slavery.
+
+Madam, replied the king, I am now convinced of the truth of what you say;
+but till this moment I was of opinion, that a person beautiful,
+well-shaped, with a great deal of wit and good sense, such as yourself,
+whom her rigorous stars had destined to be a slave, ought to think
+herself very happy in meeting with a king for her master.
+
+Sir, replied the fair slave, whatever the slave is, supposing her to be
+such as I have already mentioned to your majesty, there is no king on
+earth can tyrannize over her will. But, however, when you speak of a
+slave, mistress of charms enough to captivate a monarch, and make him
+adore her, provided she is of a rank infinitely below him, I am of your
+opinion she ought to think herself happy in her misfortune; but what
+happiness can it be when she considers herself only as a slave, torn from
+her parents' arms, and perhaps a lover's, for whom she has a passion that
+death only can extinguish? But when this very slave is nothing inferior
+to the king that bought her, your majesty shall then judge yourself of
+the rigour of her destiny, of her misery, and of her sorrow, and to what
+desperate attempts the anguish of despair may drive her.
+
+The king of Persia, astonished at this discourse, said, Madam, can it be
+possible that you are of royal blood, as by your words you seem to
+intimate? Explain the whole secret to me, I beseech you, and no longer
+augment my impatience. Ah! let me instantly know who are the happy
+parents of so great a prodigy of beauty, who are your brothers, your
+sisters, and your relations; but above all, what your name is.
+
+Sir, said the fair slave, my name is Gulnare of the sea; and my father,
+who is now dead, was one of the most potent monarchs of the ocean. When
+he died, he left his kingdom to a brother of mine, named Saleh, and to
+the queen my mother, who is also a princess, the daughter of another
+puissant monarch of the sea. We enjoyed a profound peace and tranquillity
+through the whole kingdom, till a neighbouring prince, an enemy to our
+repose, invaded our dominions with a mighty army; and, penetrating as far
+as our capital, made himself master of it: and we had but just time
+enough to save ourselves in a steep inaccessible place, with a few trusty
+officers, who were so generous as not to forsake us in our distress.
+
+In this retreat, my brother was not negligent in contriving all manner of
+ways to drive the unjust invader from our dominions. While this affair
+was in agitation, one day taking me into his closet, Sister, said he, the
+events of the least undertakings in this world are always dubious. As,
+for my own part, I am willing to die in the attempt I design to make to
+re-establish myself in my kingdom; and I shall be less concerned for my
+own disgrace, than for what may possibly happen to you; and therefore to
+prevent it, and to secure you from whatever accident may befall you, I
+would fain see you married first. But in the miserable condition that our
+affairs are at present, I see no probability of matching you to any of
+the princes of the sea; and therefore I should be very glad if you would
+resolve to be of my opinion, and think of marrying to some of the princes
+of the earth. I am ready to contribute all that lies in my power towards
+it, and I am certain there is not one of them, considering the beauty you
+are mistress of, but would be proud of your accepting of their crown.
+
+At this discourse of my brother's, I fell into a violent passion.
+Brother, said I, you know that I am descended, as well as you, by both
+father and mother's sides, from the kings and queens of the sea, without
+any mixture of alliance with those of the earth; therefore I do not
+design to marry below myself, any more than they did: and I took an oath
+of it, as soon as I had understanding to inquire into the nobleness and
+antiquity of our family. The condition to which we are reduced shall
+never oblige me to alter my resolution; and if you perish in the
+execution of your design, I am prepared to fall with you, rather than
+follow the advice I so little expected from you.
+
+My brother, who was still earnest for the marriage, endeavoured to make
+me believe that there were kings of the earth who were no ways inferior
+to those of the sea. This put me again into a violent passion, which
+occasioned him to speak several bitter reflecting things that nettled me
+to the quick. At last he left me, as much dissatisfied with myself as he
+could possibly be; and in this peevish mood, I gave a spring from the
+bottom of the sea, directly up to the island of the moon.
+
+Notwithstanding the violent discontent that made me cast myself upon that
+island, I lived pretty easy in a by-corner of it, where I retired for
+conveniency and safety. But, alas! this happiness lasted not long; for,
+in spite of all my endeavours to lie concealed in my beloved obscurity, a
+certain person of distinction and figure, attended by his servants,
+surprised me sleeping, and carried me to his own house. He made violent
+love to me, and omitted nothing which he thought might reasonably induce
+me to make a return to his passion. When he saw that fair means would
+prevail nothing upon me, he attempted to make use of force; but I soon
+made him repent of his insolence. So at last, finding that there was
+nothing to be done with me, he resolved to part with me, which he did to
+that very merchant who brought me hither and sold me to your majesty. He
+was a very prudent, courteous, obliging person; and during the whole
+journey, which was somewhat tedious, he never gave me the least reason to
+complain of his usage.
+
+As for your majesty, sir, continued the princess Gulnare, if you had not
+shown me all the respect you have hitherto paid (for which I am extremely
+obliged to your goodness) and given me such undeniable marks of your
+affection, that I could no longer doubt of it; if you had not immediately
+sent away your women; give me leave to tell you plainly, sir, that I was
+positively resolved not to have lived with you: I would have thrown
+myself into the sea, out of this very window, where your majesty first
+saw me when you came into this apartment; and I would have gone in search
+after my mother, my brother, and the rest of my relations. I still
+persisted in that design, and I would infallibly have put it in
+execution, if, after a certain time, I had found myself deceived in the
+hopes of being with child: but now, in the condition I am in, I shall
+take care what I do. Should I tell my mother or my brother that I have
+been a slave, even to a king as mighty as you are, they would never
+believe it, but would for ever upbraid me with the crime I have committed
+against my honour, since it was a voluntary act of my own. However, sir,
+be it a prince or a princess that I bring into the world, it will be a
+pledge to engage me never to be parted from your majesty; and therefore I
+hope you will no longer look upon me as a slave, but as a princess worthy
+of your alliance.
+
+It was after this manner that the princess Gulnare finished her story she
+had been telling the king of Persia. My charming and adorable princess,
+cried he, what wonders have I heard! and what an ample subject have you
+afforded my curiosity, of asking a thousand questions concerning those
+strange and unheard-of things which you have related to me! But, in the
+first place, I ought to thank you for your goodness and patience in
+making a trial of the truth and constancy of my passion. I must confess,
+I thought it impossible for me to love you more than I did; but since I
+know you to be so great a princess, I love you a thousand times more.
+What! did I say princess? Madam, you are no longer so; but you are my
+queen, the queen of Persia; and by that title you shall soon be
+proclaimed throughout the whole kingdom. Tomorrow the ceremony shall be
+performed in my capital, with a pomp and magnificence that was never yet
+beheld; which will plainly show, that you are both my queen and lawful
+wife. This should have been done long ago, had you sooner convinced me of
+my error; for, from the first moment of my seeing you, I have been of the
+same opinion as now, to love you for ever, and never to place my
+affection on any other.
+
+However, I am pleased with myself for having, in the mean time, paid you
+all the respect and civility I ought, that is due to your merit; and
+therefore, madam, I beseech you to inform me in a more particular manner,
+of the kingdoms and people of the sea, which are altogether unknown to
+me. I have heard much talk indeed of the inhabitants of the sea; but I
+always looked upon it as nothing but a pleasant tale or fable: however,
+by what you have told me, I am convinced there is nothing more true; and
+I have a very good proof of it in your own person, who are one of them,
+and are pleased to condescend to be my wife; which is an honour no other
+inhabitant on the earth can boast of besides myself. There is one thing
+yet, madam, which puzzles me a little, therefore I must beg the favour of
+you to explain it; that is, I cannot comprehend how it is possible for
+you to move, breathe, and walk up and down in the water, without being
+drowned. There are but few amongst us who have the art of staying under
+water; but they would surely perish there, if after a certain space of
+time, which is according to their skill, and constitution of their
+bodies, they did not come up again.
+
+Sir, replied the queen Gulnare, I shall take a great deal of pleasure in
+satisfying the king of Persia in any thing that lies in my power. You
+must know, then, that we can walk at the bottom of the sea with as much
+ease as you can upon the dry land; and can breathe in the water as well
+as you do in the air; so that instead of suffocating us, as it does you,
+it is absolutely necessary for the preservation of our lives. What is yet
+more remarkable is, that it never wets our clothes: so that when we have
+a mind to visit your upper world, we have no occasion of drying them. Our
+vulgar language is the same in which the writing upon the seal of the
+great prophet Solomon, the son of David, was engraven.
+
+I must not forget to tell you, that the water does not in the least
+hinder us from seeing in the sea; for we can open and shut our eyes when
+we please, without any manner of inconveniency; and as we have generally
+a very quick, piercing sight, so we can discern any object as clearly in
+the deepest part of the sea, as upon land. We have also a succession
+there of day and night; the moon affords us her light, and even the
+planets and the stars appear very visible to us. I have already spoken of
+their kingdoms; but as the sea is a great deal larger than the earth, so
+there are a greater number of them, and of vaster extent. They are
+divided into provinces, and in every province there are several great
+cities, well peopled; and, in short, there are an infinite number of
+nations, differing in manners and customs, as well as upon the earth.
+
+The palaces of the kings and princes are very sumptuous and magnificent.
+There are some of them of marble of various colours; others of
+rock-crystal, mother-of-pearl, coral, and of other materials more
+valuable; gold, silver, and all sorts of precious stones, are more
+plentiful there than with you. I say nothing of the pearls, since the
+largest that ever was seen upon the earth would not be valuable amongst
+us; and none but the very lowest rank of citizens would wear them.
+
+As we have a marvellous and almost incredible agility of transporting
+ourselves whither we please in the twinkling of an eye, so we have no
+occasion for any coaches or horses: not but that every king has his
+stables, and his breed of sea-horses; but they seldom make use of them,
+but upon public feasts and rejoicing days. After they have been well
+managed, they set riders upon their backs, who show their skill and
+dexterity in the art of riding: others are put to chariots of
+mother-of-pearl, adorned with an infinite number of shells of all sorts,
+of the liveliest colours in the world. These chariots are open; and in
+the middle there is a throne on which the king sits, and exposes himself
+to the public view of his subjects. The horses are trained up to draw by
+themselves, so that there is no occasion for a coachman to guide them. I
+pass over a thousand other particulars relating to these sea-countries,
+full of wonder and curiosity, which would be very entertaining to your
+majesty; but I believe, sir, you will be pleased I should defer it, to
+speak of something of much greater consequence; which is, that the method
+of delivering, and the way of managing the women of the sea in their
+lying-in, is quite different from those of the women of the earth; and I
+am afraid to trust myself in the hands of the midwives of this country.
+Therefore, sir, since my safe delivery is a thing which equally concerns
+us both, with your majesty's permission, I think it proper to send for my
+mother and my cousins to assist at my labour; at the same time to desire
+my brother's company, to whom I have a great desire to be reconciled.
+They will be very glad to see me again, after I have related my story to
+them, and when they understand that I am wife to the mighty king of
+Persia. I beseech your majesty to give me leave to send for them: I am
+sure they will be proud to pay their respects to you; and I dare say you
+will be extremely pleased to see them.
+
+Madam, said the king of Persia, you are mistress, and so do whatever you
+please; I will endeavour to receive them with all the honours they
+deserve. But I would fain know how you would acquaint them with what you
+desire, and when they will arrive; that I may make some preparation for
+their reception, and go myself in person to meet them.
+
+Sir, replied the queen Gulnare, there is no need of any of these
+ceremonies; they will be here in a moment: and if your majesty will be
+pleased but to step into the closet and look through the lattice, you
+shall see the manner of their arrival.
+
+As soon as the king of Persia was gone into the closet, the queen Gulnare
+ordered one of her women to bring her a perfuming-pan, with a little fire
+in it. After that, she bade her retire, and shut the door. When she was
+alone, she took a little piece of aloes out of a box, and put it into the
+perfuming-pan. As soon as she saw the smoke arise, she repeated some
+mystical words, utterly unknown to the king of Persia, who observed with
+great attention what she was doing. She had no sooner ended her charm,
+than the sea began to be disturbed. The closet that the king was in was
+so contrived, that looking through the lattice, on the same side with the
+windows that faced the sea, he could plainly perceive it.
+
+In short, the sea opened at some distance; presently there appeared a
+tall handsome young man, with whiskers of a sea-green colour; a little
+behind him, a lady well in years, but of a stately majestic air, attended
+by five young ladies, nothing inferior in beauty to queen Gulnare.
+
+The queen Gulnare immediately came to one of the windows, and saw the
+king her brother, the queen her mother, and the rest of her relations,
+who at the same time perceived her also. The company came forward, not
+walking, but carried, as it were, upon the surface of the waves. When
+they came to the brink of the sea, they nimbly, one after another, leaped
+in at the window, from whence the queen Gulnare was retired, to make room
+for them. The king Saleh, the queen her mother, and the rest of her
+relations, embraced her tenderly, with tears in their eyes, upon their
+first entrance.
+
+After the queen Gulnare had received them with all the honour imaginable,
+and placed them upon a sofa, the queen her mother addressed herself to
+her after a very tender manner. Daughter, said she, I am overjoyed to see
+you again, after so long an absence; and I am confident that your brother
+and your relations are no less so than I. Your leaving us, without
+acquainting any body with it, put us into an inexpressible concern; and
+it is impossible to tell you how many tears we have shed upon that
+account. We know of no other reason that could induce you to take such a
+surprising resolution, but the discourse that passed between your brother
+and you, of which he afterwards informed me. The advice he gave you
+seemed very advantageous to him at that time, for settling you handsomely
+in the world; and was then very suitable to the posture of our affairs.
+However, if you had not approved of his proposals, you ought not to have
+been so much alarmed; and give me leave to tell you, you took the thing
+quite otherwise than you ought to have done. But no more of this
+discourse, which serves only to renew the occasion of our sorrows and
+complaints, that we and you ought to bury for ever in oblivion. Give us
+now a relation of all that has happened to you since you left us, and
+also an account of the present circumstances you are in; but especially
+let us know if you are pleased and contented.
+
+The queen Gulnare immediately threw herself at her mother's feet, and
+after rising up and kissing her hand, said, Madam, I own I have been
+guilty of a very great crime, and I shall be indebted to your goodness
+for the pardon which I hope you will be pleased to grant me. What I am
+going to say, in obedience to your commands, will soon convince you, that
+it is very often in vain for us to have an aversion for some certain
+things: I have experienced it myself; and the only thing I had an
+abhorrence to, either justly, or by the malice of my stars, has happened
+to me here. She began to relate the whole story of what had befallen her
+since her quitting the sea, in a violent passion, for the earth. As soon
+as she had made an end, and had acquainted them with her having been sold
+to the king of Persia, in whose palace she was at present; Sister, cried
+the king her brother, you have been mightily wronged in having so many
+affronts offered you; but you can blame nobody but yourself: you have it
+in your power now to free yourself; and I cannot but admire your
+patience, that you could endure so long a slavery. Rise, and return with
+us into my kingdom, that I have reconquered, and taken from the proud
+usurper that was once master of it.
+
+The king of Persia, who heard these killing words from the closet where
+he stood, was in the utmost confusion imaginable. Ah! said he to himself,
+I am ruined and undone; and if my queen, my angel, leaves me, I shall
+surely die, for it is impossible for me to live without her: and will
+they be so barbarous as to deprive me of her? But the queen Gulnare soon
+put him out of his fears, and eased the sorrow of his heart.
+
+Brother, said she, and smiled, what I have just now heard, gives me a
+greater proof than ever I had of the sincerity of your friendship for me;
+but as heretofore I could not brook your proposing a match between me and
+a prince of the earth, so now I can scarce forbear being angry with you,
+for advising me to break the engagement I have made with the most
+puissant and most renowned monarch in the world. I do not speak here of
+an engagement between a slave and her master; if that were all, it would
+be easy to return the ten thousand pieces of gold that I cost him; but I
+speak now of a contract between a woman and her husband, who has never
+given her the least reason to complain or be discontented: besides, he is
+a king, wise, temperate, religious, and just, and has given me the most
+essential demonstrations of his love that possibly he could. What can be
+a greater instance of the violence of his passion, than sending away all
+his women (of which he had a great number) immediately upon my arrival,
+and confining himself only to me? I am now his wife, and he has lately
+declared me queen of Persia; and I am to sit with him in the council:
+besides, I am breeding; and if Heaven shall be pleased to favour me with
+a son, that shall be another motive to engage my affections to him the
+more. So, brother, continued the queen Gulnare, instead of following your
+advice, you see I have all the reason in the world, not only to love the
+king of Persia as passionately as I do, but also to live and die with
+him, more out of gratitude than duty. I hope, then, neither my mother,
+nor you, nor any of my cousins, will disapprove of the resolution and
+alliance I have made, which will be an equal honour to the kings of both
+the sea and earth. I ask a thousand pardons for giving you the trouble of
+coming hither from the bottom of the deep to partake of it; and I return
+you thanks for the pleasure of seeing you after so long a separation.
+
+Sister, replied king Saleh, the proposition I made you of going back with
+us into my kingdom, upon the recital of your adventures, (which I could
+not hear without concern,) was to let you see what a particular love and
+honour I had for you, and that nothing in the world was so dear to me as
+your welfare and happiness. Upon the same account, then, for my own part,
+I cannot condemn a resolution so reasonable, and so worthy of yourself,
+after what you have told me of the king of Persia your husband, and the
+many obligations you have to him; and I am persuaded that the queen our
+mother will be of the same opinion.
+
+The queen confirmed what her son had just spoken, and addressing herself
+immediately to her daughter, said, My dear, I am very glad to hear you
+are pleased; and I have nothing else to add to what your brother has
+already said to you. I should have been the first that would have
+condemned you, if you had not expressed all the gratitude you were
+capable of for a monarch that loves you so passionately, and has done
+such mighty things to oblige you.
+
+As the king of Persia, who was still in the closet, had been extremely
+concerned for fear of losing his beloved queen, so now he was transported
+with joy at her resolution never to forsake him; and having no room to
+doubt of her love, after so open a declaration, he began to love her more
+than ever, and was resolved within himself to give her all the outward
+proofs of it, after the most sensible manner he possibly could.
+
+While the king was entertaining himself with a pleasure that cannot
+easily be imagined, the queen Gulnare clapped her hands aloud, and
+presently in came some of her slaves, whom she had ordered to bring in a
+collation. As soon as it was served up, she invited the queen her mother,
+the king her brother, and her cousins, to sit down and take part of it.
+They began to consider, that, without ever asking leave, they were got
+into the palace of a mighty king, who had never seen or heard of them,
+and were all of the same opinion, that it would be a great piece of
+rudeness and incivility to eat at his table without him. This reflection
+raised a blush in their faces, and their eyes glowing with the concern
+they were in, they breathed nothing but flames at their mouths and
+nostrils.
+
+This unexpected sight put the king of Persia, who was perfectly ignorant
+of the cause of it, into a most dreadful consternation. The queen Gulnare
+fancying that his majesty might be a little surprised at it, and finding
+her relations desirous of the honour of seeing him, rose from her seat,
+and told them she would be back in a moment. She went directly to the
+closet, and by her presence recovered the king of Persia from his
+surprise: Sir, said she, I doubt not but that your majesty is well
+pleased with the acknowledgment I have lately made of the many favours
+that I am still indebted to your goodness for. It was wholly in my power
+to have complied with my relations, who would fain have persuaded me to
+have forsaken you, and gone back with them into their dominions; but
+alas! I am not capable of being guilty of such ingratitude as I should
+have condemned in another. Ah! my queen, cried the king of Persia, speak
+no more of your obligations to me, for indeed you have none; it is I that
+am your debtor so much, that I am afraid I shall never be able to repay,
+or return you thanks equal to the favour you have done me; for I never
+thought it possible you could have loved me so tenderly as you do, and as
+you have made it appear to me, after the most signal manner in the world.
+Ah! sir, replied the queen Gulnare, could I do less than I have done? I
+rather fear I have not done enough, considering all the honours and
+favours that your majesty has heaped upon me; and it is impossible for me
+to remain insensible of your passion, after so many convincing proofs as
+you have given me. But let us drop this, and give me leave to assure you
+of the sincere friendship that the queen my mother, and the king my
+brother, are pleased to honour you with; they earnestly desire to see
+you, and tell you themselves. I intended to have discoursed with them a
+little before I introduced them to your majesty, and accordingly I have
+ordered a banquet for them; but they are very impatient to pay their
+respects to you, and therefore I desire your majesty would be pleased to
+walk in, and honour them with your presence.
+
+Madam, said the king of Persia, I should be very glad to salute persons
+that have the honour to be so nearly related to you; but I am afraid of
+the flames that they breathe at their mouths and nostrils. Sir, replied
+the queen, laughing, you need not in the least be afraid of those flames,
+which are nothing but a sign of their unwillingness to eat in your palace
+without your honouring them with your presence, and eating with them.
+
+The king of Persia taking heart at these words, went into his chamber
+with his queen Gulnare. She presented him to the queen her mother, to the
+king her brother, and to her other relations, who instantly threw
+themselves at his feet, with their faces to the ground. The king of
+Persia ran to them, and lifting them up, embraced them one after another
+after a very tender manner. After they were all seated, king Saleh began
+his speech: Sir, said he to the king of Persia, we are at a loss for
+words to express our joy, to think that the queen my sister, after all
+her hardships and affronts, should have the happiness of falling under
+the protection of so powerful a monarch as your majesty. We can assure
+you, sir, she is not unworthy of the high honour that you have been
+pleased to raise her to; and we have always had so much love and
+tenderness for her, that we could never think of parting with her, even
+to the most puissant princes of the sea, who have often demanded her in
+marriage before she came of age: but Heaven has reserved her for you,
+sir; and we have no better way of returning thanks for the favour it has
+done her, than beseeching it to grant your majesty a long and happy life
+with her, and to crown your days with content and satisfaction.
+
+Certainly, replied the king of Persia, Heaven reserved her purely for me,
+as you were pleased to observe; and I love her with so tender and violent
+a passion, that it is plain I never loved any woman till I saw her. Oh!
+how I am blessed and transported with her charms! and I cannot
+sufficiently thank either the queen her mother, or you, prince, or your
+whole family, for the matchless generosity with which you have consented
+to receive me into so glorious an alliance as yours. At the end of these
+words, he invited them to take part of the collation, and he and his
+queen sat down at his table with them. After the collation was over, the
+king of Persia entertained them with discourse till it was very late; and
+when they thought it convenient to retire, he waited upon them himself to
+the several apartments he had ordered to be prepared for them.
+
+The king of Persia treated his illustrious guests for a great many days
+together; during which time, he omitted nothing that might show his court
+in its greatest splendour and magnificence, and insensibly prevailed with
+them to stay there till the queen was brought to bed. When the time of
+her lying-in drew near, he gave particular orders to get every thing in
+readiness that was necessary upon such an occasion. At last there was a
+son born, to the great joy of the queen his mother, who, as soon as he
+was dressed in swaddling-clothes, which were very rich and costly, went
+and presented him to the king.
+
+The king of Persia received the present with a joy easier to be imagined
+than expressed. The young prince being of a beautiful countenance, and
+all over charms, he thought no name so proper for him as that of Beder,
+which, in the Arabian language, signifies the Full Moon. By way of thanks
+to Heaven, he was very liberal in his alms to the poor, and caused the
+prison-doors to be set open, and gave all the prisoners of both sexes
+their liberty. He distributed vast sums among the priests and the holy
+men of his religion. He also gave large donatives to his courtiers,
+besides a great deal that was thrown amongst the people; and, by a
+proclamation, ordered several rejoicing days to be kept publicly through
+the whole city.
+
+One day after the queen's up-sitting, as the king of Persia, queen
+Gulnare herself, the queen her mother, king Saleh her brother, and the
+princesses their relations, were discoursing together in her majesty's
+bed-chamber, the nurse chanced to come in with the young prince Beder in
+her arms. King Saleh no sooner saw him, than he ran to embrace him, and
+taking him in his arms, fell a kissing and caressing him after a mighty
+rate. He took several turns with him about the room, dancing and dandling
+him about, when all of a sudden, through a transport of joy, the window
+being open, he leaped out, and plunged with him into the sea.
+
+The king of Persia, who expected no such sight, set up a hideous cry,
+verily believing he should either see the dear prince his son no more, or
+that he should see him drowned; nay, he was like to give up the ghost
+amidst his so great grief and affliction. Sir, quoth queen Gulnare, with
+a quiet and undisturbed countenance, (the better to comfort him,) let
+your majesty fear nothing; the young prince is my son as well as yours,
+and I do not love him less than you do. You see I am not alarmed at the
+loss of him; neither in truth ought I to be so. In short, he runs no
+risk, and you will soon see the king his uncle appear with him again, who
+will return him to you safe and sound. Although he be born of your blood
+as well as mine, he will not fail to have the same advantage his uncle
+and I have, of living equally in the sea and upon the land. The queen his
+mother, and the princesses his relations, confirmed the same thing: yet
+all was no great consolation to the king; he could not possibly recover
+from his fright till he saw prince Beder appear again as before.
+
+The sea at length became troubled, when immediately king Saleh arose,
+with the young prince in his arms, and dancing and dandling him about,
+re-entered at the same window he went out at. The king of Persia,
+overjoyed to see prince Beder again, became as calm as before he lost
+sight of him. Then king Saleh said, Sir, was not your majesty in a great
+fright, when you first saw me plunge into the sea with the prince my
+nephew? Alas! prince, answered the king of Persia, I cannot express my
+concern: I thought him lost from that very moment, and you now restore
+life to me by bringing him again. I thought as much, replied king Saleh,
+though you had not the least reason to apprehend any danger; for before I
+plunged into the sea with him, I pronounced certain mysterious words over
+him, which were engraven on the seal of the great Solomon the Son of
+David. We practise the like in relation to all those children that are
+born in the regions at the bottom of the sea, by virtue whereof they
+receive the same privileges that we have over those people who inhabit
+the earth. Now, from what your majesty has observed, you may easily see
+what advantage your son prince Beder has acquired on the part of his
+mother queen Gulnare my sister; for as long as he lives, and as often as
+he pleases, it shall be free for him to plunge into the sea, and traverse
+the vast empires it contains at its bottom.
+
+Having so spoken, king Saleh, who had restored prince Beder to his
+nurse's arms, opened a box he had fetched from his palace in that little
+time he had disappeared, which was filled with three hundred diamonds, as
+large as pigeons' eggs; a like number of rubies, of extraordinary size;
+as many emerald wands, of half a foot long; and with thirty strings of
+necklaces of pearl, consisting each of ten pieces. Sir, said he to the
+king of Persia, presenting him with this box, when I was first summoned
+by the queen my sister, I knew not what part of the earth she was in, or
+that she had the honour to be married to so great a monarch as I now
+find; wherefore I came empty-handed: but now I understand how much we
+have been both obliged to your majesty, I beg you therefore to accept of
+this small token of gratitude, in acknowledgment of the many particular
+favours you have been pleased to do us, and whereof I am not less
+sensible than she.
+
+It cannot be imagined how greatly the king of Persia was surprised at the
+sight of so much riches enclosed in so little compass. What! prince,
+cried he, do you call so inestimable a present a small token of your
+gratitude, when you never have been indebted to me? I declare you have
+never been in the least obliged to me, neither you nor the queen your
+mother; I esteem myself but too happy in the consent you have been
+pleased to give to the alliance I have contracted with you. Madam,
+continued he, turning to Gulnare, the king your brother has put me into
+the greatest confusion in the world; and I would beg of him to retain his
+present, were it not that I fear to disoblige him. Do you therefore
+endeavour to obtain his leave, that I may be dispensed with on this
+occasion.
+
+Sir, replied king Saleh, I am not at all surprised that your majesty
+thinks this present so extraordinary: I know you are not accustomed upon
+earth to see such and so many fine stones; but if you knew, as I do, the
+mines from whence these jewels were taken, and that it is in my power to
+heap up a treasure, much larger than those, of all the things of the
+earth, you would, it may be, wonder I should have the boldness to make
+you a present of so small a value. I beseech you therefore not to regard
+it in that respect, but on account of the sincere friendship I am obliged
+to offer to you, which I hope you will not give me the mortification to
+refuse. These engaging expressions obliged the king of Persia to accept
+the present, for which he returned many thanks, both to king Saleh and
+the queen his mother.
+
+A few days after, king Saleh gave the king of Persia to understand that
+the queen his mother, the princesses his relations, and himself could
+have no greater pleasure than to spend their whole lives at his court;
+but that having been absent from their own kingdom for some time, where
+their presence was absolutely necessary, they begged of him not to take
+it ill, if they took leave of him and queen Gulnare. The king of Persia
+assured them he was very sorry that it was not in his power to come and
+visit them in their dominions; but added, As I am verily persuaded you
+will not forget queen Gulnare, but come and see her now and then, I hope
+I shall have the honour to kiss your hands again many times before I die.
+
+Many tears were shed on both sides upon their separation. King Saleh
+departed first; but the queen his mother, and the princesses his
+relations, were fain to force themselves, in a manner, from the embraces
+of queen Gulnare, who could not prevail with herself to let them go. This
+royal company were no sooner out of sight, than the king of Persia said
+to queen Gulnare, Madam, I should have looked upon that person as one who
+would have imposed on my credulity in the grossest manner, that had
+pretended to palm those wonders upon me for true, which I myself have
+been an eye-witness of from the time I have been honoured with your
+illustrious family at my court: but I cannot escape conviction of this
+kind; and shall remember it as long as I live, and be always ready to
+bless Heaven for directing you to me, rather than to any other prince.
+
+Young prince Beder was brought up and educated in the palace, under the
+care of the king and queen of Persia, who both saw him grow and increase
+in beauty, to their great satisfaction. He gave them yet greater pleasure
+as he advanced in years, by his continued sprightliness, by his agreeable
+ways in whatever he did, and by the justness and vivacity of his wit in
+whatever he said; and they were the more sensible of this satisfaction,
+by reason king Saleh his uncle, the queen his grandmother, and the
+princesses his relations, came from time to time to take part of it.
+
+He was easily taught to read and write, and was instructed with the same
+facility in all the sciences that became a prince of his rank.
+
+When he arrived at fifteen, he acquitted himself of all his exercises
+with infinitely better address, and good grace, than any of his masters.
+He was withal very wise and prudent. The king, who had almost from his
+cradle discovered in him virtues so necessary for a monarch, and who
+moreover began to perceive the infirmities of old age coming upon
+himself, would not stay till death gave him the possession of his throne,
+but purposed to resign it to him immediately. He had no great difficulty
+to make his council consent to it; and the people heard this resolution
+with so much the more joy, as they conceived prince Beder worthy to
+govern them. In a word, as the king had not for a long time appeared in
+public, they had all the opportunity in the world to observe he had not
+that disdainful, proud, and crabbed air, which most princes, who look
+upon all below them with scorn and contempt, have. They saw, on the
+contrary, he treated all mankind with that goodness which invited them to
+approach him, that he heard favourably all who had any thing to say to
+him; that he answered every body with a goodness that was peculiar to
+him; and that he refused nobody any thing that had the least appearance
+of reasonableness.
+
+The day for the ceremony was appointed, when in the midst of the whole
+assembly, which was then more numerous than ordinary, the king of Persia,
+then sitting on his throne, came down from it, took the crown off his
+head, put it on that of prince Beder; and having seated him in his place,
+kissed his hand, as a token that he resigned his authority to him: after
+which, he ranged himself among the crowd of viziers and emirs.
+
+Hereupon the viziers, emirs, and other principal officers, came
+immediately and threw themselves at the new king's feet, taking each the
+oath of fidelity, according to their degrees. Then the grand vizier made
+a report of divers important matters; on which the young king gave
+judgment with that admirable prudence and sagacity that surprised all the
+council. He next turned out divers governors convicted of
+mal-administration, and put others in their room; which he did with that
+wonderful and just discernment as excited the acclamations of every body,
+which were so much the more honourable, as flattery had no share in them.
+He at length left the council, accompanied by the late king his father,
+and went to wait on his mother queen Gulnare, at her apartment. The queen
+no sooner saw him coming with the crown upon his head, than she ran to
+embrace him with a great deal of tenderness, wishing him a long and
+prosperous reign.
+
+The first year of his reign, king Beder acquitted himself of all his
+royal functions with great assiduity. Above all, he took care to instruct
+himself in affairs of state, and all that might any way contribute
+towards the happiness of his people. Next year, having left the
+administration to his council, under the direction of the old king his
+father, he went out of his capital city, under pretence of diverting
+himself with hunting; but his real intention was to visit all the
+provinces of his kingdom, that he might reform all abuses there,
+establish good order and discipline every where, and deprive all
+ill-minded princes, his neighbours, of any opportunities of attempting
+any thing against the security and tranquillity of his subjects, by
+appearing and showing himself seasonably on his frontiers.
+
+No less than a whole year sufficed this young king to put in practice a
+purpose so worthy of him. Soon after his return, the old king his father
+fell so dangerously ill, that he knew at first he should never recover.
+He waited for his last moment with great tranquillity, and his only care
+was to recommend to the ministers and other lords of his son's court to
+persist in the fidelity they had sworn to him; insomuch that there was
+not one but willingly renewed his oath as freely as at first. He died at
+length, to the great grief of king Beder and queen Gulnare, who caused
+his corpse to be carried to a stately mausoleum, worthy of his rank and
+dignity.
+
+When the funeral obsequies were ended, king Beder found no difficulty to
+comply with that ancient custom in Persia to mourn for the dead a whole
+month, and not to be seen by any body during all that time. He had
+mourned the death of his father his whole life, had he hearkened to his
+excessive affliction, and had it been permitted to so great a prince as
+he was to amuse himself after that manner. During this interval, the
+queen, mother to queen Gulnare, and king Saleh, together with the
+princesses their relations, arrived at the Persian court, and shared in
+great part of their affliction, before they proposed any consolation.
+
+Though the month was expired, the king could not prevail on himself to
+give admittance to the grand vizier and the other lords of his court, who
+all besought him to lay aside his mourning habit, to show himself to his
+subjects, and take upon him the administration of affairs as before.
+
+He showed so great unwillingness to their request, that the grand vizier
+took upon him to speak in the following manner: Sir, it would be needless
+to represent to your majesty that it belongs only to women to persist in
+perpetual mourning. We doubt not but you are sufficiently convinced of
+that, and that it is not your intention to follow their example. Neither
+our tears nor yours are capable of restoring life to the good king your
+father, though we should lament all our days. He has undergone the common
+fate of all men, which nobody can resist. Yet we cannot say absolutely
+that he is dead, since we see him reviving in the person of your sacred
+majesty. He did not himself doubt, when he was dying, but he should
+revive in you, and to your majesty it belongs to show that he was not
+deceived.
+
+King Beder could no longer oppose such pressing instances. He laid aside
+his mourning habit that very moment; and after he had resumed the royal
+ornaments, he began to provide for the necessities of his subjects with
+the same assiduity as before his father's death. He acquitted himself
+with universal approbation; and, as he was exact in maintaining his
+predecessor's ordinances, the people perceived no alteration in their
+sovereign.
+
+King Saleh, who was returned to his dominions in the sea, with the queen
+his mother and the princesses, no sooner saw that king Beder had resumed
+the government, than he came alone to visit him; and king Beder and queen
+Gulnare were overjoyed to see him. One day, as they rose from table, they
+fell to discoursing of several matters. King Saleh fell insensibly on the
+praises of the king his nephew, and the queen his sister, how glad he was
+to see him govern so prudently, which had acquired him so great
+reputation, not only among his neighbours, but more remote princes. King
+Beder, who could not bear to hear himself so well spoken of, and not
+being willing to interrupt the king his uncle, through good manners
+turned on one side, and seemed to be asleep, leaning his head against a
+cushion that was behind him.
+
+From these commendations, which regarded only the wonderful conduct and
+surprising wit of king Beder, king Saleh came to speak of the perfections
+of his body, which he extolled after a mighty rate, as having nothing
+equal to them, either upon the earth, or the kingdoms under the waters,
+which he was well acquainted with.
+
+Sister, said he in an ecstasy, so beautiful as he is, and of such
+excellent endowments, I wonder you have not thought of marrying him ere
+this: if I mistake not, he is at present in his twentieth year, and at
+that age no prince ought to be suffered to be without a wife. I will
+think of a match for him myself, since you will not, and marry him to
+some princess of our lower world, that may be worthy of him.
+
+Brother, replied queen Gulnare, you call to my remembrance a thing, I
+must own, I have never thought of to this very moment. As he never
+discovered any inclination for marriage, I never thought of mentioning it
+to him; and I am glad you have now spoken of it to me. I like your
+proposing one of your princesses; and I desire you to name one who may be
+beautiful and well accomplished, that the king my son may be obliged to
+love her.
+
+I know one that will be proper, replied king Saleh, softly; but before I
+will tell you who she is, let us see if the king my nephew sleeps or not,
+and I will tell you afterwards why it is necessary we should take that
+precaution. Queen Gulnare then looked upon her son, and thought she had
+no reason to doubt but he was profoundly asleep, (king Beder
+nevertheless, very far from sleeping, redoubled his attention, as being
+unwilling to lose any thing the king his uncle said upon that subject.)
+There is no necessity for your speaking so low, said the queen to the
+king her brother; you may speak out with all freedom, without fear of
+being heard.
+
+It is by no means proper, replied king Saleh, that the king my nephew
+should as yet have any knowledge of what I am going to say. Love, you
+know, sometimes enters the ear; and it is not necessary he should love
+this lady I am about to name, after that sort: in short, I see many
+difficulties to surmount in this case, not on the lady's part, as I hope,
+but on that of her father. I need only mention to you the princess
+Giahaure[2], and the king of Samarcand.
+
+How, brother, replied queen Gulnare, is not the princess Giahaure yet
+married? I remember to have seen her a little before I left your palace;
+she was then about eighteen months old, and surprisingly beautiful, and
+must needs be the wonder of the world, if her charms have increased equal
+with her years. The few years she is older than the king my son, ought
+not to hinder our doing our utmost to bring the match about. Let me know
+but the difficulties that are to be surmounted, and I will warrant we
+will do well enough.
+
+Sister, replied king Saleh, the greatest difficulty is, that the king of
+Samarcand is insupportably vain, looking upon all others as his
+inferiors: it is not likely we shall easily get him to enter into this
+alliance. For my part, I will go to him in person, and demand the
+princess his daughter of him; and in case he refuses her, will address
+ourselves elsewhere, where we shall be like to be more favourably heard.
+For this reason, as you may perceive, added he, it is not proper for the
+king my nephew to know any thing of our design, lest he should fall in
+love with the princess Giahaure, and we afterwards not be able to obtain
+her for him. They discoursed a little longer upon this point, and before
+they parted, agreed that king Saleh should forthwith return to his own
+dominions, and demand the princess Giahaure of the king of Samarcand, her
+father, for the king of Persia, his nephew.
+
+This done, queen Gulnare and king Saleh, who verily believed king Beder
+asleep, agreed to wake him; and he dissembled the matter so well, that he
+seemed to wake from a profound sleep. He had nevertheless heard every
+word they said; and the character they gave of the princess Giahaure had
+inflamed his heart with an unknown passion. He had conceived so bright an
+idea of her beauty, that he could not sleep a wink all night, but
+remained under continual inquietudes.
+
+Next day king Saleh would needs take leave of queen Gulnare and the king
+his nephew. The young king, who knew the king his uncle would not have
+departed so soon, but to go and promote his happiness, blushed when he
+heard him mention his departure. His passion was become so violent, it
+would not suffer him to wait so long for the sight of his mistress as
+would suffice to accomplish the marriage. He more than once resolved to
+desire his uncle to bring her away with him; but as he did not care to
+let the queen his mother understand he knew any thing of what had passed,
+he desired him only to stay with him a day or two, that they might hunt
+together, intending to make use of that occasion to discover his mind to
+him.
+
+The day for hunting was set, and king Beder had many opportunities to
+declare his mind to his uncle; but he had not the courage so much as once
+to open his mouth to acquaint him with what he designed.
+
+In the midst of the chase, when not only king Saleh but all his
+attendants had left him, he alighted near a spring; and, having tied his
+horse to a tree that afforded a very plentiful shade, as did several
+others along the banks of the rivulet, he laid himself down on the grass,
+and gave a free course to his tears, which issued forth in great
+abundance, accompanied with many sobs and sighs. He remained in this
+condition, overwhelmed with thought, and not speaking so much as one
+word. King Saleh, in the mean time, missing the king his nephew, and not
+meeting with any one who could tell tidings of him, began to be much
+concerned to know what was become of him. He therefore left his company
+to go in search of him, and at length perceived him at a distance. He had
+observed the day before, and even more evidently that day, that he was
+not so merry as he used to be, that he was more pensive than ordinary,
+and that if he was asked a question, he either answered not at all, or
+nothing to the purpose: but he never so much as in the least suspected
+the cause of all this alteration, till he saw him lying in that
+disconsolate posture; when he immediately guessed he had not only heard
+what passed between him and the queen Gulnare, but was become
+passionately in love. He hereupon alighted, at some distance from him,
+and having tied his horse to a tree, took a compass, and came upon him so
+softly, that he heard him pronounce the following words:
+
+Adorable princess of the kingdom of Samarcand, cried he out, I have no
+doubt had but an imperfect sketch of your incomparable beauty; yet I hold
+you to be preferable to all the princesses in the world in charms, and to
+excel them as much as the sun does the moon and stars. I would this
+moment go and offer you my heart, if I but knew where to find you: it
+belongs to you, dear princess, and nobody shall be the possessor of it
+but you.
+
+King Saleh would hear no more: he advanced immediately, and discovered
+himself to king Beder. From what I have understood, nephew, said he, you
+heard that which the queen your mother and I discoursed the other day of
+the princess Giahaure. It was not our intention you should have known any
+thing, and we verily thought you were asleep. My dear uncle, replied king
+Beder, I heard every word you said, and have sufficiently experienced the
+effect you foretold; which it was not in your power to prevent. I
+detained you on purpose to acquaint you with my love before your
+departure; but the confusion I had to let you know my weakness, if it be
+any to love so worthy a princess as this seems to be, altogether sealed
+my mouth. I beseech you then, by the friendship you profess for a prince
+that has the honour to be so nearly allied to you, that you would pity
+me, and not delay to procure me the consent of the king of Samarcand,
+that I may marry his daughter, the adorable Giahaure, with all speed,
+unless you have a mind to see me die with love before I have the sight of
+her.
+
+These words of the king of Persia troubled king Saleh very much: he gave
+him to understand how difficult it was to give him the satisfaction he
+desired, and that he could not well do it without carrying him along with
+him; which might be of dangerous consequences, since his presence was so
+absolutely necessary in his kingdom, that the least absence might
+occasion his subjects to revolt. He conjured him, therefore, to moderate
+his passion till such time as he had put things into a better posture;
+assuring him he would use his utmost diligence to content him, and, when
+he had brought matters to bear, he would come to acquaint him. But these
+reasons were not sufficient to satisfy the king of Persia. Cruel uncle,
+said he, I find you do not love me so much as you pretended, and that you
+had rather see me die than grant the first request that ever I made you.
+
+I am ready to convince your majesty, replied king Saleh, that I would do
+any thing to serve you in reason; but as for carrying you along with me,
+I cannot do that till I have spoken to the queen your mother. What would
+she say if I should do this? If she consents, I am ready to do all you
+would have me. You cannot be ignorant, replied the king of Persia, that
+the queen my mother would never willingly part with me; and therefore
+this excuse of yours does but yet farther convince me of the hardness of
+your heart. If you do really love me, as you would have me to believe you
+do, you must return to your kingdom immediately, and carry me along with
+you.
+
+King Saleh, finding himself in a manner obliged to yield to his nephew's
+importunity, drew a ring off his finger, which was engraved with the same
+mysterious names of God that were upon Solomon's seal, that had wrought
+so many wonders by their virtue. Here, take this ring, said he, put it
+upon your finger, and fear neither the waters of the sea, nor their
+depth. The king of Persia took the ring, and when he had put it on his
+finger, king Saleh said unto him, Follow me; when, at the same time, they
+both mounted leisurely up into the air, and made towards the sea, which
+was not far off, whereinto they jointly plunged.
+
+The sea-king was not long in going to his palace with the king of Persia,
+whom he immediately carried to the queen's apartment, and presented him
+to her. The king of Persia kissed the queen his grandmother's hands, and
+she embraced him with great demonstrations of joy. I do not ask you how
+you do, said she to him, I see you are well enough, and I am rejoiced at
+it; but I desire to know how my daughter and your mother queen Gulnare
+does. The king of Persia took great care not to let her know he came
+without her consent; and therefore told her the queen his mother was in
+perfect health, and had enjoined him to pay her duty to her. Then the
+queen presented him to the princesses; and while he was in conversation
+with them, she left him, and went with king Saleh into a closet. He there
+told her how the king of Persia was fallen in love with the princess
+Giahaure, upon the bare relation of her beauty; and, contrary to his
+intention, that he had brought him along with him, without being able to
+hinder it, and that he was going to concert measures to procure the
+princess for him in marriage.
+
+Although king Saleh was, to do him justice, perfectly innocent of the
+king of Persia's passion, yet the queen could hardly forgive his
+indiscretion, in mentioning the princess Giahaure before him. Your
+imprudence is beyond parallel, said she to him: can you think that the
+king of Samarcand, whose character is so well known, will have greater
+consideration for you than the many other kings he has refused his
+daughter to with scorn and contempt? Would you have him send you away
+with the same confusion he has done them?
+
+Madam, replied king Saleh, I have told you it was contrary to my
+intention that the king my nephew heard what I related of the beauty of
+the princess Giahaure to the queen my sister. The fault, if it be one, is
+already committed; and we must consider what a violent passion he has for
+this princess, and that he will die with grief and affliction if we do
+not speedily obtain her for him, with whatever trouble we are to do it.
+For my part, I shall omit nothing that may contribute to it, since I was,
+though innocently, the cause of the malady: I will therefore do all that
+I can to remedy it. I hope, madam, you will approve of my resolution, to
+go and wait upon the king of Samarcand, with a rich present of precious
+stones, and demand the princess his daughter of him for the king of
+Persia, your grandson and my nephew. I have some reason to believe he
+will not refuse me, nor neglect to ally himself with one of the greatest
+potentates of the earth.
+
+It were to have been wished, replied the queen, that we had not been
+under a necessity of making this demand, since the success of our attempt
+is not so certain as we could desire; but since my grandson's quiet and
+content totally depend upon it, I freely give my consent to it. But,
+above all, I charge you, since you sufficiently know the humour of the
+king of Samarcand, that you take care to show him due respect, and not in
+any wise offend him by too presuming a behaviour.
+
+The queen prepared the present herself, composing it of diamonds, rubies,
+emeralds, and strings of pearl; all which she put into a box, very neat
+and very rich. Next morning, king Saleh took his leave of her majesty and
+the king of Persia, and departed with a chosen but small troop of
+officers and other attendants. He soon arrived at the capital and palace
+of the king of Samarcand, who did not scruple to afford him audience
+immediately upon his arrival. He rose from his throne as soon as he
+perceived king Saleh; who, being willing to forget his character for some
+moments, knowing whom he had to deal with, prostrated himself at his
+feet, wishing him an accomplishment of whatever he desired. The king of
+Samarcand immediately stooped to take him up; and, after he had placed
+him by him on his left-hand, he told him he was welcome, and asked him if
+there was any thing he could do to serve him.
+
+Sir, answered king Saleh, though I should have no other motive than that
+of rendering my respects to the most potent and most prudent prince in
+the world, yet would I endeavour to convince your majesty, though poorly,
+how much I honour and adore you. Were it possible you could penetrate
+into my inmost soul, you would soon be convinced of the great veneration
+I have had for you, and the ardent desire I entertain to pay you my most
+humble acknowledgments. Having spoken these words, he took the box of
+jewels from one of his servants, and having opened it, presented it to
+the king, imploring him to accept of it for his sake.
+
+Prince, replied the king of Samarcand, I hope you do not make me this
+present without requiring a proportional benefit from me. If there be any
+thing within the compass of my capacity, you may freely command it, and
+will do me signal honour in accepting it. Speak, and tell me frankly
+wherein I can serve you.
+
+I must own ingenuously, replied king Saleh, I have a boon to ask of your
+majesty; but I shall take care to ask nothing but what is within your
+power to grant. The thing depends so absolutely on yourself, that it
+would be to no purpose to require it of any other. I ask it then with all
+possible earnestness, and I beg of you not to refuse it me. If it be so,
+replied the king of Samarcand, you have nothing to do but to acquaint me
+what it is, and you shall see after what manner I can oblige people of
+desert.
+
+Sir, then said king Saleh, after the confidence your majesty has been
+pleased to think I have put in your good-will, I will not dissemble any
+longer, that I came to beg of you to honour our house with your alliance
+by marriage, and by that means to fortify the good understanding that has
+always hitherto been between our two crowns.
+
+At these words, the king of Samarcand began to laugh heartily, falling
+back in his throne against a cushion that supported him; and soon after
+said, with an injurious and scornful air, to king Saleh; King Saleh, I
+have always hitherto thought you were a prince of great sense and wisdom;
+but now I find you just the contrary. Tell me, I beseech you, where was
+your wit or discretion, when you formed to yourself so great a chimera as
+you have just now proposed to me? Could you conceive a thought only of
+aspiring in marriage to so great a princess as my daughter? You ought to
+have considered better the great distance between us, and not to run the
+risk of losing in a moment the esteem I always had for your person.
+
+King Saleh was extremely nettled at this affronting answer, and had much
+ado to restrain his just resentment: however he replied, with greater
+moderation than could be expected, God reward your majesty according as
+you deserve. I beg the honour to inform you, I do not demand the princess
+in marriage for myself: had I done so, your majesty, or the princess,
+ought to have been so far from being offended, that you might rather have
+taken it for an honour done to both. Your majesty knows well I am a king
+of the sea as well as yourself; that the kings my ancestors have no
+reason to yield in antiquity to any other royal families; and that the
+kingdom I inherit from them is no less potent and flourishing than it has
+ever been. If your majesty had not interrupted me, you had soon
+understood, that the favour I asked of you was not for myself, but for
+the young king of Persia, my nephew, whose power and grandeur, no less
+than his personal good qualities, cannot be unknown to you. Every body
+acknowledges the princess Giahaure to be one of the finest ladies under
+the heavens; but it is at the same time acknowledged by all, that the
+young king of Persia, my nephew, is as accomplished as any prince, either
+upon land or under the water. Thus the favour that is asked being likely
+to redound both to the honour of your majesty and the princess your
+daughter, you ought not to delay your consent to an alliance so equal,
+and which no doubt will be approved by the generality of people. The
+princess is worthy of the king of Persia, and the king of Persia is no
+less worthy of her. No king or prince in the world can deny me this.
+
+The king of Samarcand had not let king Saleh go on so long after this
+rate, had not the rage he put him in deprived him of all power of speech.
+He was moreover some time longer before he could find his tongue, so much
+was he transported with passion. At length, however, he broke out into
+outrageous and injurious expressions, unworthy of a king. Dog, says he
+aloud, dare you talk to me after this manner, and so much as once to
+mention my daughter's name in my presence? Can you think the son of your
+sister Gulnare worthy to come in competition with my daughter? Who are
+you? who was your father? who is your sister? and who your nephew? Was
+not his father a dog, and a son of a dog, like thee? Guards, seize the
+insolent wretch, and immediately cut off his head.
+
+The few officers that were about the king of Samarcand were immediately
+going to obey his orders, when king Saleh, who was in the flower of his
+age, nimble and vigorous, got from them before they could draw their
+sabres; and, having reached the palace gate, he there found a thousand
+men of his relations and friends, well armed and equipped, who were but
+just arrived. The queen his mother having considered the small number of
+attendants he took with him, and moreover foreseeing the bad reception he
+would probably have from the king of Samarcand, had sent these troops to
+protect and defend him, in case of danger. Those of his relations who
+were at the head of this troop immediately saw how seasonably they were
+arrived, when they beheld him and his companions come running in great
+disorder, and a small number of officers at their heels in pursuit of
+them. My lord, cried out his friends, at the moment he joined them, what
+is the matter? We are ready to revenge you; you need only command us.
+
+King Saleh related his case to them in as few words as he could; and
+afterwards putting himself at the head of a large troop, he, whilst some
+seized on the gates, re-entered the palace as before. The few officers
+and guards who had pursued him being soon dispersed, he re-entered the
+king of Samarcand's apartment, who, being abandoned by his attendants,
+was soon seized. King Saleh left sufficient guards to secure his person,
+and then went from apartment to apartment, to search after the princess
+Giahaure. But that princess, on the first noise of this alarm, had,
+together with her women, flung herself on the surface of the sea, and
+escaped to a desert island.
+
+As matters passed thus in the palace of the king of Samarcand, those of
+king Saleh's attendants, who had fled at the first menaces of the king,
+put the queen his mother into a terrible consternation, upon relating the
+danger her son was in. King Beder, who was by at that time, was the more
+concerned, in that he looked upon himself as the principal author of all
+the mischief that might ensue: therefore, not caring to abide the queen's
+presence any longer, he, whilst she was giving the necessary orders at
+that conjuncture, darted himself upwards from the bottom of the sea; and
+not knowing how to find his way to the kingdom of Persia, he happened to
+light on the same island where the princess Giahaure had saved herself.
+
+The prince, not a little disturbed in his mind, went and seated himself
+under the shade of a large tree, surrounded with divers others. Whilst he
+was endeavouring to recover his temper, he heard one that talked, but was
+too far off to understand what was said. He arose, and advanced softly
+towards the place whence the sound came, where, among the branches, he
+perceived a beauty that dazzled him. Doubtless, said he within himself,
+stopping, and considering her with great attention, this must be the
+princess Giahaure, whom fear has obliged to abandon her father's palace;
+or, if it be not, she is, at least, one that no less deserves my love and
+admiration. This said, he moved forward, and discovering himself,
+approached the princess with a profound reverence. Madam, said he, I can
+never sufficiently thank Heaven for the favour it has done me, in
+regaling my eyes this day with so glorious a sight. A greater blessing
+could not be conferred on me than this opportunity to offer you my most
+humble services. I beseech you, therefore, madam, to accept them, it
+being impossible that a lady, under such solitary circumstances, should
+not want assistance.
+
+True, my lord, replied Giahaure, very sorrowfully, it is not a little
+extraordinary for a lady of my quality to be found in this condition. I
+am a princess, daughter of the king of Samarcand, and my name is
+Giahaure. As I was at ease in my father's palace, and in my apartment, I
+all of a sudden heard a dreadful noise: news was immediately brought me,
+that king Saleh, I know not for what reason, had fired the palace, seized
+upon the king my father, and murdered all the guards that made any
+resistance. I had only time to save myself, and escape hither from his
+violence.
+
+At these words of the princess, king Beder began to be concerned that he
+had quitted his grandmother so hastily, without staying to hear from her
+the news that had been brought her; but he was, on the other hand,
+overjoyed to find that the king his uncle had rendered himself master of
+the king of Samarcand's person, not doubting but he would consent to give
+up the princess for his liberty. Adorable princess, continued he, your
+concern is most just; but it is easy to put an end both to that and your
+father's captivity. You will agree with me, when I shall tell you that I
+am Beder, king of Persia, and king Saleh is my uncle. I assure you,
+madam, he has no design to seize upon the king your father's dominions:
+his only intent is, to obtain of him that I may have the honour to be
+received for his son-in-law. I had already given my heart to you, upon
+the bare relation of your charming beauty; and now, very far from
+repenting of what I have done, I beg of you to accept it, and to be
+assured that I will love you as long as I live. I dare flatter myself you
+will not refuse this favour, but be ready to acknowledge, that a king
+that quitted his dominions purely on your account deserves some favour.
+Permit then, beauteous princess, that I may have the honour to go and
+present you to the king my uncle; and the king your father shall no
+sooner have consented to our marriage, than king Saleh will leave him
+sovereign of his dominions as before.
+
+This declaration of king Beder had not all the success he could have
+desired. It is true the princess no sooner saw his person, and the good
+mien wherewith he accosted her, than she had some kindness for him; but
+when she came to understand from his own mouth that he had been the
+occasion of all the ill treatment her father had undergone, of the grief
+and fright she had endured, and especially the necessity she was reduced
+to in flying her country to save her life, she looked upon him with that
+horror, that she considered him rather as an enemy than a friend, with
+whom she resolved to have no manner of converse. Moreover, whatever
+inclination she might by any means be thought to have in regard to this
+marriage, she determined never to yield to it, in consideration that one
+of the reasons her father might have against this match might be, that
+king Beder was son of a king of the earth; and therefore she proposed to
+obey her father, especially in that particular.
+
+She nevertheless resolved to let king Beder know nothing of her
+resentment, and only sought an occasion to deliver herself dexterously
+out of his hands, seeming, in the mean time, to have a great kindness for
+him. Are you then, said she, with all possible civility, son of the queen
+Gulnare, so famous for her wit and beauty? I am highly glad of it, and
+moreover rejoice that you are the son of so worthy a mother. The king my
+father was much in the wrong for so strongly opposing our conjunction: he
+could no sooner have seen you but he must have consented to have made us
+both happy. Saying these words, she reached forth her hand to him as a
+token of friendship.
+
+King Beder, believing himself arrived at the very pinnacle of happiness
+held forth his hand, and was stooping to take that of the princess to
+kiss it, when she, pushing him back, and spitting at him, said, Wretch,
+quit that form of a man, and take one of a white bird, with a red bill
+and feet. Upon her pronouncing these words, king Beder was immediately
+changed into a bird of that sort, to his great surprise and astonishment.
+Take him now, said she to one of her women, and carry him to the Desert
+Island. This island was only one frightful rock, where there was not a
+drop of water to be had.
+
+The waiting-woman took the bird; and, in executing the princess's orders,
+had compassion on king Beder's destiny. It would be great pity, said she
+to herself, to let a prince, so worthy to live, die of hunger and thirst.
+The princess will, it may be, repent of what she has ordered, when she
+comes again to herself: it were better that I carried him to a place
+where he may die a natural death. She then carried him to a
+well-frequented island, and left him on a charming plain, planted with
+all sorts of fruit-trees, and watered by divers rivulets.
+
+Let us now return to king Saleh, who, after he had sought a good while
+for the princess Giahaure, and ordered others to seek for her, to no
+purpose, caused the king of Samarcand to be shut up in his palace, under
+a good guard; and, having given the necessary orders for governing the
+kingdom in his absence, he returned to give the queen his mother an
+account of what he had done. The first thing he asked, upon his arrival,
+was, Where was the king his nephew? and he was answered, to his great
+surprise and astonishment, that he disappeared soon after he left him.
+News being brought me, said the queen, of the danger you was in at the
+palace of the king of Samarcand, while I was giving orders to send troops
+for you to revenge yourself, he disappeared. He must necessarily have
+been frightened at the hearing of your being in so great danger, and did
+not think himself in sufficient security with us.
+
+This news exceedingly afflicted king Saleh, who now repented of his being
+so easily wrought upon by king Beder, as to carry him away with him
+without his mother's consent. He sent every where after him; but whatever
+diligence was used, he could hear no news of him; and instead of the joy
+he conceived at having carried on the marriage so far, which he looked
+upon as his own work, he felt a grief for this accident that was
+mortifying to him. While he was under suspense about his nephew, he left
+his kingdom to the administration of his mother, and went and governed
+that of the king of Samarcand, whom he continued to keep with great
+vigilance, though with all due respect to his character.
+
+The same day that king Saleh returned to the kingdom of Samarcand, queen
+Gulnare, mother to king Beder, arrived at the court of the queen her
+mother. The princess was not at all surprised to find her son did not
+return the same day he set out; because it was common for him to go
+farther than he proposed, in the heat of the chase: but when she saw he
+neither returned the next day nor the day after that, she began to be
+alarmed, as may easily be imagined, from the kindness she professed for
+him. This alarm was considerably augmented, when the officers who had
+accompanied the king, and were retired, after they had for a long time
+sought in vain both for him and his uncle, came and told her majesty they
+must of necessity have come to some harm, since, whatever diligence they
+had used, they had heard no tidings of them. Their horses, indeed, they
+had found; but, as for their persons, they knew not where to look for
+them. The queen, hearing this, dissembled and concealed her affliction,
+bidding the officers go and search once more with their utmost diligence;
+but in the mean time, saying nothing to any body, she went and plunged
+into the sea, to satisfy herself in the suspicion she had that king Saleh
+must have carried away his nephew along with him.
+
+This great queen would have been the more affectionately received by the
+queen her mother, had she not, upon first sight of her, guessed the
+occasion of her coming. Daughter, said she, I plainly perceive you are
+not come hither to visit me; you come only to inquire after the king your
+son; and I can only tell you such news of him as will augment both your
+grief and mine. I must confess, I no sooner saw him arrive in our
+territories, than I greatly rejoiced: yet, when I came to understand he
+had come away without your knowledge, I began to partake with you in the
+concern you must needs have at it. Then she related to her with what zeal
+king Saleh went to demand the princess Giahaure in marriage for king
+Beder, and what happened upon it, till such time as her son disappeared.
+I have sent diligently after him, added she; and the king my son, who is
+just gone to govern the kingdom of Samarcand, has done all that lay in
+his power on his part. All our endeavours have hitherto proved
+unsuccessful; but we hope nevertheless to see him again, perhaps when we
+least expect it.
+
+Comfortless queen Gulnare was not satisfied with this hope: she looked
+upon the king her dear son as lost; and she lamented him grievously,
+laying all the blame upon the king his uncle. The queen her mother made
+her to consider the necessity there was of her not yielding too much to
+her grief. The king your brother, said she, ought not, it is true, to
+have talked to you so inconsiderately about that marriage, nor ever have
+consented to carry away the king your son without your privacy: yet,
+since it is not certain that the king of Persia is absolutely lost, you
+ought to neglect nothing to preserve his kingdom for him. Lose then no
+more time; but return to your capital: your presence there will be
+necessary; and it will not be hard for you to preserve the public peace,
+by causing it to be published that the king of Persia was gone to visit
+his grandmother.
+
+This reason was sufficient to oblige queen Gulnare to submit to it. She
+took leave of the queen her mother, and was got back to the palace of her
+capital of Persia before she had been missed. She despatched immediately
+persons to recall the officers she had sent after the king, and to tell
+them she knew where his majesty was, and that they should soon see him
+again. She also caused the same report to be spread throughout the city,
+and governed, in concert with the prime minister and council, with the
+same tranquillity as if the king had been present.
+
+To return to king Beder, whom the princess Giahaure's waiting-woman had
+carried and left in the island before mentioned. That monarch was not a
+little surprised when he found himself alone, and under the form of a
+bird. He esteemed himself more unhappy, in that he knew not where he was,
+nor in what part of the world the kingdom of Persia lay. But if he had
+known, and sufficiently knew the force of his wings to traverse so vast
+watery regions, what could he have gained by it, but the mortification to
+continue still in the same ill plight, not to be accounted so much as a
+man, in the lieu of being acknowledged for king of Persia? He was then in
+a manner constrained to remain where he was, and live upon such
+nourishment as birds of his kind were wont to have.
+
+A few days after, a peasant, who was skilled in taking birds with nets,
+chanced to come to the place where he was; when, perceiving this fine
+bird, the like of which he had never seen, though he had used that sport
+for a long while, he began greatly to rejoice. He employed all his art to
+become master of him; and at length used such proper methods, that he
+took him. Overjoyed at so great a prize, which he looked upon to be of
+more worth than all the other birds he commonly took, by reason of its
+being so great a rarity, he shut it up in a cage, and carried it to the
+city. As soon as he was come into the market, a citizen stopped him, and
+asked him how much he would have for that bird.
+
+Instead of answering, the peasant demanded of the citizen what he would
+do with him in case he should buy him. What wouldst thou have me do with
+him, answered the citizen, but roast and eat him? Very well, replied the
+peasant; and so, I suppose, you would think me very well paid if you
+should give me the smallest piece of money for him: but know, I set a
+much greater value upon him; and you should not have him for a large
+piece of gold. Although I am pretty well advanced in years, I never saw
+such a bird in my life. I intend to make a present to the king of him;
+and I am sure he will know the worth of him better than you.
+
+Without staying any longer in the market, the peasant went directly to
+the court, and placed himself exactly before the king's apartment. His
+majesty being at a window where he could see all that passed in the
+base-court, at length cast his eyes on this beautiful bird; and, being
+charmed with the sight of it, he immediately sent the commander of his
+eunuchs to buy it for him. The officer, going to the peasant, demanded of
+him how much he would have for that bird. If it be for his majesty,
+answered the peasant, I humbly beg of him to accept it of me as a
+present, and I desire you to carry it to him. Hereupon the officer took
+the bird, and brought it to the king, who found it so great a rarity,
+that he ordered the same officer to take ten pieces of gold and carry
+them to the peasant, who departed very well satisfied with the market he
+had made. The king ordered the bird to be put into a magnificent cage,
+and gave it corn and water in rich vessels.
+
+His majesty being then ready to mount on horseback, had not time to
+consider the bird, therefore had it brought to him as soon as he came
+back. The officer brought the cage; and the king, that he might better
+view the bird, took it out himself, and perched it upon his hand. Looking
+earnestly upon it, he demanded of the officer if he had seen it eat. Sir,
+replied the officer, your majesty may observe his eating: the drawer is
+still full; and I believe he has hardly touched any of his meat; at least
+I did not see him. Then the king ordered him meat of divers sorts, that
+he might take what he liked best.
+
+The table being spread, (for dinner happened to be served up just as the
+king had given these orders), and the plates being placed, the bird
+leaped off the king's hand, and, clapping his wings, flew upon the table,
+where he began to peck the bread and victuals after an extraordinary
+rate. The king seeing this, was so surprised at it, that he immediately
+sent for the queen to come and see this miracle. The person that was sent
+related the matter to her majesty, and she came forthwith; but she no
+sooner saw the bird, than she covered her face with her veil, and would
+have retired. The king, admiring her proceedings, in that there were none
+but the eunuchs of the chamber and the women that waited on her, asked
+the reason of it.
+
+Sir, answered the queen, your majesty will no longer admire at my
+proceeding, when you come to know that this bird, which you take to be
+such, is no bird, but a man. Madam, said the king, more astonished than
+before, you are pleased to banter me, I suppose; but you shall never
+persuade me that a bird can be a man. Sir, replied the queen, far be it
+from me to banter your majesty; yet nothing is more certain than what I
+have had the honour to tell you.
+
+I can assure your majesty it is the king of Persia, named Beder, son of
+the celebrated Gulnare, princess of one of the largest kingdoms of the
+sea, nephew of Saleh, king of that kingdom, and grand-child of queen
+Farasche, mother of Gulnare and Saleh; and it was the princess Giahaure,
+daughter of the king of Samarcand, who thus metamorphosed him into a
+bird. Moreover, that the king might no longer doubt of what she affirmed,
+she told him the whole story, as how, and for what reason, the princess
+Giahaure had thus revenged herself for the ill treatment which king Saleh
+had used towards the king of Samarcand, her father.
+
+The king had the less difficulty to believe this assertion of the
+queen's, in that he knew her to be a skilful sorceress, perhaps one of
+the greatest in the world; and as she knew every thing which passed in
+it, he was always timely informed of the designs of the kings his
+neighbours against him, and so prevented them. His majesty had compassion
+on the king of Persia, and therefore earnestly besought his queen to
+break the enchantment, that he might return to his own form.
+
+The queen consented to it with great willingness. Sir, said she to the
+king, be pleased to take the bird into your closet, and I will show you a
+thing worthy of the consideration you have for him. The bird, which had
+never minded eating, by reason of his attentiveness to what the king and
+queen said, would not give his majesty the trouble to take him, but
+hopped into the closet before him; and the queen came in soon after, with
+a pot full of water in her hand. She mumbled over the pot some words,
+unknown to the king, till such time as the water began to boil; when she
+took some of it in her hand, and sprinkling a little upon the bird, said,
+By virtue of these holy and mysterious words I am going to pronounce, and
+in the name of the Creator both of heaven and earth, who raises the dead,
+and maintains the universe in its distinct state, quit that form of a
+bird, and reassume that form which thou receivedst from thy Creator.
+
+The words were scarce out of the queen's mouth, when, instead of a bird,
+the king saw a young prince of good shape, air, and mien. King Beder
+immediately fell on his knees, and thanked God for the mercy that had
+been bestowed upon him. Then he took the king's hand, who helped him up,
+and kissed it as a token of his acknowledgment; but the king embraced him
+with a great deal of joy, and testified to him the great satisfaction he
+had to see him. He would then have paid his acknowledgments to the queen,
+but she was already retired to her apartment. The king made him sit at
+the table with him, and after supper was over, he prayed him to relate to
+him how the princess Giahaure had had the inhumanity to transform him
+into a bird, so agreeable and amiable a prince as he was; and the king of
+Persia immediately applied himself to satisfy him. When he had done, the
+king, disdaining the proceeding of the princess, could not help blaming
+her. It was commendable, said he, in the princess of Samarcand, not to be
+insensible of the king her father's ill treatment; but to carry her
+vengeance so far, and especially against one that was not culpable, was
+by no means to be excused, and she will never be able to justify herself.
+But let us have done with this discourse, and tell me, I beseech you, in
+what I can farther serve you.
+
+Sir, answered king Beder, my obligation to your majesty has been so
+great, that I ought to remain with you all my life-time to testify my
+acknowledgments; but since your majesty has set no limits to your
+generosity, I humbly entreat you to grant me one of your ships to
+transport me to Persia, where I fear my absence, which has been but too
+long, may have occasioned some disorder; and moreover, that the queen my
+mother, from whom I concealed my departure, may be dead of grief, under
+the uncertainty she must needs be of my life or of my death.
+
+The king granted what he desired with all the good will imaginable, and
+immediately gave orders for equipping one of his largest ships and best
+sailers in all his numerous fleet. The ship was soon furnished with all
+its complement of men, provisions, and ammunition; and as soon as the
+wind became fair, king Beder embarked, after having taken leave of the
+king, and thanked him for all his favours.
+
+The ship sailed before the wind for ten days together, which made it
+advance considerably. The eleventh day the wind changed, and becoming
+very violent, there followed a furious tempest. The ship was not only
+driven out of its course, but so grievously agitated, that all its masts
+were thrown overboard; and driving along at the pleasure of the wind, it
+at length struck against a rock and bulged.
+
+The greatest part of the people were drowned, though some few were saved
+by swimming, and others by getting on pieces of the wreck. King Beder was
+one of the last; when, after having been tossed about for some time under
+great uncertainty of his fate, he at length perceived himself near the
+shore, and not far from a city that seemed large. He used his utmost
+endeavours to reach the land, and was at length so fortunate to come so
+near as to be able to touch the ground with his feet. He then immediately
+abandoned his piece of wood, which had been of so great service to him;
+but when he came pretty near the shore, he was greatly surprised to see
+horses, camels, mules, asses, oxen, cows, bulls, and other animals,
+crowding towards the shore, and putting themselves in a posture to oppose
+his landing. He had all the difficulty in the world to conquer their
+obstinacy, and force his way; but at length he did it, which when done,
+he sheltered himself among the rocks till such time as he had recovered
+his breath, and dried his clothes in the sun.
+
+When the prince advanced to enter the city, he met with the same
+opposition from these animals, who seemed to intend to make him forego
+his design, and give him to understand it was dangerous to proceed.
+
+King Beder, however, got into the city soon after, and saw many fair and
+spacious streets, but was surprised to find never a man there. This made
+him think it was not without a cause that so many animals had opposed his
+passage. Going forward, nevertheless, he observed divers shops open,
+which gave him reason to believe the place was not destitute of
+inhabitants, as he imagined. He approached one of these shops, where
+several sorts of fruits were exposed to sale, and saluted very
+courteously an old man that was sitting there.
+
+The old man, who was busy about something, suddenly lifted up his head,
+and seeing a youth that showed some grandeur in his air, started, and
+asked him whence he came, and what business had brought him hither. King
+Beder satisfied him in a few words; and the old man farther asked him, if
+he had met any body on the road. You are the first person I have seen,
+answered the king; and I cannot comprehend how so fine and large a city
+comes to be without inhabitants. Come in, sir, stay no longer on the
+threshold, replied the old man, or peradventure some misfortune may
+happen to you. I will satisfy your curiosity at leisure, and give you a
+reason why it is necessary you should take this precaution.
+
+King Beder would not be bid twice. He entered the shop, and sat himself
+down by the old man. The old man, who had learned from him an account of
+his misfortunes, knew he must needs want nourishment, therefore
+immediately presented him with what was necessary to recover his spirits;
+and, although king Beder was very earnest to know why he gave him that
+precaution before he entered the shop, he would nevertheless not be
+prevailed upon to tell him any thing till he had done eating, for fear
+the sad things he had to relate might balk his appetite. In a word, when
+he found he ate no longer, he said to him, You have great reason to thank
+God you got hither without any ill accident. Alas! why? replied king
+Beder, very much surprised and alarmed.
+
+Because, answered he, this city is the city of enchantments, and governed
+not by a king, but a queen, who is not only one of the finest women of
+her sex, but likewise a dangerous sorceress. You will be convinced of
+this, added he, when you come to know that these horses, mules, and other
+animals that you have seen, are so many men like you and me, whom she has
+transformed by her diabolical art: and for young men like you only, that
+come to enter into the city, she has hired servants to stop and bring
+them, either by good will or force, before her. She receives them with
+all the seeming civility in the world: she caresses them, she treats and
+lodges them magnificently, and gives them so many reasons to believe that
+she loves them, that they think they cannot be mistaken. But she does not
+suffer them to enjoy long their happiness. Not one of them but she has
+transformed into some animal or bird, within the space of forty days. You
+told me those animals presented themselves to oppose your landing, and
+hinder your entering the city; and I must now tell you they were your
+friends, and what they did was to make you comprehend the danger you were
+going to expose yourself to.
+
+This account afflicted exceedingly the young king of Persia. Alas! cried
+he out aloud, to what extremities has my ill fortune reduced me! I am
+hardly freed from one enchantment, which I look back upon with horror,
+but I incur another much more terrible to me. This gave him occasion to
+relate his story to the old man much more at length, and to acquaint him
+of his birth and quality, his passion for the princess of Samarcand, and
+her cruelty in changing him into a bird, the very moment he came to see
+and declare his love to her.
+
+When the prince came to that passage where he spoke of his good fortune
+in finding a queen that broke the enchantment, the old man said to him,
+Notwithstanding all I have told you of the magic queen being true, yet
+that ought not to give you the least disquiet, since I am generally
+beloved throughout the city, and am not even unknown to the queen
+herself, who has no small respect for me; therefore it was your peculiar
+happiness to address yourself to me rather than elsewhere. You are secure
+in my house, where I advise you to continue, if you think fit; and,
+provided, you do not stray from hence, I dare assure you, you will have
+no just cause to complain of my breach of faith; so that you are under no
+sort of constraint whatsoever.
+
+King Beder thanked the old man for his kind reception of him, and the
+protection he was pleased to afford him. Then he sat down at the entrance
+into the shop, where he no sooner appeared, than his youth and good mien
+drew the eyes of all that passed that way on him. Many stopped and
+complimented the old man on his having so fine a slave, as they imagined
+the king to be; and they could not comprehend how so beautiful a youth
+could escape the queen's knowledge. Believe not, said the old man, this
+is a slave: you all know I am not rich enough to have one of this
+consequence: he is my nephew, son of a brother of mine that is dead; and
+as I had no children of my own, I sent for him to keep me company. They
+all congratulated his good fortune, in having so fine a young man for his
+relation; but withal told him, they feared the queen would take him from
+him. You know her well, said they to him; and you cannot be ignorant of
+the danger you expose yourself and nephew to, after all the examples you
+have seen of the kind. How grieved would you be, if she should serve you
+as she has done so many others!
+
+I am obliged to you, gentlemen, replied the old man, for your good will
+towards me, and I thank you for the care you seem to take of my interest;
+but I shall never entertain the least thought that the queen will do me
+any injury, after all the kindness she has professed for me. In case she
+happens to hear of this young man, and speaks to me about him, I doubt
+not but she will be contented to excuse him, as soon as she comes to know
+he is my nephew.
+
+The old man was exceedingly glad to hear the commendations they bestowed
+on the young king of Persia. He was as much affected with them as if he
+had been his own son; and he conceived such a kindness for him, as
+augmented every day during the stay he made with him. They lived about a
+month together, when king Beder, sitting at the shop-door after his
+ordinary manner, queen Labe (so was this magic queen's name) happened to
+come by with great pomp. The young king no sooner perceived the guards
+coming, who marched before her, than he arose, and going into the shop,
+asked the old man what all that show meant. The queen is coming by,
+answered he; but stand you still, and fear nothing.
+
+The queen's guards, clothed in purple, and well armed and mounted,
+marched in four files, with their sabres drawn, to the number of a
+thousand, and not one of their officers but, as they passed by the shop,
+saluted the old man. Then followed a like number of eunuchs habited in
+brocade silk, and better mounted, whose officers did the old man the like
+honours. Next came as many young ladies on foot, equally beautiful,
+richly dressed, and set off with precious stones. They marched gravely,
+with half pikes in their hands; and in the midst of them appeared queen
+Labe, on a horse all glittering with diamonds, with a golden saddle, and
+a housing of inestimable price. All the young ladies saluted the old man
+as they passed by him; and the queen, moved with the good mien of king
+Beder, stopped as soon as she came over-against the shop. Abdallah, (so
+was the old man's name,) said she to him, tell me, I beseech thee, does
+that beautiful and charming slave belong to thee, and is it long that
+thou hast been in possession of him?
+
+Abdallah, before he answered the queen, threw himself on the ground, and
+rising again, said, Madam, he is my nephew, son of a brother I had, who
+has been dead for some time. Having no children, I look upon him as my
+son, and sent for him to come and comfort me, intending to leave him what
+I have when I die.
+
+Queen Labe, who had never yet seen any one that pleased her so well as
+king Beder, and who began to conceive a mighty passion for him, thought
+immediately of getting the old man to abandon him to her. Father, quoth
+she, will not you oblige me so far as to make me a present of this young
+man? Do not refuse me, I conjure you; and I swear by the fire and the
+light, I will make him as great and powerful as ever private man was in
+the world. Although my design be to do evil to all mankind, yet he shall
+be the sole exception. I trust you will grant me what I desire, more on
+account of the friendship you have for me, than the esteem you know I
+have always had, and shall ever have, for your person.
+
+Madam, replied the good Abdallah, I am infinitely obliged to your majesty
+for all the kindness you have for me, and the honours you propose to do
+my nephew. He is not worthy to approach so great a queen, and I humbly
+beseech your majesty to excuse him.
+
+Abdallah, replied the queen, I all along flattered myself you loved me,
+and I could never have thought you would have given me so evident a token
+of your slighting my request: but I swear once more by the fire and
+light, and even by whatsoever is most sacred in my religion, that I will
+pass on no farther until I have conquered thy obstinacy. I understand
+very well what raises fears in thee; but I here promise, thou shalt never
+have any occasion to repent thy having trusted me.
+
+Old Abdallah was exceedingly grieved, in relation to king Beder and
+himself, for being in a manner forced to obey the queen. Madam,
+therefore, replied he, I would not willingly have your majesty have an
+ill opinion of the sincere respect I have for you, but would always
+contribute whatever I can to oblige you: I put an entire confidence in
+your royal word, and I do not in the least doubt but you will keep it: I
+only beg of your majesty to delay doing this great honour to my nephew
+till you shall again pass by this way. That shall be to-morrow, quoth the
+queen; and so saying, she inclined her head, as a token of her being
+pleased, and so went forward towards her palace.
+
+When queen Labe and all her attendants were out of sight, the good
+Abdallah said to king Beder, Son, (for so he was wont to call him, for
+fear of some time or other betraying himself in public,) it has not been
+in my power, as you may have observed, to refuse the queen what she
+demanded of me with so great earnestness, to the end I might not force
+her to an extremity of employing her magic both against you and myself.
+But I have some reason to believe she will use you well, as she promised,
+on account of that particular esteem she professes for me. This you may
+have seen, by the respect both she and all her court paid me. She would
+be a cursed creature indeed, if she should deceive me; but in case she
+should, she shall not deceive me unrevenged, for I know how to be even
+with her.
+
+All these assurances, which appeared very doubtful, were not sufficient
+to support king Beder's spirits. After all you have told me of this
+queen's wickedness, replied he, you cannot wonder if I am somewhat
+fearful to approach her. I should, it may be, slight all you could tell
+me of her, and suffer myself to be dazzled by the lustre of grandeur that
+surrounds her, if I had not already been at the mercy of a sorceress. The
+condition I was in, through the enchantment of the princess Giahaure, and
+from whence I was delivered only to enter anew into another, has made me
+look upon such a fate with horror. His tears hindered him from going on
+any farther, and sufficiently showed with what repugnance he held himself
+in a manner under a fatal necessity of being delivered to queen Labe.
+
+Son, replied old Abdallah, do not afflict yourself; for though I must own
+there is no great stress to be laid upon the oaths and promises of so
+perfidious a queen, yet I must withal acquaint you, her power extends no
+farther than I am pleased to permit it: she knows it full well herself;
+and that is the reason, and no other, that she pays me so great respect.
+I can quickly hinder her from doing you the least harm, though she should
+be perfidious enough to attempt it. You may entirely depend upon me; and,
+provided you follow exactly the advice I shall give you before I abandon
+you to her, she shall have no more power over you than she has over me.
+
+The magic queen did not fail to pass by the old man's shop the next day,
+with the same pomp she had done the day before; and Abdallah waited for
+her with great respect. Father, cried she, stopping just against him, you
+may judge of my impatience to have your nephew with me, by my punctual
+coming to put you in mind of your promise: I know you are a man of your
+word, and I cannot think you will break it with me.
+
+Abdallah, who fell on his knees as soon as he saw the queen approaching,
+rose up when she had done speaking; and as he would have nobody hear what
+he had a mind to say to her, he advanced with great respect as far as her
+horse's head, and then said softly, Puissant queen! I am persuaded your
+majesty will not be offended at my seeming unwillingness to trust my
+nephew with you yesterday, since you cannot be ignorant of the reasons I
+had for it; but I conjure you to lay aside the secrets of that art which
+you possess in so wonderful a degree. I respect my nephew as my own son;
+and your majesty would reduce me to the utmost despair, if you should
+think fit to deal with him as you have done with others.
+
+I promise you once more I will not, replied the queen; and I once more
+repeat the oath I made yesterday, that neither you nor your nephew shall
+have any cause to be offended at me. I see plainly, added she, you are
+not yet well enough acquainted with me: you never saw me yet but through
+a veil; but as I find your nephew worthy of my friendship, I will show
+you I am not any wise unworthy of his. With that she threw off her veil,
+and discovered to king Beder, who came near her with Abdallah, an
+incomparable face: but king Beder was little charmed. It is not enough,
+said he within himself, to be beautiful; one's actions ought to
+correspond in regularity with one's features.
+
+While king Beder was making these reflections, with his eyes fixed on
+queen Labe, the old man turned towards him, and, taking him by the arm,
+presented him to her majesty, saying, Here he is, madam; and I beg of
+your majesty once more to remember he is my nephew, and to let him come
+and see me sometimes. The queen promised he should; and, to give a
+farther assurance of her acknowledgment, she caused a bag of a thousand
+pieces of gold to be given him. He excused himself at first from
+receiving them; but she insisted absolutely upon it, and he could not
+refuse her. She had caused a horse to be brought, as richly harnessed and
+set out as her own, for the king of Persia. While he was mounting him, I
+forgot, said the queen to Abdallah, to ask you your nephew's name; pray
+how is he called? He answered, his name was Beder, (The Full Moon); and
+her majesty replied, Sure his ancestors were mistaken; they ought to have
+given him the name of Shems, (The Sun).
+
+When king Beder was mounted, he would have taken his post behind the
+queen; but she would not suffer him, and made him to ride on her left
+hand. She looked upon Abdallah; and, after having made him an inclination
+with her head, she set forward on her march.
+
+Instead of observing a satisfaction in the people's faces at the sight of
+their sovereign, king Beder took notice that they rather despised and
+cursed her. The sorceress, said some, has got a new subject to exercise
+her wickedness upon: will Heaven never deliver the world from her
+tyranny? Poor stranger, cried out others, thou art much deceived if thou
+thinkest thy happiness will last long: it is to render thy fall more
+terrible, that she has raised thee so high. This talk gave king Beder to
+understand Abdallah had told him nothing but the truth of queen Labe; but
+as he no longer depended on him, he had recourse to divine Providence to
+free him from the danger he was got into.
+
+The magic queen arrived at her palace, whither she was no sooner come,
+than she alighted, and, giving her hand to king Beder, entered with him,
+accompanied by her women and the officers of her eunuchs. She herself
+showed him all her apartments, where there was nothing to be seen but
+massy gold, precious stones, and furniture of wonderful magnificence.
+When she had carried him into her closet, she led him out into a balcony,
+from whence he observed a garden of surprising beauty. King Beder
+commended all he saw, with a great deal of wit, but nevertheless in such
+a manner that he might not be discovered to be any other than old
+Abdallah's nephew. They discoursed of divers indifferent matters, till
+such time as news was brought the queen that dinner was upon the table.
+
+The queen and king Beder arose, and went to place themselves at table,
+which was of pure massy gold, and the plates of the same. They began to
+eat, but did not drink till almost the dessert came, when the queen
+caused a cup to be filled with excellent wine: she took it, and drank to
+king Beder's health; and then causing it to be filled again, presented it
+to him. King Beder received it with profound respect, and, by a very low
+bow, signified to her majesty that he likewise drank to her health.
+
+Soon after, ten of queen Labe's women entered with musical instruments,
+with which, accompanied with their voices, they made an agreeable concert
+during the whole drinking, which continued till late at night. At length
+they began to be so heated with wine, that king Beder insensibly forgot
+he had to do with a magic queen, and looked upon her only as the finest
+woman he ever saw. As soon as the queen perceived she had wrought him to
+the pitch she desired, she made a sign to her eunuchs and women to
+retire. They obeyed; and king Beder and she went and lay together all
+night.
+
+Next morning the queen and king Beder went to the bagnio; and as soon as
+they came out, the women who had served the king there, presented him
+with fine linen and a magnificent habit. The queen likewise, who was more
+splendidly dressed than the day before, came to receive him, and they
+went together to her apartment, where they had a good repast brought
+before them, and spent the remainder of the day in walking and other
+amusements.
+
+Queen Labe treated king Beder after this manner for forty days, as she
+had been accustomed to do all her lovers. The fortieth night, as they
+were lying together, she, believing he was really asleep, arose without
+making any noise; but he was awake, and perceiving she had some design
+upon him, watched all her motions. Being up, she opened a chest, from
+whence she took a little box, full of a certain yellow powder. Taking
+some of the powder, she laid a train of it across the chamber, and
+immediately flowed in a rivulet of water, to the great astonishment of
+king Beder. He trembled with fear, but still pretended to sleep, that he
+might not discover to the sorceress he was awake.
+
+Queen Labe next took up some of the water in a pot, and poured it into a
+basin where there was flour, with which she made paste, and kneaded it
+for a long time: then she mixed certain drugs with it, which she took
+from different boxes, and made a cake, and put it into a covered
+baking-pan. As she had taken care at first to make a good fire, she took
+some of the coals, and set the pan upon them; and as the cake was baking,
+she put up her pot and boxes again; and at the pronouncing of certain
+words, dismissed the rivulet, which appeared no more. When the cake was
+baked, she took it off the coals, and carried it into her closet, and
+afterwards returned to bed again to king Beder, who dissembled the matter
+so well with her, that she had not the least suspicion that he knew any
+thing of what she had done.
+
+King Beder, whom the pleasures and delights of a court had made to forget
+his good host Abdallah, began now to think of him again, and believed he
+had more than ordinary occasion for his advice at this juncture, since he
+saw all the queen had done that night. As soon as he was up, therefore,
+he expressed a great desire to go and see his uncle, and begged of her
+majesty to permit him. Alas! my dear Beder, cried the queen, are you then
+already tired, I will not say with the pleasures of so superfine a palace
+as mine is, but with the company of a queen who loves you so passionately
+as I do?
+
+Great queen, answered king Beder, how can I be tired with so many favours
+and graces as your majesty perpetually heaps upon me? Very far from that,
+I desire this permission, madam, purely to go and give my uncle an
+account of the mighty obligations I have to your majesty. I must own
+likewise it is partly in this respect, that my uncle loving me so
+tenderly, as it is very well known he does, and I having been from him
+now forty days, without so much as once seeing him, he will surely take
+it very unkindly if I cannot afford him one visit. Go, said the queen, I
+consent to it; but you will not be long before you return, if you
+consider I cannot possibly live without you. This said, she ordered him a
+fine horse richly caparisoned, and so he departed.
+
+Old Abdallah was overjoyed to see his dear adopted son again; insomuch
+that, without regard to his quality, he embraced him heartily, and king
+Beder returned the like, that nobody might doubt but that he was his
+nephew. As soon as they were sat down, Well, said Abdallah to the king,
+how do you do, sir? and how have you passed your time with that infidel
+sorceress?
+
+Hitherto, answered king Beder, I must needs own she has been
+extraordinary kind to me, and has done all she could to persuade me that
+she loves me entirely; but I observed something last night, which gives
+me just reason to suspect that all her kindness hitherto is but
+dissimulation. Whilst she thought me asleep, although I was really awake,
+she stole from me with a great deal of precaution, which made me suspect
+her intention, and therefore I resolved to watch her. Going on with his
+discourse, he related to Abdallah how, and after what manner, he had seen
+her make the cake; and then added, Hitherto, said he, I must needs
+confess I had almost forgot, not only you, but all the advice you gave me
+concerning the wickedness of this queen: but this last action of hers
+gives me reason to fear she neither intends to observe any of her oaths
+nor promises. I thought of you immediately, and esteem myself happy in
+that I have obtained permission to come to you.
+
+You are not deceived in this wicked queen, replied old Abdallah with a
+smile, to show he did not himself believe she would observe one word she
+spoke, nor oath she made; nothing is capable of obliging a perfidious
+woman to mend her morals. But fear nothing; I have a way to make the
+mischief she intends you fall upon herself. You are become jealous in
+time; and you could not have done better than this, to have recourse to
+me. It is her ordinary practice to keep her lovers only forty days; and
+after that time, instead of sending them home, to turn them into animals
+to stock her forests and parks; but I thought of measures yesterday to
+prevent her doing any harm. The earth has borne this monster long enough,
+and it is now high time she should be served as she deserves.
+
+So saying, Abdallah put two cakes into king Beder's hands, bidding him
+keep them to make use of as he should direct. You told me, continued he,
+the sorceress made a cake last night: it was for you to eat of, depend
+upon it, but take great care you do not touch it. Nevertheless, do not
+refuse to receive it when she offers it you; but, instead of tasting it,
+break off part of one of the two that I gave you, unobserved, and eat
+that. As soon as she thinks you have swallowed it, she will not fail to
+attempt transforming you into some animal, but she shall not succeed;
+which when she sees, she will immediately turn the thing to pleasantry,
+as if what she had done was only to frighten you; but she will conceal a
+mortal aversion in her heart, and think her having failed proceeded only
+from the want of something in the composition of her cake. As for the
+cake she made, and which she will not know to be her own, you shall make
+a present of it to her, and press her to eat it; which she will not
+refuse to do, if it were only to convince you she does not mistrust you,
+though she has given you so much reason to mistrust her. When she has
+quite eaten it, take a little water in the hollow of your hand, and,
+throwing it in her face, say, Quit that form you now wear, and take that
+of such or such an animal, as you shall think fit; which done, come to me
+with the animal, and I will tell you what you shall do afterwards.
+
+King Beder made all possible acknowledgments to old Abdallah, for the
+great obligations he had to him, for defending him from the wiles of a
+pestilent sorceress who sought to ruin him; and after some little
+discourse, he took his leave of him and returned to the palace. Upon his
+arrival, he understood that the queen waited for him with great
+impatience in the garden. He went to pay his respects to her, and she no
+sooner perceived him, than she came in great haste to meet him. My dear
+Beder! said she, it is said, with a great deal of reason, that nothing
+moves more the force and excess of love than absence from the object
+beloved. I have had no quiet since I saw you, and the minutes I have been
+separated from you have seemed so many ages; nay, if you had staid ever
+so little longer, I was preparing to come and fetch you once more to my
+arms.
+
+Madam, replied king Beder, I can assure your majesty that I have not been
+under less disquiets on your account; but I could not refuse to stay a
+little longer than ordinary with an uncle who loves me so dearly, and had
+not seen me for so long a while. He would have kept me still longer, but
+I tore myself away from him to come and pay my vows where they are so
+much due. Of all the collations he prepared for me, I have only brought
+away this cake, which I desire your majesty to accept. King Beder had
+wrapped up one of the two cakes in a handkerchief very neatly, took it
+out, and presented it to the queen, saying, I beg your majesty to accept
+of it, though it be so inconsiderable a present.
+
+I do accept of it with all my heart, replied the queen, receiving it, and
+will eat it cheerfully for yours and your good uncle's sake: but before I
+taste of it, I desire you will eat a piece of mine, which I have made for
+you during your absence. Fair queen, answered king Beder, receiving it
+with great respect, such hands as your majesty's can never make any thing
+but what is excellent; and the favour hereby done me will exact an
+eternal acknowledgment.
+
+King Beder then substituted, in the place of the queen's cake, the other
+which old Abdallah had given him, and having broken off a piece, he put
+it to his mouth, and cried, while he was eating, Ah! queen, I never
+tasted any thing so charming in my life. They being near a cascade, the
+sorceress seeing him swallow one bit of the cake, and ready to eat
+another, she took a little water in the palm of her hand, and throwing it
+on the king's face, said, Wretch! quit that form of a man thou bearest,
+and take that of a vile horse, lame and blind.
+
+These words not having the desired effect, the sorceress was strangely
+surprised to find king Beder still in the same form, and that he only
+started, being a little frightened. Blushes came suddenly into her
+cheeks; and as she saw that she had missed her aim, Dear Beder, cries
+she, this is nothing, recover thyself; I did not intend thee any harm;
+what I did, was only to see what thou wouldst say. I should be the most
+miserable and execrable of women, should I attempt aught against thy
+tranquillity; I do not only say, after all the oaths I made to the
+contrary, but even after so many testimonies of love as I have given
+thee.
+
+Puissant queen, replied king Beder, however well satisfied I were, that
+what your majesty did was only to divert yourself, yet I could not help
+being a little frightened with the surprise. Also, what could hinder me
+from being a little moved at the pronouncing of such terrible words, as
+are capable of making so strange a transformation? But, madam, continued
+he, let us set aside this discourse; and since I have ate of your cake, I
+desire you would do me the like favour by tasting of mine.
+
+Queen Labe, who could no better justify herself than by putting this
+confidence in the king of Persia, broke off a piece of his cake and ate
+it; which she had no sooner done, than she appeared much troubled, and
+remained, as it were, motionless. King Beder, seeing his time, took water
+out of the same basin she had done, and, throwing it in her face, cried,
+Abominable sorceress! quit that form of a woman, and be turned instantly
+into a mare.
+
+The same instant queen Labe was transformed into a very beautiful mare;
+and she was so concerned to find herself in that condition, that she shed
+tears in great abundance, which perhaps no mare before had been ever
+known to do. She bowed her head with great obeisance to king Beder,
+thinking to move him to compassion; but, though he could have been so
+moved, it was absolutely out of his power to repair the damage he had
+done her. He led her then into the stable belonging to the palace, and
+put her into the hands of a groom, to bridle and saddle; but of all the
+bridles he tried upon her, not one would fit her. This made him cause two
+horses to be saddled, one for the groom and the other for himself; and
+the groom led the mare after him to old Abdallah's.
+
+Abdallah, seeing king Beder coming with the mare at a distance, doubted
+not but he had done what he advised him. Cursed sorceress! said he
+immediately to himself very joyfully. Heaven has at length punished thee
+as thou deservest. King Beder alighted at Abdallah's door, and entered
+with him into the shop embracing and thanking him for all the signal
+services he had done him. He related to him the whole matter, with all
+its circumstances; and moreover told him, he could find no bridle fit for
+the mare. Abdallah found one that fitted exactly; and as soon as king
+Beder had sent back the groom, he said to him, My lord, you have no
+reason to stay any longer in this city; take the mare, mount her, and
+return to your kingdom. I have but one thing more to recommend to you;
+and that is, if ever you should happen to part with the mare, be sure to
+deliver her bridle. King Beder promised to observe all his commands, and
+this especially; and so, having taken leave of the good old man, he
+departed.
+
+The young king of Persia no sooner got out of the city, than he began to
+reflect on the deliverance he had had, and to rejoice he had the
+sorceress in his power, who had given him so much cause to tremble. Three
+days after, he arrived at a great city, where, entering the suburbs, he
+met a venerable old man, walking on foot towards a pleasure-house he had
+hard by: Sir, said the old man to him, stopping, may I presume to ask
+from what part of the world you come? The king stopped to satisfy him;
+and, as they were discoursing together, an old woman chanced to come by,
+who, stopping likewise, wept and sighed bitterly at the sight of the
+mare.
+
+King Beder and the old man left off discoursing, to look on the old
+woman, whom the king asked, whom she had to lament so much. Alas! sir,
+replied she, It is because your mare resembles so perfectly one my son
+had, and which I still mourn the loss of on this account, and should
+think yours were the same, did I not know she was dead. Sell her to me,
+sir, I beseech you, and I will give you even more than she is worth, for
+the sake of the person that once owned her likeness.
+
+Good woman, replied king Beder, I am heartily sorry I cannot comply with
+your request; my mare is not to be sold. Alas! sir, continued the old
+woman, do not refuse me this favour, for the love of God. I conjure you
+to do it out of pure charity, since my son and I shall certainly die with
+grief if you do not grant it. Good mother, replied the king, I would
+grant it with all my heart, if I was disposed to part with so good a
+beast; but if I were so disposed, I believe you would hardly give a
+thousand pieces of gold for her, which is the lowest price I shall ever
+put upon her. Why should I not give so much? replied the old woman: if
+that be the lowest price, you need only say you will take it, and I will
+fetch you the money.
+
+King Beder, seeing the old woman so poorly dressed, could not imagine she
+could find the money; therefore, to try her, he said, not thinking to
+part with his mare for all that, Go fetch me the money, and the mare is
+yours. The old woman immediately unloosed a purse she had fastened to her
+girdle, and desiring him to alight, bade him tell over the money: and, in
+case he found it came short of the sum demanded, her house was not far
+off, and she could quickly fetch the rest.
+
+The surprise king Beder was in at the sight of this purse was not small.
+Good woman, said he, do you not perceive I have bantered you all this
+while? I will assure you my mare is not to be sold.
+
+The old man, who had been witness to all that was said, now began to
+speak: Son, quoth he to king Beder, it is necessary you should know one
+thing, which I find you are ignorant of; and that is, that in this city
+it is not permitted any one to lie, on any account whatsoever, and that
+on pain of death: now, you having made this bargain with this old woman,
+you must not refuse her money, and delivering your mare according to the
+agreement; and this you had better do without any noise, than expose
+yourself to what may ensue.
+
+King Beder, sorely afflicted to find himself thus trapped by his rash
+proffer, was nevertheless forced to alight and perform his agreement. The
+old woman stood ready to seize the bridle; which when she had done, she
+immediately unbridled the mare, and taking some water in her hand from a
+spring that ran in the middle of the street, she threw it in the mare's
+face, uttering these words: Daughter, quit that bestial form, and
+reassume thy own. The transformation was effected in a moment; and king
+Beder, who swooned as soon as he saw queen Labe appear, would have fallen
+to the ground, if the old man had not hindered him.
+
+The old woman, who was mother to queen Labe, and who had instructed her
+in all her magic, had no sooner embraced her daughter, than in an
+instant, she, by whistling, caused a genie to rise, of a gigantic form
+and stature: this genie immediately took king Beder on one shoulder, and
+the old woman with the magic queen on the other, and transported them in
+a few minutes to the palace of queen Labe, in the city of enchantments.
+
+The magic queen immediately fell upon king Beder, reproaching him
+grievously, in the following manner: Is it thus, ungrateful wretch, that
+thy unworthy uncle and thou make me amends for all the kindnesses I have
+done for you? I shall soon be able to make you both feel what you so well
+deserve. She said no more, but, taking water in her hand, threw it in his
+face, with these words, Come out of that form, and take that of a vile
+owl. These words were soon followed by the effect; and immediately she
+commanded one of her women to shut up the owl in a cage, and give him
+neither meat nor drink.
+
+The woman took the cage, and, without regarding what the queen ordered,
+gave him both meat and drink; and being old Abdallah's friend, she sent
+him word privately how the queen had treated his nephew, and what design
+she had taken to destroy him and king Beder, in case he did not take
+timely measures to prevent it.
+
+Abdallah knew no common measures would do with queen Labe; he therefore
+did but whistle after a certain manner, and there immediately rose a vast
+giant, with four wings, who presented himself before him, and asked what
+he would have with him. Lightning, said Abdallah to him, (for so was the
+genie's name,) I command you to preserve the life of king Beder, son of
+the queen Gulnare. Go to the palace of the magic queen, and transport
+immediately to the capital of Persia the compassionate woman who has the
+cage in custody, that she may inform queen Gulnare of the danger the king
+her son is in, and the occasion he has of her assistance. Take care not
+to fright her when you come before her, and acquaint her from me what she
+ought to do.
+
+Lightning immediately disappeared, and got in an instant to the palace of
+the magic queen. He instructed the woman, lifted her up into the air, and
+transported her to the capital of Persia, where he placed her on the
+terrace of the apartment where queen Gulnare was. She went down stairs to
+the apartment, and she there found queen Gulnare and queen Farasche,
+lamenting their mutual misfortunes. She made them a profound reverence,
+and, by the relation she gave them, they soon came to understand the
+great necessity king Beder was in of their assistance.
+
+Queen Gulnare was so overjoyed at the news, that, rising from her seat,
+she went and embraced the good woman, telling her how much she was
+obliged to her for the service she had done her.
+
+Then going immediately out, she commanded the trumpets to sound and the
+drums to beat, to acquaint the city, that the king of Persia would
+suddenly return safe to his kingdom. She then went again, and found king
+Saleh her brother, whom Farasche had caused to come speedily thither, by
+a certain fumigation. Brother, said she to him, the king your nephew, and
+my dear son, is in the city of enchantments, under the power of queen
+Labe. Both you and I must see what we can do to deliver him, for there is
+no time to be lost.
+
+King Saleh forthwith assembled a puissant body of sea-troops, and even
+called to his assistance the genies his allies, who appeared with a much
+more numerous army. As soon as the two armies were joined, he put himself
+at the head of them, together with queen Farasche, queen Gulnare, and the
+princesses, who would all have their share in this glorious action. They
+then lifted themselves up into the air, and soon poured down on the
+palace and city of enchantments, where the magic queen, her mother, and
+all the other adorers of fire, were destroyed in an instant.
+
+Queen Gulnare had ordered the woman who brought her the news of queen
+Labe's transforming and imprisoning her son, to follow her close, and
+bade her, in her hurly-burly, to take no other care than to go and seize
+the cage, and bring it to her. She did as she was ordered, and queen
+Gulnare was no sooner in the possession of the cage, than she opened it,
+and took the owl out, saying, after she had sprinkled a little water upon
+him, My dear son, quit that foreign form which has been given thee, and
+resume thy natural one of a man. In a moment queen Gulnare no more saw
+the hideous owl, but king Beder her son instead of him. She immediately
+embraced him with that excess of joy which is better expressed by actions
+than words. She could not find in her heart to let him go; and, if he had
+not been in a manner torn from her by queen Farasche, who had a mind to
+embrace him in her turn, for aught I know, they might not have parted
+till now, so great queen Gulnare's affection was for him. After the queen
+his grandmother had done with him, he was likewise embraced by the king
+his uncle, and the princesses his relations.
+
+The next care queen Gulnare had, was to look out for old Abdallah, to
+whom she had been obliged for the recovery of the king of Persia; and
+who, being brought to her, she said to him, My obligations to you, sir,
+have been so great, that there is nothing within my power but I will
+freely do for you as a token of my acknowledgment. Do but satisfy me in
+what I can serve you; and you shall see I will immediately set about it.
+Great queen, replied Abdallah, if the lady next to your majesty will but
+consent to the marriage I offer her, and the king of Persia will give me
+leave to reside at his court, I will spend the remainder of my days in
+his service. The queen turned towards the lady; and, finding by her
+modesty that she was not against the match proposed, she caused them to
+join hands, and the king of Persia and she took care of their fortune.
+
+This marriage occasioned the king of Persia to speak thus, addressing
+himself to the queen: Madam, I am heartily glad of this match which your
+majesty has just now made: there remains one more, which I desire you to
+think of. Queen Gulnare did not at first comprehend what marriage he
+meant; but, after a little considering, she said, Of yours do you mean,
+son? I consent to it with all my heart. Then, turning about, and looking
+on her brother's sea-attendants, and the genies, who were still present,
+she said, Go you, and traverse both the sea and land, to find out the
+most lovely and amiable princess, worthy of the king my son, and come and
+bring us word.
+
+Madam, replied king Beder, it is to no purpose for them to take all that
+pains. You have, no doubt, heard that I have already given my heart to
+the princess of Samarcand, upon the bare relation of her beauty. I have
+seen her, and do not repent of the present I then made her. In a word,
+neither earth nor sea, in my opinion, can furnish a princess any thing
+like her. It is true, upon declaring my love to her, she used me after a
+rate that would have extinguished any flame less fierce than mine: but I
+hold her excused; for, after a rigorous treatment, and imprisoning the
+king her father, which I was in some measure the cause of, how could she
+use me more civilly? But, it may be, the king of Samarcand may have
+changed his resolution; and his daughter, the princess, may consent to
+love me, when she sees her father has agreed to it.
+
+Son, replied queen Gulnare, if only the princess Giahaure can make you
+happy in this world, I shall not make it my business to oppose you. The
+king your uncle need only have the king of Samarcand brought, and we
+shall see whether he be still of the same untractable temper.
+
+How strictly soever the king of Samarcand had been kept during his
+captivity, by king Saleh's orders, yet he always had great respect shown
+him, and was become very familiar with the officers that guarded him. In
+order to bring him, king Saleh caused a chafing dish of coals to be
+brought, into which he threw a certain composition, uttering at the same
+time some mysterious words. As soon as the smoke began to arise, the
+palace shook, and immediately the king of Samarcand, with king Saleh's
+officers, appeared. The king of Persia cast himself at the king of
+Samarcand's feet; and then, rising upon one knee, he said, It is no
+longer king Saleh that demands of your majesty the honour of your
+alliance for the king of Persia: it is the king of Persia himself that
+humbly begs that boon; and I persuade myself your majesty will never
+persist in being the cause of the death of a king, who can no longer live
+than he is in the possession of the adorable princess Giahaure.
+
+The king of Samarcand did not long suffer the king of Persia to remain on
+his knee; he took him up, and embracing him, said, I should be very sorry
+to have contributed in the least towards the death of a monarch who is so
+worthy to live. If it be true that so precious a life cannot be
+preserved, without being in possession of my daughter, live, sir, and
+live happy; she is yours. She has always hitherto been obedient to my
+will, and I cannot think she will now oppose it. Speaking these words, he
+ordered one of the officers that king Saleh had assigned him, to go and
+look for the princess Giahaure, and bring her to him immediately.
+
+The princess continued all this while where the king of Persia had left
+her. The officer brought her with her women to attend her. The king of
+Samarcand embraced her, and said, Daughter, I have provided a husband for
+you: it is the king of Persia you see there, the most accomplished
+monarch at this juncture in the universe. The preference he has given you
+to all other princesses obliges us both to make him suitable
+acknowledgments.
+
+Sir, replied the princess Giahaure, your majesty well knows I have never
+presumed to disobey your will in any thing: I shall be always ready to
+obey you; and I hope the king of Persia will please to forget the ill
+treatment I gave him, and consider it was duty, not inclination, that
+forced me to it.
+
+The nuptials were celebrated in the palace of the city of enchantments,
+with so much the greater solemnity, as all the lovers of the magic queen,
+who resumed their pristine forms as soon as ever that queen ceased to
+live, assisted at them, and came to pay their acknowledgments to the king
+of Persia, queen Gulnare, and king Saleh. They were all either sons of
+kings, or princes of extraordinary merit.
+
+King Saleh at length conducted the king of Samarcand to his dominions,
+and put him once again in possession of them. The king of Persia, having
+what he most desired, returned to his capital with queen Giahaure, queen
+Gulnare, queen Farasche, and the princesses; and queen Farasche and the
+princesses continued there, till such time as king Saleh came to
+re-conduct them to his kingdom under the waves of the sea.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+  GANEM, SON TO ABOU AYOUB, AND KNOWN BY THE SURNAME OF LOVE'S SLAVE.
+
+
+There was formerly a merchant at Damascus, who had, by care and industry,
+acquired great wealth, on which he lived in a very honourable manner. His
+name was Abou Ayoub, and he had one son and a daughter. The son was at
+first called Ganem, but afterwards had the surname of Love's Slave. He
+was graceful as to his person, and the excellent natural qualities of his
+mind had been improved by able masters his father had taken care to
+provide him. The daughter's name was Alcolomb, signifying ravisher of
+hearts, because her beauty was so accomplished, that whosoever saw her
+could not but love her.
+
+Abou Ayoub died, and left immense riches: an hundred loads of brocades,
+and other silks that lay in his warehouse, were the least part of it. The
+loads were ready made up, and on every bale was written, in large
+characters, "For Bagdad."
+
+Mohammed, the son of Soliman, surnamed Zinebi, reigned at that time in
+Damascus, the capital of Syria. His kinsman Haroun Alraschid, whose
+residence was at Bagdad, had bestowed this kingdom on him as tributary to
+him.
+
+Soon after the death of Abou Ayoub, Ganem, discoursing with his mother
+about their private affairs, among the rest, concerning the bales of
+merchandise that lay in the warehouse, asked her the meaning of what was
+written upon each bale. My son, answered his mother, your father used to
+travel sometimes into one province and sometimes into another, and it was
+customary with him, before he set out, to write the name of the city he
+designed to repair to on every bale. He had provided all things to take a
+journey to Bagdad, and was upon the point of setting forwards, when
+death----She had not the power to proceed any farther; the lively
+remembrance of the loss of her husband would not permit her to say any
+more, and drew from her a shower of tears.
+
+Ganem could not see his mother so sensibly affected without relenting.
+Thus they continued some time in silence; but at length he recovered
+himself; and, as soon as he found his mother calm enough to listen to
+him, he directed his discourse to her, and said: Since my father designed
+these goods for Bagdad, and is no longer in being to put his design in
+execution, I will prepare myself to perform that journey; and I am of
+opinion, it will be proper for me to expedite my departure, for fear
+those commodities should perish, or, at least, that we lose the
+opportunity of selling them to the best advantage.
+
+Abou Ayoub's widow, who tenderly loved her son, was much surprised at
+this resolution; and replied, My dear child, I cannot but commend you for
+designing to follow your father's example; but consider that you are too
+young, inexperienced, and altogether a stranger to the toils of
+travelling. Besides, can you think of leaving me, and by that means add
+to that sorrow with which I am already oppressed? Is it not better to
+sell those goods to the merchants of Damascus, and to take up with a
+moderate profit, than to expose yourself to the danger of perishing?
+
+It was in vain for her to oppose Ganem's resolution by the strongest
+arguments, for they had no weight with him. An inclination to travel, and
+to accomplish himself by a thorough knowledge of the affairs of the
+world, urged him on to set out, and prevailed above all his mother's
+remonstrances, her entreaties, and even her tears. He went away to the
+market where the slaves are sold, and bought such as were able of body,
+hired one hundred camels, and, having furnished all other necessaries, he
+entered upon his journey, with five or six merchants of Damascus, who
+were going to trade at Bagdad.
+
+Those merchants, attended by all their slaves, and accompanied by several
+other travellers, made up such a considerable caravan, that they had no
+occasion to fear the Bedouins, that is, the Arabs who make it their only
+profession to range the country, and to attack and plunder the caravans
+which are not strong enough to repulse them. Thus they had no other
+difficulty to encounter than the usual fatigues of a long journey, which
+were easily forgot when they saw the city of Bagdad, where they arrived
+in safety.
+
+They went to alight at the most magnificent and most resorted khan in the
+city; but Ganem, who had a mind to be lodged conveniently, and by
+himself, took no apartment there. He only left his goods in a warehouse
+for their greater security, and hired a very fine house in the
+neighbourhood, richly furnished; having a garden, which was very
+delightful, on account of the many water-works and shady groves that were
+in it.
+
+Some days after this young merchant had been settled in his house, and
+perfectly recovered of the fatigue of his journey, he dressed himself
+genteelly, and repaired to the public place where the merchants meet to
+buy and sell their commodities, with a slave following him, carrying a
+parcel of fine stuffs and silks.
+
+The merchants received Ganem very courteously, and their syndic, or
+chief, to whom he first made application, bought all his parcel at the
+price set down in the ticket annexed to every piece of stuff. Ganem
+continued his trade so successfully, that he daily sold all the goods he
+exposed.
+
+He had no more left than one bale, which he had caused to be carried from
+the warehouse to his own house, and then went to the public rendezvous,
+where he found all the shops shut. This seemed somewhat extraordinary to
+him; and, having asked the cause of it, was told, that one of the prime
+merchants, whom he knew, was dead, and that all his brother traders were
+gone to his funeral.
+
+Ganem inquired after the mosque where the ceremony was to be performed,
+and whence the body was to be conducted to the grave; and having been
+told it, sent back his slaves with the goods, and walked towards the
+mosque. He got thither before the prayers were ended, which were said in
+a hall hung with black satin. The corpse was taken up and followed by the
+kindred, the merchants, and Ganem, to the place of burial, which was at a
+great distance without the city. It was a stone structure, like a dome,
+purposely built to receive the bodies of all the family of the deceased,
+and, being very small, they had pitched tents all about it, that all the
+company might be sheltered during the ceremony. The monument was opened,
+and the corpse laid into it, after which it was shut up again. Then the
+iman, and other ministers of the mosque, sat down in a ring on carpets,
+in the largest tent, and said the rest of the prayers. They also read the
+chapters of the Alcoran appointed for the burial of the dead. The kindred
+and merchants sat round in the same manner behind the ministers.
+
+It was near night before the whole was ended. Ganem, who had not expected
+such a long ceremony, began to be uneasy; and was the more so, when he
+saw meat served up in memory of the deceased, according to the custom of
+Bagdad. He was also told that the tents had been set up, not only against
+the heat of the sun, but also against the evening dew, because they
+should not return to the city before the next morning. These words
+perplexed Ganem: I am a stranger, said he to himself, and have the
+reputation of being a rich merchant: thieves may take this opportunity of
+my absence, and go rob my house: my very slaves may be tempted to make
+their advantage of so convenient a time; they may run away with all the
+gold I have received for my goods; and whither shall I look for them? His
+head being full of these thoughts, he ate a few mouthfuls hastily, and
+dexterously slipped away from the company.
+
+He made all possible haste to gain time; but, as it often happens, the
+more a man puts on, the less he advances: he mistook his way, and went
+astray in the dark; so that it was near midnight when he came to the
+city-gate; and, to add to this misfortune, that was shut. That
+disappointment was a fresh affliction to him; and he was obliged to think
+of finding some convenient place to pass the rest of the night in, and
+wait till the gate was opened. He went into a burial-place, so very
+spacious, that it reached from the city to the very place he was come
+from. He advanced to a parcel of pretty high walls, which enclosed a
+small field, being the peculiar burying-place of a family, and in which
+there was a palm-tree. There was an infinite number of other particular
+burial-places, the doors whereof they did not take much care to shut
+fast. Ganem, finding that this burial-place was open, went into it, and
+put to the door after him. He lay down on the grass, and did all he could
+to sleep; but the uneasiness he was under, for being absent from home,
+would not permit him. He got up; and, after having passed by the door
+several times, as he walked forwards and backwards, he opened it, without
+knowing why he did so, and immediately perceived a light at a distance,
+which seemed to come towards him. He was startled at that sight, put to
+the door, which had nothing to make it fast but a latch, and got up as
+fast as he could to the top of the palm-tree, looking upon that as the
+safest retreat under his present apprehensions. No sooner was he got up,
+than, by the help of the light which had frightened him, he plainly
+perceived three men, whom, by their habit, he knew to be slaves, come
+into the burial-place. One of them went foremost with a lantern, and the
+two others followed him, being loaded with a chest, between five and six
+feet long, which they carried on their shoulders. They laid it down, and
+then one of the three slaves said to his comrades, Brothers, if you will
+be advised by me, we will leave the chest here, and return to the city.
+No, no, replied another, that is not the way of doing what we were
+ordered by our mistress; we may have cause to repent our not doing as we
+were commanded: let us bury the chest, since we are so enjoined to do.
+The two other slaves complied with him; so they began to break ground
+with the tools they had brought for that purpose. When they had made a
+deep trench, they put the chest into it, and covered it with the earth
+they had taken out; then departed, and returned home.
+
+Ganem, who, from the top of the palm-tree, had heard every word the
+slaves had spoken, could not tell what to think of that adventure. He
+concluded that chest must needs contain something of value, and that the
+person to whom it belonged had some particular reasons for causing it to
+be buried in that church-yard. He resolved immediately to satisfy his
+curiosity, came down from the palm-tree, his fear being gone with the
+slaves, and fell to work upon the pit, plying his hands and feet so well,
+that in a short time he discovered the chest, but found it secured with a
+great padlock. This new obstacle to the satisfying of his curiosity was
+no small mortification to him: yet he would not be discouraged; but the
+day beginning then to appear, he saw several great pebbles about the
+burial-place: he picked out one, with which he easily knocked off the
+padlock, and then, with much impatience, opened the chest. Ganem was
+strangely surprised, when, instead of finding money in it, he discovered
+a young lady of incomparable beauty. Her fresh and rosy complexion, and
+her gentle regular breathing, satisfied him that she was alive; but he
+could not conceive, why, if she were only asleep, she had not awaked at
+the noise he made in forcing off the padlock. Her habit was so costly,
+with bracelets and pendants of diamonds, and a necklace of true pearl,
+and so large, that he made not the least doubt of her being one of the
+prime ladies about the court. At the sight of so beautiful an object, not
+only natural inclination to relieve persons in danger, but also something
+more powerful, which Ganem could not then give an account of, prevailed
+on him to afford that young beauty all the assistance he was able.
+
+[Illustration p170: Drawn by R. Westall R.A. Engraved by Chas. Heath.]
+
+He first shut the gate of the burial-place, which the slaves had left
+open, then returning, took the lady in his arms out of the chest, and
+laid her on the soft earth he had thrown off the chest. As soon as the
+lady was laid down, and had the benefit of the open air, she sneezed; and
+having made a motion in turning her head there came from her mouth a
+liquor, which seemed to have been offensive to her stomach; then opening
+and rubbing her eyes, she, with such a voice as charmed Ganem, whom she
+did not see, cried out, Zohorob Bostan, Schragrom Matglon, Cassabos
+Soucear, Nouron Nihar, Nagmatos Sobi, Nour Hatos Zoman, why do you not
+answer? where are you? Those were the names of six female slaves that
+used to wait on her, and signified, Flower of the Garden, Branch of
+Coral, Sugar Cane, Light of the Day, Morning Star, and Delight of the
+Season. She called them, and wondered that nobody answered; but at length
+looking about, and perceiving she was in a burial-place, she was in a
+mighty fright. How now, cried she, much louder than before, is this the
+resurrection of the dead? Is the day of judgment come? What a wonderful
+change is this from night to morning!
+
+Ganem did not think fit to leave the lady any longer in that confusion,
+but immediately appeared before her with all possible respect; and, in
+the most courteous manner, said, Madam, I am scarce able to express my
+joy, for having happened to be here to do you the service I have done,
+and for being present to offer you all the assistance you shall stand in
+need of, under your present circumstances.
+
+In order to persuade the lady to repose all her confidence in him, he, in
+the first place, told her who he was, and what accident it was that had
+brought him into that place. Next, he acquainted her with the coming of
+the three slaves, and how they had buried the chest. The lady, who had
+covered her face with her veil as soon as Ganem appeared, was
+extraordinarily sensible of the obligations she owed him. I return thanks
+to God, said she, for having sent so worthy a person as you are to
+deliver me from death; but, since you have begun so charitable a work, I
+conjure you not to leave it imperfect. Let me beg of you to go into the
+city, and provide a muleteer to come with his mule, and carry me to your
+house in the chest; for, should I go in with you on foot, my dress being
+different from that of the city-ladies, some one might happen to take
+notice of it, and follow me, which it highly concerns me to prevent. When
+I shall be in your house, I will give you an account of myself; and, in
+the mean time, be assured that you have not obliged an ungrateful person.
+
+Before the young merchant left the lady, he drew the chest out of the
+pit, which he filled up with the earth, laid her again in the chest, and
+shut it in such a manner, that it did not look as if the padlock had been
+forced off; but, for fear of stifling her, he put it not quite close,
+leaving room for the air to get in. Going out of the burial-place, he
+drew the door after him; and the city-gate being then open, soon found
+what he sought for. He returned with speed to the burial-place, and
+helped the muleteer to lay the chest across his mule; telling him, to
+remove all causes of suspicion, that he came to that place the night
+before, with another muleteer, who, being in haste to return home, had
+laid down the chest in the burial-place.
+
+Ganem, who had minded nothing but his business since his arrival at
+Bagdad, was still unacquainted with the power of love, and now felt the
+first sallies of it. It had not been in his power to look upon the young
+lady without being disturbed; and the uneasiness he felt, following the
+muleteer at a distance, and the fear lest any accident might happen by
+the way that should deprive him of his conquest, taught him to unravel
+his intricate thoughts. It was an extraordinary satisfaction to him,
+when, being arrived safe at home, he saw the chest unloaded. He dismissed
+the muleteer; and having caused a slave to shut the doors of his house,
+he opened the chest, helped the lady out, gave her his hand, and
+conducted her to his apartment, lamenting how much she must have endured
+in that close confinement. If I have suffered, said she, I have
+satisfaction enough in what you have done me, and in the pleasure of
+seeing myself out of danger.
+
+Though Ganem's apartment was very richly furnished, the lady did not so
+much regard that, as she did the handsome presence and engaging mien of
+her deliverer, whose politeness and obliging behaviour highly heightened
+her gratitude. She sat down on a sofa; and, to begin to give the merchant
+to understand how sensible she was of the service done her, she took off
+her veil. Ganem, on his part, was sensible of the favour so lovely a lady
+did in uncovering herself, or rather felt he had already a most violent
+passion for her. Whatsoever obligations she owed him, he thought himself
+more than requited by so singular a favour.
+
+The lady dived into Ganem's thoughts, yet was not at all surprised,
+because he appeared very full of respect. He, judging she might have
+occasion to eat, and not willing to trust any but himself with the care
+of entertaining so charming a guest, went out with a slave to an
+eating-house to give directions for a treat. From thence he went to a
+fruit-seller, where he chose the finest and most excellent fruit; buying
+also the choicest wine, and some of the same bread that was eaten at the
+caliph's table.
+
+As soon as he returned home, he, with his own hands, made a pyramid of
+the fruit he had bought, and served it up himself to the lady, in a large
+dish of the finest china ware, saying, Madam, be pleased to make choice
+of some of this fruit, while a more solid entertainment, and more worthy
+yourself, is made ready. He would fain have continued standing before
+her; but she declared she would not touch any thing, unless he sat down
+and ate with her. He obeyed; and when they had eaten some small matter,
+Ganem observing that the lady's veil, which she had laid down by her on a
+sofa, was embroidered along the edge with golden letters, begged leave of
+her to look upon that embroidery. The lady immediately took up the veil,
+and delivered it to him, asking him whether he could read. Madam, replied
+he, with a modest air, a merchant would be able to manage his business
+very ill, if he could not at least read and write. Well then, said she,
+read the words which are embroidered on that veil, which gives me an
+opportunity of telling you my story.
+
+Ganem took the veil, and read these words, 'I am yours, and you are mine,
+thou descendant from the prophet's uncle.' That descendant from the
+prophet's uncle was the caliph Haroun Alraschid, who then reigned, and
+was descended from Abbas, Mahomet's uncle.
+
+When Ganem perceived the sense of these words, Alas! madam, said he, in a
+melancholy tone, I have just saved your life, and this embroidery is my
+death! I do not comprehend all the mystery; but it makes me too sensible
+that I am the most unfortunate of men. Pardon the liberty I take, madam,
+of telling you so much. It was impossible for me to see you without
+giving you up my heart. You are not ignorant yourself, that it was not in
+my power to refuse it to you; and that makes my presumption excusable. I
+proposed to myself to move yours by my respect, my diligence, my
+complaisance, my assiduity, my submission, and my constancy; and no
+sooner had I flattered myself with that design, than I am robbed of all
+my hopes. But be that as it will, I shall have the satisfaction of dying
+entirely yours. Proceed, madam, I conjure you, to give me a full
+information of my unhappy state.
+
+He could not deliver those words without letting fall some tears. The
+lady was moved, but was so far from being displeased at the declaration
+he made, that she felt an inward joy, for her heart began to yield.
+However, she concealed it; and, as if she had not regarded what Ganem
+said, I would have been very cautious, answered she, of showing you my
+veil, had I thought it would have made you so uneasy; and I do not
+perceive that what I have to say to you can make your condition so
+deplorable as you imagine.
+
+You must understand, proceeded she, in order to acquaint you with my
+story, that my name is Fetnah, (which signifies a storm or tempest) which
+was given me at my birth, because it was judged that the sight of me
+would occasion many calamities. You cannot be a stranger to it, since
+nobody in Bagdad but knows that the caliph Haroun Alraschid, my sovereign
+lord and yours, has a favourite so called.
+
+I was carried into his palace in my very tender years, and I have been
+brought up there with all the care that is usually taken with such
+persons of my sex as are designed to reside there. I made no ill advances
+in all they took the pains to teach me; and that, with some share of
+beauty, gained me the caliph's affection, who gave me a particular
+apartment adjoining to his own. That prince was not satisfied with such a
+mark of distinction: he appointed twenty women to wait on me, and as many
+eunuchs; and, ever since, he has made me such considerable presents, that
+I was once richer than any queen in the world. You may reasonably judge,
+by what I have said, that Zobeide, the caliph's wife and kinswoman, could
+not but be jealous of my happiness. Though Haroun has all the regard
+imaginable for her, she has used all her endeavours to ruin me.
+
+Hitherto, I had secured myself against all her snares; but, at length, I
+fell under the last effort of her jealousy; and, were it not for you, I
+had now been exposed to inevitable death. I do not question but that she
+had corrupted one of my slaves, who, last night, in some lemonade, gave
+me a drug, which causes such a deep sleep, that it is easy to dispose of
+those who have taken it; and that sleep is so profound, that nothing can
+dispel it for the space of seven or eight hours. I have the more reason
+to judge so, because naturally I am very light of sleep, and apt to wake
+at the least noise.
+
+Zobeide, the better to put her design in execution, has laid hold of the
+opportunity of the absence of the caliph, who has been gone lately to put
+himself at the head of his troops, to chastise some neighbouring kings,
+who have presumed to join in league to make war on him. Were it not for
+this opportunity, my rival, courageous as she is, durst not have presumed
+to attempt any thing against my life. I know not what she will do to
+conceal this action from the caliph; but you see it highly concerns me
+that you should keep my secret. My life depends on it. I shall be safe in
+your house as long as the caliph is from Bagdad. It behoves you to keep
+my adventure private; for, should Zobeide know the obligation I owe you,
+she would punish you for having saved me.
+
+When the caliph returns, I shall not need to be so much upon my guard. I
+shall find means to acquaint him with all that has happened, and I am
+fully persuaded he will be more earnest than myself to requite a service
+which restores me to his love.
+
+As soon as Haroun Alraschid's beautiful favourite had done speaking,
+Ganem began, and said, Madam, I return you a thousand thanks for having
+given me the information I took the liberty to desire of you; and I beg
+of you to believe that you are here in safety; the sentiments you have
+inspired in me are a pledge of my secrecy.
+
+As for my slaves, I own there is cause to suspect them; they may perhaps
+fail of the fidelity they owe me, should they know by what accident, and
+in what place I had the good fortune to find you; but it is impossible
+they should guess at that. Nay, I dare assure you that they will not have
+the curiosity to inquire after it. It is so natural for young men to
+purchase beautiful slaves, that it will be no way surprising to them to
+see you here, as believing you to be one, and that I have bought you.
+They will also believe that I had some particular reasons for bringing
+you home as I did. Set your heart therefore at rest as to that point, and
+remain satisfied that you shall be served with all the respect that is
+due to the favourite of so great a monarch as ours is. But how great
+soever he is, give me leave, madam, to declare, that nothing will be able
+to make me recall the present I have made you of my heart. I know, and
+shall never forget, that what belongs to the master is forbidden to the
+slave; but I loved you before you told me that you were engaged to the
+caliph: it is not in my power to overcome a passion, which, though now in
+its infancy, has all the force of a love strengthened by a perfect
+correspondence. I wish your august and most fortunate lover may revenge
+you against the malice of Zobeide, by calling you back to him; and, when
+you shall be restored to his wishes, that you may remember the
+unfortunate Ganem, who is no less your conquest than the caliph. As
+powerful as that prince is, I flatter myself he will not be able to blot
+me out of your memory. If love be your predominant passion, he cannot
+love you more passionately than I do; and I shall never cease to burn in
+your flames, whatsoever part of the world I go into to expire, after
+having lost you.
+
+Fetnah perceived that Ganem was under the greatest of afflictions, and it
+moved her; but, considering the uneasiness she was likely to bring upon
+herself by prosecuting the discourse upon that subject, which might
+insensibly lead her to discover the inclination she felt in herself for
+him, she said, I perceive that this sort of conversation gives you too
+much trouble; let us change the discourse, and talk of the infinite
+obligations I owe you. I can never sufficiently express my satisfaction,
+when I consider that, without your assistance, I had not beheld the light
+of the sun.
+
+It was happy for them both that somebody just then knocked at the door:
+Ganem went to see who it was, and found it was one of his slaves to
+acquaint him that the entertainment was ready. Ganem, who, by way of
+precaution, would have none of his slaves to come into the room where
+Fetnah was, took what was brought, and served it up himself to his
+beautiful guest, whose soul was ravished to behold with what diligence
+and respect he attended her.
+
+When they had eaten, Ganem took away, as he covered the table; and having
+delivered all things at the chamber-door to his slaves, he said to
+Fetnah, Madam, you may now perhaps desire to take some rest; I will leave
+you, and when you have reposed yourself you shall find me ready to
+receive your commands.
+
+Having spoken these words, he left her, and went to buy two women-slaves.
+He also bought two parcels, the one of linen, and the other of all such
+things as were proper to make up a toilet fit for the caliph's favourite.
+Having conducted home the two women-slaves, he presented them to Fetnah,
+saying, Madam, a person of your quality cannot be without two maids, at
+least, to serve you; be pleased to allow me to give you these.
+
+Fetnah, admiring Ganem's forecast, My lord, said she, I perceive you are
+not one that will do things by halves: you add by your courtesy to the
+obligations I owe you already; but I hope I shall not die ungrateful, and
+that Heaven will soon put me in a condition to make acknowledgments for
+all your acts of generosity.
+
+When the women-slaves were withdrawn into a chamber adjoining, which the
+young merchant showed them, he sat down on the sofa where Fetnah was;
+but, at some distance from her, in token of the greater respect. He then
+began again to discourse of his passion, and spoke very moving things
+relating to the invincible obstacles which robbed him of all his hopes. I
+dare not so much as hope, said he, by my passion, to excite the least
+sensibility in a heart like yours, destined for the greatest prince in
+the world. Alas! it would be a comfort to me, if I could flatter myself
+that you have not looked upon the excess of my love with indifferency. My
+lord, answered Fetnah--Alas! madam, said Ganem, interrupting her at the
+word lord, this is a second time you have done me the honour to call me
+lord; the presence of the women-slaves hindered me the first time from
+taking notice of it to you: in the name of God, madam, do not give me
+that title of honour; it does not belong to me: treat me, I beseech you,
+as your slave: I am, and shall never cease to be so.
+
+No, no, replied Fetnah, interrupting him in her turn, I shall be cautious
+how I treat a man to whom I owe my life, after that manner. I should be
+ungrateful could I say or do any thing that did not become you. Leave me
+therefore to follow the dictates of my gratitude, and do not require it
+of me that I misbehave myself towards you, in return for the benefits I
+have received. I shall never be guilty of it; I am too sensible of your
+respectful behaviour, to abuse it; and I will not stick to own, that I do
+not look upon all your care with indifferency. You know the reason that
+condemns me to silence.
+
+Ganem was ravished at that declaration: he wept for joy; and not being
+able to find expressions significant enough, in his own conceit, to
+return Fetnah thanks, was satisfied with telling her, that, as she knew
+what she owed to the caliph, he, on his part, was not ignorant, 'that
+what belongs to the master is forbidden to the servant.'
+
+Night drawing on, he went out to fetch some light, which he brought in
+himself, as also some collation, as is the custom in the city of Bagdad;
+where, having made a good meal at noon, they, at night, are satisfied
+with eating some fruit, and drinking a glass of wine; so diverting the
+time till they go to bed.
+
+They both sat down at table, and at first complimented each other,
+presenting the fruit reciprocally. The excellency of the wine insensibly
+drew them both on to drink; and having drunk two or three glasses, they
+agreed that neither should take another glass without singing some air
+first. Ganem sang verses he composed _extempore_, and which expressed the
+vehemency of his passion; and Fetnah, encouraged by his example, composed
+and sang verses relating to her adventure, and always containing
+something which Ganem might take in a sense that was favourable to him;
+bating, that she nicely observed the fidelity due to the caliph. The
+collation held till very late, and the night was far advanced, before
+they thought of parting. Ganem then withdrew to another apartment,
+leaving Fetnah where she was, and the women-slaves he had bought coming
+in to wait upon her.
+
+They lived together after this manner for several days. The young
+merchant went not abroad, unless upon business of the utmost consequence;
+and, even for that, took the time when his lady was at her rest; for he
+could not prevail upon himself to let slip a moment that might be spent
+in her company. All his thoughts were taken up with his dear Fetnah, who,
+on her side, giving way to her inclination, confessed she had no less
+affection for him than he had for her. However, as fond as they were of
+each other, their respect for the caliph kept them within those bounds
+that were due to him, which still heightened their passion.
+
+While Fetnah, thus snatched from the jaws of death, passed her time so
+agreeably with Ganem, Zobeide was not without some apprehensions in
+Haroun Alraschid's palace.
+
+As soon as the three slaves intrusted with the execution of her revenge,
+had carried away the chest, without knowing what was in it, or so much as
+the least curiosity to inquire into it, as being used to pay a blind
+obedience to her commands, she was seized with a tormenting uneasiness: a
+thousand perplexing thoughts disturbed her rest; sleep fled from her
+eyes, and she spent the night in contriving how to conceal her crime. My
+consort, said she, loves Fetnah more than ever he did any of his
+favourites. What shall I say to him at his return, when he inquires of me
+after her? Many contrivances occurred to her, but none were satisfactory:
+she still met with difficulties, and knew not where to fix. There lived
+with her an ancient lady, who had bred her up from her infancy: as soon
+as it was day, she sent for her, and having intrusted her with the
+secret, said, Dear mother, you have always been assisting to me with your
+advice; if ever I stood in need of it, it is now; when the business
+before you is to still my thoughts, distracted by a mortal concern, and
+to show me some way to satisfy the caliph.
+
+Dear madam, replied the old lady, it had been much better not to have run
+yourself into the difficulties you labour under; but since the thing is
+done, the best way is to say no more of it: all that must now be thought
+of, is how to deceive the chief of believers; and I am of opinion that
+you must immediately cause a wooden image to be carved resembling a dead
+body; we will shroud it up in old linen; and, when shut up in a coffin,
+it shall be buried in some part of the palace; then shall you immediately
+cause a marble monument to be built, after the manner of a dome, over the
+burial-place; and erect a figure which shall be covered with black cloth,
+and set about with great candlesticks and large wax tapers. There is
+another thing, added the old lady, which ought not to be forgot: you must
+put on mourning, and cause the same to be done by all your own and
+Fetnah's women, your eunuchs, and all that belong to the palace. When the
+caliph returns, and sees you and all the palace in mourning, he will be
+sure to ask the occasion of it; then will you have an opportunity of
+insinuating yourself into his favour, saying, it was in respect to him,
+that you paid the last honours to Fetnah, snatched away by sudden death.
+You may also tell him you have caused a mausoleum to be built; and, in
+short, that you have paid all the dues to his favourite which he would
+have done himself had he been present. His passion for her being
+extraordinary, he will certainly go and shed some tears upon her grave;
+and, perhaps, added the old woman, he will not believe she is really
+dead; and suspect you have turned her out of the palace through jealousy,
+and look upon all the mourning as an artifice to deceive him, and prevent
+his making search after her. It is likely he will cause the coffin to be
+taken up and opened, and it is certain he will be convinced of her death
+as soon as he shall see the figure of a dead body buried. He will be
+pleased with all you shall have done, and express his gratitude. As for
+the wooden image, I will undertake to have it cut myself by a carver in
+the city, who shall not know what use it is to be put to. As for your
+part, madam, order Fetnah's woman, who yesterday gave her the lemonade,
+to give out that she had just found her mistress dead in her bed; and,
+that they may only think of lamenting, without offering to go into her
+chamber, let her add, she has already acquainted you with it, and that
+you have ordered Mesrour to cause her to be laid out and buried.
+
+As soon as the old lady had spoken these words, Zobeide took a rich
+diamond ring out of her casket, and putting it on her finger, and
+embracing her in a perfect transport of joy, said, How infinitely am I
+beholden to you, my dear mother! I should never have thought of so
+ingenious a contrivance. It cannot fail of success, and I perceive my
+peace of mind begins to be restored to me. I leave the care of the wooden
+figure to you, and I will go myself to order the rest.
+
+The wooden image was got ready with as much expedition as Zobeide could
+have wished, and then conveyed by the lady herself into Fetnah's
+bed-chamber, where she dressed it like a dead body, and put it into a
+coffin. Then Mesrour, who was much deceived by it, caused the coffin, and
+the representation of Fetnah, to be carried away; and buried it with the
+usual ceremonies, in the place appointed by Zobeide, the favourite's
+women weeping and lamenting, and she who had given her the lemonade
+setting them an example by her cries and howlings.
+
+That very day, Zobeide sent for the architect of the palace, and of the
+caliph's other houses; and, according to the orders he received from her,
+the mausoleum was finished in a very short time. Such potent princesses,
+as was this consort of a monarch, whose power extended from east to west,
+are always punctually obeyed in whatsoever they command, by all the
+court; so that the news of Fetnah's death was soon spread all over the
+town.
+
+Ganem was one of the last who had heard of it; for, as I have before
+observed, he scarce went abroad. Being at length informed of it, Madam,
+said he to the caliph's fair favourite, you are thought to be dead in
+Bagdad, and I do not question but that Zobeide herself believes it; I
+bless Heaven that I am the cause, and the happy witness of your being
+alive; and would to God, that, taking the advantage of this false report,
+you would share my fortune, and go far from hence to reign in my heart!
+But whither does this pleasing notion carry me? I do not consider that
+you are born to make the greatest prince in the world happy, and that
+only Haroun Alraschid is worthy of you. Supposing you could resolve to
+give him up for me, and that you would follow me, ought I to consent to
+it? No, it is my part always to remember, that what belongs to the master
+is forbidden to the slave.
+
+The lovely Fetnah, though moved by the tenderness of the passion he
+expressed, yet prevailed with herself not to comply with it. My lord,
+said she to him, we cannot obstruct Zobeide's triumphing. I am not at all
+surprised at the artifice she makes use of to conceal her guilt: but let
+her proceed; I flatter myself that sorrow will soon follow her triumph:
+the caliph will return, and we shall find means privately to inform him
+of all that has happened. In the mean time, let us be more cautious than
+ever, that she may not know I am alive. I have already told you the
+consequences.
+
+Three months after, the caliph returned to Bagdad with honour, having
+vanquished all his enemies: he entered the palace with impatience to see
+Fetnah, and to lay all his laurels at her feet; but was amazed to see all
+the servants he had left behind him in mourning. It struck him, without
+knowing the cause; and his concern was double, when, coming into the
+apartment of Zobeide, he spied that princess coming to meet him with all
+her women in mourning. He immediately asked her the cause of it, with
+much concern. Chief of the believers, answered Zobeide, I am in mourning
+for your slave Fetnah, who died so suddenly, that it was impossible to
+apply any medicine to her distemper. She would have proceeded, but the
+caliph did not give her time, being so surprised at the news, that he
+cried out, and then fell into a swoon in the arms of Giafar, his grand
+vizier, who attended him. Coming soon after to himself, he, with a weak
+voice, which sufficiently expressed his concern, asked where his dear
+Fetnah had been buried? Sir, said Zobeide, I took care myself of her
+funeral, and spared for no cost to make it magnificent. I have caused a
+marble mausoleum to be built over her grave, and will attend you thither,
+if you desire it.
+
+The caliph would not permit Zobeide to take that trouble, but was
+satisfied to have Mesrour to conduct him. He went thither just as he was,
+that is, in the camp dress. When he saw the figure covered with a black
+cloth, the lighted candles all about it, and the magnificence of the
+mausoleum, he was amazed that Zobeide should have performed the obsequies
+of her rival with so much magnificence; and, being naturally of a jealous
+temper, he suspected his wife's generosity, and fancied his mistress
+might perhaps be yet alive; that Zobeide, taking the advantage of his
+long absence, might have turned her out of the palace, ordering those she
+had intrusted with it to convey her so far-off, that she might never more
+be heard of. This was all he suspected; for he did not think Zobeide
+wicked enough to have murdered his favourite.
+
+The better to discover the truth himself, that prince ordered the figure
+to be removed, and caused the grave and the coffin to be opened in his
+presence: but when he saw the linen which wrapped up the wooden image, he
+durst not proceed any farther. That religious caliph thought it would be
+an irreligious act to suffer the body of the dead lady to be touched; and
+this scruple prevailed above his love and curiosity. He caused the coffin
+to be shut up again, the grave to be filled, and the figure to be placed
+as it was before.
+
+The caliph, thinking himself obliged to pay some respect to the tomb of
+his favourite, sent for the ministers of his religion, the officers of
+the palace, and the readers of the Alcoran; and, whilst they were calling
+together, he remained in the mausoleum, moistening the earth that covered
+the phantom of his love with his tears. When all the persons he had sent
+for were come, he stood before the figure, and they about it recited long
+prayers; after which the readers of the Alcoran read several chapters.
+
+The same ceremony was performed every day during the whole month, morning
+and evening, the caliph being always present, with Giafar the grand
+vizier, and the prime officers of the court, all of them in mourning, as
+well as the caliph himself, who all that while failed not to honour the
+memory of Fetnah with tears, and would not talk the least of any
+business.
+
+The last day of the month, the prayers and reading of the Alcoran lasted
+from that morning till break of day the next morning; and at length, when
+all was done, every man returned home. Haroun Alraschid, being tired with
+sitting up all that time, went to take some rest in his apartment, and
+fell asleep on a sofa between two of the court ladies, one of them
+sitting at the bed's head, and the other at the feet, who, whilst he
+slept, were working some embroidery, and observed a profound silence.
+
+She who sat at the bed's head, and whose name was Nouron-Nihar, that is,
+Dawn of the Day, perceiving the caliph was asleep, whispered to the
+other, called Nagmatos-Sobi, signifying Morning-Star, There is great
+news! The chief of the believers, our master, will be overjoyed when he
+awakes and hears what I have to say to him: Fetnah is not dead; she is in
+perfect health. O Heavens! cried Morning-Star, in a transport of joy, is
+it possible that the beautiful, the charming, the incomparable Fetnah
+should be still among the living? Morning-Star uttered these words with
+such a sprightly air, and so loud, that the caliph awaked. He asked why
+they had disturbed his rest. Alas! my sovereign lord, answered
+Morning-Star, pardon me this indiscretion, I could not contain myself.
+What then is become of her, said the caliph, if she is not dead? Chief of
+the believers, replied Dawn of the Day, I this evening received a note,
+not signed, from a person unknown, but written with Fetnah's own hand,
+which gives me an account of her melancholy adventures, and orders me to
+acquaint you with it. I thought fit, before I fulfilled my commission, to
+let you take some few moments' rest, believing you must stand in need of
+it after your fatigue. Give me that note, said the caliph, interrupting
+her in a disorderly manner; you were in the wrong in deferring to deliver
+it to me.
+
+Dawn of the Day immediately delivered him the note, which he opened with
+much impatience; and in it Fetnah gave a brief account of all that had
+befallen her, but enlarged a little too much on the care Ganem took of
+her. The caliph, who was naturally jealous, instead of being provoked at
+the inhumanity of Zobeide, was only concerned for the infidelity he
+fancied Fetnah had been guilty of towards him. Is it so? said he, after
+reading the note; the perfidious wretch has been four months with a young
+merchant, and has the impudence to boast of the respect he pays her.
+Thirty days are passed since my return to Bagdad, and she now bethinks
+herself of sending me this news. Ungrateful creature! while I spend the
+days in bewailing her, she passes them away in betraying me. Go to, let
+us take revenge of the false woman, and that bold youth who affronts me.
+Having spoken these words, that prince got up, and went into a great
+hall, where he used to appear in public, and to give audience to the
+great men of his court. The first gate was opened, and immediately all
+the courtiers, who expected him, that moment entered. The grand vizier
+came in, and prostrated himself before the throne the caliph sat on. Then
+rising, he stood before his master, who, in a tone which denoted he would
+be instantly obeyed, said to him, Giafar, your presence is requisite for
+putting in execution an important affair I am about to commit to you.
+Take four hundred men out of my guards along with you, and first inquire
+where a merchant of Damascus lives, whose name is Ganem, the son of Abou
+Ayoub. When you have learned that, repair to his house, and cause it to
+be razed down to the foundation; but first secure Ganem, and bring him
+hither, with my slave Fetnah, who has lived with him these four months. I
+will punish her, and make an example of that insolent man, who has
+presumed to fail in respect to me.
+
+The grand vizier having received this positive command, made a low bow to
+the caliph, having his hand on his own head, as a token that he would
+rather lose it than disobey him, and departed. The first thing he did,
+was to send to the syndic, or head of the merchants, for some foreign
+stuffs and fine silks, of the new ones brought by Ganem; with strict
+orders, above all things, to inquire after the street and house he lived
+in. The officer he sent with these orders brought him back word, that he
+had scarce been seen for some months, and no man knew what could keep him
+at home, if he was there. The same officer told Giafar where Ganem lived,
+and the name of the widow who had let him the house.
+
+Upon this information, which could not fail, that minister, without
+losing any time, marched with the soldiers the caliph had ordered him to
+take, went to the mayor of the city, whom he also caused to bear him
+company; and being attended by a great number of carpenters and masons,
+with the necessary tools for razing of a house, came to that in which
+Ganem lived; and finding it stood alone, without being confined any way,
+he posted his soldiers quite round it, to prevent the young merchant
+making his escape.
+
+Fetnah and Ganem had just then dined: the lady was sitting at a window
+next the street; and hearing a noise, she looked out through the lattice,
+when, seeing the grand vizier draw near with all his attendants, she
+concluded his design was upon her as well as Ganem. She perceived her
+note had been received, but had not expected such an answer, having hoped
+that the caliph would have taken that business quite otherwise. She knew
+not how long that prince had been come home; and though she was
+acquainted with his jealous temper, yet she apprehended nothing on that
+account. However, the sight of the grand vizier and the soldiers made her
+quake in reality, not for herself, but for Ganem: she did not question
+clearing herself, provided the caliph would but hear her. As for Ganem,
+whom she was kind to rather out of gratitude than affection, she plainly
+foresaw that his rival, being incensed, would see, and might be apt to
+condemn him, upon account of his youth and mien. Being full of that
+thought, she turned to the young merchant, and said, Alas! Ganem, we are
+undone; it is you and I that are sought after. He presently looked
+through the lattice, and was seized with dread when he beheld the
+caliph's guards with their naked scimitars, and the grand vizier with the
+civil magistrate at the head of them. At that sight he stood motionless,
+and had not power to utter one word. Ganem, said the favourite, there is
+no losing of time: if you love me, put on the habit of one of your slaves
+immediately, and daub your face and arms with soot; then lay some of
+these dishes on your head: you may be taken for a servant belonging to
+the eating-house, and they will let you pass. If they happen to ask you
+where the master of the house is, answer, without any hesitation, that he
+is within. Alas! madam, answered Ganem, less concerned for himself than
+for Fetnah, you only take care of me; what will become of you? Let not
+that trouble you, replied Fetnah, it is my part to look to that. As for
+what you leave in this house, I will take care of it; and I hope it will
+be one day justly restored to you, when the caliph's anger is over: but
+do you avoid his fury; for the orders he gives in heat of passion are
+always fatal. The young merchant's affliction was so great, that he knew
+not what course to fix upon, and would certainly have suffered himself to
+have been seized by the caliph's soldiers, had not Fetnah pressed him to
+disguise himself. He was prevailed upon by her persuasions, to put on the
+habit of a slave, and daub himself with soot; and it was high time, for
+they were knocking at the door; and all they could do was to embrace each
+other lovingly: they were both so overwhelmed with sorrow that they could
+not utter one word; and it was thus they parted. Ganem went out with some
+dishes on his head: he was taken for the servant of an eating-house, and
+nobody offered to stop him. On the contrary, the grand vizier, who was
+the first that met him, gave him way to let him pass, being far from any
+thought that he was the man he looked for. Those who were behind the
+grand vizier made way as he had done, and thus favoured his escape. He
+got speedily to one of the city gates, and so got clear away.
+
+While he was making the best of his way from the grand vizier Giafar,
+that minister came into the room where Fetnah was sitting on a sofa, and
+where there were many chests full of Ganem's equipage, and of the money
+he had made of his goods.
+
+As soon as Fetnah saw the grand vizier come into the room, she fell flat
+on her face, and continued in that posture, as it were, ready to receive
+her death. My lord, said she, I am ready to undergo the sentence passed
+against me by the chief of the believers; you need only make it known to
+me. Madam, answered Giafar, falling also down till she had raised
+herself, God forbid any man should presume to lay his profane hands on
+you. I do not design to offer you the least wrong. I have no farther
+orders than to entreat you will be pleased to go with me to the palace,
+and to conduct you thither with the merchant that lives in this house. My
+lord, replied the favourite, let us go; I am ready to follow you. As for
+the young merchant, to whom I am indebted for my life, he is not here; he
+has been gone about a month since to Damascus, whither his business
+called him, and he has left these chests you see under my care till he
+returns. I conjure you to cause them to be secured, that I may perform
+the promise I made to take all possible care of them.
+
+You shall be obeyed, said Giafar, and immediately sent for porters, whom
+he commanded to take up the chests, and carry them to Mesrour.
+
+As soon as the porters were gone, he whispered the civil magistrate,
+committing to him the care of seeing the house razed; but first to cause
+diligent search to be made for Ganem, who, he suspected, might be hid,
+whatever Fetnah had told of him. Then he went out, taking the young lady
+with him attended by the two slaves that waited on her. As for Ganem's
+slaves, they were not regarded; they ran in among the crowd, and it was
+not known what became of them.
+
+No sooner was Giafar out of the house, than the masons and carpenters
+began to raze it; and did it so effectually, that in a few hours none of
+it remained. But the civil magistrate, not finding Ganem, after the
+strictest search, sent to acquaint the grand vizier with it, before that
+minister reached the palace. Well, said Haroun Alraschid, seeing him come
+into his closet, have you executed my orders? Yes, sir, answered Giafar,
+the house Ganem lived in is levelled with the ground, and I have brought
+you your favourite Fetnah; she is at your closet-door, and I will call
+her in if you command me. As for the young merchant, we could not find
+him, though all places have been searched; and Fetnah affirms that he has
+been gone this month to Damascus.
+
+Never was any man in such a passion as the caliph, when he heard that
+Ganem had made his escape. As for his favourite, being possessed that she
+had been false to him, he would neither see nor speak to her. Mesrour,
+said he to the chief of the eunuchs, who was there present, take the
+ungrateful, the perfidious Fetnah, and go shut her up in the dark tower.
+That tower was within the enclosure of the palace, and commonly served as
+a prison for the favourites who any way disgusted the caliph.
+
+Mesrour, being used to execute his sovereign's orders, though ever so
+unjust, without making any objection, obeyed this with some reluctancy.
+He signified his concern to Fetnah, who was the more grieved at it,
+because she had reckoned that the caliph would not refuse to speak to
+her. There was no remedy but to submit to her hard fate, and to follow
+Mesrour, who conducted her to the dark tower, and there left her.
+
+In the mean time the caliph, being incensed, and only consulting his
+passion, wrote the following letter, with his own hand, to the king of
+Syria, his cousin and tributary, who resided at Damascus.
+
+
+  THE LETTER FROM THE CALIPH HAROUN ALRASCHID TO MOHAMMED ZINEBI, KING
+                               OF SYRIA.
+
+'Cousin, this is to inform you, that a merchant of Damascus, whose name
+is Ganem, the son of Abou Ayoub, has seduced the most amiable of my women
+slaves, called Fetnah, and is fled. It is my will, that, when you have
+read my letter, you cause search to be made for Ganem, and secure him.
+When he is in your power, you shall cause him to be loaded with irons,
+and for three days successively he shall receive fifty strokes with a
+bull's pizzle. Then let him be led through all parts of the city, with a
+crier, crying, This is the smallest punishment the chief of the believers
+inflicts on him that offends his lord, and debauches one of his slaves.
+After that, you shall send him to me under a strong guard. It is my will
+that you cause his house to be plundered; and when it shall be razed,
+order the materials to be carried out of the city into the middle of the
+plain. Besides, if he has father, mother, sister, wives, daughters, or
+other kindred, cause them to be stripped; and when they are naked, expose
+them as a spectacle during three days to the whole city, forbidding any
+one, on pain of death, to afford them any shelter. I expect you will no
+way delay what I enjoin.
+
+                                                      Haroun Alraschid.'
+
+
+The caliph having written this letter, sent it away by an express,
+ordering him to make all possible speed, and to take pigeons along with
+him, that he might the sooner hear what had been done by Mohammed Zinebi.
+
+The pigeons of Bagdad have this particular quality, that, though they be
+carried ever so far, they return to Bagdad as soon as they are turned
+loose, especially when they have young ones. A letter rolled up is made
+fast under their wing; and by that means, they have speedy advice from
+such places as they desire.
+
+The caliph's express travelling night and day, as his master's impatience
+required, and being come to Damascus, went directly to king Zinebi's
+palace, who sat upon his throne to receive the caliph's letter. The
+express having delivered it, Mohammed looking upon it, and knowing the
+hand, stood up to show his respect, kissed the letter, and laid it on his
+head, to denote he was ready submissively to obey the orders contained in
+it. He opened it, and having read it, immediately descended from his
+throne, and, without losing time, mounted on horseback, with the prime
+officers of his household. He also sent for the civil magistrate, who
+came to him; and then he went directly to Ganem's house, attended by all
+his guards.
+
+That young merchant's mother had never heard or received any letter from
+him since he left Damascus, but the other merchants with whom he went to
+Bagdad were returned, and all of them told her they had left her son in
+perfect health. However, as he did not return himself, and neglected to
+write, the tender mother could not be persuaded but that he was dead, and
+was so fully convinced of it in her imagination, that she went into
+mourning. She bewailed Ganem as if she had seen him die, and had herself
+closed his eyes: never mother expressed greater sorrow; and so far was
+she from seeking any comfort, that she delighted in indulging her sorrow.
+She caused a dome to be built in the middle of the court belonging to her
+house, in which she placed a figure representing her son, and covered it
+with black cloth. She spent the greatest part of the days and nights in
+weeping under that dome, in the same manner as if her son had been buried
+there. The beautiful Alcolomb, or Ravisher of Hearts, her daughter, bore
+her company, and mixed her tears with hers.
+
+It was now some time since they had thus devoted themselves to sorrow,
+and since the neighbourhood, hearing their cries and lamentations, pitied
+such loving relations, when king Mohammed Zinebi came to the door, which,
+being opened by a slave belonging to the family, he went into the house,
+inquiring for Ganem, the son of Abou Ayoub.
+
+Though the slave had never seen king Zinebi, she easily guessed, by his
+retinue, that this must be one of the prime men of Damascus. My lord,
+said she, that Ganem you inquire for is dead: my mistress, his mother, is
+in that monument you see there, actually lamenting the loss of him. The
+king, not regarding what was said by the slave, caused all the house to
+be diligently searched by his guards for Ganem. Then he advanced towards
+the monument, where he saw the mother and daughter sitting on nothing but
+a mat, by the figure which represented Ganem, and their faces appeared to
+him bathed in tears. Those poor women immediately veiled themselves, as
+soon as they beheld a man at the door of the dome; but the mother,
+knowing the king of Damascus, got up, and ran to cast herself at his
+feet. My good lady, said he, I was looking for your son Ganem; is he
+here? Alas, sir! cried the mother, it is a long time since he has ceased
+to be: would to God I had at least put him into his shroud with my own
+hands, and had the comfort of having his bones in this monument! O, my
+son, my dear son! She would have said more, but was oppressed with so
+violent sorrow that she was not able.
+
+Zinebi was moved; for he was a prince of a mild nature, and had much
+compassion for the sufferings of the unfortunate. If Ganem alone is
+guilty, thought he to himself, why should the mother and the daughters,
+who are innocent, be punished? Ah! cruel Haroun Alraschid, what a
+mortification do you put upon me, in making me the executioner of your
+vengeance, obliging me to persecute those persons who have not offended
+you!
+
+The guards that the king ordered to search for Ganem, came and told him
+they had lost their labour. He was fully convinced: the tears of these
+two women would not leave him any room to doubt. It distracted him to be
+obliged to execute the caliph's order. My good lady, said he to Ganem's
+mother, come out of this monument with your daughter; it is no place of
+safety for you. They went out; and he, to secure them against any insult,
+took off his own robe, which was very large, and covered them both with
+it, bidding them be sure to keep close to him. Then he ordered the
+multitude to be admitted to plunder, which was performed with the utmost
+rapaciousness, and many shouts, which terrified Ganem's mother and sister
+the more, because they knew not the reason of it. The rabble carried off
+the richest goods, chests full of wealth, fine Persian and Indian
+carpets, cushions made of cloth of gold and silver, fine china ware. In
+short, all was taken away; nothing was left but the hard walls of the
+house: and it was certainly a dismal spectacle for the unhappy ladies, to
+see all their goods plundered, without knowing why they were so cruelly
+treated.
+
+When the house was plundered, Mohammed ordered the civil magistrates to
+raze the house and monument; and, whilst that was doing, he carried away
+Alcolomb and her mother to his palace. There it was he redoubled their
+affliction, acquainting them with the caliph's will. He commands me, said
+he to them, to cause you to be stripped, and expose you naked for three
+days to the view of the people. It is with the utmost reluctance that I
+execute that cruel and ignominious sentence. The king delivered these
+words with such an air, as plainly made it appear his heart was really
+pierced with grief and compassion. Though the fear of being dethroned
+obstructed his following the dictates of his pity, yet he in some measure
+moderated the rigour of Haroun Alraschid's orders, causing coarse sacks,
+like smocks with sleeves, to be made of horse-hair, for Ganem's mother,
+and his sister Alcolomb, or Ravisher of Hearts.
+
+The next day, these two victims of the caliph's rage were stripped of
+their clothes, and their horse-hair smocks put upon them; their
+head-dress was also taken away, so that their dishevelled hair hung upon
+their backs. Alcolomb had the finest hair in the world; and it hung down
+to the ground. In that condition, they were exposed to the people. The
+civil magistrate, attended by his officers, went along with them; and
+they were conducted throughout all the city. A crier went before them,
+who, every now and then, cried, This is the punishment due to those who
+have drawn on themselves the indignation of the chief of the believers.
+
+When they walked in this manner along the streets of Damascus, with their
+arms and feet naked, clad in such a strange garment, and endeavouring to
+hide their shame under their hair, with which they covered their faces,
+all the people were dissolved in tears; more especially the ladies,
+looking on them as innocent persons, through their lattice-windows, and
+being particularly moved by Alcolomb's youth and beauty, made the air
+ring with their dreadful shrieks, as they passed before their houses. The
+very children, frightened at those shrieks, and at the spectacle that
+occasioned them, mixed their cries with that general lamentation, and
+added new horror to it. In short, had an enemy been at Damascus, and then
+putting all to fire and sword, the consternation could not have been
+greater.
+
+It was near night when that dismal scene concluded. The mother and
+daughter were both conducted back to king Mohammed's palace. Not being
+used to walk barefoot, they were so spent, that they lay a long time in a
+swoon. The queen of Damascus, highly afflicted at their misfortunes,
+notwithstanding the caliph's prohibition to relieve them, sent some of
+her women to comfort them with all sorts of refreshments, and wine to
+raise their spirits.
+
+The queen's women found them still in a swoon, and almost past receiving
+any benefit by what they offered them. However, with much difficulty,
+they were brought to themselves. Ganem's mother immediately returned them
+thanks for their courtesy. My good lady, said one of the queen's ladies
+to her, we are highly concerned at your affliction; and the queen of
+Syria, our mistress, has done us a favour in employing us to assist you.
+We can assure you, that princess is much afflicted at your misfortunes,
+as well as the king her consort. Ganem's mother entreated the queen's
+women to return her majesty a thousand thanks from her and her daughter
+Alcolomb; and then, directing her discourse to the lady that spoke to
+her, she said, Madam, the king has not told me why the chief of the
+believers inflicts so many outrages on us; pray be pleased to tell us
+what crimes we have been guilty of. My good lady, answered the other, the
+origin of your misfortune proceeds from your son Ganem. He is not dead,
+as you imagine. He is accused of having stolen the beautiful Fetnah, the
+best beloved of all the king's favourites; and he having, by timely
+flight, withdrawn himself from that prince's indignation, the punishment
+is fallen on you. All mankind condemns the caliph's resentment; but all
+mankind fears him: and you see king Zinebi himself dares not contradict
+his orders, for fear of incurring his displeasure. So that all we can do
+is to pity and exhort you to have patience.
+
+I know my son, answered Ganem's mother; I have educated him very
+carefully, and in that respect which is due to the commander of the
+believers. He has not committed the crime he is accused of; I dare answer
+for his innocency. But I will give over muttering and complaining, since
+it is for him that I suffer, and he is not dead. O Ganem! added she, in a
+transport of love and joy, my dear son Ganem, is it possible that you are
+still alive? I no longer am concerned for the loss of my goods; and how
+extravagant soever the caliph's orders may be, I forgive him all the
+severity of them, provided Heaven has saved my son. I am only concerned
+for my daughter; her sufferings only afflict me; yet I believe her to be
+so good a sister as to follow my example.
+
+At the hearing of these words, Alcolomb, who till then had appeared
+insensible, turned to her mother, and, clasping her arms about her neck,
+Yes, dear mother, said she, I will always follow your example, whatever
+extremity the love of my brother brings you to.
+
+The mother and daughter, thus interchanging their sighs and tears,
+continued a considerable time in such moving embraces. In the mean time,
+the queen's women, who were much moved at that spectacle, omitted no
+persuasions to prevail with Ganem's mother to take some sustenance. She
+ate a morsel out of complaisance, and Alcolomb did the like.
+
+The caliph having ordered that Ganem's kindred should be exposed three
+days successively to the sight of the people, in the condition as has
+been said, Alcolomb and her mother afforded the same spectacle the second
+time next day, from morning till night. But that day and the following,
+things were not done after the same manner: the streets, which at first
+had been full of people, were left quite empty. All the traders, incensed
+at the ill usage of Abou Ayoub's widow and daughter, shut up their shops,
+and kept themselves close within their houses. The ladies, instead of
+looking through their lattice-windows, withdrew into the back parts of
+their houses. There was not one soul to be seen in the public places
+those unfortunate women were carried through. It looked as if all the
+inhabitants of Damascus had abandoned their city.
+
+On the fourth day, king Mohammed Zinebi, who was resolved punctually to
+obey the caliph's orders, though he did not approve of them, sent criers
+into all quarters of the city to make proclamation, strictly forbidding
+all the inhabitants of Damascus, and strangers, of what condition soever,
+upon pain of death, and having their bodies cast to the dogs to be
+devoured, to receive Ganem's mother and sister into their houses, or to
+give them a morsel of bread or a drop of water; and, in a word, to afford
+them the least support, or hold the least correspondence with them.
+
+When the criers had performed what the king had enjoined them, that
+prince ordered the mother and the daughter to be turned out of the
+palace, and left to their choice to go where they thought fit. As soon as
+ever they appeared, all persons fled from them, so great an impression
+had the late prohibition made upon them all. They easily perceived that
+every body shunned them; but not knowing the reason of it, they were much
+surprised; and their amazement was the greater, when, coming into any
+street, or among several persons, they knew some of their best friends,
+who presently vanished with as much haste as the rest. What is the
+meaning of this? said Ganem's mother: do we carry the plague about us?
+Must the unjust and barbarous usage we have received render us odious to
+our fellow-citizens? Come, my child, added she, let us depart from
+Damascus with all speed; let us not stay any longer in a city where we
+are become frightful to our very friends.
+
+The two wretched ladies, discoursing after this manner, came to one of
+the ends of the city, and retired to a ruined house, to pass the night.
+Thither some Mussulmen, or believers, out of charity and compassion,
+resorted to them after the day was shut in. They carried them provisions,
+but durst not stay to comfort them, for fear of being discovered, and
+punished for disobeying the caliph's orders.
+
+In the mean time, king Zinebi had let fly a pigeon, to give Haroun
+Alraschid an account of his exact obedience. He informed him of all that
+had been done, and conjured him to direct what he would have done with
+Ganem's mother and sister. He soon received the caliph's answer the same
+way, which was, that he banished them from Damascus for ever. Immediately
+the king of Syria sent men to the old house, with orders to take the
+mother and the daughter, and to conduct them three days' journey from
+Damascus, and there to leave them, forbidding them ever to return to the
+city.
+
+Zinebi's men executed their commission; but being less precise than their
+master, in the strict performance of every tittle of Haroun Alraschid's
+orders, they in pity gave Alcolomb and her mother some small pieces of
+money to buy them some subsistence, and each of them a bag, which they
+hung about their necks, to carry their provisions.
+
+In this miserable condition, they came to the first village. The peasants
+flocked about them; and as it appeared through their disguise that they
+were people of some fashion, they asked them what was the occasion of
+their travelling after that manner, in a habit that did not seem properly
+to belong to them. Instead of answering the question put to them, they
+fell a-weeping, which only served to heighten the curiosity of the
+peasants, and to move them to compassion. Ganem's mother told them what
+she and her daughter had endured; at which the good countrywomen were
+sensibly afflicted, and endeavoured to comfort them. They treated them as
+well as their poverty would permit; they took off their horse-hair
+smocks, which were very uneasy, and put on others they gave them, with
+shoes, and something to cover their heads, and save their hair.
+
+Having expressed their gratitude to those charitable women, Alcolomb and
+her mother departed that village, taking short journeys towards Aleppo.
+They used at night to lie near the mosques, or in them, upon the mat, if
+there was any, or else on the bare pavement; and sometimes put up in the
+places appointed for the use of travellers. As for sustenance, they did
+not want; for they often came to places where bread, boiled rice, and
+other provisions, are distributed to all travellers who desire it.
+
+At length they came to Aleppo, but would not stay there, and holding on
+their journey towards the Euphrates, crossed that river, and entered into
+Mesopotamia, which they traversed as far as Moussoul. Thence,
+notwithstanding all they had endured, they proceeded to Bagdad. That was
+the place they had fixed their thoughts upon, hoping to find Ganem there,
+though they ought not to have fancied that he was in a city where the
+caliph resided: but they hoped, because they wished it; their affection
+rather increasing than diminishing, in spite of all their misfortunes.
+Their discourse was generally about him, and they inquired for him of all
+they met. But let us leave Alcolomb and her mother, to return to Fetnah.
+
+She was still confined close in the dark tower, ever since the day that
+had been so fatal to Ganem and her. However, disagreeable as her prison
+was to her, it was much less grievous than the thoughts of Ganem's
+misfortune, the uncertainty of whose fate was a killing affliction to
+her. There was scarce a moment in which she did not lament him.
+
+One night when the caliph was walking by himself within the enclosure of
+his palace, as he frequently did; for he was the most prying prince in
+the world, and sometimes, by means of those night-walks, he came to the
+knowledge of things that happened in his palace, which would otherwise
+never have come to his ear: one of these nights, in his walk, he happened
+to pass by the dark tower, and fancying he heard somebody talk, he
+stopped, and drew near the door to listen, and distinctly heard these
+words, which Fetnah, whose thoughts were always on Ganem, uttered with a
+loud voice: O Ganem! too unfortunate Ganem! where are you at this time?
+whither has thy cruel fate led thee? Alas! it is I that have made you
+miserable! Why did you not let me perish unhappily, rather than afford me
+your generous relief? What a dismal reward have you received for your
+care and respect! The commander of the faithful, who ought to have
+requited, persecutes you; and in return for having always looked upon me
+as a person reserved for his bed, you lose all your goods, and are
+obliged to seek for safety in flight. O caliph! barbarous caliph! what
+will you say for yourself when you shall appear with Ganem before the
+tribunal of the Supreme Judge, and the angels shall testify the truth
+before your face! All the power you are now invested with, and which
+makes the best part of the world quake, will not prevent your being
+condemned and punished for your violent and unjust proceedings. Here
+Fetnah ceased her complaint, her sighs and tears putting a stop to her
+tongue.
+
+This was enough to bring the caliph to himself. He plainly perceived,
+that if what he had heard was true, his favourite must be innocent, and
+that he had been too rash in giving orders against Ganem and his family.
+Being resolved to be rightly informed in an affair which so nearly
+concerned him, in point of equity, on which he valued himself, he
+immediately returned to his apartment, and that moment ordered Mesrour to
+repair to the dark tower and bring Fetnah to him.
+
+By this command, and much more by the caliph's way of delivery, the chief
+of the eunuchs guessed that his master designed to pardon his favourite,
+and take her to him again. He was overjoyed at it, for he loved Fetnah,
+and had been much concerned at her disgrace; and therefore flying to the
+tower, Madam, said he to the favourite, with such an air as expressed his
+satisfaction, be pleased to follow me: I hope you will never more return
+to this vile dark tower: the commander of the faithful has a mind to
+speak with you, and I have reason to hope for a happy issue.
+
+Fetnah followed Mesrour, who conducted her into the caliph's closet. She
+prostrated herself before that prince, and so continued, letting fall a
+shower of tears. Fetnah, said the caliph, without bidding her rise, I
+think you charge me with violence and injustice. Who is he, who,
+notwithstanding the regard and respect he had for me, is in a miserable
+condition? Speak freely; you know how good-natured I am, and that I love
+to do justice.
+
+By these words the favourite conceived that the caliph had heard what she
+had said; and laying hold on so favourable an opportunity to clear her
+dear Ganem, she said, Commander of the true believers, if I have let fall
+any word that is not agreeable to your majesty, I most humbly beseech you
+to forgive me; but he whose innocence and misfortune you desire to be
+acquainted with, is Ganem, the unhappy son of Abou Ayoub, merchant in
+Damascus. He is the man that saved my life, and afforded me a safe
+sanctuary in his house. I must own, that, from the first moment he saw
+me, he perhaps designed to devote himself to me, and conceived hopes of
+engaging me to admit of his service. I guessed at this, by the eagerness
+he showed in entertaining, and giving me all the attendance which was
+requisite under the circumstances I was then in; but as soon as he heard
+that I had the honour to belong to you, Alas, madam, said he, 'That which
+belongs to the master is forbidden to the slave.' From that moment, I owe
+this justice to his virtue, his behaviour was always suitable to his
+words. However, you well know with what rigour you have treated him, and
+you will answer for it before the tribunal of God.
+
+The caliph was not displeased with Fetnah for the freedom of those words.
+But may I, answered he, rely on the assurances you give me of Ganem's
+virtue? Yes, replied Fetnah, you may; I would not for the world conceal
+the truth from you: and to make out to you that I am sincere, I must own
+one thing to you, which perhaps may displease you; but I beg pardon of
+your majesty beforehand. Speak, child, said Haroun Alraschid; I forgive
+all, provided you conceal nothing from me. Well then, replied Fetnah, let
+me inform you, that Ganem's respectful behaviour, together with all the
+good offices he did me, gained him my esteem. I went farther yet: you
+know the tyranny of love; I felt some tender inclination growing in my
+breast. He perceived it, but was still far from taking an advantage of my
+frailty: and notwithstanding the flame which consumed him, he still
+remained steady in his duty; and all his passion could force from him,
+were those words I have already told your majesty, 'That which belongs to
+the master is forbidden to the slave.'
+
+This ingenuous confession might have provoked any other man than the
+caliph; but it was the very thing which quite appeased that prince. He
+commanded her to rise, and making her sit by him, Tell me your story,
+said he, from the beginning to the end. She did so with much art and wit,
+slightly passing over what regarded Zobeide, and dilating on the
+obligations she owed Ganem, the expense he had been at for her; and,
+above all, she highly extolled his discretion, endeavouring by that means
+to make the caliph sensible that she had been under the necessity of
+lying concealed in Ganem's house, to deceive Zobeide. She concluded with
+the young merchant's escape, which she plainly told the caliph she had
+compelled him to, that he might avoid his indignation.
+
+When she had done speaking, the caliph said to her, I believe all you
+have told me; but why was it so long before you let me hear from you? Was
+there any need of staying a whole month after my return, before you sent
+me word where you were? Commander of the true believers, answered Fetnah,
+Ganem went abroad so very seldom, that you need not wonder that we were
+none of the first that heard of your return. Besides that, Ganem, who
+took upon him to deliver the letter I wrote to Nouron Nihar, was a long
+time before he could find an opportunity of putting it into her own
+hands.
+
+It is enough, Fetnah, replied the caliph; I own my fault, and would
+willingly make amends for it by heaping favours on that young merchant of
+Damascus; therefore consider what I can do for him: ask what you think
+fit, and I will grant it. Hereupon the favourite fell down at the
+caliph's feet, with her face flat on the ground; and then rising again,
+said, Commander of the true believers, after returning your majesty
+thanks for Ganem, I most humbly entreat you to cause it to be published
+throughout all your dominions, that you pardon the son of Abou Ayoub, and
+that he may safely come to you. I will do more, rejoined that prince, in
+requital for having saved your life, and the respect he has bore to me,
+and to make amends for the loss of his goods; and, in short, to repair
+the wrong I have done to his family, I give him to you for a husband.
+Fetnah had not words expressive enough to thank the caliph for his
+generosity. She then withdrew into the apartment she had before her
+dismal adventure. The same furniture was still in it; nothing had been
+removed; but that which pleased her most, was, to find there Ganem's
+chests and packs, which Mesrour had taken care to convey thither.
+
+The next day Haroun Alraschid ordered the grand vizier to cause
+proclamation to be made throughout all his dominions, that he pardoned
+the son of Abou Ayoub; but this proved of no effect, for a long time
+elapsed without any news of that young merchant. Fetnah concluded for
+certain, that he had not been able to survive the pain of losing her. A
+dreadful uneasiness seized her; but as hope is the last thing which
+forsakes lovers, she entreated the caliph to give her leave to seek for
+Ganem herself; which being granted, she took a purse with a thousand
+pieces of gold out of her basket, and one morning went out of the palace,
+mounted on a mule she had out of the caliph's stables, very richly
+accoutred. Black eunuchs attended her, with their hands on each side upon
+the mule's buttocks.
+
+Thus she went from mosque to mosque, bestowing her alms among the
+devotees of the Mahometan religion, desiring their prayers for obtaining
+the accomplishment of an affair on which the happiness of two persons, as
+she told them, depended. She spent the whole day and the thousand pieces
+of gold, in giving alms at the mosques, and returned to the palace in the
+evening.
+
+The next day she took another purse of the same value, and, in the like
+equipage as the day before, went to the place where all the jewellers'
+shops were; and stopping at the door without alighting, sent one of her
+black eunuchs for the syndic, or chief of them. That syndic, who was an
+extraordinary charitable man, and spent above two-thirds of his income in
+relieving poor strangers, whether they happened to be sick or in
+distress, made not Fetnah stay, knowing by her dress that she was a lady
+belonging to the palace. I apply myself to you, said she, putting the
+purse into his hands, as a person whose piety is cried up throughout the
+city. I desire you to distribute that gold among the poor strangers you
+relieve, for I know you make it your business to assist poor strangers
+who have recourse to your charity. I am also satisfied that you prevent
+their wants, and that nothing is more agreeable to you than to have an
+opportunity of easing their misery. Madam, answered the syndic, I shall
+obey your commands with pleasure; but if you desire to exercise your
+charity in person, and will be pleased to step to my house, you will
+there see two women worthy of your compassion: I met them yesterday as
+they were coming into the city; they were in a deplorable condition, and
+it moved me the more, because I thought they were persons of some
+quality. Through all the rags that covered them, and notwithstanding the
+impression the sun has made on their faces, I discovered a noble air, not
+to be commonly found in those poor people I relieve. I carried them both
+to my house, and delivered them to my wife, who was of the same opinion
+with me. She caused her slaves to provide them good beds, whilst she
+herself washed their faces, and gave them clean linen. We know not as yet
+who they are, because we will let them take some rest before we trouble
+them with our questions.
+
+Fetnah, without being able to give any reason for it, had a curiosity to
+see them. The syndic would have conducted her to his house, but she would
+not give him the trouble, and was satisfied that a slave of his should go
+and show her the way. She alighted at the door, and followed the syndic's
+slave, who was gone on before to give notice to his mistress, she being
+then in the chamber with Alcolomb and her mother, for they were the
+persons the syndic had been talking of to Fetnah.
+
+The syndic's wife, being informed by the slave that a court-lady was in
+her house, was going out of the room to meet her; but Fetnah, who had
+followed close to the slave's heels, did not give her so much time, and
+coming into the chamber, the syndic's wife fell down before her, to
+express the respect she had for all that belonged to the caliph. Fetnah
+took her up, and said, My good lady, I desire you would let me speak with
+those two strangers that arrived at Bagdad last night. Madam, answered
+the syndic's wife, they lie in those two little beds you see close by
+each other. The favourite immediately drew near the mother's, and viewing
+her carefully, Good woman, said she, I come to offer you my assistance: I
+have a considerable interest in this city, and may be assisting to you
+and your companion. Madam, answered Ganem's mother, I perceive by your
+obliging offers that Heaven has not quite forsaken us, though we have
+cause to believe it, after so many misfortunes as have befallen us.
+Having uttered these words, she wept so bitterly that Fetnah and the
+syndic's wife could not forbear letting fall some tears.
+
+The caliph's favourite, having dried up hers, said to Ganem's mother, Be
+so kind as to tell us your misfortunes, and recount your story. You
+cannot give the relation to any persons better disposed than we are to
+use all possible means to comfort you. Madam, replied Abou Ayoub's
+disconsolate widow, a favourite of the commander of the true believers, a
+lady whose name is Fetnah, is the occasion of all our misfortunes. These
+words were like a thunderbolt to the favourite: but suppressing her
+concern and uneasiness, she suffered Ganem's mother to proceed, who did
+it after this manner: I am the widow of Abou Ayoub, a merchant of
+Damascus; I had a son, called Ganem, who, coming to trade at Bagdad, has
+been accused of having debauched that Fetnah. The caliph has caused
+search to be made for him every where, to put him to death; and not
+finding him, wrote to the king of Damascus, to cause our house to be
+plundered and razed, and to expose my daughter and me three days
+successively, stark naked, to be seen by the people, and then to banish
+us out of Syria for ever.
+
+But how unworthy soever our usage has been, I should still be comforted,
+were my son alive, and I could meet with him. What a pleasure would it be
+for his sister and me to see him again! Embracing him, we should forget
+the loss of our goods, and all the evils we have suffered for him. Alas!
+I am fully persuaded he is the innocent cause of them; and that he is no
+more guilty towards the caliph, than his sister and I.
+
+No doubt of it, said Fetnah, interrupting her there; he is no more guilty
+than you are; I can assure you of his innocence, for I am that very
+Fetnah you so much complain of, who, through some fatality in my stars,
+have occasioned so many misfortunes. To me you must impute the loss of
+your son, if he is no more; but if I have occasioned your misfortune, I
+can in some measure relieve it. I have already cleared Ganem to the
+caliph, who has caused it to be proclaimed throughout his dominions, that
+he pardons the son of Abou Ayoub; and I do not question but that he will
+do you as much good as he has done you harm. You are no longer his
+enemies: he expects Ganem to requite the service he has done me by
+uniting our fortunes: he gives me to him for his consort; therefore look
+on me as your daughter, and permit me to vow an eternal friendship to
+you. Having so said, she bowed down on Ganem's mother, who was so
+astonished that she could return no answer. Fetnah held her a long time
+in her arms, and only left her to run to the other bed to Alcolomb, who,
+sitting up, held out her arms to receive her.
+
+When the caliph's charming favourite had given the mother and daughter
+all the tokens of affection they could expect from Ganem's wife, she said
+to them, Cease both of you to afflict yourselves: the wealth Ganem had in
+this city is not lost; it is in my apartment in the palace; but I know
+all the treasure in the world cannot comfort you without Ganem: I judge
+so of his mother and sister, if I may judge of them by myself; blood is
+no less powerful than love in great minds. But why should we despair of
+seeing him again? We shall find him: the good fortune of meeting with you
+makes me conceive fresh hopes: and perhaps this is the last day of your
+sufferings, and the beginning of a greater felicity than you enjoyed in
+Damascus when Ganem was with you.
+
+Fetnah would have gone on, when the syndic of the jewellers came in,
+saying, Madam, I am come from seeing a very moving object; it is a young
+man, a camel-driver, who was carrying to the hospital of Bagdad: he was
+bound with cords on a camel, because he had not strength enough to sit
+him. They had already unbound, and were carrying him into the hospital,
+when I happened to be passing by. I went close up to the young man,
+viewed him carefully, and fancied his countenance was not altogether
+unknown to me. I asked him some questions concerning his family and his
+country; but all the answer I could get, consisted only in sighs and
+tears. I took pity on him, and perceiving, by being so much used to sick
+people, that he had great need to have particular care taken of him, I
+would not permit him to be put into the hospital; for I am too well
+acquainted with their way of looking to the sick, and am sensible of the
+incapacity of the physicians. I have caused him to be brought home to my
+house by my slaves; and they are now, by my orders, putting on some of my
+own linen, and serving him as they would do me, in a chamber for that
+purpose.
+
+Fetnah's heart leaped at these words of the jeweller, and she felt a
+sudden emotion, for which she could not account. Show me, said she to the
+syndic, into that sick man's room; I would gladly see him. The syndic
+conducted her, and whilst she was going thither, Ganem's mother said to
+Alcolomb, Alas! daughter, as wretched as that sick stranger is, your
+brother, if he be living, is not perhaps in a more happy condition.
+
+The caliph's favourite, coming into the chamber where the sick man was,
+drew near the bed, into which the syndic's slaves had already laid him.
+She saw a young man whose eyes were closed, his countenance pale,
+disfigured, and bathed in tears. She gazed earnestly on him, her heart
+beat, and she fancied she beheld Ganem; but yet she would not believe her
+eyes. Though she found something of Ganem in the object she beheld, yet,
+in other respects, he appeared so different, that she durst not imagine
+it was he that lay before her. However, not being able to withstand the
+earnest desire of being satisfied, Ganem, said she, with a quivering
+voice, is it you I behold? Having spoken these words, she stopped to give
+the young man time to answer; but observing that he seemed insensible,
+Alas! Ganem, added she, it is not you that I talk to! My imagination
+being overcharged with your image, has given this stranger a deceitful
+resemblance: the son of Abou Ayoub, though ever so sick, would know the
+voice of Fetnah. At the name of Fetnah, Ganem (for it was really he)
+opened his eyes, and turned his face towards the person that spoke to
+him, and knowing the caliph's favourite, Ah! madam, said he, what
+miracle?----He could say no more; such a sudden transport of joy seized
+him that he fell into a swoon. Fetnah and the syndic did all they could
+to bring him to himself; but as soon as they perceived he began to
+revive, the syndic desired the lady to withdraw, for fear lest the sight
+of her should heighten Ganem's distemper.
+
+The young man, having recovered his senses, looked all about, and not
+seeing what he looked for, cried out, What is become of you, charming
+Fetnah? did you really appear before mine eyes, or was it only an
+illusion? No, sir, said the syndic, it was no illusion. It was I that
+caused that lady to withdraw, but you shall see her again as soon as you
+are in a condition to bear her sight. You now stand in need of rest, and
+nothing ought to obstruct your taking it. The posture of your affairs is
+altered, since you are, as I suppose, that Ganem, in favour of whom the
+commander of the true believers has caused a proclamation to be made in
+Bagdad, declaring that he forgives him what is past. Be satisfied for the
+present, with knowing so much; the lady who just now spoke to you will
+acquaint you with the rest; therefore think of nothing but recovering
+your health: I will contribute all that shall be in my power towards it.
+Having spoken these words, he left Ganem to take his rest, and went
+himself to provide all such medicines for him as were proper to recover
+his strength, quite spent by want and toil.
+
+During that time Fetnah was in the room with Alcolomb and her mother,
+where almost the same scene was acted over again; for when Ganem's mother
+understood that the sick man the syndic had then newly brought into his
+house was Ganem himself, she was so overjoyed, that she also swooned
+away; and when, with the assistance of Fetnah and the syndic's wife, she
+was again come to herself, she would have got up to see her son: but the
+syndic coming in then, hindered her, giving her to understand that Ganem
+was so weak and feeble that it would endanger his life, to excite in him
+those commotions which must be the consequence of the unexpected sight of
+a beloved mother and sister. There was no occasion for the syndic's
+making any long discourses to persuade Ganem's mother: as soon as she was
+told that she could not discourse to her son without hazarding his life,
+she ceased insisting to go and see him. Then Fetnah, turning the
+discourse, said, Let us bless Heaven for having brought us all together
+into one place. I will return to the palace to give the caliph an account
+of all these adventures, and to-morrow morning I will return to you: this
+said, she embraced the mother and the daughter, and went away. As soon as
+she came to the palace, she sent Mesrour to desire to be admitted to the
+caliph in private, which was immediately granted; and being brought into
+that prince's closet, where he was alone, she prostrated herself at his
+feet, with her face on the ground, according to custom. He commanded her
+to rise, and having made her sit down, asked whether she had heard any
+news of Ganem. Commander of the true believers, said she, I have been so
+successful, that I have found him, as also his mother and sister. The
+caliph was curious to know how she could find them in so short a time,
+and she satisfied his curiosity, saying so many things in commendation of
+Ganem's mother and sister, that he desired to see them, as well as the
+young merchant.
+
+Though Haroun Alraschid was passionate, and in his heat sometimes guilty
+of cruel actions; yet, to make amends, he was just, and the most generous
+prince in the world, as soon as his anger was over, and he was made
+sensible of the wrong he had done. Therefore, having no longer cause to
+doubt but that he had unjustly persecuted Ganem and his family, and
+having publicly wronged them, he resolved to make them public
+satisfaction. I am overjoyed, said he to Fetnah, that your search has
+proved so successful; it is a mighty satisfaction to me, not so much for
+your sake as for my own. I will keep the promise I have made you. You
+shall marry Ganem, and I here declare you are no longer my slave. Go back
+to that young merchant; and, as soon as he has recovered his health, you
+shall bring him to me, with his mother and sister.
+
+The next morning early, Fetnah repaired to the syndic of the jewellers,
+being impatient to hear of Ganem's health, and to tell the mother and
+daughter the good news she had for them. The first person she met was the
+syndic, who told her that Ganem had rested very well that night; and that
+his distemper altogether proceeded from melancholy, and the cause being
+removed, he would soon recover his health.
+
+Accordingly the son of Abou Ayoub was much mended. Rest, and the good
+medicines applied to him, but, above all, the easiness of his mind, had
+wrought so good an effect, that the syndic thought he might without
+danger see his mother, his sister, and his mistress, provided he was
+prepared to receive them; because there was ground to fear that, not
+knowing his mother and sister were at Bagdad, the sight of them might
+occasion too great joy and surprise. It was therefore resolved, that
+Fetnah should first go alone into Ganem's chamber, and then make a sign
+to the two other ladies to appear, when she thought fit.
+
+Affairs being so ordered, the sick man was acquainted with Fetnah's
+coming, by the syndic, which was so ravishing a sight to him, that he was
+again near falling into a swoon. Well, Ganem, said she, drawing near to
+his bed, you have again found your Fetnah, whom you thought you had lost
+for ever. Ah! madam, said he, interrupting her, what miracle has restored
+you to my sight? I thought you were in the caliph's palace: that prince
+has doubtless given ear to you. You have dispelled his jealousy, and he
+has restored you to his favour. Yes, my dear Ganem, answered Fetnah, I
+have cleared myself before the commander of the true believers, who, to
+make amends for the wrong he has done you, bestows me on you for a wife.
+These last words occasioned such an excess of joy in Ganem, that he knew
+not for a while how to express himself, otherwise than by that passionate
+silence so well known to lovers. At length he broke out with these words:
+Ah, beautiful Fetnah, may I give credit to what you tell me? May I
+believe that the caliph really resigns you to Abou Ayoub's son? Nothing
+is more certain, answered the lady. That prince, who before caused search
+to be made for you to take away your life, and who in his fury caused
+your mother and your sister to suffer a thousand indignities, desires now
+to see you, that he may reward the respect you had for him; and there is
+no question to be made, but that he will be profuse in his favours to
+your family.
+
+Ganem asked what the caliph had done to his mother and sister, which
+Fetnah told him; and he could not forbear letting fall some tears at that
+relation, notwithstanding his thoughts were so full of the news he had
+heard of being married to his mistress. But when Fetnah informed him that
+they were actually in Bagdad, and in the same house with him, he appeared
+so impatient to see them, that the favourite could no longer defer giving
+him that satisfaction; and accordingly called them in. They were then at
+the door, only waiting that moment. They came in, made up to Ganem, and
+embracing him in their turns, gave him a thousand kisses. How many tears
+were shed amidst those embraces! Ganem's face was bathed with them, as
+well as his mother's and sister's; and Fetnah let fall in abundance. The
+syndic himself, and his wife, being moved at the spectacle, could not
+forbear weeping, nor sufficiently admire the secret workings of
+Providence, which brought together into their house four persons whom
+fortune had so cruelly parted.
+
+When they had all dried up their tears, Ganem drew a fresh supply, by the
+recital of all he had suffered from the day he left Fetnah, till the
+moment the syndic brought him to his house. He told them, that having
+reached a small village, he there fell sick; that some charitable
+peasants had taken care of him, but finding he did not recover, a
+camel-driver had undertaken to carry him to the hospital at Bagdad.
+Fetnah, also, told them all the uneasiness of her imprisonment; how the
+caliph, having heard her talk in the tower, had sent for her into his
+closet, and how she had cleared herself. In the conclusion, when they had
+all related what accidents had befallen them, Fetnah said, Let us bless
+Heaven, which has brought us all together again, and let us think of
+nothing but the happiness that attends us. As soon as Ganem has recovered
+his health, he must appear before the caliph with his mother and sister;
+but because they are not in a condition to be seen, I will go and make
+some provision for them; so I desire you to stay a moment for me.
+
+This said, she went away to the palace, and soon returned to the
+syndic's, with a purse containing a thousand pieces of gold, which she
+delivered to the syndic, desiring him to buy clothes for the mother and
+daughter. The syndic, who was a man of a good fancy, chose such as were
+extraordinary fine, and had them made up with all speed. They were
+finished in three days, and Ganem, finding himself strong enough to go
+abroad, prepared for it; but on the day he had appointed to go and pay
+his respects to the caliph, when he was making ready with his mother and
+sister, the grand vizier Giafar came to the syndic's house.
+
+That minister came on horseback, attended by a great number of officers.
+Sir, said he to Ganem, as soon as he came in, I am come from the
+commander of the true believers, my master and yours; the orders I have,
+differ very much from those which I do not care to revive in your memory.
+I am to bear you company, and to present you to the caliph, who is
+desirous to see you. Ganem returned no other answer to the vizier's
+compliments than by profoundly bowing his head, and then mounted a horse
+brought from the caliph's stables, which he managed very gracefully. The
+mother and daughter were mounted on mules belonging to the palace; and
+whilst Fetnah led them a by-way to the prince's court, Giafar conducted
+Ganem another way, and brought him into the presence-chamber. The caliph
+was there sitting on his throne, encompassed with emirs, viziers, and
+other attendants and courtiers, Arabs, Persians, Egyptians, Africans, and
+Syrians, of his own dominions, not to mention strangers.
+
+When the vizier had conducted Ganem to the foot of the throne, that young
+merchant paid his obeisance, prostrating himself with his face on the
+ground; and then rising, made his compliment in verse, which, though
+_extempore_, met with the approbation of the whole court.
+
+After his compliment, the caliph caused him to draw near, and said to
+him, I am glad to see you, and desire to hear from your own mouth where
+you found my favourite, and all that you did for her. Ganem obeyed, and
+appeared so sincere, that the caliph was convinced of the reality of what
+he said. That prince ordered a very rich vest to be given him, according
+to the custom observed with those who are admitted to audience. After
+which, he said to him, Ganem, I will have you live in my court. Commander
+of the true believers, answered the young merchant, a slave has no will
+but his master's, on whom his life and fortune depend. The caliph was
+highly pleased with Ganem's answer, and assigned him a considerable
+pension. Then that prince came down from his throne, and causing only
+Ganem and the grand vizier to follow him, went into his own apartment.
+Not questioning but Fetnah was there, with Abou Ayoub's widow and
+daughter, he caused them to be called in. They fell down before him: he
+made them rise, and was so taken with Alcolomb's beauty, that, after
+viewing her very attentively, he said, I am so sorry for having treated
+your charms so unworthily, that I owe them such a satisfaction as may
+surpass the injury I have done them: I take you to wife; and by that
+means shall punish Zobeide, who shall become the first cause of your good
+fortune, as she was of your past sufferings. This is not all, added he,
+turning towards Ganem's mother; you are still young; I believe you will
+not disdain to be allied to my grand vizier: I give you to Giafar. Let a
+cadi and witnesses be called, and the three contracts be drawn up and
+signed immediately. Ganem would have represented to the caliph, that it
+would be honour enough for his sister to be one of his favourites; but
+that prince was resolved to marry her.
+
+He thought this such an extraordinary story, that he ordered a famous
+historian to commit it to writing, with all its circumstances. It was
+afterwards laid up in his library; and many copies being transcribed from
+that original, it became public.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+            PRINCE ZEYN ALASNAM, AND THE KING OF THE GENII.
+
+
+A king of Balsora, who possessed great wealth and was well beloved by his
+subjects, had no children, which was a great affliction to him; and
+therefore he made presents to all the holy persons in his dominions to
+engage them to beg a son for him of Heaven: and their prayers being
+effectual, the queen proved with child, and was happily delivered of a
+prince who was named Zeyn Alasnam, which signifies Ornament of the
+Statues.
+
+The king caused all the astrologers in his kingdom to be assembled, and
+ordered them to calculate the infant's nativity. They found by their
+observations, that he would live long and be very brave; but that all his
+courage would be little enough to bear him through the misfortunes that
+would threaten him. The king was not daunted at the prediction. My son,
+said he, is not to be pitied, since he will be brave: it is fit that
+princes should have a taste of misfortunes; for adversity tries virtue,
+and they are the fitter to reign.
+
+He rewarded the astrologers, and dismissed them; and caused Zeyn to be
+educated with the greatest care imaginable; appointing him able masters
+as soon as he was of age to receive their instructions. In short, he
+proposed to make him an accomplished prince; when, on a sudden, that good
+king fell sick of a distemper which all the skill of his physicians could
+not cure. Perceiving his disease was mortal, he sent for his son, and
+among other things advised him rather to endeavour to be beloved than to
+be feared by his people; not to give ear to flatterers; to be as slow in
+rewarding as in punishing; because it often happens that monarchs, misled
+by false appearances, load wicked men with favours, and oppress the
+innocent.
+
+As soon as king Zeyn was dead, prince Zeyn went into mourning, which he
+wore seven days, and the eighth he ascended the throne, taking his
+father's seal off the royal treasure, and putting on his own. He began
+thus to taste the sweets of ruling, the pleasure of seeing all his
+courtiers bow down before him, and make it their whole business to show
+their zeal and obedience. In a word, the sovereign power was too
+agreeable to him. He only regarded what his subjects owed to him, without
+considering what his duty was towards them, and consequently took little
+care to govern them well. He wallowed in all sorts of debauchery among
+the voluptuous youth, on whom he conferred the prime employments in the
+kingdom; so that there was nothing regular. Being naturally prodigal, he
+set no bounds to his grants, so that his women and his favourites
+insensibly drained his treasure.
+
+The queen his mother was still living, a discreet wise princess. She had
+several times unsuccessfully tried to give some check to her son's
+prodigality and debauchery; giving him to understand, that if he did not
+soon take another course, he would not only squander his wealth, but
+would also alienate the minds of his people, and occasion some
+revolution, which perhaps might cost him his crown and his life. What she
+had foretold was very near falling out; the people began to mutter
+against the government, and their muttering had certainly been followed
+by a general revolt, had not the queen by her dexterity prevented it. But
+that princess, being informed of the ill posture of affairs, gave notice
+to the king, who at last suffered himself to be prevailed upon. He
+committed the government to discreet ancient men, who knew how to keep
+the people within the bounds of duty.
+
+Zeyn, seeing all his wealth consumed, repented that he had made no better
+use of it. He fell into a dismal melancholy, and nothing could comfort
+him. One night he saw in a dream, a venerable old man, who came towards
+him, and with a smiling countenance said, Know, Zeyn, that there is no
+sorrow but what is followed by mirth, no misfortune but what in the end
+brings some happiness. If you desire to see the end of your affliction,
+get up, set out for Egypt, go to Grand Cairo: a greater fortune attends
+you there.
+
+The prince, when he awaked in the morning, reflected on his dream, and
+talked of it very seriously to his mother, who only laughed at it. My
+son, said she to him, would you now go into Egypt upon belief of that
+fine dream? Why not, madam? answered Zeyn: do you imagine all dreams are
+chimerical? No, no, some of them are mysterious. My masters have told me
+a thousand stories, which will not permit me to doubt of it. Besides,
+though I were not otherwise convinced, I could not forbear giving some
+credit to it. The old man that appeared to me had something supernatural.
+He was not one of those men whom nothing but age makes venerable; there
+appeared a sort of divine air about his person. In short, he was such a
+one as our great prophet is represented; and if you will have me tell you
+what I think, I believe it was he, who, pitying my affliction, designs to
+ease it: I rely on the confidence he has inspired me with. I am full of
+his promises, and have resolved to follow his advice. The queen
+endeavoured to dissuade him; but it was in vain. The prince committed to
+her the government of the kingdom, set out one night very privately from
+his palace, and took the road to Cairo, without suffering any person to
+attend him.
+
+After much trouble and fatigue, he arrived at that famous city, like
+which there are few in the world either for extent or beauty. He alighted
+at the gate of a mosque, where, being spent with weariness, he lay down.
+No sooner was he fallen asleep, than he saw the same old man, who said to
+him, I am pleased with you, my son; you have given credit to my words.
+You are come hither, without being deterred by the length or the
+difficulties of the way: but take notice, that I have not put you upon
+undertaking such a long journey upon any other design than to make trial
+of you. I find you have courage and resolution. You deserve I should make
+you the greatest and richest prince in the world. Return to Balsora, and
+you shall find immense wealth in your palace. No king ever possessed so
+much as is there.
+
+The prince was not pleased with that dream.--Alas! thought he to himself,
+when he awaked, how much was I mistaken! That old man, whom I took for
+our prophet, is no other than the product of my disturbed imagination. My
+fancy was so full of him, that it is no wonder I have seen him again. I
+had best return to Balsora; what should I do here any longer? It is very
+happy that I told none but my mother the occasion of my journey: I should
+become a jest to my people if they knew it.
+
+Accordingly he set out again for his kingdom; and as soon as he arrived
+there, the queen asked him, whether he returned well pleased. He told her
+all that had happened; and he was so much concerned for having been so
+credulous, that the queen, instead of adding to his vexation by reproving
+or laughing at him, comforted him. Forbear afflicting yourself, my son,
+said she; if God has appointed you riches, you will have them without any
+trouble. Be easy: all that I recommend to you is, to be virtuous.
+Renounce the delight of dancing, music, and high-coloured wine: shun all
+pleasures; they have already almost ruined you: apply yourself to the
+making of your subjects happy; and, securing their happiness, you will
+fix your own.
+
+Prince Zeyn swore he would for the future follow his mother's advice, and
+be directed by the wise viziers she had made choice of to assist him in
+supporting the weight of the government. But the very first night after
+he returned to his palace, he the third time saw in a dream the old man,
+who said to him, Brave Zeyn, the time of your prosperity is come.
+To-morrow morning, as soon as you are up, take a little pick-axe, and go
+dig in your father's closet; you will there find a mighty treasure.
+
+As soon as the prince awaked, he got up, ran to the queen's apartment,
+and with much earnestness told her the new dream of that night. Really,
+my son, said his mother, that is a very positive man: he is not satisfied
+with having deceived you twice; have you a mind to believe him again? No,
+madam, answered Zeyn, I give no credit to what he has said; but I will,
+for my own satisfaction, search my father's closet. I really fancied so,
+cried the queen, laughing very heartily: go, my son, please yourself; my
+comfort is, that work is not so toilsome as the journey to Egypt.
+
+Well, madam, answered the king, I must own that this third dream has
+restored my belief, for it agrees with the two others; and, in short, let
+us examine the old man's words. He first directed me to go into Egypt;
+there he told me, he had put me upon taking that journey only to try me.
+Return to Balsora, said he; that is the place where you are to find
+treasures: this night he has exactly pointed out the place where they
+are. These three dreams, in my opinion, are connected. After all, they
+may be chimerical; but I would rather search in vain, than blame myself
+as long as I live for having perhaps missed of great riches, by being
+unseasonably too hard of belief.
+
+Having spoken these words, he left the queen's apartment, caused a
+pick-axe to be brought him, and went alone into the late king's closet.
+He fell to breaking up the ground, and took up above half the square
+stones it was paved with; and yet found not the least appearance of what
+he sought after. He ceased working to take a little rest, thinking within
+himself, I am much afraid my mother had cause enough to laugh at me.
+However, he took heart, and went on with his labour: nor had he cause to
+repent; for, on a sudden, he discovered a white stone, which he took up,
+and under it found a door made fast with a steel padlock, which he broke
+with the pick-axe, and opened the door, which covered a staircase of
+white marble. He immediately lighted a candle, and went down those stairs
+into a room, the floor whereof was laid with tiles of china-ware, and the
+roofs and walls were of crystal; but he particularly fixed his eyes on
+four places a little raised above the rest of the floor, on each of which
+there were ten urns of porphyry stone. He fancied they were full of wine:
+Well, said he, that wine must needs be very old; I do not question but it
+is excellent. He went up to one of the urns, took off the cover, and,
+with no less joy than surprise, perceived it was full of pieces of gold.
+He searched all the forty, one after another, and found them full of the
+same coin, took out a handful, and carried it to the queen.
+
+That princess was as much amazed as can be imagined, when the king gave
+her an account of what he had seen. Oh! my son, said she, take heed that
+you do not lavish away all that treasure foolishly, as you have already
+done the royal treasure: let not your enemies have so much occasion to
+rejoice. No, madam, answered Zeyn, I will from henceforward live after
+such a manner as shall be pleasing to you.
+
+The queen desired the king her son to conduct her to that wonderful
+subterraneous place, which the late king her husband had made with such
+secrecy, that she had never heard the least account of it. Zeyn led her
+to the closet, down the marble stairs, and into the chamber where the
+urns were. She observed every thing with singular curiosity, and in a
+corner spied a little urn of the same sort of stone as the others. The
+prince had not before taken notice of it, but opening, found in it a
+golden key. My son, said the queen, the key certainly belongs to some
+other treasure; let us look all about; perhaps we may discover the use it
+is designed for.
+
+They viewed all the chamber with the utmost exactness, and at length
+found a key-hole in one of the pannels of the wall, and guessed it to be
+that the key belonged to. The king immediately tried, and as readily
+opened the door, which led into a chamber, in the midst of which were
+nine pedestals of massy gold, on eight of which stood as many statues,
+each of them made of one single diamond, and from them came such a
+brightness that the whole room was perfectly light.
+
+O Heavens! cried Zeyn, in a wonderful surprise, where could my father
+find such rarities? The ninth pedestal redoubled their amazement, for it
+was covered with a piece of white satin, on which were written these
+words: 'Dear son, it cost me much toil to get these statues: but though
+they are extraordinary beautiful, you must understand that there is a
+ninth in the world which surpasses them all: that alone is worth more
+than a thousand such as these. If you desire to be master of it, go to
+the city of Cairo in Egypt: one of my old slaves, whose name is Morabec,
+lives there; you will easily find him; the first person you shall meet
+will show you his house: go seek, and tell him all that has befallen you.
+He will know you to be my son, and he will conduct you to the place where
+that wonderful statue is, which you will get with safety.'
+
+The prince, having read those words, said to the queen, I will not be
+without that ninth statue; it must certainly be a very rare piece, since
+all these here are not of so great value together. I will set out
+speedily for Grand Cairo; nor do I believe, madam, that you will oppose
+my design. No, my son, answered the queen, I am not against it: you are
+certainly under the special protection of our great prophet; he will not
+suffer you to perish in this journey. Set out when you think fit; your
+viziers and I will take care of the government during your absence. The
+prince made ready his equipage, but would take only a small number of
+slaves with him.
+
+Nothing remarkable befell him by the way; but arriving at Cairo, he
+inquired for Morabec. The people told him he was one of the wealthiest
+inhabitants of the city; that he lived like a great lord, and that he
+kept open house, especially for strangers. Zeyn was conducted thither,
+knocked at the gate, which a slave opened, and said, What is your want?
+and who are you? I am a stranger, answered the prince; and, having heard
+much of lord Morabec's generosity, am come to take up my lodging with
+him. The slave desired Zeyn to stay a while, and went to acquaint his
+master, who ordered him to desire the stranger to walk in. The slave
+returned to the gate, and told the prince he was welcome.
+
+Zeyn went in, crossed a large court, and entered into a hall
+magnificently furnished, where Morabec expected him, and received him
+very courteously, returning thanks for the honour he did him in accepting
+of a lodging in his house. The prince, having answered his compliments,
+said to Morabec, I am son to the late king of Balsora, and my name is
+Zeyn Alasnam. The king, said Morabec, was formerly my master; but, my
+lord, I never knew of any children he had. What age are you of? I am
+twenty years old, answered the prince. How long is it since you left my
+father's court? Almost two and twenty years, replied Morabec. But how can
+you convince me that you are his son? My father, replied Zeyn, had a
+subterraneous place under his closet, in which I have found forty
+porphyry urns full of gold. And what more is there? said Morabec. There
+are, answered the prince, nine pedestals of massy gold, on eight whereof
+are eight diamond statues, and on the ninth is a piece of white satin, on
+which my father has written what I am to do to get another statue, more
+valuable than all those together. You know where the statue is; for it
+mentioned on the satin that you will conduct me to it.
+
+As soon as he had spoken these words, Morabec fell down at his feet, and
+kissing one of his hands several times, said, I bless God for having
+brought you hither: I know you to be the king of Balsora's son. If you
+will go to the palace where the wonderful statue is, I will conduct you;
+but you must first rest here a few days. This day I treat the great men
+of the court: we were at table when word was brought me of your being at
+the door. Will you vouchsafe to come and be merry with us? I shall be
+very glad, replied Zeyn, to be admitted to your feast. Morabec
+immediately led him into a dome where the company was, seated him at
+table, and served him on his knee. The great men of Cairo were surprised,
+and whispered to one another, Who is this stranger to whom Morabec pays
+so much respect?
+
+When they had dined, Morabec, directing his discourse to the company,
+said, Great men of Cairo, do not think much to see me serve this young
+stranger after this manner: be it known to you, that he is the son of the
+king of Balsora, my master. His father purchased me with his money, and
+died without making me free; so that I am still a slave, and consequently
+all I have of right belongs to this young prince, his sole heir. Here
+Zeyn interrupted him, saying, Morabec, I declare before all these lords,
+that I make you free from this moment, and that I renounce all right to
+your person, and all you possess. Consider what you would have me do more
+for you. Morabec then kissed the ground, and returned the prince most
+hearty thanks. Wine was then brought in, which they drank all the day,
+and towards evening presents were distributed among the guests, who then
+went away.
+
+The next day, Zeyn said to Morabec, I have taken rest enough: I came not
+to Cairo to take my pleasure; my design is to get the ninth statue: it is
+time for us to set out in search of it. Sir, said Morabec, I am ready to
+comply with your desires; but you know not what dangers you must
+encounter to gain the precious conquest. Whatsoever the danger may be,
+answered the prince, I am resolved to undertake it; I will either perish
+or succeed. All that happens in this world is by God's direction: do you
+but bear me company, and let your resolution be equal to mine.
+
+Morabec finding him resolved to set out, called his servants, and ordered
+them to make ready his equipage. Then the prince and he performed the
+ablution, or washing, and the prayer enjoined, which is called Farz; and,
+that done, they set out. By the way they took notice of abundance of
+strange and wonderful things, and travelled many days; at the end
+whereof, being come to a delicious place, they alighted from their
+horses. Then Morabec said to all the servants that attended them, Do you
+stay in this place, and take care of our equipage till we return. Next,
+he said to Zeyn, Now, sir, let us two go on by ourselves: we are near the
+dreadful place where the ninth statue is kept. You will stand in need of
+all your courage.
+
+They soon came to a lake; and Morabec sat down on the brink of it, saying
+to the prince, We must cross this sea. How can we cross it, answered
+Zeyn, when we have no boat? You will see one appear in a moment, replied
+Morabec: the enchanted boat of the king of the genii will come for us.
+But do not forget what I am going to say to you: you must observe a
+profound silence; do not speak to the waterman, though his figure seem
+ever so strange to you: whatsoever you observe, say nothing: for I tell
+you beforehand, that if you utter the least word when you are embarked,
+the boat will sink down. I shall take care to hold my peace, said the
+prince: you need only tell me what I am to do, and I will strictly
+observe it.
+
+Whilst they were talking, he spied on a sudden a boat in the lake, and it
+was made of red sanders. It had a mast of fine amber, and a blue satin
+flag. There was only one waterman in it, whose head was like an
+elephant's, and his body like a tiger's. When the boat was come up to the
+prince and Morabec, the monstrous waterman took them up one after another
+with his trunk, and put them into the boat, and then carried them over
+the lake in a moment. He then again took them up with his trunk, set them
+ashore, and immediately vanished with his boat.
+
+Now we may talk, said Morabec: the island we are on belongs to the king
+of the genii; there are no more such throughout the world. Look all about
+you, prince; can there be a more delightful place? It is certainly a
+lively representation of the charming place God has appointed for the
+faithful observers of our law. Behold the fields, adorned with all sorts
+of flowers and odoriferous plants: admire those fine trees, whose
+delicious fruit makes the branches hang down to the ground: enjoy the
+delight of those harmonious songs formed in the air by a thousand birds,
+of as many various sorts, unknown in other countries. Zeyn could never
+sufficiently admire the beauty of those things that were about him, and
+still found something new as he advanced farther into the island.
+
+At length they came before a palace all of fine emeralds, encompassed
+with a ditch, on the banks whereof, at certain distances, were planted
+such tall trees that they shaded the whole palace. Before the gate, which
+was of massy gold, was a bridge made of one single shell of a fish,
+though it was at least six fathoms long and three in breadth. At the head
+of the bridge stood a company of genii, of a prodigious height, who
+guarded the entrance into the castle with great clubs of china steel.
+
+Let us go no farther, said Morabec; these genii will beat our brains out;
+and if we would prevent their coming to us, we must perform a magical
+ceremony. He then drew out of a purse he had under his garment four long
+stripes of yellow taffety; one he put about his middle, and laid the
+other on his back, giving the other two to the prince, who did the like.
+Then Morabec laid on the ground two large table-cloths, on the edges
+whereof he scattered some precious stones, musk, and amber. Then he sat
+down on one of those cloths, and Zeyn on the other; and Morabec said to
+the prince, I will now, sir, conjure the king of the genii, who lives in
+the palace that is before us, that he may come peaceably to us. I confess
+I am somewhat uneasy about the reception he is like to give us. If our
+coming into this island is displeasing to him, he will appear in the
+shape of a dreadful monster; but if he approves of our design, he will
+come in the shape of a handsome man. As soon as he appears before us, you
+must rise and salute him, without going off your cloth; for you would
+certainly perish, should you stir off it. You may say to him, Sovereign
+lord of the genii, my father, who was your servant, has been taken away
+by the angel of death; I wish your majesty may protect me, as you always
+protected my father. If the king of the genii ask you what favour you
+desire of him, you must answer, Sir, I most humbly beg of you to give me
+the ninth statue.
+
+Morabec having thus instructed prince Zeyn, began his conjuration.
+Immediately their eyes were dazzled with a long flash of lightning, which
+was followed by a clap of thunder. The whole island was covered with a
+hideous darkness, a furious storm of wind blew, a dreadful cry was heard,
+the island felt a shock, and there was such an earthquake as that which
+Asrasyel is to cause on the day of judgment.
+
+Zeyn was somewhat startled, and began to look upon that noise as a very
+ill omen, when Morabec, who knew better than he what to think of it,
+began to smile, and said, Be not dismayed, my prince, all goes well. In
+short, that very moment the king of the genii appeared in the shape of a
+very handsome man; yet there was something of sternness in his air.
+
+As soon as prince Zeyn had made him the compliment he had been taught by
+Morabec, the king of the genii, smiling, answered, My son, I loved your
+father; and every time he came to pay me his respects, I presented him
+with a statue, which he carried away with him. I have no less kindness
+for you. I obliged your father, some days before he died, to write that
+which you read on the piece of white satin. I promised him to receive you
+under my protection, and to give you the ninth statue, which in beauty
+surpasses those you have already. I have begun to perform my promise to
+him. It was I whom you saw in a dream in the shape of an old man: I
+caused you to open the subterraneous place where the urns and the statues
+are: I have a great share in all that has befallen you, or rather am the
+occasion of it. I know the motive that brought you hither; and you shall
+obtain what you desire. Though I had not promised your father to give it,
+I would willingly grant it you; but you must first swear to me by all
+that is sacred, that you will return to this island, and that you will
+bring a maid that is in her fifteenth year, and who has never known man,
+nor desired to know any. She must also be perfectly beautiful, and you so
+much master of yourself, as not even to desire to enjoy her, as you are
+conducting her hither.
+
+Zeyn took the rash oath that was required of him. But, sir, said he, then
+suppose I should be so fortunate as to meet with such a maid as you
+require, how shall I know that I have found her? I own, answered the king
+of the genii smiling, that you might be mistaken in her mien: that
+knowledge is above the sons of Adam, and therefore I do not intend to
+depend upon your judgment in that particular; I will give you a
+looking-glass, which will be surer than your conjectures. When you shall
+have seen a maid fifteen years of age, perfectly beautiful, you shall
+only need to look into the glass, in which you shall see the maiden's
+representation. If she be chaste, the glass will remain clear and
+unsullied; but if, on the contrary, it sullies, that will be a certain
+sign that she has not been always undefiled, or at least that she has
+desired to cease being so. Do not forget the oath you have taken; be sure
+to keep it, as becomes a man of honour, otherwise I will take away your
+life, as much kindness as I have for you. Prince Zeyn Alasnam protested
+over again that he would faithfully keep his word.
+
+Then the king of the genii delivered to him a looking-glass, saying, My
+son, you may return when you please: there is the glass you are to make
+use of. Zeyn and Morabec took leave of the king of the genii, and went
+towards the lake. The waterman with the elephant's head brought his boat,
+and carried them over the lake as he had done before. They joined their
+servants, and returned with them again to Cairo.
+
+Prince Alasnam rested a few days at Morabec's house, and then said to
+him, Let us go to Bagdad, to seek a maiden for the king of the genii.
+Why, are we not at Grand Cairo? said Morabec: shall we not there find
+beautiful maidens enough? You are in the right, answered the prince; but
+how shall we do to find where they are? Do not trouble yourself about
+that, sir, answered Morabec; I know a very cunning old woman, whom I will
+intrust with that affair, and she will acquit herself well of it.
+
+Accordingly the old woman found means to show the prince a considerable
+number of beautiful maidens of fifteen years of age; but when he had
+viewed them, and came to consult his looking-glass, the fatal touchstone
+of their virtue, the glass always appeared sullied. All the maidens in
+the court and city, that were in their fifteenth year, underwent the
+trial one after another, and the glass never remained bright and clear.
+
+When they saw there were no chaste maids to be found in Cairo, they went
+away to Bagdad, where they hired a magnificent palace in one of the chief
+corners of the city, and began to live splendidly. They kept open house;
+and, after all people had eaten in the palace, the fragments were carried
+to the dervises, who, by that means, had convenient subsistence.
+
+There lived in that quarter an iman, whose name was Boubekir Mouesm, a
+vain, haughty, and envious person: he hated the rich, only because he was
+poor, his misery incensing him against his neighbour's prosperity. He
+heard talk of Zeyn Alasnam, and of the plenty his house afforded. This
+was enough for him to take an aversion to that prince; and it proceeded
+so far, that one day, after the evening prayer, in the mosque, he said to
+the people, Brethren, I have been told a stranger is come to live in our
+ward, who is at a prodigious expense every day. How can we tell but that
+this unknown person is some villain, who has committed a great robbery in
+his own country, and comes hither to make much of himself? Let us take
+heed, brethren; if the caliph should happen to be informed that such a
+man is in our ward, it is to be feared that he will punish us for not
+acquainting him with it: I declare, for my part, I wash my hands of it;
+and if any thing should happen amiss, it shall not lie at my door. The
+multitude, who were easily led away, unanimously cried to Boubekir, It is
+your business, doctor; do you acquaint the council with it. The iman went
+home well pleased, and drew up a memorial, resolving to present it to the
+caliph the next day.
+
+But Morabec, who had been at prayers, and heard all that was said by the
+doctor as well as the rest of the company, put five hundred pieces of
+gold into a handkerchief, made up with a parcel of several silks, and
+went away to Boubekir's house. The doctor asked him in a harsh tone what
+he wanted. Doctor, answered Morabec, with an obliging air, and at the
+same time putting into his hand the gold and the silk, I am your
+neighbour and your servant; I come from prince Zeyn, who lives in this
+ward. He has heard of your worth, and has ordered me to come and tell
+you, that he desires to be acquainted with you; and, in the mean time,
+desires you to accept of this small present. Boubekir was transported
+with joy, and answered Morabec thus: Be pleased, sir, to beg the prince's
+pardon for me: I am ashamed I have not yet been to see him, but I will
+atone for my fault, and wait on him to-morrow.
+
+Accordingly the next day, after morning prayer, he said to the people,
+You must understand, brethren, that no man is without some enemies. Envy
+pursues those chiefly who are very rich. The stranger I spoke to you
+about yesterday in the evening is no ill man, as some ill-designing
+persons would have persuaded me: he is a young prince, endued with all
+manner of virtues. It behoves us to take care how we go about to give any
+ill account of him to the caliph.
+
+Boubekir, having thus wiped off the ill impression he had the day before
+given the people concerning Zeyn, returned home, put on his best apparel,
+and went to visit that young prince, who gave him a courteous reception.
+After several compliments had passed on both sides, Boubekir said to the
+prince, Sir, do you design to stay long at Bagdad? I shall stay, answered
+Zeyn, till I can find a maid fifteen years of age, perfectly beautiful,
+and so chaste, that she has not only never known a man, but even never
+desired to know one. You seek after a rarity, replied the iman; and I
+should be apt to fear your search would prove unsuccessful, did I not
+know where there is a maid of that character. Her father was formerly
+vizier; but he has left the court, and lived a long time in a house out
+of the way, where he applies himself only to the education of his
+daughter. If you please, I will go ask her of him for you: I do not
+question but he will be overjoyed to have a son-in-law of your quality.
+Not so fast, said the prince; I shall not marry that maid before I know
+whether I like her. As for her beauty, I can depend on you: but what
+assurance can you give me in relation to her virtue? What assurance do
+you require? said Boubekir. I must see her face, answered Zeyn; that is
+enough for me to come to a resolution. You are skilful, then, in
+physiognomy? replied the iman, smiling. Well, come along with me to her
+father's: I will desire him to let you see her one moment in his
+presence.
+
+Mouesm conducted the prince to the vizier's, who, as soon as he was
+acquainted with the prince's birth and design, called his daughter, and
+made her take off her veil. Never had the young king of Balsora beheld
+such a perfect and powerful beauty. He stood amazed; and, since he could
+then try whether the maid was as chaste as fair, he pulled out his glass,
+which remained bright and unsullied.
+
+When he perceived he had at length found such a person as he desired, he
+entreated the vizier to grant her to him. Immediately the lady was sent
+for, and came; the contract was signed, and the marriage-prayer said.
+After which ceremony, Zeyn carried the vizier to his house, where he
+treated him magnificently, and gave him considerable presents. Next, he
+sent a prodigious quantity of jewels to the bride by Morabec, who brought
+her to his house, where the wedding was kept with all the pomp that
+became Zeyn's quality. When all the company was dismissed, Morabec said
+to his master, Let us be gone, sir; let us not stay any longer at Bagdad,
+but return to Cairo: remember the promise you made the king of the genii.
+Let us go, answered the prince; I must take care to perform it exactly:
+yet I must confess, my dear Morabec, that, if I obey the king of the
+genii, it is not without reluctancy. The person I have married is
+charming, and I am tempted to carry her to Balsora, and place her on the
+throne. Alas! sir, answered Morabec, take heed how you give way to your
+inclination. Make yourself master of your passions; and, whatsoever it
+costs you, be as good as your word to the king of the genii. Well then,
+Morabec, said the prince, do you take care to conceal that lovely maid
+from me: let her never appear in my sight. Perhaps I have already seen
+too much of her.
+
+Morabec having made all ready for their departure, they returned to
+Cairo, and thence set out for the island of the king of the genii. When
+they were there, the maid, who had performed the journey in a
+horse-litter, and whom the prince had never seen since his wedding-day,
+said to Morabec, Where are we? shall we be soon in the dominions of the
+prince my husband? Madam, answered Morabec, it is time to undeceive you.
+Prince Zeyn married you, only in order to get you from your father; he
+did not engage his faith to you to make you sovereign of Balsora, but to
+deliver you to the king of the genii, who has asked of him a virgin of
+your character. Hearing these words, she wept bitterly, which moved the
+prince and Morabec. Take pity on me, said she; I am a stranger: you will
+be accountable to God for your treachery towards me.
+
+Her tears and complaints were of no effect, for she was presented to the
+king of the genii, who, having gazed on her very earnestly, said to Zeyn,
+Prince, I am satisfied with your behaviour; the virgin you have brought
+me is beautiful and chaste, and I am pleased with the force you have put
+upon yourself to be as good as your word to me. Return to your dominions,
+and when you shall enter the subterraneous room where the eight statues
+are, you shall find the ninth which I promised you. I will go and make my
+genii carry it thither. Zeyn thanked the king, and returned to Cairo with
+Morabec, but did not stay long there; his impatience to see the ninth
+statue made him hasten his journey. However, he could not but often think
+of the young virgin he married; and, blaming himself for having deceived
+her, he looked upon himself as the cause and instrument of her
+misfortune. Alas! said he to himself, I have taken her from a tender
+father to sacrifice her to a genie. O incomparable beauty! you deserve a
+better fate.
+
+Prince Zeyn, disturbed with these thoughts, at length reached Balsora,
+where his subjects made extraordinary rejoicings for his return. He went
+directly to give his mother an account of his journey, who was in a
+rapture to hear he had obtained the ninth statue. Let us go, my son, said
+she, let us go and see it; for it is certainly in the chamber under
+ground, since the king of the genii told you you should find it there.
+The young king and his mother, being both impatient to see that wonderful
+statue, went down into the subterraneous place, and into the room of the
+statues: but how great was their surprise, when, instead of a statue of
+diamonds, they spied on the ninth pedestal a most beautiful virgin, whom
+the prince knew to be the same he had conducted into the island of the
+genii! Prince, said the young maid, you are amazed to see me here: you
+expected to have found something more precious than I; and I question not
+but that you now repent having taken so much trouble: you expected a
+better reward. Madam, answered Zeyn, Heaven is my witness, that I more
+than once thought to have broke my word with the king of the genii, to
+keep you to myself. Whatsoever the value of a diamond statue may be, is
+it worth the satisfaction of enjoying you? I love you above all the
+diamonds and wealth in the world.
+
+Just as he had done speaking these words, a clap of thunder was heard,
+which made that subterraneous place shake. Zeyn's mother was frightened;
+but the king of the genii, immediately appearing, dispelled her dread.
+Madam, said he to her, I protect and love your son: I had a mind to try
+whether, at his age, he could subdue his passions. I know the charms of
+this young lady have wrought on him, and that he did not punctually keep
+the promise he had made me, not to desire to enjoy her; but I am too well
+acquainted with the frailty of the human race. This is the ninth statue I
+designed for him; it is more rare and precious than the others. Live,
+said he, (directing his discourse to the young prince,) live happy, Zeyn,
+with this young lady, who is your wife; and, if you would have her true
+and constant to you, love her always, and love her alone. Give her no
+rival, and I will answer for her fidelity. Having spoken these words, the
+king of the genii vanished; and Zeyn, ravished with that young lady,
+consummated the marriage the same day, and caused her to be proclaimed
+queen of Balsora. Those two ever faithful and loving consorts lived
+together many years.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+                       CODADAD AND HIS BROTHERS.
+
+
+Those who have written the history of the kingdom of Diarbekir inform us,
+that there formerly reigned a most magnificent king in the city of
+Harran, who loved his subjects, and was equally beloved by them. He was
+endued with all virtues, and wanted nothing to complete his happiness but
+an heir. Though he had the finest women in the world in his seraglio, yet
+he was destitute of children. He continually prayed to Heaven for them;
+and one night, in his sleep, a comely person, or rather a prophet,
+appeared to him, and said, Your prayers are heard; you have obtained what
+you desired: rise as soon as you awake, go to your prayers, and make two
+genuflections: then walk into the garden of your palace, call your
+gardener, and bid him bring you a pomegranate; eat as many of the seeds
+as you think fit, and your wishes shall be accomplished.
+
+The king, calling to mind his dream when he awaked, returned thanks to
+Heaven, got up, and fell to his prayers, made two genuflections, and then
+went down into his garden, where he took fifty pomegranate-seeds, which
+he counted, and ate them. He had fifty wives who shared in his bed; they
+all proved with child; but there was one called Pirouze, who did not
+appear to be big-bellied. He took an aversion to that lady, and would
+have her put to death. Her barrenness, said he, is a certain token that
+Heaven does not judge Pirouze worthy to bear a prince; it is my duty to
+deliver the world from an object that is odious to the Lord. He had taken
+this cruel resolution, but his vizier diverted him from putting it in
+execution; representing to him, that all women were not of the same
+constitution, and that it was not impossible but that Pirouze might be
+with child, though it did not appear. Well, answered the king, let her
+live; but let her depart my court, for I cannot endure her. Your majesty,
+replied the vizier, may send her to prince Samer, your cousin. The king
+approved of his advice: he sent Pirouze to Samaria with a letter, in
+which he ordered his cousin to treat her well; and, in case she proved
+with child, to give him notice of her being brought to bed.
+
+No sooner was Pirouze arrived in that country, than it appeared that she
+was with child; and at length she was delivered of a most beautiful
+prince. The prince of Samaria wrote immediately to the king of Harran, to
+acquaint him with the birth of that son, and to congratulate him on that
+occasion. The king was much rejoiced at it, and answered prince Samer as
+follows: 'Cousin, all my other wives have also been delivered of each a
+prince; so that we have a great number of children here. I desire you to
+breed up that of Pirouze, to give him the name of Codadad, and to send
+him to me when I shall give you notice.'
+
+The prince of Samaria spared nothing that might improve the education of
+his nephew. He taught him to ride, shoot with a bow, and all the other
+things becoming the son of a king; so that Codadad, at eighteen years of
+age, was looked upon as a prodigy. This young prince, being inspired with
+a courage worthy his birth, said one day to his mother, Madam, I begin to
+grow weary of Samaria: I find myself inclined to gain renown; give me
+leave to go seek it amidst the perils of war. My father, the king of
+Harran, has many enemies. Some neighbouring princes make it their
+business to disturb him. Why does he not call me to his assistance? Why
+does he leave me here so long, like an infant? Must I spend my life here
+in sloth, when all my brothers have the good fortune to be fighting by
+his side? My son, answered Pirouze, I am no less impatient to have your
+name become famous; I could wish you had already signalized yourself
+against your father's enemies; but we must wait till he requires it. No,
+madam, replied Codadad, I have already waited but too long. I long to see
+the king, and am tempted to go to offer him my service as a young
+gentleman unknown. No doubt but he will accept of it, and I will not
+discover myself till I have performed a thousand glorious actions: I
+design to merit his esteem before he knows who I am. Pirouze approved of
+his generous resolution; and Codadad one day departed from Samaria, as if
+he had been going a-hunting, without acquainting prince Samer, for fear
+he should thwart his design.
+
+He was mounted on a white horse, who had a gold bit and shoes; his
+housing was of blue satin, embroidered with pearls; the hilt of his
+scimitar was of one entire diamond; and the scabbard of sandal-wood, all
+adorned with emeralds and rubies; and on his shoulder hung his bow and
+quiver. In this equipage, which added much to his good mien, he arrived
+at the city of Harran, and soon found means to offer his service to the
+king; who, being charmed with his beauty and lovely presence, and perhaps
+inspired by natural sympathy, gave him a favourable reception, and asked
+his name and quality. Sir, answered Codadad, I am son to an emir of Grand
+Cairo: an inclination to travel has made me quit my country; and,
+understanding, in my passage through your dominions, that you were
+engaged in war with some of your neighbours, I am come to your court to
+offer your majesty my service. The king showed him extraordinary
+kindness, and employed him in his troops.
+
+That young prince soon signalized his bravery. He gained the esteem of
+the officers, and was admired by the soldiers; and, having no less wit
+than courage, he so far advanced himself in the king's affection as to
+become his favourite. All the ministers and other courtiers daily
+resorted to Codadad, and were so eager to purchase his friendship that
+they neglected the king's other sons. Those princes could not but resent
+it; and, imputing it to the stranger, they all conceived an implacable
+hatred against him; but the king's affection daily increasing, he was
+never weary of giving him fresh testimonies of it. He always desired he
+should be near him: he admired his discourse, ever full of wit and
+discretion; and, to show how much he was satisfied with his wisdom, he
+gave him the tuition of the other princes, though he was of the same age
+as they. Thus Codadad was made governor of his brothers; which only
+served to heighten their hatred. Is it come to this, said they, that the
+king, not satisfied with loving a stranger more than us, will have him to
+be our tutor, and not allow us to do any thing without his leave? This is
+not to be endured: we must rid ourselves of this stranger. Let us go
+together, said one of them, and dispatch him. No, no, answered another;
+we had better be cautious how we sacrifice ourselves: his death would
+render us odious to the king, who, in return would declare us all unfit
+to reign. Let us destroy the stranger artfully. We will ask leave to go
+a-hunting; and, when far from the palace, we will proceed to some other
+city, and stay there some time. The king will wonder at our absence; and,
+perceiving we do not return, he may perhaps put the stranger to death, or
+at least will turn him out of the court, for suffering us to leave the
+palace.
+
+All the princes applauded this artifice, went together to Codadad, and
+desired him to give them leave to go and take the diversion of hunting,
+promising to return the same day. Pirouze's son was taken in the snare,
+and granted the leave his brothers desired. They went, but returned not.
+They had been three days absent, when the king asked Codadad where the
+princes were, for it was long since he had seen them. Sir, answered
+Codadad, they have been gone a-hunting these three days; but they
+promised me they would return sooner. The king grew uneasy, and much more
+when he perceived the princes did not return the next day. This provoked
+his passion: Indiscreet stranger, said he to Codadad, why did you let my
+sons go without bearing them company? Is it thus you discharge the trust
+I have reposed in you? Go seek them immediately, or you are a dead man.
+
+These words pierced Pirouze's unfortunate son to the heart. He armed
+himself, went out of the city, and, like a shepherd who had lost his
+flock, searched all the country for his brothers, inquiring at every
+village whether they had been seen; and, hearing no news of them, was
+grieved to the heart. Alas! my brothers, said he, what is become of you?
+Are you perhaps fallen into the hands of our enemies? Am I come to the
+court of Harran to be the occasion of giving the king so much trouble? He
+was altogether comfortless for having given the princes leave to go
+a-hunting, or for not having borne them company.
+
+After some days spent in a fruitless search, he arrived in a plain of
+prodigious extent, in the midst whereof was a palace all of black marble.
+He drew near, and at one of the windows spied a most beautiful lady, but
+set off with no other ornament than her own beauty; for her hair was
+dishevelled, her garments ragged, and on her countenance appeared all the
+tokens of the greatest affliction. As soon as she saw Codadad, and judged
+he might hear her, she directed her discourse to him, saying, Alas! young
+man, get away from this fatal place, or else you will soon fall into the
+hands of the monster that inhabits it. A black who feeds only on human
+blood, resides in this palace. He seizes all persons whom their ill fate
+conducts to this plain, and shuts them up in his dark dungeons, whence
+they are never released but to be devoured by him.
+
+Madam, answered Codadad, tell me who you are, and be not concerned for
+any more. I am a maid of quality, of Grand Cairo, replied the lady: I was
+passing by this castle yesterday, in my way to Bagdad, and met with the
+black, who killed all my servants, and brought me hither. I wish I had
+nothing but death to fear; but, to add to my calamity, this monster would
+persuade me to love him; and, in case I do not yield to-morrow to his
+brutality, I must expect the utmost violence. I tell you once more, added
+she, make your escape: the black will soon return: he is gone out to
+pursue some travellers he spied at a distance on the plain. Lose no time;
+nay, I know not whether a speedy flight will deliver you from him.
+
+She had scarce done speaking these words before the black appeared. He
+was a man of a monstrous bulk, and of a dreadful aspect, mounted on a
+mighty Tartar horse, and wore such a large and heavy scimitar, that none
+but he could make use of it. The prince, seeing him, was amazed at his
+monstrous mien, directed his prayers to Heaven to assist him, then drew
+his scimitar, and stood still to expect the black; who, despising so
+inconsiderable an enemy, called to him to yield himself with engaging
+words; but Codadad, by his behaviour, gave him to understand that he was
+resolved to defend his life; for he drew near, and gave him a great cut
+on the knee. The black, feeling himself wounded, gave such a dreadful
+shriek as made all the plain resound. He grew enraged, foamed at the
+mouth, and raising himself on his stirrups, made at Codadad with his
+dreadful scimitar. The stroke was so violent, that no more would have
+been required to put an end to the prince, had not he, by a sudden spring
+he made his horse take, avoided it. The scimitar made a mighty hissing in
+the air; but, before the black could have leisure to second the blow,
+Codadad let fall one on his right arm with such fury, that he cut it off.
+The dreadful scimitar fell, with the hand that held it; and the black,
+yielding under the violence of the stroke, lost his stirrups, and made
+the earth quake with his mighty fall. The prince alighted at the same
+time, and chopped off his enemy's head. Just then the lady, who had been
+a spectator of the combat, and was still offering up her vows to Heaven
+for that young hero whom she admired, gave a shriek for joy, and said to
+Codadad, Prince, (for the mighty victory you have obtained convinces me
+that you are of no ordinary extraction,) finish the work you have begun:
+the black has the keys of this castle: take them, and deliver me out of
+prison. The prince searched the wretch's pockets, as he lay stretched out
+on the ground, and found several keys.
+
+He opened the first door, and went into a court, where he met the lady
+coming to meet him. She would have cast herself at his feet, in token of
+her gratitude; but he would not permit her. She commended his valour, and
+extolled him above all the heroes in the world. He returned her
+compliments; and she appearing still more lovely to him near at hand than
+at a distance, I know not whether she was more joyful to be delivered
+from the desperate danger she had been in, than he for having done so
+considerable a service to so beautiful a person.
+
+Their discourse was interrupted by dismal cries and groans. What is this
+I hear? said Codadad: whence come those miserable cries which pierce our
+ears? Sir, said the lady to him, pointing to a little door there was in
+the court, they come from thence. There are I know not how many wretched
+persons, whom fate has made to fall into the hands of the black. They are
+all chained; and that monster drew out one every day to be devoured.
+
+It is an addition to my joy, answered the young prince, to understand
+that my victory will save the lives of those unfortunate persons. Come
+along with me, madam, to partake in the satisfaction of giving them their
+liberty. You may guess by yourself how welcome we shall be to them.
+Having so said, they advanced towards the door of the dungeon; and the
+nearer they drew, the more distinctly they heard the complaints of the
+prisoners. Codadad pitying them, and impatient to put an end to their
+sufferings, put one of the keys into the key-hole, which proved not to be
+the right one at first, and therefore he took another; at which noise all
+those unfortunate creatures, concluding it was the black, who came,
+according to custom, to bring them some meat, and at the same time to
+seize one of them to eat himself, redoubled their cries and groans.
+Lamentable voices were heard, which sounded as if they had come from the
+centre of the earth.
+
+In the mean time, the prince had opened the door, and went down a very
+steep stair-case into a large and deep vault, which received some small
+light from a little window, and in which there were above a hundred
+persons bound to stakes, and their hands tied. Unfortunate travellers,
+said he to them, wretched victims, who only expected the moment of an
+approaching cruel death, give thanks to Heaven, which has this day
+delivered you by my means. I have slain the black by whom you were to be
+devoured, and am come to knock off your irons. The prisoners hearing
+these words, all together gave a shout, occasioned by joy and surprise.
+Codadad and the lady began to unbind them; and, as soon as any of them
+were loose, they helped to take off the fetters from the rest; so that in
+a short time they were all at liberty.
+
+They then kneeled down, and, having returned thanks to Codadad for what
+he had done for them, went out of the dungeon; and when they were come
+into the court, how surprising it was for the prince to see among the
+prisoners those he was in search of, and almost out of hopes to find!
+Princes, cried he, am I not deceived? is it not you I behold? May I
+flatter myself that it will be in my power to restore you to the king
+your father, who is inconsolable for the loss of you? But will he not
+have some one to lament? Are you all here alive? Alas! the death of one
+of you will suffice to damp all the joy I conceive for having delivered
+you.
+
+The forty-nine princes all made themselves known to Codadad, who embraced
+them one after another, and told them how uneasy their father was on
+account of their absence. They gave their deliverer all the commendations
+he deserved, as did the other prisoners, who could not find words
+expressive enough to declare the gratitude they were sensible of. Next,
+Codadad, with them, took a view of the whole castle, where there was
+immense wealth; curious silks, gold brocades, Persian carpets, China
+satins, and an infinite quantity of other goods, which the black had
+taken from the caravans he had plundered, a considerable part whereof
+belonged to the prisoners Codadad had then set free. Every man knew and
+reclaimed what belonged to him. The prince restored them their own, and
+divided the rest of the merchandise among them. Then he said to them, How
+will you do to carry away your goods? we are here in a desert place, and
+there is no likelihood of getting your horses. Sir, answered one of the
+prisoners, the black robbed us of our camels as well as our goods, and
+perhaps they may be in the stables of this castle. That is not unlikely,
+replied Codadad; let us see after it. Accordingly they went to the
+stables, where they not only found the camels, but also the horses
+belonging to the king of Harran's sons. There were some black slaves in
+the stables; who, seeing all the prisoners released, and guessing thereby
+that their master had been killed, fled through by-ways well known to
+them. Nobody minded to pursue them. All the merchants, overjoyed that
+they had recovered their goods and camels, together with their liberty,
+thought of nothing but prosecuting their journey; but first repeated
+their thanks to their deliverer.
+
+When they were gone, Codadad, directing his discourse to the lady, said,
+To what place, madam, do you desire to go? whither did you design when
+you were seized by the black? I intend to bear you company to the place
+you shall appoint, and I do not question but that all these princes will
+do the same. The king of Harran's sons protested to the lady they would
+not leave her till she was restored to her friends.
+
+Princes, said she, I am of a country too remote from hence: and, besides
+that it would be an imposition on your generosity to oblige you to travel
+so far, I must own to you that I am come from my native country for ever.
+I told you a while ago that I was a lady of Grand Cairo; but since you
+have shown me so much favour, and I am so highly obliged to you, added
+she, looking upon Codadad, I should be much in the wrong in concealing
+the truth from you. I am a king's daughter; an usurper has possessed
+himself of my father's throne after having murdered him, and I have been
+forced to fly to save my life.
+
+Then Codadad and his brothers desired the princess to tell them her
+story, assuring her they were highly concerned at her misfortunes, and
+fully disposed to spare for nothing that might contribute towards
+rendering her more happy. After thanks returned for their fresh
+protestations of readiness to serve her, she could not refuse satisfying
+their curiosity, and began the recital of her adventures in the following
+manner.
+
+
+
+
+                   STORY OF THE PRINCESS OF DERYABAR.
+
+
+There is, in a certain island, a great city called Deryabar. It has been
+long governed by a potent, magnificent, and virtuous king. That prince
+had no children, which was the only thing wanting to make him happy. He
+continually addressed his prayers to Heaven; but Heaven granted his
+requests by halves; for the queen his wife, after a long expectation,
+brought forth a daughter.
+
+I am the unfortunate princess. My father was rather troubled than pleased
+at my birth; but he submitted to the will of God, and caused me to be
+educated with all possible care, being resolved, since he had no son, to
+teach me the art of ruling, that I might supply his place after his
+death.
+
+One day, when he was taking the diversion of hunting, he spied a wild
+ass, which he chased, lost his company, and was carried away so far in
+that heat, as to ride on till night, without reflecting that he was quite
+out of the way. He then alighted, and sat down at the edge of a wood,
+into which he had observed the ass had taken. No sooner was the day shut
+in, than he discovered a light among the trees, which made him conclude
+that he was not far from some village: he rejoiced at it, hoping that he
+might pass the night there, and find some person to send to his followers
+to acquaint them where he was; and accordingly he got up and walked
+towards the light, which served to guide him.
+
+He soon found he had been deceived, that light being no other than a fire
+lighted in a hut: however, he drew near, and with amazement beheld a
+great black, or rather a dreadful giant, sitting on a sofa. Before the
+monster was a great pitcher of wine, and he was roasting a bullock he had
+newly killed. Sometimes he drank out of the pitcher, and then cut slices
+off the bullock and ate them. But that which most drew the king my
+father's attention was a beautiful woman he saw in the hut. She seemed to
+be overwhelmed with grief; her hands were bound, and at her feet was a
+small child, about two or three years old, who, as if he was sensible of
+his mother's misfortunes, continually wept, and rent the air with cries.
+
+My father being moved with that object of pity, thought at first to have
+gone into the hut and attack the giant; but considering it would be an
+unequal combat, he stopped, and resolved, since he had not strength
+enough to prevail by open force, to use art.
+
+In the mean time the giant, having emptied the pitcher and devoured above
+half the bullock, turned to the woman, and said, Beautiful princess, why
+do you oblige me by your obstinacy to treat you with severity? It is in
+your own power to be happy. You need only to resolve to love and be true
+to me, and I shall express my affection to you. Thou hideous satyr,
+answered the lady, never expect that time should wear away the aversion I
+have for you. Thou wilt ever be a monster in my eyes. To these words she
+added so many reproaches, that the giant grew enraged. This is too much,
+cried he, in a furious tone; my love undervalued is turned into rage.
+Your hatred has at last caused mine; I find it prevails above my desires,
+and that I now wish your death rather than enjoyment. Having spoken these
+words, he took that wretched lady by the hair, held her up with one hand
+in the air, and drawing his scimitar with the other, was just going to
+strike off her head, when the king my father let fly an arrow, which
+pierced the giant's breast, so that he staggered and dropped down dead.
+
+My father entered the hut, unbound the lady's hands, asked her who she
+was, and how she came thither. Sir, said she, there are some families of
+Saracens along the sea-coast, who live under a prince who is my husband;
+this giant you have killed was one of his principal officers. The wretch
+fell desperately in love with me, but took special care to conceal it,
+till he could put in execution the designs he had laid of stealing me
+away. Fortune oftener favours wicked designs than the virtuous. The giant
+one day surprised me and my child in a by-place. He seized us both; and,
+to disappoint the search he well knew my husband would cause to be made
+on account of this rape, he removed far from the country inhabited by
+those Saracens, and brought us into this wood, where he has kept me some
+days. As deplorable as my condition is, it is still a great satisfaction
+to me to think that the giant, though so brutal and amorous, never used
+force to obtain that which I always refused to his entreaties: not but
+that he has threatened me a hundred times that he would have recourse to
+the worst of extremities, in case he could not otherwise prevail upon me;
+and, I must confess to you, that a while ago, when I provoked his anger
+by my words, I was less concerned for my life than for my honour.
+
+This, sir, said the prince of the Saracens' wife, is the faithful account
+of my misfortunes, and I do not question but that you will think me
+worthy enough of your compassion, not to repent your having so generously
+relieved me. Madam, answered my father, be assured your troubles have
+moved me, and I will do all that shall be in my power to make you happy
+again. To-morrow, as soon as the day appears, we will go out of this
+wood, and endeavour to fall into the road which leads to the great city
+of Deryabar, of which I am sovereign; and, if you think fit, you shall be
+entertained in my palace, till the prince your husband shall come to
+reclaim you.
+
+The Saracen lady accepted the offer, and the next day followed the king
+my father, who found all his retinue upon the skirts of the wood, they
+having spent the night in searching after, and being very uneasy for that
+they could not find him. They were no less joyful to meet their king,
+than amazed to see him with a lady whose beauty surprised them. He told
+them how he had found her, and the danger he had run in drawing near to
+the hut, where he must certainly have lost his life had the giant espied
+him. One of his servants took up the lady behind him, and another carried
+the child.
+
+Thus they arrived at the king my father's palace, who assigned the
+beautiful Saracen lady an apartment, and caused the child to be carefully
+educated. The lady was sensible of the king's goodness to her, and
+expressed as much gratitude as he could desire. She had at first appeared
+very uneasy and impatient, on account that her husband did not reclaim
+her; but by degrees she shook off that uneasiness: the respect my father
+paid her dispelled her impatience; and I am of opinion she would at last
+have blamed fortune more for restoring her to her kindred than she did
+for removing her from them.
+
+In the mean time, the lady's son grew up; he was very handsome; and not
+wanting wit, found the way to please the king my father, who had a great
+kindness for him. All the courtiers perceived it, and guessed that young
+man might in the end be my husband. Upon this conceit, and looking on him
+already as heir to the crown, they made their court to him, and every man
+endeavoured to gain his favour. He soon saw into their designs, grew
+conceited of himself, and, forgetting the distance there was between our
+conditions, flattered himself with the hopes that my father was fond
+enough of him to prefer him before all the princes in the world. Nay, he
+went farther; for the king not answering his expectation, in offering me
+to him as soon as he could have wished, he had the boldness to ask me of
+him. Whatsoever punishment his insolence deserved, my father was
+satisfied with telling him that he had other thoughts in relation to me,
+and showed him no farther dislike. The youth was incensed at this
+refusal; the vain fellow resented the contempt, as if he had asked some
+maid of indifferent extraction, or as if his birth had been equal to
+mine. Nor was he so satisfied; but resolved to be revenged on the king;
+and, with unparalleled ingratitude, conspired against him. In short, he
+murdered him, and caused himself to be proclaimed king of Deryabar, by a
+great number of malcontents whom he supported. The first thing he did,
+after ridding himself of my father, was to come into my apartment with a
+great train of the conspirators. His design was, either to take my life
+or oblige me to marry him. While he was busy murdering my father, the
+grand vizier, who had been always loyal to his master, came to carry me
+away from the palace, and secured me in a friend's house, till a vessel
+he had provided was ready to sail. I then left the island, attended only
+by a governess and that generous minister, who chose rather to follow his
+master's daughter, and to partake of her misfortunes, than to submit to a
+tyrant.
+
+The grand vizier designed to carry me to the courts of the neighbouring
+kings, to implore their assistance, and excite them to revenge my
+father's death; but Heaven did not give me a blessing to that resolution
+we thought so just. When we had been but a few days at sea, there arose
+such a furious storm, that, in spite of all the mariners' art, our
+vessel, carried away by the violence of the winds and waves, was dashed
+in pieces against a rock. I will not spend time in describing our
+shipwreck. I can but faintly represent to you how my governess, the grand
+vizier, and all that attended me, were swallowed up by the sea. The dread
+I was seized with did not permit me to observe the horror of our
+condition. In fine, I lost my senses; and whether I was thrown upon the
+coast upon any part of the wreck of our ship, or whether Heaven, which
+reserved me for other misfortunes, wrought a miracle in my deliverance, I
+found myself on shore when my senses returned to me.
+
+Misfortunes very often make us forget our duty: instead of returning
+thanks to God for so singular a mercy shown me, I only lifted up my eyes
+to heaven, to complain because I had been saved. I was so far from
+bewailing the vizier and my governess, that I envied their fate; and, my
+dreadful imaginations by degrees prevailing above my reason, I resolved
+to cast myself into the sea. I was upon the point of doing so, when I
+heard behind me a great noise of men and horses. I looked about to see
+what it might be, and spied several armed horsemen, among whom was one
+mounted on an Arabian horse. He had on a garment embroidered with silver,
+a girdle set with precious stones, and a crown of gold on his head.
+Though his habit had not convinced me that he was the chief of the
+company, I should have judged it by the air of grandeur which appeared in
+his person. He was a young man extraordinarily finely shaped, and
+perfectly beautiful. Being surprised to see a young lady alone in that
+place, he sent some of his officers to ask who I was. All my answer was
+weeping. The shore being covered with the wreck of our ship, they
+concluded some vessel had been cast away there, and that I was certainly
+some person that had saved my life. This conjecture, and my inconsolable
+condition, excited the curiosity of those officers, who began to ask me a
+thousand questions, with assurances that their king was a generous
+prince, and that I should receive all comfort in his court.
+
+The king, impatient to know who I was, grew weary of expecting the return
+of his officers, and drew near to me. He gazed on me very earnestly, and,
+observing that I did not give over weeping and afflicting myself, without
+being able to return an answer to their questions, he forbade them
+troubling me any more; and, directing his discourse to me, said, Madam, I
+conjure you to moderate your excessive affliction. Though Heaven in its
+wrath has laid this calamity upon you, yet it does not behove you to
+despair. I beseech you, show more courage: fortune, which has hitherto
+persecuted you, is inconstant, and may soon change. I dare assure you,
+that, if your misfortunes are capable of receiving any comfort, you shall
+find it in my dominions. My palace is at your service: you shall live
+with the queen my mother, who will endeavour by her kindness to ease your
+affliction. I know not as yet who you are; but I find I am already
+concerned for you.
+
+I thanked the young king for his great goodness towards me, accepted of
+the obliging offers he made me; and, to convince him that I was not
+unworthy of him, told him my condition. I described to him the insolence
+of the young Saracen, and found it needless to do any more than barely to
+recount my misfortunes, to excite compassion in him, and all his officers
+who heard me. When I had done speaking, the prince began again, assuring
+me that he was highly concerned at my misfortune. Then he conducted me to
+his palace, and presented me to the queen his mother, to whom I was
+obliged again to repeat my misfortunes, and to renew my tears. The queen
+seemed very sensible of my troubles, and took an extraordinary liking to
+me. On the other hand the king her son fell desperately in love with me,
+and soon offered me his person and his crown. I was still so entirely
+taken up with the thoughts of my calamities, that the prince, though so
+lovely a person, did not make so great an impression on me as he might
+have done at another time. However, gratitude prevailing on me, I did not
+refuse to make him happy; and our wedding was kept with all imaginable
+grandeur.
+
+At the time when all the people were taken up with the celebration of
+their sovereign's nuptials, a neighbouring prince, who was his enemy,
+made a descent by night on the island with a great number of troops. That
+formidable enemy was the king Zanguebar: he surprised those people, and
+cut to pieces all the king my husband's subjects. We two escaped very
+narrowly, for he had already entered the palace with some of his
+followers; but we found means to slip away, and got to the sea-coast,
+where we entered a fishing-boat we had the good fortune to meet with. Two
+days we were driven about by the winds, without knowing what would become
+of us. The third day, we spied a vessel making towards us with all her
+sails aboard. We rejoiced at first, believing it had been a merchant-ship
+which might take us aboard; but were more astonished than I can express,
+when, as it drew near, we saw ten or twelve armed pirates appear on the
+deck. Being come up to us, five or six of them leaped into our boat,
+seized us, bound the prince, and conveyed us into their ship, where they
+immediately took off my veil. Instead of casting lots, every one of them
+claimed the preference, and me as his right. The controversy grew hot,
+and they came to blows about me, and fought like so many madmen. The deck
+was soon covered with dead bodies; and, in short, they were all killed
+but one, who, being left sole possessor of me, said, You are mine; I will
+carry you to Grand Cairo, to deliver you to a friend of mine, to whom I
+have promised a beautiful slave. But who, added he, looking upon the king
+my husband, is that man? What relation is he to you? Are you allied by
+blood or love? Sir, answered I, he is my husband. If so, replied the
+pirate, in pity I must rid myself of him; it would be too great an
+affliction to him to see you in my friend's arms. Having spoken these
+words, he took up the unhappy prince, who was bound, and threw him into
+the sea, notwithstanding all my endeavours to hinder him.
+
+I shrieked in a dreadful manner at the sight of that cruel action, and
+had certainly cast myself headlong into the sea, had not the pirate held
+me. He plainly saw that was my design, and therefore bound me fast to the
+main-mast, and then hoisting sail, made towards the land, and there got
+ashore. He unbound and led me to a little town, where he bought camels,
+tents, and slaves, and then set out for Grand Cairo; designing, as he
+still said, to present me to his friend, according to his promise.
+
+We had been several days upon the road, when, as we were crossing this
+plain yesterday, we spied the black who inhabited this castle. At a
+distance, we took him for a tower; and, when near us, could scarce
+believe him to be a man. He drew his vast scimitar, and summoned the
+pirate to yield himself up a prisoner, with all his slaves, and the lady
+he was conducting. The pirate was daring; and, being seconded by all his
+slaves, who promised to stand by him, he attacked the black. The fight
+lasted a considerable time; but at length the pirate fell under the
+enemy's deadly blows, as did all his slaves, who chose rather to die than
+forsake him. The black then conducted me to the castle, whither he also
+brought the pirate's body, which he did eat that night for his supper.
+After that inhuman meal, perceiving that I ceased not weeping, he said to
+me, Young lady, prepare to satisfy my desires, rather than continue thus
+to afflict yourself. Make a virtue of necessity, and comply: I give you
+till to-morrow to consider. Let me then find you comforted for all your
+misfortunes, and overjoyed for having been reserved for my bed. Having
+spoken these words, he conducted me to a chamber, and went to bed in his
+own, after locking up all the castle-doors. He opened them this morning,
+and presently locked them again, to pursue some travellers he perceived
+at a distance; but it is likely they made their escape, since he was
+coming alone, and without any booty, when you attacked him.
+
+As soon as the princess had put an end to the recital of her adventures,
+Codadad declared to her that he was highly concerned at her misfortunes.
+But, madam, added he, it shall be your own fault if you do not live at
+ease for the future: the king of Harran's sons offer you a safe retreat
+in the court of the king their father; be pleased to accept of it. You
+will be there cherished by that prince, and respected by all other
+persons; and, if you do not disdain the person of your deliverer, permit
+me to make you a present of it, and to marry you before all these
+princes: let them be witnesses to our contract. The princess consented to
+it, and the marriage was concluded that very day in the castle, where
+they found all sorts of provisions. The kitchens were full of flesh and
+other eatables, which the black used to feed on when he was weary of
+feeding on human bodies. There was also a variety of fruits, very
+excellent in their kinds, and, to complete their satisfaction, abundance
+of delicious wine and other liquors.
+
+They all sat down to table; and, after having eaten and drunk
+plentifully, they took along with them the rest of the provisions, and
+set out for the king of Harran's court. They travelled several days,
+encamping in the pleasantest places they could find; and they were within
+one day's journey of Harran, when, having halted, and drunk all their
+wine, as being under no longer concern to make it hold out, Codadad
+directed his discourse to all his company thus: Princes, I have too long
+concealed from you who I am. Behold your brother Codadad! I have received
+my being, as well as you, of the king of Harran. The prince of Samaria
+has bred me, and the princess Pirouze is my mother. Madam, added he,
+applying himself to the princess of Deryabar, do you also forgive me, for
+having concealed my birth from you. Perhaps, by discovering it sooner, I
+might have prevented some disagreeable reflections which may have been
+occasioned by a match you may have thought unequal. No, sir, answered the
+princess; the opinion I at first conceived of you heightened every
+moment, and you did not stand in need of the extraction you now discover,
+to make me happy.
+
+The princes congratulated Codadad on his birth, and expressed much
+satisfaction at the knowledge of it: but, in reality, instead of
+rejoicing, their hatred for so amiable a brother was redoubled. They met
+together at night in a by-place, whilst Codadad and the princess his wife
+lay fast asleep in their tent. Those ungrateful, envious brothers,
+forgetting that, had it not been for the brave son of Pirouze, they must
+have been devoured by the black, agreed among themselves to murder him.
+We have no other course to choose, said one of those wicked brethren; for
+the moment our father shall come to understand that this stranger he is
+already so fond of is our brother, and that he alone has been able to
+destroy a giant whom we could not all of us together conquer, he will
+bestow all his favour and a thousand praises on him, and declare him his
+heir, in spite of all his brothers, who will be obliged to obey and fall
+down before him. Besides these, he added many other words, which made
+such an impression on their jealous minds, that they immediately repaired
+to Codadad, then fast asleep, stabbed him in a thousand places, and
+leaving him for dead in the arms of the princess of Deryabar, proceeded
+on their journey for the city of Harran, where they arrived the next day.
+
+The king their father conceived the greater joy at their return, because
+he had despaired of ever seeing them. He asked what had been the occasion
+of their stay; but they took care not to acquaint him with it, making no
+mention either of the black or of Codadad; and only said, that, being
+curious to see the country, they had spent some time in the neighbouring
+cities.
+
+In the mean time Codadad lay in his tent, drowned in his own blood, and
+little differing from a dead man, with the princess his wife, who seemed
+to be in no much better condition than he. She rent the air with her
+dismal shrieks, tore her hair, and, bathing her husband's body with her
+tears, Alas! Codadad, my dear Codadad, cried she, is it you whom I behold
+just departing this life? What cruel hands have put you into this
+condition? May I believe these are your brothers who have treated you so
+unmercifully? No, they are rather devils, who have taken those shapes to
+murder you. O barbarous wretches! whosoever you are, how could you make
+so ungrateful a return for the service he has done you? But why should I
+complain of your brothers, unfortunate Codadad! I alone am to blame for
+your death. You would tack your fate upon mine; and all the ill fortune
+that attends me since I left my father's palace has fallen upon you. O
+Heaven! which has condemned me to lead a wandering life and full of
+calamities, if you will not permit me to have a consort, why do you
+permit me to find any? Behold, you have now robbed me of two, just as I
+began to be endeared to them.
+
+By these, and other moving expressions, the unhappy princess of Deryabar
+vented her sorrow, fixing her eyes on the deplorable Codadad, who could
+not hear her. But Codadad was not dead; and his consort, observing that
+he still breathed, ran to a large open town she spied in the plain, to
+inquire for a surgeon. She was showed one, who went immediately with her:
+but when they came to the tent, they could not find Codadad, which made
+them conclude he had been dragged away by some wild beast to devour him.
+The princess renewed her complaints and lamentations in a most dismal
+manner. The surgeon took compassion; and, being unwilling to leave her in
+that miserable condition, proposed to her to return to the town, offering
+her his house and service.
+
+She suffered herself to be prevailed on. The surgeon conducted her to his
+house, and, without knowing as yet who she was, treated her with all
+imaginable courtesy and respect. He used all his rhetoric to comfort her;
+but it was in vain to think of removing her sorrow, which was rather
+heightened than diminished. Madam, said he to her one day, be pleased to
+recount to me your misfortunes; tell your country and your condition:
+perhaps I may give you some advice, when I am acquainted with all the
+circumstances of your calamity. You do nothing but afflict yourself,
+without considering that remedies may be found for the most desperate
+diseases.
+
+The surgeon's words were so efficacious, that they wrought on the
+princess, who recounted to him all her adventures; and when she had done,
+the surgeon directed his discourse to her, saying, Madam, since this is
+the posture of affairs, give me leave to tell you, that you ought not
+thus to give way to your sorrow; you ought rather to arm yourself with
+resolution, and to perform what the name and the duty of a wife require
+of you. You are obliged to revenge your husband: if you please I will
+wait on you as your squire: let us go to the king of Harran's court; he
+is a good and just prince: you need only represent to him, in a lively
+manner, how prince Codadad has been treated by his brothers: I am fully
+persuaded he will do you justice. I submit to your reasons, answered the
+princess: it is my duty to endeavour to revenge Codadad; and since you
+are so obliging and generous as to offer to bear me company, I am ready
+to set out. No sooner had she fixed this resolution, than the surgeon
+ordered two camels to be made ready, on which the princess and he
+mounted, and repaired to Harran.
+
+They alighted at the first caravansary they found; and inquiring of the
+host what news at court, It is, said he, in very great confusion. The
+king had a son, who lived a long time with him as a stranger, and none
+can tell what is become of that young prince. One of the king's wives,
+called Pirouze, is his mother; she has made all possible inquiry, but to
+no purpose. All men are concerned at the loss of that prince, because he
+was very deserving. The king has forty-nine other sons, all of them born
+of several mothers; but not one of them has worth enough to comfort the
+king for the death of Codadad: I say his death, because it is impossible
+he should be alive, since no news have been heard of him, notwithstanding
+so much search has been made after him.
+
+The surgeon, having heard this account from the host, concluded that the
+best course the princess of Deryabar could take, was to wait upon
+Pirouze: but that method was not without some danger, and required much
+precaution; for it was to be feared, that if the king of Harran's sons
+should happen to hear of the arrival of their sister-in-law, and her
+design, they might cause her to be conveyed away before she could speak
+to Codadad's mother. The surgeon weighed all these particulars, and
+considered what risk he might run himself; and therefore, that he might
+manage the affair with discretion, he desired the princess to stay in the
+caravansary, whilst he went to the palace to observe which might be the
+safest way to conduct her to Pirouze.
+
+He went accordingly into the city, and was walking towards the palace,
+like one led only by curiosity to see the court, when he spied a lady
+mounted on a mule richly accoutred. She was followed by several ladies
+mounted on mules, with a great number of guards and black slaves. All the
+people made a lane to see her pass along, and saluted her, prostrating
+themselves on the ground. The surgeon paid her the same respect, and then
+asked a calendar, who happened to stand by him, whether that lady was one
+of the king's wives. Yes, brother, answered the calendar, she is one of
+the king's wives, and the most honoured and beloved by the people,
+because she is mother to prince Codadad, of whom I suppose you have
+heard.
+
+The surgeon asked no more questions, but followed Pirouze to a mosque,
+into which she went to distribute alms, and assist at the public prayers
+the king had ordered to be made for the safe return of Codadad. The
+people, who were highly concerned for that young prince, ran in crowds to
+join their vows to the prayers of the priests, so that the mosque was
+quite full. The surgeon broke through the throng, and advanced as far as
+Pirouze's guards. He staid out the prayers; and when that princess went
+out, he stepped up to one of her slaves, and whispered him in his ear,
+saying, Brother, I have a secret of moment to impart to the princess
+Pirouze; may not I, by your means, be brought into her apartment? If that
+secret, answered the slave, be relating to prince Codadad, I dare promise
+you shall have audience of her this very day; but if it concerns not him,
+it is needless for you to endeavour to be introduced to her; for her
+thoughts are all upon her son, and she will not hear talk of any other
+subject. It is only about that dear son, replied the surgeon, that I
+would discourse to her. If so, said the slave, you need only follow us to
+the palace, and you shall soon speak to her.
+
+Accordingly, as soon as Pirouze was returned to her apartment, that slave
+acquainted her that a person unknown had some important affair to
+communicate to her, and that it related to prince Codadad. No sooner had
+he uttered these words, than Pirouze expressed her impatience to see that
+stranger. The slave immediately conducted him into the princess's closet,
+who ordered all her women to withdraw, except two, from whom she
+concealed nothing. As soon as she saw the surgeon, she asked him abruptly
+what news he had to tell her of Codadad. Madam, answered the surgeon,
+after having prostrated himself on the ground, I have a long account to
+give you, and such as will be very surprising. Then he told her all the
+particulars of what had passed between Codadad and his brothers, which
+she listened to with an eager attention; but when he came to speak of the
+murder, that tender mother swooned away on her sofa, as if she had been
+herself stabbed like her son. Her two women used proper means, and soon
+brought her to herself. The surgeon continued his relation; and when he
+had ended it, Pirouze said to him, Go back to the princess of Deryabar,
+and assure her from me that the king shall soon own her for his
+daughter-in-law; and as for yourself, be assured that your service shall
+be well rewarded.
+
+When the surgeon was gone, Pirouze remained on the sofa in such a state
+of affliction as is not easy to imagine; and, relenting at the thoughts
+of Codadad, O! my son, said she, I must never then expect to see you
+more! Alas! when I gave you leave to depart from Samaria, and you took
+leave of me, I did not imagine that so unfortunate a death had awaited
+you at such a distance from me. Unfortunate Codadad! why did you leave
+me? It is true, you would not have acquired so much renown; but you had
+been still alive, and had not cost your mother so many tears. Whilst she
+uttered these words, she wept bitterly, and her two confidants, moved by
+her sorrow, mixed their tears with hers.
+
+Whilst they were all three in that affliction, the king came into the
+closet, and seeing them in that condition, asked Pirouze whether she had
+received any bad news concerning Codadad. Alas! sir, said she, all is
+over; my son has lost his life; and, to add to my sorrow, I cannot pay
+him the funeral rites; for, in all appearance, the wild beasts have
+devoured him. Then she told him all that she had heard from the surgeon,
+and did not fail to express herself fully at the inhuman manner in which
+Codadad had been murdered by his brothers.
+
+The king did not give Pirouze time to finish her relation; but, being
+transported with anger, and giving way to his passion, Madam, said he to
+the princess, those perfidious wretches who cause you to shed these
+tears, and are the occasion of the mortal grief which oppresses their
+father, shall soon feel the punishment due to their guilt. The king
+having spoken these words, with indignation appearing in his countenance,
+went directly to the presence-chamber, where all his courtiers attended,
+and such of the people as had any petitions to present to him. They were
+all astonished to see him in that passion, and thought his anger had been
+kindled against his people.
+
+Their hearts failed them for fear. He ascended the throne, and causing
+the grand vizier to draw near, said, Hassan, I have some orders for you:
+go immediately, take a thousand of my guards, and seize all the princes
+my sons; shut them up in the tower appointed for a prison for murderers;
+and let this be done in a moment. All that were present quaked at the
+hearing of this surprising command; and the grand vizier, without
+answering one word, laid his hand on his head, to express his obedience,
+and went out of the presence to execute his orders, which were very
+surprising to him. In the mean time, the king dismissed those who
+attended to desire audience, and declared he would not despatch any
+business for a month to come. He was still in the presence-chamber, when
+the vizier returned. Are all my sons, said that prince, in the tower?
+They are, sir, answered the vizier; I have obeyed your orders. This is
+not all, replied the king, I have farther commands for you; and so
+saying, he went out of the presence-chamber, and returned to Pirouze's
+apartment, with the vizier following him. He asked that princess where
+Codadad's widow had taken up her lodging. Pirouze's women told him; for
+the surgeon had not forgot that in his relation. Then the king, turning
+to his minister, Go, said he, to that caravansary, and bring a young
+princess, who lodges there; but treat her with all the respect due to her
+quality.
+
+The vizier was not backward in performing what he was ordered. He mounted
+on horseback, with all the emirs and courtiers, and repaired to the
+caravansary where the princess of Deryabar was, whom he acquainted with
+his orders, and presented her, from the king, a fine white mule, whose
+saddle and bridle were adorned with gold, rubies, and diamonds. She
+mounted it, and went to the palace, attended by all those great men. The
+surgeon bore her company, mounted on a sprightly Tartar horse which the
+vizier had provided for him. All the people were at their windows, or in
+the streets, to see that noble cavalcade; and it being given out that the
+princess, whom they conducted in such state to court, was Codadad's wife,
+the city resounded with acclamations, the air rang with shouts of joy,
+which would certainly have been turned into lamentations, had that
+prince's fatal adventure been known; so much was he beloved by all men.
+
+The princess of Deryabar found the king at the palace gate, waiting to
+receive her. He took her by the hand, and led her to Pirouze's apartment,
+where a very moving scene was acted among them. Codadad's wife found her
+affliction redouble upon her at the sight of her husband's father and
+mother; as, on the other side, those parents could not look on their
+son's wife without being much concerned. She cast herself at the king's
+feet, and having bathed them with tears, was so overcome with grief, that
+she was not able to speak one word. Pirouze was in no better condition;
+she seemed to be stunned with her sorrows; and the king, moved by those
+dismal objects, gave way to his passion: those three persons, mixing
+their tears and sighs, for some time observed a silence, which appeared
+extraordinary moving and pitiful. At length the princess of Deryabar,
+being somewhat recovered, recounted the adventure of the castle and
+Codadad's disaster. Then she required justice for the treachery of the
+princes. Yes, madam, said the king to her, those ungrateful wretches
+shall perish, but Codadad's death must first be made public, that the
+punishment of his brothers may not cause my subjects to rebel; and,
+though we have not my son's body, we will not omit paying him the last
+duties. This said, he directed his discourse to the vizier, and ordered
+him to build a dome of white marble in a delightful plain, in the midst
+of which the city of Harran stands; then he appointed the princess of
+Deryabar a fine apartment in his palace, acknowledging her for his
+daughter-in-law.
+
+Hassan caused the work to be carried on with such diligence, and employed
+so many workmen, that the dome was soon finished. Within it was erected a
+monument, and on it was placed a figure representing Codadad. As soon as
+all was perfected, the king ordered prayers to be said, and appointed a
+day for the obsequies of his son.
+
+On that day, all the inhabitants of the city went out upon the plain to
+see that ceremony performed; which was after this manner. The king,
+attended by his vizier and the prime persons of the court, proceeded
+towards the dome; and being come to it, went in, and sat down with them
+on carpets laid on the ground, made of black satin, with gold flowers. A
+great body of horse guards, hanging their heads, and looking down, drew
+up close about the dome, and marched round it twice, observing a profound
+silence; but at the third round, they halted before the door, and all of
+them with a loud voice pronounced these words: 'O prince, son to the
+king, could we by dint of sword and human valour any way retrieve your
+misfortune, we would bring you back to life; but the King of kings has
+commanded, and the angel of death has obeyed.' Having uttered these
+words, they drew off, to make way for a hundred old men, all of them
+mounted on black mules, and wearing long gray beards.
+
+These were anchorites, who lived all their days concealed in caves. They
+never appeared in the sight of the world, but when they were to assist at
+the obsequies of the kings of Harran, and of the princes of their family.
+Each of these venerable persons carried a book on his head, which he held
+with one hand. They took three turns round the dome without uttering one
+word; then stopping before the door, one of them said, 'O prince, what
+can we do for you? If you could be restored to life by prayers or
+learning, we would rub our gray beards at thy feet, and recite prayers;
+but the King of the universe has taken you away for ever.'
+
+This said, the old men removed at a distance from the dome, and
+immediately fifty young beautiful maids drew near to it: each of them was
+mounted on a little white horse: they wore no veils, and carried gold
+baskets full of all sorts of precious stones. Thus they did also ride
+thrice round the dome; and, halting at the same place as the others had
+done, the youngest of them spoke in the name of all as follows: 'O
+prince, once so beautiful, what relief can you expect from us? If we
+could restore you to life by our charms, we would become your slaves. But
+you are no longer sensible to beauty, and have no more occasion for us.'
+
+When the young maids were withdrawn, the king and his courtiers arose,
+and, having walked thrice round the figure representing Codadad, the king
+spoke as follows: 'O my dear son, light of my eyes, I have then lost thee
+for ever.' These words were attended with sighs, and he watered the tomb
+with his tears, his courtiers weeping with him. Then the gate of the dome
+was shut, and all the people returned to the city. The next day, there
+were public prayers in all the mosques; and the same was continued for
+eight days successively. On the ninth, the king resolved to cause the
+princes his sons to be beheaded. All the people, being incensed at their
+cruelty towards Codadad, impatiently expected to see them executed. The
+scaffolds were erecting; but the execution was respited, on account that,
+on a sudden, news was brought, that the neighbouring princes, who had
+before made war on the king of Harran, were advancing with more numerous
+forces than the first time, and were not then far from the city. It had
+been long known that they were preparing for war, but no great notice had
+been taken of it. This advice occasioned a general consternation, and
+gave new cause to lament the loss of Codadad, by reason that prince had
+signalized himself in the former war against those enemies. Alas! said
+they, were the brave Codadad alive, we should little value those princes
+who are coming to surprise us. The king, nothing dismayed, raised men
+with all possible speed, formed a considerable army, and, being too brave
+to expect the enemy to come and attack him within his walls, marched out
+to meet them. They, on their side, being informed by their advanced
+parties that the king of Harran was marching to engage them, halted in
+the plain, and formed their army.
+
+As soon as the king discovered them, he also drew up his forces, and
+ranged them in order of battle. The signal was given, and he attacked
+them with extraordinary vigour. Nor was the opposition inferior: much
+blood was shed on both sides, and the victory remained long dubious; but
+at length it seemed to incline to the king of Harran's enemies, who,
+being more numerous, were about hemming him in, when a good body of horse
+appeared on the plain, and drew near the two armies in good order. The
+sight of that fresh party daunted both sides, as not knowing what to
+think of them. But their doubts were soon cleared; for those horsemen
+fell upon the flank of the king of Harran's enemies, giving such a
+furious charge, that they soon broke and put them to the rout; and, not
+so satisfied, they pursued them, and cut most of them in pieces.
+
+The king of Harran, who had nicely observed all the action, admired the
+bravery of those horsemen, whose unexpected arrival had given the victory
+to his side. But, above all, he was charmed with their chief, whom he had
+seen fighting with a more than ordinary valour. He longed to know the
+name of that generous hero. Being impatient to see and thank him, he
+advanced towards him, but perceived he was coming to prevent him. The two
+princes drew near, and the king of Harran finding Codadad in that brave
+warrior who had just then succoured him, or rather defeated his enemies,
+became motionless with joy and surprise. Sir, said Codadad to him, you
+have sufficient cause to be astonished, seeing a man appear on a sudden
+before your majesty whom perhaps you concluded to be dead. I should have
+been so, had not Heaven preserved me still against your enemies. O my
+son! cried the king, is it possible that you are restored to me? Alas! I
+despaired of seeing you any more. Having so said, he stretched out his
+arms to the young prince, who flew to his loving embraces.
+
+I know all, my son, said the king again, after having long held him in
+his arms; I know what return my sons have made you for the service you
+did in delivering them out of the hands of the black; but you shall be
+revenged to-morrow. Let us now go to the palace; your mother, who has
+wept sufficiently for you, expects me, to rejoice with us for the defeat
+of our enemies. What a joy will it be to her to be informed that my
+victory is your handy-work! Sir, said Codadad, give me leave to ask you,
+how could you come to know the adventure of the castle? Has any of my
+brothers, repenting, owned the thing to you? No, answered the king, the
+princess of Deryabar has given us an account of all things; for she is in
+my palace, and came thither to demand justice against your brothers.
+Codadad was in a transport of joy to understand that the princess his
+wife was at the court. Let us go, sir, cried he to his father in a
+rapture, let us go to see my mother, who waits for us. I have an ardent
+desire to dry up her tears, as well as those of the princess of Deryabar.
+
+The king immediately returned to the city, with his army, which he
+dismissed; entering his palace victorious, amidst the acclamations of his
+people, who followed him in crowds, praying to Heaven to prolong his
+life, and extolling Codadad to the skies. These two princes found Pirouze
+and her daughter-in-law waiting for the king to congratulate him; but
+there is no expressing the transport of joy they felt when they saw the
+young prince come with him: they dissolved in embraces, mixed with tears,
+but of a different sort from those they had before shed for him. When
+these four persons had performed all that the ties of blood and love
+demanded of them, the question was asked of Pirouze's son, by what
+miracle he came to be still alive. He answered, that a peasant, mounted
+on a mule, happening accidentally to come into the tent where he lay
+senseless, and perceiving him alone, and stabbed in several places, had
+made him fast on his mule, and carried him to his house, where he applied
+to his wounds certain herbs chewed, which had recovered him in a few
+days. When I found myself well, added he, I returned thanks to the
+peasant, and gave him all the diamonds I had. Then I drew near the city
+of Harran; but being informed by the way that some neighbouring princes
+had gathered forces, and were coming to fall upon the king's subjects, I
+made myself known unto the villagers, and stirred up those people to
+stand upon their guard. I armed a good number of young men; and heading
+them, happened to come in at that time when the two armies were engaged.
+
+When he had done speaking, the king said, Let us return thanks to God for
+having preserved Codadad; but it is requisite that the traitors, who
+would have destroyed him, should perish this day. Sir, answered the
+generous son of Pirouze, though they are wicked and ungrateful, consider
+they are your own flesh and blood: they are my brothers; I forgive them
+the offence, and beg pardon of you for them. This generosity drew tears
+from the king, who caused the people to be assembled, and declared
+Codadad his heir. Then he ordered the princes, who were prisoners, to be
+brought, loaded with irons. Pirouze's son knocked off their chains, and
+embraced them all successively, with as much sincerity as he had done in
+the court of the black's castle. The people were charmed with Codadad's
+good nature, and highly applauded him. Next he nobly rewarded the
+surgeon, to requite the service he had done the princess of Deryabar.
+
+The sultaness Scheherazade, having told the story of Ganem with so much
+address, and in so agreeable a manner, that the sultan of the Indies
+could not forbear showing the pleasure that relation gave him, said to
+that monarch, I doubt not but your majesty is very well satisfied to find
+the caliph Haroun Alraschid change his sentiments in favour of Ganem, his
+mother, and sister; and I believe you may be sensibly affected with their
+misfortunes, and the ill treatment they received; but am persuaded, if
+your majesty would hear the story of the Sleeper Awakened, it would,
+instead of exciting all those emotions of indignation and compassion in
+your breast, on the contrary, afford you all the mirth and diversion
+imaginable. The sultan, who promised himself some new adventures from the
+title of that story, would have heard it that morning; but perceiving day
+approached, deferred it till next, when Dinarzade called upon her sister,
+who began her story as follows.
+
+
+
+
+                              THE STORY OF
+                         THE SLEEPER AWAKENED.
+
+
+In the reign of caliph Haroun Alraschid, there lived at Bagdad a very
+rich merchant, who, having married a woman pretty well in years, had but
+one son, whom he named Abon Hassan, and educated with great restraint.
+When this son was thirty years old, the merchant died, and left him his
+sole heir, and master of great riches, which his father had amassed
+together by his industry, frugality, and great application to business.
+
+Abon Hassan, whose views and inclinations were very much different from
+those of his father, was resolved to make another use of his wealth; for,
+as his father had never allowed him any money but what was just necessary
+for subsistence, and he had always envied those young persons of his age
+who wanted none, and who debarred themselves from none of those pleasures
+to which youth are too much addicted, he resolved, in his turn, to
+signalize himself by extravagances proportionable to his fortune. To this
+end, he divided his riches in two parts; with one half he bought houses
+in town and land in the country, with a promise to himself never to touch
+the income of his estate, which was considerable enough to live upon very
+handsomely, but lay it all by; with the other half, which he kept by him
+in ready money, he designed to make himself amends for the time he had
+lost in the severe restraint with which his father had always kept him.
+
+With this intent, Abon Hassan associated himself in a few days with
+people of his age and condition, and thought of nothing more than how to
+spend their time agreeably. Every day he gave them splendid
+entertainments, at which the most exquisite and delicate wines flowed in
+plenty, while concerts of the best vocal and instrumental music
+heightened their pleasures; and then this young band of debauchees, with
+glasses in their hands, sang and joined with the music; and these feasts
+generally ended with balls at night, to which the best dancers in Bagdad,
+of both sexes, were invited. These entertainments, renewed every day,
+were so expensive to Abon Hassan, that he could not support the
+extravagance above one year; and, in short, the great sum which he had
+consecrated to this prodigality and the year ended together. As soon as
+he left off keeping this table, his friends forsook him: whenever they
+saw him, they avoided him; and if by chance he met any of them, and would
+stop them, they always excused themselves on some pretence or other.
+
+Abon Hassan, touched more to the quick at this strange behaviour of his
+friends, who had forsaken him so basely and ungratefully, after all the
+protestations of friendship they had made him, and their inviolable
+attachment to his service, than all the money he had foolishly squandered
+away, went, melancholy and thoughtful, into his mother's apartment, and
+sat down on a sofa a good distance from her. What is the matter with you,
+son? said his mother, reading his grief in his countenance: why are you
+so altered, so dejected, and so much different from yourself? You could
+not certainly be more concerned if you had lost all you had in the world.
+I know you have lived very profusely, and believe all your money is
+spent; yet you have a good estate; and the reason I did not so very much
+oppose your irregular way of living, was, I knew the wise precaution you
+had taken to preserve half your substance; therefore I do not see why you
+should plunge yourself into this deep melancholy.
+
+At these words, Abon Hassan melted into tears, and in the midst of his
+sighs cried out, Ah! mother, I see at last, by sad experience, how
+insupportable poverty is: I am sensible that it deprives us of joy, as
+much as the setting sun does of light. In poverty, we have no
+commendations and fine things said unto us: we endeavour to conceal all
+our actions, and spend our nights in tears and sorrow. In short, a poor
+man is looked upon, both by friends and relations, as a stranger. You
+know, mother, how I have used my friends for this year past: I have
+entertained them with all imaginable generosity, till I have spent all my
+money; and now they have left me, when I can treat them no longer. For my
+estate, I thank Heaven for having given me the grace to keep the oath I
+have made not to enter upon that; and now I shall know how to make a good
+use of it. But first, I will try the gratitude of friends, who deserve
+not that I should call them so: I will go to them one after another, and
+when I have represented to them what I have done for their sakes, I will
+ask them to make me up a sum of money among them, to relieve me out of
+the miserable condition I am reduced to: these are the steps I intend to
+take to try their gratitude.
+
+I do not pretend, son, said Abon Hassan's mother, to dissuade you from
+executing your design; but I can tell you before-hand, that you have no
+ground for any hope: believe me, you will find no relief, but from the
+estate you have reserved. I see you do not, but will soon know those
+people, whom we generally call friends; and I wish to Heaven you may, in
+the manner I desire; that is to say, for your own good. Mother, replied
+Abon Hassan, I am persuaded of the truth of what you say; but shall be
+certain of a fact which concerns me so nearly, when I shall inform myself
+better of their baseness. Upon this, Abon Hassan went immediately to his
+friends, whom he found at home, represented to them the great need he was
+in, and begged of them to loose their purse-strings to assist him. He
+promised to give every one bonds to pay them the money they lent him, as
+soon as his affairs were made up; giving them to understand, at the same
+time, that it was, in a great measure, upon their accounts that he was
+undone; and forgetting not to allure them with the hopes of being once
+again entertained in the same manner as before.
+
+Not one of his bottle companions was affected with the arguments which
+the afflicted Abon Hassan made use of to persuade them; and he had the
+mortification to find, that many of them told him plainly they scarce
+knew him.
+
+He returned home again full of grief and rage; and, going into his
+mother's apartment, said, Ah! madam, you was in the right of it; instead
+of friends, I have found none but ungrateful, perfidious wretches, who
+deserve not my friendship; whom I renounce, and promise never to see them
+more. He resolved to be as good as his word; and, to that end, took all
+possible precautions to avoid falling into the same inconvenience, taking
+an oath never to give an inhabitant of Bagdad any entertainment again.
+Afterwards he opened a strong chest, in which he had put the rents he had
+received from his estate, and resolved to take every day a sum that was
+sufficient to defray the expense of a single person to sup with him; who,
+according to the oath he had taken, must be a stranger that came into
+Bagdad the same day, and must take his leave of him the next morning.
+
+According to this project, Abon Hassan took care every morning to provide
+whatever he designed for night, and towards the close of the evening went
+and sat on Bagdad bridge; and, as soon as ever he saw a stranger, of
+whatever condition he was, he accosted him civilly, and invited him to
+sup and lodge with him that night; and, after having informed him of the
+law he had imposed upon himself, took him home with him. The repast with
+which Abon Hassan regaled his guests was not costly, but always plain and
+neat, with plenty of good wine, and generally lasted till the night was
+pretty well advanced; when, instead of entertaining his guest with the
+affairs of state, his family or business, as is too frequent, he affected
+to talk of indifferent subjects, and was naturally of so gay and pleasant
+a temper, that he could give the most agreeable turns in conversation,
+and make the most reserved and melancholy persons merry. When he saw his
+guest again the next morning, he always said to him, God preserve you
+from all sorrow wherever you go: when I invited you yesterday to come and
+sup with me, I informed you of the law I have made; therefore do not take
+it ill if I tell you that we must never see one another again, nor drink
+together, for reasons best known to myself: so God conduct you.
+
+Abon Hassan was very exact in the observation of this oath, and never
+looked upon, or spoke to, any stranger he had once entertained, wherever
+he met them; and had lived for a long time after this manner, when one
+afternoon, a little before sunset, as he was sitting upon the bridge,
+according to custom, the caliph Haroun Alraschid came by so disguised
+that nobody could know him: for that monarch, though his chief ministers
+and officers of justice acquitted themselves of their duty very
+punctually, yet would take notice of every thing himself; and, to that
+purpose, often disguised himself, and walked through the city and suburbs
+of Bagdad; and that day was dressed like a merchant of Moussel, who had
+but just disembarked, and was followed by a slave.
+
+As the caliph had in his disguise a grave and awful air, Abon Hassan, who
+thought him to be a Moussel merchant, went directly to him; and, after
+having saluted him with a smiling countenance, and kissed his hand, said,
+Sir, I congratulate you on your happy arrival, and beg of you to do me
+the honour to go and sup with me, and repose yourself at my home this
+night, after the fatigue of your voyage; and, to oblige him not to deny
+him that favour, he told him his custom of entertaining the first
+stranger he met with. The caliph found something so odd and singular in
+Abon Hassan's taste, that he was very desirous to know the bottom,
+without quitting the character of a merchant; and told him, that he could
+not better answer that great civility, which he did not expect at his
+arrival at Bagdad, than by accepting the obliging offer that he made him.
+
+Abon Hassan, who knew not that the guest which fortune presented to him
+was so very much above him, treated him as his equal, carried him home,
+and led him into a room very neatly furnished, where he set him on a
+sofa, at the upper end of a table that was ready laid for supper, which
+was soon after sent up by Abon Hassan's mother, who took upon herself the
+care of the kitchen, and consisted of three dishes. The first was a capon
+and four large pullets, which were set in the middle; and the second and
+third, placed on each side, were a fat roasted goose and boiled pigeons,
+all dressed very neatly, and with proper sauces.
+
+Abon Hassan sat down over against his guest, and he and the caliph began
+to eat heartily of what they liked best, without speaking or drinking,
+according to the custom of the country. When they had done eating, the
+caliph's slave brought them water to wash their hands; and, in the mean
+time, Abon Hassan's mother sent up a dessert of all sorts of dried
+sweetmeats, and all the fruits then in season, as grapes, peaches,
+apples, pears, &c. As soon as it grew dark, wax-candles were lighted, and
+Abon Hassan, after charging his mother to take care of the caliph's
+slave, brought bottles and glasses.
+
+Then Abon Hassan, sitting down with the pretended Moussel merchant again,
+filled out a glass of wine, before he touched the dessert; and holding it
+out in his hand, said to the caliph, You know, sir, that the cock never
+drinks before he calls to his hens to come and drink with him; so I
+invite you to follow my example. I do not know what you may think; for my
+part, I cannot reckon him a wise man who does not love wine: come, let us
+leave those sort of people to their dull melancholy humours, and seek for
+mirth, which is only to be found in a brimmer.
+
+While Abon Hassan was drinking, the caliph, taking the glass that was set
+by him, said, Now I like you, you are an honest fellow; I am mightily
+taken with your pleasant temper, and expect you should fill me as much.
+Abon Hassan, as soon as he had drunk, filled the caliph's glass, and
+giving it to him, Here, sir, said he, taste this wine; I will warrant it
+good. I am very well persuaded, replied the caliph, laughing, that you
+know how to make choice of the best. O, replied Abon Hassan, while the
+caliph was taking off his glass, one may easily find that you know what
+good living is, and have seen the world. Alas! how happy is my house in
+your presence, and how overjoyed am I for meeting with a man of so much
+merit.
+
+The caliph, who was naturally a merry man, was mightily diverted with
+these sallies of Abon Hassan, and took great pleasure in promoting
+drinking, often asking for wine, thinking that when that began to work,
+he might penetrate so far into his discourse as to satisfy his curiosity.
+Therefore, to enter into conversation, he asked him his name, his
+business, and how he spent his life. My name, sir, replied he, is Abon
+Hassan: my father, whom I buried, was a merchant of Bagdad; and though he
+was not the richest, yet he lived very well. When he died, he left me
+enough in my station to live free from ambition; but as he always kept a
+very strict hand over me in his life-time, I was willing, when he was
+gone, to make up the time I thought I had lost.
+
+But notwithstanding, continued Abon Hassan, in this I was more prudent
+than most young people are, who give themselves unto debauchery without
+any thought, and who reduce themselves to the utmost poverty, and are
+forced to do penance all the rest of their lives after. Now I, to avoid
+this misfortune, divided what I had left me in two parts, and with one
+bought an estate, with a resolution not to finger my rents at that time;
+and kept the other in ready money to pursue my extravagances with. I
+associated myself with young people of my age, and with my ready money,
+which I spent profusely, treated them every day; and, in short, spared
+for no sort of pleasure. But these feastings did not last long; for by
+that time the year was out, I had got to the bottom of my cash, and then
+all my friends vanished. I made a visit to every one of them, and
+represented to them the miserable condition I was in, but none of them
+would relieve me. Upon this, I renounced their friendship, and retrenched
+so far as to live within the compass of my income, and obliged myself to
+keep company with none but the first stranger I could meet with, coming
+that day into Bagdad, and to entertain him but one night. I have told you
+the rest before; and I thank my good fortune this day for meeting with a
+stranger of so much worth.
+
+The caliph was very well satisfied with this information, and said to
+Abon Hassan, I cannot enough commend the measures you have taken, and the
+prudence with which you have acted, by forsaking your debauchery; a
+conduct rarely to be met with in young persons; and I esteem you the more
+for being so just to yourself as you have been. It was a slippery path
+you trode in; and I cannot enough admire, how, after having seen the end
+of your ready money, you had so great a command over yourself not to
+enter upon your estate. In short, I must own I envy your happiness: you
+are the only happy man in the world, to enjoy every day the company of
+some one honest man, with whom you can discourse freely and agreeably,
+and to whom you give an opportunity to declare, wherever he goes, how
+handsomely he was received by you. But we talk too long without drinking;
+come drink, and pour out to me.
+
+In this manner the caliph and Abon Hassan entertained each other,
+drinking and talking of indifferent matters till the night was pretty far
+advanced; when the caliph, pretending to be fatigued after his voyage,
+told his host he stood in need of a little rest; but, added he, that I
+may not deprive you of yours, before we part, because to-morrow I may be
+gone before you are stirring, I would be glad to show you how sensible I
+am of your civility, and the kind and obliging hospitality you have shown
+me. The only thing that troubles me is, that I know not which way to pay
+my acknowledgment; therefore I beg of you to let me understand how I may,
+and you shall see I will not be ungrateful; for certainly you must have
+some business in which you may be served, or must want something which
+you could wish for. Speak freely, and declare your mind; for, though I am
+but a merchant, it may be in mine or some friend's power to oblige you.
+
+To these offers of the caliph, Abon Hassan, taking him still for a
+Moussel merchant, replied, I am very well persuaded, good sir, that it is
+not out of a compliment that you make me these generous tenders; but,
+upon the word of an honest man, I have nothing that troubles me, no
+business nor desires, and want not any thing. I have not the least
+ambition, as I told you before, but am very well satisfied with my
+condition. Therefore, I can only thank you for your obliging proffers,
+and the honour you have done me to come and take a slight repast with me.
+Yet I must tell you, pursued Abon Hassan, there is one thing gives me
+great uneasiness. You know the town of Bagdad is divided into several
+parts and divisions, to each of which there belongs a mosque, and an iman
+to read prayers at certain hours. The iman of the division I live in is
+an old man, of an austere countenance, and the greatest hypocrite in the
+world. This man, and four old men of this neighbourhood, who are people
+of the same stamp, meet every day at the iman's house; there they vent
+their slander, calumny, and malice against me and the whole division, to
+the disturbance of the public peace of the neighbourhood, and the
+promotion of dissension. Some they threaten, others they rail against;
+and, in short, would be lords paramount, and have every one govern
+himself according to their caprice; and, at the same time, know not how
+to govern themselves. Indeed, I would have them meddle with nothing but
+their Alcoran, and let the world live quietly.
+
+Well, I suppose, said the caliph, you would willingly put a stop to this
+disorder. You have guessed it, answered Abon Hassan; and the only thing I
+should desire, would be to be caliph only for one day, in the stead of
+our sovereign lord and master Haroun Alraschid, the commander of the
+faithful. What would you do if you were? said the caliph. I would make
+them examples, answered Abon Hassan, to the satisfaction of all honest
+men. I would punish the four old men with each a hundred bastinadoes on
+the soles of their feet, and the iman with four hundred, to learn them
+not to disturb and abuse their neighbours any more.
+
+The caliph was extremely well pleased with this thought of Abon Hassan's;
+and, as he was a prince who loved adventures, he fancied to make this a
+very singular one. Indeed, said he, I approve very much of your wish,
+which I see proceeds from an upright mind, that cannot bear to see the
+malice of wicked people go unpunished. I could like to see it take
+effect, and that is not so impossible a thing as you imagine. I am
+persuaded that the caliph would willingly put his authority for
+twenty-four hours into your hands, if he knew your good intentions, and
+the just use you would make of it. I see, said Abon Hassan, you laugh at
+my foolish fancy; and the caliph himself would laugh at my extravagance
+too if he knew it; but yet it would be a means of informing him of the
+iman's and his companions' behaviour, and he might chastise them.
+
+Heaven forbid, replied the caliph, that I, who have been so handsomely
+entertained by you, should laugh at you; neither do I believe, as much a
+stranger as I am, that the caliph would be displeased. But let us lay
+this discourse aside; it is almost midnight, and time to go to bed. With
+all my heart, said Abon Hassan, I would not be any hindrance to your
+going to rest; but there is still some wine in the bottle, and, if you
+please, we will drink it off first. The only thing that I have to
+recommend to you is, that, when you go out in the morning, if I am not
+up, you will give yourself the trouble of shutting the door after you,
+which the caliph promised; and while Abon Hassan was talking, took the
+bottle and two glasses, and filled his own first, saying, Here is a cup
+of thanks to you; and then filling the other, put artfully a little
+powder, which he had about him, into it, and giving it to Abon Hassan,
+said, you have taken the pains to fill for me all this night, and it is
+the least I can do to save you the trouble once; come, drink to our good
+repose.
+
+Abon Hassan took the glass, and, to show his guest with how much pleasure
+he received the honour he did him, whipped it off at once; but had
+scarcely set the glass upon the table before the powder began to work,
+and he fell into so sound a sleep, that his head knocked against his
+knees. The caliph ordered the slave that he had brought along with him,
+and who came again into the room as soon as he had supped, to take him
+upon his back, and follow him; but to be sure to observe the house, that
+he might know it again when he should bring him back; and in this manner
+the caliph, followed by the slave with Abon Hassan on his back, went out
+of the house, but without shutting the door after him, as Abon Hassan
+desired, and went directly to his palace, and, by a backdoor, into his
+own apartment, where all the officers of his apartment were waiting for
+him, whom he ordered to undress him, and put him in his bed, which they
+immediately performed.
+
+Then the caliph sent for all the officers and ladies of the palace, and
+said to them, I would have all those whose business it is to attend my
+levee wait to-morrow morning upon this man who lies in my bed, and pay
+the same respect to him as to myself, and obey him in whatever he
+commands; let him be refused in nothing that he asks for, and be spoken
+to and answered in every thing he says or does, as if he was the
+commander of the faithful. In short, I expect you to look upon him as the
+true caliph, and neglect not the least circumstance.
+
+The officers and ladies presently understood that the caliph had a mind
+to divert himself, and made low bows to show their obedience, and then
+withdrew, every one full of the part they were to act.
+
+Then he sent for the grand vizier: Giafar, said he, I have sent for you
+to instruct you, and to prevent your being surprised to-morrow when you
+come to an audience, to see this man, that is laid here in my bed, seated
+on my throne in my royal robes: accost him with the same reverence and
+respect you pay to myself; observe, and punctually execute, whatever he
+bids you do, the same as if I commanded you, even if his liberality
+should extend so far as to empty all the coffers in my treasury; and
+remember to acquaint all my emirs and huissirs, all the officers without
+the palace, to pay him the same honour at audience as the commander of
+the believers himself; and to carry on the matter so well, that he might
+not perceive the least thing that may interrupt this joke which I am
+diverting myself with.
+
+Afterwards the grand vizier retired, and the caliph went to bed in
+another apartment; and ordered Mesrour, the chief of his eunuchs, to take
+care to manage things so well, that he might see how Abon Hassan would
+use the power and authority of the caliph for the time he desired to have
+it; and, above all, charged him to awake him at the usual hour, before he
+awakened Abon Hassan, because he had a mind to be present when he rose.
+
+Mesrour failed not to do as the caliph had commanded; and, as soon as the
+caliph went into the room where Abon Hassan lay, he placed himself in a
+little closet, from whence he could see all that passed. All the officers
+and ladies who were to attend Abon Hassan's levee, took their posts
+according to their rank, with great silence, and discharged themselves as
+punctually of their offices as if the caliph had been to rise.
+
+As it was just day-break, and time to rise to morning prayer before
+sun-rise, the officer that stood nearest to the head of the bed, put a
+sponge steeped in vinegar to Abon Hassan's nose; who, presently turning
+his head about without opening his eyes, sneezed heartily, which was
+generally the effect of the caliph's powder, and which lasted longer or
+shorter in proportion to the dose. Then opening his eyes, he found
+himself, by the small light that appeared, in a stately room
+magnificently furnished, the ceiling of which was finely painted, and the
+floor covered with a rich silk tapestry, and surrounded by a great many
+young and handsome ladies, with all sorts of instruments of music in
+their hands, and black eunuchs richly clothed, all standing with great
+modesty and respect. After casting his eyes on the quilt of the bed, he
+perceived it was cloth of gold, richly embossed with pearls and diamonds;
+and that there was laid by the bed a habit of the same stuff and
+trimmings, with a caliph's turban.
+
+At the sight of these glittering objects, Abon Hassan was in the most
+inexpressible confusion and amazement, and looked upon all he saw as a
+dream. So, said he to himself, I am caliph; but, added he a little after,
+it is only a dream, the effect of the wish I entertained my guest with
+last night; and then he turned himself about to sleep again. At the same
+time, the eunuch said very respectfully, Commander of the Faithful, it is
+time for your majesty to rise to prayers; the morning begins to advance.
+
+These words very much surprised Abon Hassan. Am I awake, or do I sleep?
+said he to himself. Ah! certainly I am asleep! continued he, keeping his
+eyes shut; there is no reason to doubt of it.
+
+Immediately the eunuch, who saw he had no inclination to get up, and that
+he gave him no answer, said again, Your majesty, I hope, will not be
+angry, if I tell you once more that it is time to rise to morning prayer,
+which you never neglect, and the sun is just upon rising. I am mistaken,
+said Abon Hassan presently; I am not asleep, but awake: for those that
+sleep do not hear, and I hear very distinctly. Then opening his eyes, he
+saw plainly by broad daylight, what appeared but uncertain before, and
+rising upon his breech, with a smiling countenance, like a man overjoyed
+at a sudden promotion, pleased the caliph, who penetrated into the bottom
+of his thoughts.
+
+Then the ladies of the palace prostrated themselves with their faces to
+the ground before Abon Hassan, and those who had the instruments of music
+in their hands, wished him a good-morrow, by a concert of soft flutes,
+hautboys, theorboes, and other harmonious instruments, with which he was
+ravished, and was in such an ecstasy, that he knew not himself, nor where
+he was; but, recovering at last his first idea, he doubted whether what
+he saw was a dream or matter of fact. He clapped his hands before his
+eyes, and lowering his head, said to himself, What means all this? where
+am I? and whom does this palace belong to? What can these eunuchs,
+officers, beautiful ladies, and musicians signify? How is it possible for
+me to distinguish whether I am in my right senses or in a dream? When he
+took his hands from his eyes, the sun shone full in at the
+chamber-window; and at that instant, Mesrour, the chief of the eunuchs,
+came in, prostrated himself before Abon Hassan, and said, Commander of
+the Faithful, your majesty will excuse me for representing to you, that
+you used not to lie so long, and that the time of prayer is over; I am
+afraid your majesty has had an ill night, and has been indisposed, and
+may not be able to ascend your throne in council as usual: all your
+generals, governors, and other officers of state, wait your presence in
+the council-hall.
+
+At this discourse of Mesrour's, Abon Hassan was verily persuaded that he
+was neither asleep nor in a dream; but, at the same time, was very much
+embarrassed and confused. At last, looking earnestly at Mesrour, he said
+to him in a serious tone, Who is it you speak to, and call the commander
+of the faithful? For my part, I do not know you, and you mistake me for
+somebody else.
+
+Any person but Mesrour would have been dashed at these questions of Abon
+Hassan's; but he had been so well instructed by the caliph, that he
+played his part to a wonder. My worthy lord and master, said he, your
+majesty only speaks thus to try me: is not your majesty the commander of
+the faithful, monarch of the world, and the prophet's vicar on earth?
+Mesrour, your slave, has not forgot you, after so many years that he has
+had the honour and happiness to serve and pay his respects to your
+majesty; and should think himself the most unhappy of all men if he has
+incurred your displeasure, and begs of you most humbly to remove his
+fears; but is apt to believe that you have been disturbed by some
+troublesome dream last night.
+
+Abon Hassan burst out a-laughing at these words of Mesrour's, and fell
+backwards upon the bolster, which pleased the caliph so much, that he
+would have laughed as loud himself, if he had not been afraid of putting
+a stop to the pleasant scene he promised himself.
+
+Abon Hassan, when he had tired himself with laughing, sat up again on his
+breech, and, speaking to a little black eunuch that stood by him, said,
+Hark ye, tell me who I am. Sir, answered the little boy modestly, your
+majesty is the commander of the believers, and God's vicar on earth. You
+are a liar, sooty face, said Abon Hassan. Then he called the lady that
+stood the nearest to him: Come hither, fair one, said he, holding out his
+hand, bite the end of my finger, that I may feel whether I am asleep or
+awake.
+
+The lady, who knew the caliph saw all that passed, was overjoyed to show
+how capable she was of diverting him, and went with a grave countenance,
+and putting his finger between her teeth, she bit so hard that he cried
+out; and, snatching his hand quickly back again, said, I find I am awake,
+and not asleep. But by what miracle am I become caliph in a night's time?
+This is certainly the most strange and surprising thing in the world!
+Then addressing himself to the same lady, he said, I conjure you, for
+Heaven's sake, not to hide the truth from me; am I really the commander
+of the faithful? It is so true, answered the lady, that we, who are your
+slaves, are amazed to find that you will not believe yourself to be so.
+Ah! you are a deceiver, replied Abon Hassan; I know very well who I am.
+
+As the chief of the eunuchs perceived that Abon Hassan had a mind to
+rise, he lent him his hand, and helped him to get out of bed. No sooner
+were his feet set on the floor, than the chamber rang again with repeated
+acclamations of the officers and ladies, who cried out, God preserve your
+majesty, and give you a good day. O Heaven! cried Abon Hassan, what a
+strange thing is this! Last night I was Abon Hassan, and this morning I
+am the commander of the believers! I cannot comprehend this sudden and
+surprising change. Presently some of the officers began to dress him; and
+when they had done, Mesrour led him through all the eunuchs and ladies,
+who were ranged on both sides quite to the council-chamber door, which
+was opened by one of the huissirs. Mesrour walked before him to the foot
+of the throne, where he stopped, and putting one hand under one arm,
+while another officer did the same by the other, they helped him to
+ascend the throne.
+
+The caliph, in the mean time, came out of the closet where he was hid,
+and went into another which looked into the council-hall, from whence he
+could hear all that passed, and see Abon Hassan, who filled his throne
+with all the gravity imaginable.
+
+As soon as Abon Hassan had seated himself, the grand vizier Giafar
+prostrated himself at the foot of the throne, and addressing himself to
+him, said, God shower down blessings on your majesty in this life,
+receive you into his paradise in the other world, and confound your
+enemies!
+
+Abon Hassan, after all that had happened that morning, and these words of
+the grand vizier, never doubted but he was caliph, as he wished to be;
+and so, without examining any farther, how, or by what adventure or
+sudden change of fortune, he immediately began to exercise his power, and
+looking very gravely upon the vizier, asked him what he had to say.
+Commander of the Faithful, replied the grand vizier, the emirs, viziers,
+and other officers who are of your majesty's council, wait at the door,
+until your majesty give them leave to come in, and pay their usual
+respects to you. Abon Hassan presently bade that the door be opened, and
+the grand vizier gave the sign to the huissir that waited for it.
+
+When the door was opened, the viziers, emirs, and principal officers of
+the court, all dressed magnificently in their habits of ceremony, went in
+their order to the foot of the throne, and paid their respects to Abon
+Hassan; and bowing their heads down to the carpet, kneeling on one knee,
+saluted him with the title of Commander of the Faithful, according to the
+instruction of the grand vizier, and afterwards took their seats.
+
+When this ceremony was over, the grand vizier, standing before the
+throne, began with papers in his hand to make his report of affairs,
+which at that time were of very little consequence. Nevertheless, Abon
+Hassan acquitted himself in his great post without the least
+embarrassment; and gave judgment so well in all matters, that the caliph
+could not help wondering at his address. But before the grand vizier had
+finished his report, Abon Hassan called the judge of the police, whom he
+knew by sight, as he sat in his place: Hold, said he to the grand vizier,
+I have something to order the judge of the police. The judge of the
+police perceiving that Abon Hassan looked at him, and hearing his name
+mentioned, arose from his seat, and went gravely to the foot of the
+throne, where he prostrated himself with his face to the ground. Judge of
+the police, said Abon Hassan, go immediately to such a division, and
+seize the iman of the mosque, and four old men, (whom he described,) and
+give each of the old men a hundred bastinadoes with a bull's pizzle, and
+the iman four hundred: after that, mount them all five on camels, with
+their faces to the tails; and lead them through the whole city, with a
+crier before them, who shall proclaim, This is the punishment of all
+those who trouble their heads with other people's affairs, and make it
+their business to create disturbances and misunderstandings in families
+in their neighbourhood. My intention is also, that you enjoin them to
+leave that division, and never to set a foot more in it; and while your
+lieutenant is conducting them through the town, return, and give me an
+account of the execution of my orders. The judge of the police laid his
+hand upon his head, to show his obedience, and, prostrating himself a
+second time, went away.
+
+The caliph was extremely well pleased at this order; and perceived by
+Abon Hassan's strictness and expedition, that he was resolved not to lose
+the opportunity of punishing the iman and the other four old hypocrites.
+In the mean time, the grand vizier went on with his report, and had just
+done when the judge of the police came back from executing his
+commission. He went to the throne with the usual ceremony, and said,
+Commander of the Faithful, I found the iman and his four companions; and
+for a proof that I have punctually obeyed your commands, I have brought
+an instrument signed by the principal inhabitants of that division: at
+the same time, he pulled out a paper, and presented it to the pretended
+caliph.
+
+Abon Hassan took the paper, and reading over the names of the witnesses,
+who were all people that he knew very well, said to the judge of the
+police, It is very well; return to your seat. These old hypocrites, said
+he to himself, with a great deal of satisfaction in his looks, who must
+be censuring my actions, and finding fault with my entertaining honest
+people, deserved this punishment. The caliph all the time penetrated into
+his thoughts, and conceived a sensible joy in this expedition.
+
+Then Abon Hassan, addressing himself afterwards to the grand vizier,
+said, Go to the high treasurer for a purse of a thousand pieces of gold,
+and carry it to the mother of Abon Hassan, who is known by the name of
+the Debauchee; she lives in the same division into which I sent the judge
+of the police: return immediately.
+
+The grand vizier, after laying his hand upon his head, and prostrating
+himself before the throne, went to the high treasurer, who gave him the
+money, which he ordered a slave to take, and follow him to Abon Hassan's
+mother, to whom he gave it, saying only, The caliph makes you this
+present. She received it with the greatest surprise imaginable, and could
+not tell what to think of this liberality of the caliph.
+
+During the grand vizier's absence, the judge of the police acted for him,
+in making the report, which lasted till the vizier returned. As soon as
+he came into the council-chamber, and had assured Abon Hassan he had done
+as he had bade him, Mesrour, the chief of the eunuchs, who returned to
+the palace after he had conducted Abon Hassan to the council, came again,
+and made a sign to the viziers, emirs, and other officers, that the
+council was done, and that they might all retire; which they all did, by
+making the same reverence and obedience as when they entered.
+
+Abon Hassan sat not long after them, but came down from the throne,
+supported in the same manner as he went up to it, by Mesrour and another
+eunuch, who attended him back again to the apartment from whence he came,
+preceded all the way by the grand vizier: but before he reached the
+apartment, he was taken with a pressing occasion; upon which they showed
+him into a convenient closet, paved with white marble; and while Abon
+Hassan was there, the grand vizier went to acquaint the caliph with what
+had passed, though he had been an eye-witness all the time.
+
+When Abon Hassan came out of the closet, Mesrour went before him, to show
+him the way into an inner apartment, where there was a table spread.
+Several eunuchs ran before, to tell the musicians that the sham caliph
+was coming, who immediately began a concert of vocal and instrumental
+music, with which Abon Hassan was so charmed and transported, that he
+could not tell what to think at all he saw and heard. If this is a dream,
+said he, it is a long one: but certainly, continued he, it is no dream;
+for I can see and feel, walk, hear, and argue reasonably. Whatever it is,
+I trust in God: yet I cannot believe but I am the commander of the
+faithful; for no other person could live in this splendour. The honour
+and respect that is given me, and the obedience paid to my commands, are
+sufficient proofs.
+
+In short, Abon Hassan took it for granted that he was caliph, and the
+commander of the faithful; and was fully convinced of it, when he entered
+that magnificent and spacious hall, which was finely painted. Seven bands
+of musicians were placed round the hall, and as many gold branches hung
+down from the ceiling, which was painted with blue and gold. In the
+middle of the hall there was spread a table, which was served up with all
+manner of rarities, in massy gold plates and dishes; and seven young
+beautiful ladies, dressed in the richest habits, of the most lively
+colours, stood round this table, each with a fan in her hand, to fan Abon
+Hassan when at dinner.
+
+If ever mortal was charmed, Abon Hassan was: at every step he took in
+that stately hall, he could not help stopping to contemplate on all the
+wonders that regaled his eyes, and turned his head first on one side and
+then again on the other, which made the caliph almost split his sides
+with laughing. At last he went and sat down at the table, and presently
+all the ladies that stood about it began to fan him. He looked first at
+one and then at another, and admired the grace with which they acquitted
+themselves; and told them, with a smile, that he believed one fan was
+enough to cool him, and would have six of the ladies sit at table with
+him, three on his right hand and three on his left; that, as the table
+was round, which way soever he turned, his eyes might be saluted with
+agreeable objects.
+
+The six ladies obeyed; and Abon Hassan taking notice that, out of
+respect, they did not eat, helped them himself, and invited them to eat
+in the most pressing and obliging terms. Afterwards, he asked their
+names; which they told him were, White neck, Coral Lips, Fair Face, Sun
+Shine, Heart's Delight, Sweet Looks, and she who fanned him was Sugar
+Cane. The many soft things he said upon their names, showed him to be a
+man of a sprightly wit, and very much increased the esteem which the
+caliph (who saw every thing) had for him.
+
+When the ladies saw that Abon Hassan had done eating, one of them said to
+the eunuch who waited, the commander of the faithful will go into the
+next hall to the desert: bring some water. Upon which they all rose from
+the table, and taking from the eunuchs, one a gold basin, another an
+ewer, and a third a towel, kneeled down before Abon Hassan, and presented
+them to him to wash his hands; who, as soon as he had done, got up, and
+after an eunuch had opened the door, went, preceded by Mesrour, who never
+left him, into another hall, as large as the former, adorned with the
+best paintings, gold vessels, silk tapestry, and other rich furniture.
+There seven other bands of music began a new concert, as soon as Abon
+Hassan appeared. In this hall there were seven gold branches, and a table
+full of dried sweetmeats, and the most choice and exquisite fruits,
+raised in pyramids, in seven gold basins, and seven ladies, more
+beautiful than the others, standing round it, with fans in their hands.
+
+These new objects put Abon Hassan into a greater admiration than ever;
+who, after he had made a full stop, and given the most sensible marks of
+his surprise and astonishment, went directly to the table; where, sitting
+down, he gazed a considerable time at the seven ladies, with an
+embarrassment that plainly showed he knew not which to give the
+preference to. At last he ordered them all to sit and eat with him,
+telling them that it was not so hot but he could spare them that trouble.
+
+When the ladies were all placed about him, the first thing he did was to
+ask their names, which were different from the other seven, and expressed
+some perfection of either mind or body, which distinguished them from one
+another; and upon which he took an opportunity, when he presented them
+with fruit, &c. to say somewhat that was handsome. Take this fig, said he
+to Chain of Hearts, who sat on his right hand, and render the fetters
+with which you loaded me at first sight more supportable; and so went on
+to the rest. By these ways, Abon Hassan pleased and diverted the caliph
+more and more, who was resolved to carry on this scene which entertained
+him so agreeably.
+
+After Abon Hassan had tasted of all the fruits, &c. he got up and
+followed Mesrour into a third hall, much more magnificently furnished
+than the other two; where he was received by the same number of musicians
+and ladies, who stood about a table covered over with all manner of
+sweetmeats. After he had looked about him with new admiration, he
+advanced to the table, the music playing all the time, which ceased when
+he sat down. The seven ladies sat down with him, by his order, and helped
+themselves, as he desired them, to what they liked best; and afterwards
+he informed himself of their names, which pleased him as much as the
+others had done.
+
+By this time the day began to close, and Abon Hassan was conducted into
+the fourth hall, much more stately and magnificently furnished, lighted
+with wax-candles, in seven gold branches and sconces, which were placed
+all around it, all which made a glorious light. Abon Hassan found the
+same number of musicians here as he had done in the other halls, and saw
+also as many ladies standing round a table, furnished with such things as
+were proper to promote drinking. There he saw a beaufet, which he had not
+observed in any of the other halls, which was set out with seven large
+silver flagons full of the choicest wines, and seven crystal glasses by
+them.
+
+All the day long, Abon Hassan had drunk nothing but water, according to a
+custom observed at Bagdad, from the highest to the lowest; who never
+drink wine till the evening, it being accounted the most scandalous thing
+in the world to be seen drunk in the streets in the day-time.
+
+As soon as Abon Hassan entered the fourth hall, he went directly to the
+table and sat down, and was a long time in a kind of ecstasy at the sight
+of those seven ladies, who were much more beautiful than all he beheld in
+the other halls. He was very desirous to know all their names; but the
+music playing then so very loud that he could not hear them speak, he
+made a sign for them to leave off playing: then taking one of the ladies
+who sat next to him by the hand, he made her sit down by him, and
+presenting her with some of those relishing viands before him, asked her
+name. Commander of the Faithful, said the lady, I am called Cluster of
+Pearls. No name, replied Abon Hassan, could have more properly expressed
+your worth; and indeed your teeth exceed the finest pearls. Cluster of
+Pearls, added he, since that is your name, oblige me with a glass of wine
+from your fair hand. The lady went presently to the beaufet, and brought
+him a glass with a pleasant air. Abon Hassan took the glass with a smile,
+and looking passionately upon her; said, Cluster of Pearls, your health;
+I desire you to fill out as much for yourself, and pledge me. Accordingly
+she went to the beaufet, and returned with a glass in her hand; but
+before she drank, she sang a song, and by the sweetness of her voice
+ravished his senses.
+
+After Abon Hassan had drunk, he made another lady sit, and presenting her
+with some of the viands, asked her name, which she told him was Morning
+Star. Your bright eyes, said he, shine with greater lustre than that star
+you bear the name of. Do me the pleasure to bring me some wine; which she
+did, with an extraordinary grace. Then turning to the third lady, whose
+name was Daylight, he ordered her to do the same; and so on to the
+seventh, to the extreme satisfaction of the caliph.
+
+When they had all filled him round, Cluster of Pearls went to the
+beaufet, poured out a glass of wine, and putting in a pinch of the same
+powder the caliph had used the night before, presented it to Abon Hassan.
+Commander of the Faithful, said she, I beg of your majesty to take this
+glass of wine; and, before you drink it off, do me the favour to hear a
+song I have made to-day, and which may not displease you. With all my
+heart, said Abon Hassan, taking the glass; and, as commander of the
+faithful, I command you to sing it: for I am persuaded that so beautiful
+a lady as yourself must abound with wit and humour. The lady took a lute,
+and tuning it to her voice, sang with so much justness and grace, and
+with such delicate turns of thought and expression, that Abon Hassan was
+in perfect ecstasy all the time, and was so much delighted, that he
+ordered her to sing it again.
+
+When the lady had done, Abon Hassan drank off his glass, and, turning his
+head towards her, to give her those praises which he thought due to her,
+fell fast asleep with his mouth open gaping, and his eyes close shut,
+just in the same condition as when the caliph brought him from home; who
+took a greater satisfaction in this scene, than he could have promised
+himself. One of the ladies stood ready to catch the glass, which fell out
+of his hand; and then the caliph, who was all along a spectator of what
+had passed, came into the hall to them, and ordered Abon Hassan to be
+dressed again in his own clothes, and to be carried back again to his own
+house by the same slave that brought him, charging him to lay him on a
+sofa in the same room, and to leave the door open.
+
+The slave took Abon Hassan upon his shoulders, and carried him home by a
+back-door of the palace, and returned with speed to acquaint the caliph
+he had executed his commands. Well, said the caliph, Abon Hassan wished
+only to be caliph for one day, to punish the iman of the mosque, and the
+four scheiks or old men of his division, who had displeased him: I have
+procured him the means, and he ought to be content.
+
+In the mean time, Abon Hassan, who was laid upon a sofa by the slave,
+slept very late the next morning. When the powder was worked off, Abon
+Hassan opened his eyes, and finding himself at home, was in the utmost
+surprise. Cluster of Pearls! Morning Star! Coral Lips! Fair Face! cried
+he, calling the ladies of the palace by their names, as he remembered
+them: Where are you? Come hither.
+
+Abon Hassan called so loud, that his mother, who was in her own
+apartment, heard, and running to him upon the noise he made, said, What
+do you mean, son? What is the matter? At these words, Abon Hassan lifted
+up his head, and looking haughtily at his mother, said, Good woman, who
+is it you call son? Why, you, answered his mother, very calmly; are not
+you Abon Hassan, my son? It is a strange thing that you have forgot
+yourself. I your son, old trull! replied Abon Hassan; thou art mad, and
+knowest not what thou sayest: I am not Abon Hassan, I tell you, but the
+commander of the faithful.
+
+Hold your tongue, son, answered the mother; one would think you were a
+fool, to hear you talk thus. You are an old fool yourself, replied Abon
+Hassan: I tell you once more, I am the commander of the faithful, and
+God's vicar on earth. Ah! child, cried the mother, is it possible that I
+should hear you utter such words, that show you are distracted? What evil
+genius possesses you, to make you talk at this rate? God bless you, and
+preserve you from the power of Satan. You are my son Abon Hassan, and I
+am your mother.
+
+After she had made use of all the arguments she could think of to bring
+him to himself, and to show how great an error he was in, she said, Do
+not you see that the room you are now in is your own, and is not like a
+chamber fit for the commander of the believers? Think seriously of what I
+have said to you, and do not fancy things that are not, nor ever can be.
+
+Abon Hassan heard all these remonstrances of his mother very patiently,
+holding down his eyes, and clapping his hands before his face, like one
+who was looking into himself to examine the truth of what he saw and
+heard. At last, said he to his mother, just as if he was come out of a
+deep sleep, and with his hands in the same posture, Methinks I am Abon
+Hassan, you are my mother, and I am in my own room. Then looking about
+him again, he added, I am Abon Hassan, there is no doubt of it; and I
+cannot comprehend how this fancy came into my head.
+
+The mother really believed that her son was cured of that disorder of
+mind, and began to laugh, and ask him questions about his dream; when,
+all on a sudden, he started up on his breech, and looking crossly at his
+mother, said, Old sorceress, thou knowest not what thou sayest. I am not
+thy son, nor thou my mother, but the commander of the faithful; and thou
+shalt never persuade me to the contrary. For heaven's sake, son, said the
+mother, let us leave off this discourse, and talk of something else, for
+fear some misfortune should happen to us. I will tell you what fell out
+yesterday in our division to the iman of the mosque, and the four scheiks
+our neighbours: the judge of the police came and seized them, and gave
+each of them I do not know how many strokes with a bull's pizzle; and
+afterwards led them through all the streets, with a crier before them,
+who proclaimed, that that was the punishment of all those who troubled
+themselves about other folks' business, and set their neighbours at
+variance; and ordered them never to come into our division again. Abon
+Hassan's mother could not imagine that her son had any share in this
+adventure, and therefore turned the discourse this way to put him out of
+the conceit of being the commander of the faithful; but instead of
+effacing that idea, she rather strengthened it.
+
+Abon Hassan no sooner heard this relation, than he cried out, I am
+neither thy son, nor Abon Hassan, but certainly the commander of the
+believers: I cannot doubt of it, after what you have told me. Know then,
+that it was by my order that the iman and the four scheiks were punished;
+and I tell you, I am certainly the commander of the faithful; therefore
+do not tell me any more of its being a dream. I was not asleep, but as
+much awake as I am now. You do me a pleasure to confirm what the judge of
+the police told me he had executed according to my order; and I am
+overjoyed that the iman and the four scheiks, those great hypocrites,
+were so chastised, and would be glad to know how I came here. God be
+praised for all things! I am certainly commander of the faithful, and all
+thy arguments shall not convince me to the contrary.
+
+The mother, who could not divine or imagine why her son supported and
+maintained himself so strenuously to be caliph, never disputed but that
+he had lost his senses, when she found he insisted so much upon a thing
+that was so incredible; and in this thought said, I pray God to have
+mercy upon you, son! pray do not talk so madly. Beseech God to forgive
+you, and give you grace to talk more reasonably. What would the world say
+to hear you rave in this manner? Do not you know, they say walls have
+ears?
+
+These remonstrances only enraged Abon Hassan the more; and he was so
+provoked at his mother, that he said, Old woman, I have bid you once
+already hold your tongue; if you do not, I shall rise and give you cause
+to repent it all your life-time. I am the caliph, and the commander of
+the believers; and you ought to believe me when I say so.
+
+Then the good woman perceiving that he was more lunatic than ever,
+abandoned herself to tears; and beating her face and breast, expressed
+the utmost grief and astonishment to see her son in that distraction.
+Abon Hassan, instead of appeasing and being moved by his mother's tears,
+on the contrary, lost all the respect due from a son to his mother; and
+getting up hastily, and laying hold of a cane, ran to his mother in great
+fury, and in a threatening manner said, Tell me presently, wicked woman,
+who I am. I do not believe, son, replied she, looking at him tenderly,
+and void of fear, that you are so abandoned by God as not to know your
+mother, who brought you into the world. Indeed you are my son Abon
+Hassan; and are very much in the wrong to arrogate to yourself the title
+of our sovereign lord the caliph Haroun Alraschid, after the noble and
+generous present that monarch made us yesterday. In short, I forgot to
+tell you, that the grand vizier Giafar came to me yesterday, and putting
+a purse of a thousand pieces of gold into my hands, bade me pray for the
+commander of the faithful, who made me that present.
+
+At these words, Abon Hassan grew quite mad. The circumstance of the
+caliph's liberality his mother told him of, persuaded him more than ever
+that he was caliph, remembering how he had sent the vizier. Well, old
+hag, cried he, will you be convinced when I tell you that I sent you
+those thousand pieces of gold by my grand vizier Giafar, who obeyed my
+commands, as I was commander of the faithful? But, instead of believing
+me, thou endeavourest to distract me by thy contradictions, and
+maintainest with obstinacy that I am thy son; but thou shalt not go long
+unpunished. After these words, he was so unnatural, in the height of his
+frenzy, as to beat her cruelly with his cane.
+
+The poor mother, who could not have thought that her son would have come
+so soon from words to blows, called out for help so loud, that the
+neighbours ran in to her assistance. But in the mean time, Abon Hassan,
+at every stroke, asked her if he was the commander of the faithful. To
+which she always answered tenderly, that he was her son.
+
+By the time the neighbours came in, Abon Hassan's rage began to abate.
+The first who entered the room got between him and his mother; and taking
+the cane out of his hand, said to him, What are you doing, Abon Hassan?
+Have you no fear of God, nor reason? Did ever a son, so well brought up
+as you, ever dare to strike his mother? Are you not ashamed to treat
+yours so, who loves you so tenderly? Abon Hassan looked at him that
+spoke, without returning an answer; and then staring on all that followed
+him, said, Who is that Abon Hassan you speak of? Is it me you call by
+that name?
+
+This question put the neighbours a little to a stand. How! said he that
+spoke first, do not you know your mother, who brought you up, and with
+whom you have always lived? Be gone, you are impertinent people, replied
+Abon Hassan; I neither know her nor you, and will not know you; I am not
+Abon Hassan; but will make you know, to your cost, I am the commander of
+the faithful.
+
+At this discourse, the neighbours no longer doubted but that he was mad;
+and to prevent his being guilty of the like actions, seized him,
+notwithstanding his resistance, and bound him hand and foot, while one in
+the mean time ran for the keeper of the hospital for mad folks, who came
+presently with a bull's pizzle, chains, and handcuffs, and a great many
+attendants. When they entered the room, Abon Hassan, who little expected
+such treatment, endeavoured all he could to unloose himself; but after
+the keeper had given him two or three smart strokes upon his shoulders
+with the bull's pizzle, he lay so quiet, that the keeper and his people
+might do what they would with him; who as soon as they had bound and
+manacled him, took him with them to the hospital; where, before the
+keeper put him into a room, he regaled him with fifty strokes of the
+bull's pizzle on his shoulders, which he repeated every day without pity
+for three weeks, bidding him to remember that he was not the commander of
+the faithful.
+
+Abon Hassan's mother went every day to see her son, and could not forbear
+crying to see him fall away daily, and to hear him sigh and complain at
+the hardships he endured. In short, his shoulders, back, and sides were
+so black and blue and bruized, that he could not turn himself. His mother
+would willingly have talked with him, to comfort him, and to sound him
+whether he still retained the notion of being caliph; but whenever she
+opened her mouth, he rebuked her with so much fury, that she was forced
+to leave him, and return home disconsolate at his obstinacy.
+
+At last those strong and lively ideas which Abon Hassan entertained of
+being clothed in the caliph's habit, and having used all his authority,
+and being obeyed very punctually, and treated like the true caliph, and
+which persuaded him when he waked that he was so, all began to be
+insensibly effaced. Sometimes he would say to himself, If I was the
+caliph, and commander of the believers, how came I home dressed in my own
+apparel? Why should I not have been attended by eunuchs and ladies? Why
+should my grand Vizier Giafar, and all those emirs and governors of
+provinces, who prostrated themselves at my feet, forsake me? Undoubtedly
+if I had any authority over them, they would have delivered me all this
+time out of this miserable condition I am in: certainly I ought to look
+upon all this as a dream. It is true, I commanded the judge of the police
+to punish the iman and four old men his companions: I ordered Giafar the
+grand vizier to carry my mother a thousand pieces of gold: and all my
+commands were executed. All these things are obstacles to my believing it
+a dream; but yet there are so many things that I cannot comprehend, nor
+ever shall, that I will put my trust in God, who knows all things.
+
+Abon Hassan was taken up with these thoughts and sentiments, when his
+mother came to see him, who found him so much altered and changed from
+what he had been, that she let fall a torrent of tears; in the midst of
+which she saluted him as she used to do, and he returned her salute,
+which he had never done before while he had been in the hospital. This
+civility she looked upon to be a good sign. Well, son, said she, how do
+you do, and how do you find yourself? Have you renounced all those whims
+and fancies which some cursed demon had put into your head? Indeed,
+mother, replied Abon Hassan, very rationally and calmly, I acknowledge my
+error, and beg of you to forgive the execrable crime which I have been
+guilty of towards you, and which I detest. I ask pardon also of my
+neighbours whom I have abused. I have been deceived by a dream; but by so
+extraordinary a one, and so like to truth, that any other person, to whom
+such a thing might have happened, would have been guilty of as great
+extravagances: and I am at this instant so much perplexed about it, that
+I can hardly persuade myself but that it was matter of fact. But whatever
+it was, I do and always will look upon it as a dream and illusion. I am
+convinced that I am not that shadow of a caliph and commander of the
+faithful, but Abon Hassan, your son; and shall never forget that fatal
+day which covered me with shame and confusion; but honour and respect you
+all my life as I ought.
+
+At these sensible words, the mother of Abon Hassan changed the tears of
+her sorrow and affliction into those of joy, to find her son so well
+recovered. My dear child, said she, transported with pleasure, my
+satisfaction and comfort is inexpressible, to hear you talk so
+reasonably, and gives me as much joy as if I had brought you into the
+world a second time. But I must observe one thing in this adventure,
+which you may not have taken notice of: the stranger that you brought
+home one night to sup with you, went away without shutting the
+chamber-door after him as you desired him; which I believe gave some
+demon an opportunity to enter, and put you into that horrible illusion
+you were in: and therefore, my son, you ought to return God thanks for
+your deliverance, and beseech him to keep you out of the snares of the
+evil spirit.
+
+You have found out the source of my misfortunes, answered Abon Hassan; it
+was that very night I had this dream, which turned my brain. I bade the
+merchant expressly to shut the door after him; and now I find he did not
+do it. I am persuaded, as well as you, some devil came in, and filled my
+head full of these fancies. For they at Moussel are not so well convinced
+that the devil is the cause of troublesome dreams, as we are at Bagdad.
+But since, mother, you see I am so well recovered, for God's sake get me
+out of this hellish place. The mother, glad to find her son so well cured
+of his foolish imagination of being caliph, went immediately to the
+keeper, and assuring him that he was very sensible and well, he came and
+examined him, and afterwards gave him his liberty.
+
+When Abon Hassan came home, he staid within doors some days, to comfort
+himself by better food and nourishment than what he had at the hospital.
+But when he had recovered his strength, and refreshed himself after his
+harsh treatment, he began to be weary with spending his evenings alone,
+and so entered again upon the same way of living as before; which was to
+provide enough every day to regale a stranger at night.
+
+The day on which Abon Hassan renewed this custom, happened to be the
+first day of the month, which was the day that the caliph always sets
+apart to go disguised through the town, to observe what irregularities
+were committed in the government of the city. Towards the evening he went
+to the bridge, and set himself on a bench which was fixed to the parapet;
+where, looking about him, he perceived the caliph disguised again like a
+Moussel merchant, and followed by the same slave: and, persuaded that all
+his misfortunes were owing to the caliph's leaving his door open, whom he
+took for a merchant, he swooned at the sight of him. God preserve me,
+said he to himself; if I am not deceived, there is the magician again
+that enchanted me! and thereupon got up, and looked over the parapet into
+the river, that he might not see him.
+
+The caliph, who had a mind to carry on his joke farther, had taken a
+great deal of care to inform himself of all that had happened when Abon
+Hassan waked at home, and conceived a great pleasure at the relation
+given him, especially at his being sent to a mad-house. But that monarch
+was both just and generous, and had taken a great liking to Abon Hassan:
+he designed, after he had carried on this scene, to take him into his
+palace; and to pursue this project, he had dressed himself again like a
+merchant of Moussel. He perceived Abon Hassan at the same time that he
+saw him, and presently guessed by his actions that he was angry with him,
+and wanted to shun him. This made him walk close to the parapet Abon
+Hassan leaned over; and when he came nigh him, he put his head over to
+look him in the face. Ah, brother Abon Hassan, said he, is it you? give
+me leave to embrace you. Not I, replied Abon Hassan roughly, without
+looking at the pretended Moussel merchant: I will not embrace you; I have
+nothing to say to you; go along.
+
+What! answered the caliph, do you not know me? Do you not remember the
+evening we spent together at your house this day month, where you did me
+the honour to treat me very generously? No, replied Abon Hassan, I do not
+know you, nor what you talk about: go, I say again, about your business.
+
+The caliph was not to be dashed with this rude behaviour of Abon Hassan.
+He knew very well the law he had imposed on himself, never to have any
+commerce again with a stranger he had once entertained; but though Abon
+Hassan had declared so much to him, he pretended to be ignorant of it. I
+cannot believe, said he, but you must know me again; it is not possible
+that you should have forgot me in so short a time. Certainly some
+misfortune has befallen you, which gives you this aversion. However, you
+ought to remember that I show my acknowledgment by my good wishes; and
+that I have offered you my interest, which is not despicable, in an
+affair which you had very much at heart.
+
+I do not know, replied Abon Hassan, what your interest may be, and I have
+no desire to make use of it; but I am sensible the utmost of your wishes
+was to make me mad. In God's name, I say once more, go your way, and
+trouble me no more.
+
+Ah! brother Abon Hassan, replied the caliph, embracing him, I do not
+intend to part with you in this manner, since I have had the good fortune
+to meet with you a second time: you must exercise the same hospitality
+towards me again that you showed me a month ago, when I had the honour to
+drink with you.
+
+I have protested against it, said Abon Hassan, and have so much power
+over myself as not to receive such a man as you. You know the proverb,
+Take up your drum and be gone: make the application to yourself. God be
+with you; you have been the cause of my misfortune, and I will not
+venture myself with you again. My good friend Abon Hassan, said the
+caliph, embracing him again, I beg of you not to treat me after this
+injurious manner, but be better persuaded of my friendship. Do me the
+favour to tell me what has happened to you; for I assure you, I wish you
+well, and would be glad of an opportunity to make you amends for the
+trouble I have caused you, if it has been actually my fault. Abon Hassan
+yielded to the pressing instances of the caliph, and bade him sit down by
+him. Your incredulity and importunity have tired my patience; and what I
+am going to tell you, will show you that I do not accuse you wrongfully.
+
+The caliph sat down by Abon Hassan, while he told him all that happened
+to him, from his waking in the palace to his waking again in his own
+house, all as a mere dream, with all the circumstances, which the caliph
+knew as well as himself, and which renewed his pleasure. He exaggerated
+afterwards upon the impression that dream of being caliph made upon him,
+which, he said, threw him into such extravagances, that he was carried to
+the mad-house, and used very barbarously. But, said he, what will
+surprise you, and what you little think of, is, that it was altogether
+your fault that these things fell out: for, if you remember, I desired
+you to shut the door after you, which you neglected; and some devil
+finding it open, put this dream into my head, which, though it was very
+agreeable, was the cause of the misfortune I complain of; therefore you,
+for your negligence, are answerable for the horrid and detestable crime I
+was guilty of, in lifting my hand against my mother, whom I might have
+killed, and committed parricide, because she said I was her son, and she
+would not acknowledge me for the commander of the faithful: besides, I
+blush when I think of it, and that all my neighbours were witnesses of my
+folly. In short, Abon Hassan complained of his misfortunes with great
+heat and vehemence, and did not forget the least circumstance; which
+pleased the caliph to find he had succeeded so well, who could not help
+bursting out a-laughing at the simplicity wherewith he related them.
+
+Abon Hassan, who thought that his story should rather move compassion,
+and that every one ought to be as much concerned at it as himself, very
+much resented the pretended Moussel merchant's laughter. What! said he,
+do you make a jest of me, to laugh in my face, or do you believe that I
+do not speak seriously? If you want proofs of what I advance, look and
+see whether or no I tell you the truth: with that, stooping down, and
+baring his shoulders, he showed the caliph the strokes and weals the
+bull's pizzle had made.
+
+The caliph could not behold these objects of horror without pitying poor
+Abon Hassan, and being sorry for carrying the jest so far. Come, rise,
+dear brother, said he, hugging Abon Hassan friendly in his arms; let me
+go and enjoy the happiness of being merry with you to-night; and
+to-morrow, if it please God, all things will go well.
+
+Abon Hassan, notwithstanding his resolution and oath, could not resist
+the caliph's caresses. I will consent, said he to the pretended merchant,
+if you will swear to shut my door after you, that no demon may come in to
+distract my brain again. The caliph promised that he would; upon which
+they both got up, and, followed by the caliph's slave, reached Abon
+Hassan's house by the time it was dark.
+
+As soon as Abon Hassan entered the doors, he called for candles, and
+desired his guest to sit down upon a sofa, and then placed himself by
+him. A little time after, supper was brought up, and they both fell to
+without ceremony: afterwards there came up a small dessert of fruit,
+wine, and glasses. Abon Hassan first filled out his glass, and then the
+caliph's; and after they had drunk some time, and talked of indifferent
+matters, the caliph perceiving that his host grew warm with liquor, began
+to talk of love, and asked him if he had never been sensible of that
+passion.
+
+Brother, replied Abon Hassan familiarly, I never looked upon love or
+marriage but as bondage or slavery, to which I was always unwilling to
+submit; and must own to you that I never loved any thing but good cheer
+and good wine; in short, to divert and entertain myself agreeably with my
+friends. But yet I do not tell you that I am so indifferent for marriage,
+or incapable of an inclination, if I could meet with a woman of such
+beauty and sweetness of temper as those I saw in my dream that fatal
+night I first saw you, and received you into my house, and you, to my
+misfortune, left my door open, who would pass the whole night with me,
+drinking, and singing, and playing on some instrument, and who would
+study to please and divert me: I believe, on the contrary, I should
+change all my indifference to a perfect attachment to such a person, and
+I believe should live very happily with her. But where is such a woman to
+be found, but in the caliph's palace, or in those of the grand vizier, or
+some other great lords of the court, who want no money? I choose rather
+to stick close to my bottle, which is a pleasure much cheaper, and which
+I can enjoy as well as they. In saying, these words, he filled out his
+own and the caliph's glass, and said, Come, take your glass, and let us
+pursue this charming pleasure.
+
+When they had drunk off their wine, It is a great pity, said the caliph,
+that so gallant a man as you, who owns himself not insensible of love,
+should lead so solitary a life. I prefer the easy quiet life I live,
+replied Abon Hassan, before the company of a wife, whose beauty might not
+please, and who, besides, might create me a great deal of trouble by her
+imperfections, and perhaps ill humour. This subject lasted a long time;
+and the caliph, seeing Abon Hassan had drunk up to the pitch he wanted to
+have him, said, Let me alone; since you have so good a taste, I warrant
+you I will find you one that shall please you: and then taking Abon
+Hassan's glass, and putting a pinch of the same powder into it again,
+filled him up a bumper, and presenting it to him, said, Come, let us
+drink first the fair lady's health who is to make you happy.
+
+Abon Hassan took the glass laughing, and shaking his head, said, Come, I
+will drink the lady's health you promised me, though I am very well
+contented as I am, and do not rely on your promise; but cannot be guilty
+of so great a piece of incivility, as to disoblige a guest of so much
+merit, in such a trifling matter. But as soon as he had drunk off his
+liquor, he was seized with as deep a sleep as before; and the caliph
+ordered the same slave to take him and carry him to the palace, and in
+the mean time shut the door after him, as he had promised, and followed
+him.
+
+When they arrived at the palace, the caliph ordered Abon Hassan to be
+laid on a sofa, in the fourth hall, from whence he was carried home: but
+first he bade them put him in the same habit which he acted the caliph
+in. After that, he charged all the eunuchs; officers, ladies, and
+musicians, who were in the hall when he drank the last glass of wine, to
+be there by daybreak, and to take care to act their parts well; and then
+went to bed, charging Mesrour to wake him before they went into the hall,
+that he might hide himself in the closet as before.
+
+Mesrour wakened the caliph at the hour appointed; who immediately rose,
+and went to the hall where Abon Hassan was laid fast asleep; and when he
+had placed himself in his closet, Mesrour and the other officers and
+ladies placed themselves about the sofa, so that the caliph might see
+what passed.
+
+Things being thus disposed, and the caliph's powder having had its
+effect, Abon Hassan began to stir, and the music to play a very agreeable
+concert. Abon Hassan was in a great surprise to hear that charming
+harmony; but when he opened his eyes, and saw the ladies and officers
+about him, and which he thought he knew again, his amazement was
+redoubled. The hall that he was in seemed to be the same he dreamed of;
+and he observed the same branches, and the same furniture and ornaments.
+
+When the concert was ended, he bit his finger and cried loud enough for
+the caliph to hear him, Alas! I am fallen again into the same dream and
+illusion that happened to me a month ago, and must expect again the
+bull's pizzle and mad-house. Almighty God, added he, I commit myself into
+the hands of thy divine providence. He was a wicked man that I
+entertained at my house last night, who has been the cause of this
+illusion, and the miserable hardships I must undergo. The base wretch
+swore to shut the door after him, and he did not do it; and the devil
+came in, and filled my head full of this wicked dream of being commander
+of the faithful, and other phantoms, which bewitch my eyes. May thou be
+confounded, Satan, and crushed under some mountain!
+
+After these words, Abon Hassan closed his eyes, and remained some time
+thoughtful, and very much perplexed; then opening them again, and looking
+about him, cried out a second time, Great God! I commit myself into the
+hands of thy providence; preserve me from the temptation of Satan. Then
+shutting them again, he said, All that I know is, I will go and sleep
+till Satan leaves me, and returns as he came; when one of the ladies
+approached, and sitting down on a sofa by him, said to him, Commander of
+the Faithful, I beg of your majesty to forgive me for taking the liberty
+to tell you not to go to sleep; day appears, and it is time to rise. Be
+gone, Satan! answered Abon Hassan, raising his voice: but looking upon
+the lady, he said, Is it I you call the commander of the faithful?
+Certainly you take me for somebody else. It is to your majesty I give
+that title, replied the lady, to whom it belongs, as you are sovereign of
+the world and the Mussulmans, and I am your most humble slave.
+Undoubtedly your majesty, added she, pretends to have forgot yourself, or
+this is the effect of some troublesome dream; but if you would but open
+your eyes, the mists which may disturb your imagination will soon be
+dispelled, and you will find yourself in your own palace, surrounded by
+your officers and slaves, who all wait your commands: and that your
+majesty may not be surprised to find yourself in this hall, and not in
+bed, I beg leave to tell you, that you fell so suddenly asleep last
+night, that we were unwilling to wake you, to conduct you to your own
+chamber, but laid you carefully upon this sofa. In short, she urged so
+many things to him that were so very probable, that at last he sat upon
+his breech, and knew all the ladies again. Then she who spoke first,
+assuming the discourse, said, Commander of the Faithful, and the
+prophet's vicar on earth, be not displeased if I acquaint your majesty
+once more, that it is time to rise, for day appears.
+
+You are very troublesome and importunate, replied Abon Hassan, rubbing
+his eyes: I am not the commander of the faithful, but Abon Hassan; and
+you shall not persuade me otherwise. We do not know that Abon Hassan your
+majesty speaks of, answered the lady; but know you to be the commander of
+the believers.
+
+Abon Hassan looking about, and finding himself in the same hall,
+attributed all he saw and heard to be such a dream as he had before, and
+feared very much the dreadful consequences. Heaven have mercy on me! said
+he, lifting up his hands and eyes, like a man who knew not where he was;
+after what I have seen, there is no dispute but that devil who came into
+my chamber possesses me, and fills my imagination full of all these
+visions.
+
+The caliph, who saw him all the time, and heard these exclamations,
+almost killed himself with laughing; and had much ado to forbear bursting
+out into so loud a laughter, that the false caliph must have heard him.
+
+Afterwards Abon Hassan laid himself down again, and shutting his eyes,
+the same lady said again, Since your majesty does not rise, after we
+have, according to our duty, told you it was day, and the dispatch of
+business requires your presence, we shall use the liberty you give us in
+such like cases. Then taking him by one arm, and calling to one of the
+other ladies to do the same by the other, they lifted him up, and carried
+him into the middle of the hall, where they set him on his breech, and
+all taking hands, danced round him while the music played.
+
+Abon Hassan was in an inexpressible perplexity of mind, and said, What!
+am I indeed caliph, and commander of the faithful? and in the uncertainty
+he was in, would have said something more, but the music was so loud that
+he could not be heard. At last he made a sign to two of the ladies who
+were dancing, that he wanted to speak with them; upon which they forbore,
+and went to him. Do not lie, now, said he, but tell me truly who I am.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied one of the ladies, your majesty would
+either surprise us by asking this question, or else you must have had
+some very extraordinary dream to-night; which may very well be,
+considering that your majesty has slept longer to-night than ordinary:
+however, if you will give me leave, I will refresh your memory with what
+passed yesterday. Then she told him how he went to the council, punished
+the iman and the four old men, and sent a present by his grand vizier, of
+a thousand pieces of gold, to the mother of one Abon Hassan: after that,
+continued she, your majesty dined in the three halls, and, in the fourth,
+did us the honour to make us sit down by you, to hear our songs, and
+receive wine from our hands, till your majesty fell so fast asleep, that
+you never awaked, contrary to custom, before day. All your slaves and
+officers can confirm what I say; and it is now time you should go to
+prayers.
+
+Very well, replied Abon Hassan, shaking his head, you would have me
+believe all this but I can tell you, you are all fools or mad; and that
+is a great pity, for you are very handsome: for I can tell you, that
+since I saw you, I have been at home, where I used my mother so ill, that
+they sent me to a mad-house, and kept me three weeks, and beat me every
+day with a bull's pizzle; and yet you would make me believe all this to
+be a dream. Commander of the Faithful answered the lady, we are all ready
+to swear by what your majesty holds most dear, that all you tell is a
+dream; for you never stirred out of this hall since yesterday, but slept
+here all night long.
+
+The confidence with which the lady assured Abon Hassan that all she said
+was truth, and that he had never been out of the hall since that time,
+made him not to know what to believe, but bewildered his senses. O
+Heaven! said he to himself, am I Abon Hassan, or the commander of the
+faithful? Almighty God, enlighten my understanding, and inform me of the
+truth. Then he bared his shoulders, and showed the ladies the livid
+weals. Look, and judge, said he, whether these strokes could come to me
+in a dream, or when I was asleep. For my part, I can affirm that they
+were real blows; for I feel the smart of them yet, and that is a
+testimonial there is no room to doubt of. Now, if I received these
+strokes in my sleep, it is the most surprising and extraordinary thing in
+the world, and what I cannot understand.
+
+In this uncertainty, Abon Hassan called to one of the officers that stood
+round him: Come hither, said he, and bite the tip of my ear, that I may
+know whether I am asleep or awake. The officer obeyed him, and bit so
+hard that he made him cry out horridly: the music struck up at the same
+time, and the officers and ladies all began to dance, and skip about Abon
+Hassan, and made such a noise, that he was in a perfect enthusiasm, and
+played a thousand merry tricks. He tore off his caliph's habit, threw off
+his turban, and jumped up in his shirt and drawers, and taking hold of
+two of the ladies' hands, fell a-dancing and singing, and jumping and
+cutting capers, that the caliph could not contain himself, but burst into
+so violent a laughter at this sudden pleasantry of Abon Hassan's, that he
+fell backwards, and made a greater noise than the musicians and all of
+them together, and lay in that condition for some time. At last he got up
+again, and putting out his head, cried out, Abon Hassan, Abon Hassan,
+what! have you a mind to kill me with laughing?
+
+As soon as the caliph's voice was heard, every body was silent, and Abon
+Hassan among the rest; who, turning his head to see from whence the voice
+came, knew the caliph and the Moussel merchant, but was not in the least
+dashed; but, on the contrary, found that he was awake, and all that had
+happened to him was matter of fact, and not a dream. He entered into the
+caliph's pleasantry and intentions: Ha! ha! said he, looking at him with
+a good assurance, you are a merchant of Moussel, and complain that I
+would kill you, who have been the occasion of my using my mother so ill,
+and being sent to a mad-house. It was you who treated the iman and the
+four scheiks in the manner they were used, and not I; I wash my hands of
+it. It was you who have been the cause of all my disorders: in short, you
+are the aggressor, and I the injured person.
+
+Indeed you are in the right of it, Abon Hassan, answered the caliph,
+laughing all the while; but to comfort thee, and make thee amends for all
+thy troubles, I call Heaven to witness, I am ready and willing to make
+thee what reparation thou pleasest to ask. After these words, he came out
+of the closet into the hall, and ordered one of his most magnificent
+habits to be brought, and commanded the ladies to dress Abon Hassan in
+it; and when they had done so, he said, embracing him, Thou art my
+brother; ask what thou wilt, and thou shalt have it.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan, I beg of your majesty to
+do me the favour to tell me what you did to disturb my brain in that
+manner, and what was your design; for that is a thing of the greatest
+importance for me to know, that I may perfectly recover my senses.
+
+The caliph promised to give him that satisfaction, and said, First you
+ought to know, that I often disguise myself, and particularly at night,
+to observe what irregularities are committed in Bagdad; besides, I set
+apart the first day of every month to make a tour about it, sometimes on
+one side and sometimes on another, but always return by the bridge. That
+evening that you invited me to supper, I had been taking my rounds; and
+in our discourse you told me, that the only thing you wished for was to
+be caliph for four and twenty hours, to punish the iman of your mosque
+and his four counsellors. I fancied that this desire of thine would
+afford me a great deal of diversion, and thought immediately how I might
+procure thee that satisfaction. I had about me a certain powder, which
+throws immediately the person that takes it into a sound sleep for such a
+time. I put a dose of it, without being perceived by thee, into the last
+glass I presented to thee; upon which you fell fast asleep, and I ordered
+my slave to carry you to my palace, and came away without shutting the
+door. I have no occasion to repeat what happened at my palace when you
+waked: but after you had been regaled all day, one of the slaves, by my
+order, put another dose of the same powder at night into a glass she gave
+you; you fell asleep as before, and the same slave carried you home, and
+left the door open. You told me all that happened to you afterwards. I
+never imagined that you could have suffered so much as you have done. But
+as I have a great regard for you, I will make you amends; and that you
+may have no cause to remember your ill treatment, think of what would
+please you, and ask me boldly for it.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan, how great soever my
+tortures may have been, they were all blotted out of my remembrance, as
+soon as I understood my sovereign lord had any share in them, and doubt
+not in the least of your majesty's bounty; but as interest had never any
+sway over me, and I have the liberty to ask a favour, I beg that it may
+be that of having access to your person, to have the happiness of
+admiring, all my life-time, your grandeur.
+
+This last proof of Abon Hassan's generosity completed the esteem the
+caliph had entertained for him. I am mightily pleased with thy request,
+said the caliph, and grant thee free access to my person at all times and
+all hours. In short, he assigned him an apartment in the palace; and, in
+regard to his pension, told him, that he would not have him to have any
+thing to do with his treasurer, but to come always to him for an order
+upon him. Abon Hassan made a low bow, and the caliph left him to go to
+council.
+
+Abon Hassan made use of this time to go and inform his mother of his good
+fortune, and what had happened, which, he told her, was not a dream; for
+that he had actually been caliph, and had acted as such, and received all
+the honours; and that she had no reason to doubt of it, since he had it
+confirmed, by the caliph himself.
+
+It was not long before this new story of Abon Hassan was spread all about
+Bagdad, and was carried into all the provinces both far and near, and not
+one single circumstance scarce omitted.
+
+The new favourite Abon Hassan was always with the caliph; for as he was a
+man of a pleasant temper, and created mirth by all his words and actions,
+the caliph could not live without him, and often carried him along with
+him to see his spouse Zobeide, to whom he told his story, and who was
+mightily pleased with him, and observed that every time he came with the
+caliph he had his eyes always fixed upon one of her slaves, called
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, (which is to say, Renewed Pleasure,) and resolved to
+tell the caliph of it. Commander of the Faithful, said that princess one
+day, you do not observe so well as I, that every time Abon Hassan attends
+you in your visits to me, he never keeps his eyes off
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, and makes her blush, which is almost a certain sign
+that she entertains no aversion for him. If you approve of it, we will
+make a match between them.
+
+Madam, replied the caliph, you put me in mind of a thing which I ought to
+have done before now. I know Abon Hassan's taste of marriage from
+himself, and have always promised him a wife that should please him. I am
+glad you mentioned it, for I know not how I came to forget it. But it is
+better that Abon Hassan has followed his own inclination, and chose for
+himself; and if Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is not averse to it, we ought not to
+hesitate upon their marriage; and since they are both present, let them
+declare that they give consent.
+
+Abon Hassan threw himself at the caliph's and Zobeide's feet, to show the
+sense he had of their bounty; and, rising up, said, I cannot receive a
+wife from better hands, but dare not hope that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat will
+give me hers. After these words, he looked upon the princess's slave, who
+showed, by her respectful silence, and the sudden blush that rose in her
+cheeks, that she was disposed to obey the caliph and her mistress
+Zobeide.
+
+The marriage was solemnized, and the nuptials celebrated in the palace,
+with great rejoicings, which lasted several days. Zobeide, in respect to
+the caliph, made her slave considerable presents, and the caliph did the
+same to Abon Hassan. The bride was conducted to the apartment the caliph
+had assigned Abon Hassan, who waited for her with all the impatience of a
+bridegroom, and received her with the sounding of trumpets and all sorts
+of instruments, which played in concert, and made the air echo again
+their sweet and harmonious notes.
+
+After these feasts and rejoicings, which lasted several days, the
+new-married couple were left to pursue their loves peaceably. Abon Hassan
+and his spouse were charmed with each other, and lived together in
+perfect union, and seldom were asunder, but when either he paid his
+respects to the caliph, or she to Zobeide. Indeed Nouz-hatoul-aonadat was
+endued with all the qualifications capable of gaining Abon Hassan's love
+and attachment, and was just such a wife as he desired; therefore they
+could want nothing to render their lives agreeable. They always ate the
+nicest and choicest rarities in season, and had the best meats tossed up
+in fricasees and ragouts, &c. by an excellent cook, who took upon him to
+provide every thing. Their beaufet was always stored with exquisite
+wines. At dinner they enjoyed themselves in this manner, and afterwards
+entertained each other with some pleasantry or other: and in the
+evenings, which they consecrated to mirth, they had generally some slight
+repast of dried sweetmeats, choice fruits, and other light meats, and
+invited each other by songs and catches to drink, and sometimes played to
+their voices on a lute, or other instruments which they could touch.
+
+Abon Hassan and Nouz-hatoul-aonadat lived a long time in this manner,
+when the caterer, who disbursed the money for these expenses, put them in
+mind that he had gone his length, and parted with all his money; which
+they found, but too late, to be so considerable a sum, that all the
+presents that the caliph and the princess Zobeide had given them at their
+marriage, were but just enough to pay him. This made them reflect on what
+was past, and which at that time they could not remedy. However, they
+agreed to pay the cook; and sent for him, and paid him all they owed him,
+without showing the least trouble.
+
+The caterer went away very well pleased to receive so large a sum of
+money, though Abon Hassan and his wife were not so over-well satisfied
+with seeing the bottom of their purse, but remained a long time silent
+and very much embarrassed, to find themselves reduced to that condition
+the first year of their marriage. Abon Hassan remembered very well that
+the caliph, when he took him into the palace, promised never to let him
+want any thing. But when he considered how prodigal he had been of his
+money in so short a time, he was unwilling to expose himself to the shame
+of telling the caliph the ill use he had made of what he had given him,
+and that he wanted more. Besides, he had made over his patrimony to his
+mother, as soon as the caliph had received him nigh his person; and was
+afraid to go to her, lest she should find that he had returned to the
+same extravagance he had been guilty of after his father's death. His
+wife, on the other hand, looked upon Zobeide's generosity, and the
+liberty she had given her to marry, as more than a sufficient recompense
+for her service, and thought she could not ask any more.
+
+Abon Hassan at last broke silence, and looking upon his wife, said, I see
+you are in the same embarrassment as myself, and am thinking what we must
+do in this unhappy juncture. I do not know what your sentiments may be;
+but mine are, let what will happen, not to retrench our expenses in the
+least; and, I believe you will come into my opinion: the point is, how to
+support them without asking the caliph or Zobeide; and I fancy I have
+thought on the means: but we must both assist each other.
+
+This discourse of Abon Hassan's very much pleased his wife, and gave her
+great hopes. I was thinking so as well as you, said she; but durst not
+explain my thoughts, because I did not know how to help ourselves; and
+must confess, that what you tell me gives me a great deal of pleasure.
+But since you say you have found out a way, and my assistance is
+necessary, you need but to tell me, and I will do all that lies in my
+power.
+
+I believe, replied Abon Hassan, that you will not fail in this affair,
+which concerns us both; and therefore I must tell you this want of money
+has made me think of a trick we will put upon the caliph and Zobeide, and
+at which, I am sure, they will both be pleased, and be diverted with the
+cheat; which is, you and I will both die. Not I indeed, interrupted
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat; you may die by yourself, if you will. I am not so
+weary of this life; and whether you are pleased or not, will not die so
+soon. If you have nothing else to propose than that, you may do it by
+yourself; for I shall not meddle with it.
+
+You are so quick and hasty, replied Abon Hassan, that you will not give
+me time to explain my meaning: have but a little patience, and you shall
+find that you will be ready enough; for sure you did not think I meant a
+real death. Well, said his wife, if it is but sham death you design, I am
+at your service, and you may depend on my zeal: but I must tell you
+truly, I am very unwilling to die as I apprehended you meant at first.
+
+Be but easy a little, said Abon Hassan, and I will tell you what I
+propose. I will feign myself dead, and you shall lay me out on a white
+sheet, in the middle of my chamber, with my feet towards Mecca, and my
+turban upon my face, just ready to be buried. When you have done so, you
+must cry and take on, as is usual in such cases, and tear your clothes,
+and with your hair loose about your ears, go to Zobeide. The princess
+will ask you the cause of your grief; and when you have told her, with
+words intermixed with sighs, she will pity you, and give you some money
+to defray the expense of my funeral, and a piece of gold brocade, to
+cover my body with, that my interment may be the more magnificent, and to
+make you a habit in the room of that you had torn; and as soon as you
+return with the money and the brocade, I will get up and lay you in my
+place, and go and act the same part with the caliph as you have done with
+Zobeide; and I dare say the caliph will be as generous to me as Zobeide
+will be to you.
+
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat liked this project very well, and said to Abon
+Hassan, Come, lose no time; strip to your shirt and breeches, while I
+prepare a sheet. Abon Hassan did as his wife bade him, and laid himself
+all along on his back, with his feet towards Mecca, on the sheet which
+his wife spread on the carpet, just in the middle of the room. As soon as
+he had crossed his arms, his wife wrapped him up, and put a fine piece of
+muslin and his turban upon his face. After this, she pulled her hair over
+her face, and with a dismal crying and lamentation, ran across the court
+of Zobeide's apartment; who, hearing the voice of a person crying very
+loud, commanded some of her women to see who it was, who returned, and
+told her that it was Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, who was coming in a deplorable
+condition.
+
+The princess, impatient to know what had happened to her, rose up
+immediately, and went to meet her at the door of the antechamber.
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat played her part excellently well. As soon as she saw
+Zobeide, she redoubled her cries, tore her hair off by handfuls, beat her
+face and breast, and threw herself at her feet, bathing them with her
+tears.
+
+Zobeide, amazed to see her slave in so extraordinary an affliction, asked
+her, what misfortune had happened to her. But, instead of answering, she
+continued sighing and sobbing; and at last, feigning to strive to check
+herself, said, with words intermixed with sighs, Alas! my most honoured
+lady and mistress, what greater misfortune could have befallen me than
+this, which obliges me to throw myself at your highness's feet? May God
+prolong your days, my most respectable princess, in perfect health, and
+grant you many happy years. Abon Hassan! poor Abon Hassan! whom you
+honoured with your esteem, and gave me for a husband, is no more!
+
+Then Nouz-hatoul-aonadat redoubled her tears and sighs, and threw herself
+again at the princess's feet. Zobeide was extremely surprised at this
+news. Abon Hassan dead! cried she, that agreeable pleasant man! indeed I
+did not in the least expect his death so soon; he seemed to promise a
+long life, and well deserved one. Then she burst out also into tears, as
+did all her women, who had been often witnesses of Abon Hassan's
+pleasantries, when the caliph brought him to see the princess Zobeide,
+and continued a long time bewailing the loss of him. At last Zobeide
+broke silence, and ordered one of her slaves to go to her treasure, and
+fetch a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of rich brocade.
+
+The slave returned soon with a purse and piece of brocade, which, by
+Zobeide's order, she put into Nouz-hatoul-aonadat's hand; who threw
+herself again at the princess's feet, and thanked her with a great deal
+of satisfaction, to think she had succeeded so well. Go, said Zobeide,
+make use of that brocade to cover the corpse of thy husband, and with
+that money bury him handsomely, and as he ought to be. Moderate the
+transports of thy affliction: I will take care of thee.
+
+As soon as Nouz-hatoul-aonadat got out of the princess's presence, she
+dried up her tears, and returned with joy to Abon Hassan, to give him an
+account of her good success. When she came into her own apartment, and
+saw her husband still stretched out in the middle of the floor, she ran
+to him laughing, and bade him rise, and see the fruits of his project.
+Upon which he arose, and rejoiced with his wife at the sight of the purse
+and brocade, who, for her part, could, not contain herself. Come,
+husband, said she laughing, let me act the dead part, and see if you can
+manage the caliph as well as I have done Zobeide.
+
+This is the temper of all women, replied Abon Hassan, who, we may well
+say, have always the vanity to believe they can do things better than
+men, though, at the same time, what they do is by their advice. It would
+be odd indeed, if I, who laid this plot myself, could not carry it on
+likewise. But let us lose no time in idle discourse: lie down in my
+place, and see if I do not come off with as much applause.
+
+Abon Hassan wrapped up his wife as she had done him; and with his turban
+undone, and set awry on his head, and like a man in the greatest
+affliction imaginable, he ran to the caliph, who was holding a private
+council with the grand vizier Giafar and some other viziers, and he
+having free access wheresoever he was, went with his handkerchief before
+his eyes, to hide the feigned tears which trickled down his cheeks, and
+striking his breast with the other, expressed an extraordinary grief.
+
+The caliph, who was ever used to see Abon Hassan gay and merry, was very
+much surprised to behold him in that sorrowful state, and asked him the
+cause of his grief. Commander of the Faithful, answered Abon Hassan, with
+repeated sighings and sobbings, may God preserve your majesty on the
+throne, which you fill so gloriously! Alas! Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, whom you
+in your bounty gave me for a wife, is ----. At this exclamation, Abon
+Hassan pretended to have his heart so full that he could not utter one
+syllable more, but poured forth a flood of tears.
+
+The caliph, who presently understood that Abon Hassan came to tell him of
+the death of his wife, seemed very much concerned, and said to him, God
+comfort thee; she was a good slave, and we gave her to thee with an
+intention to make thee happy: she deserved a longer life. Then the tears
+ran down his face, so that he was obliged to pull out his handkerchief to
+wipe them off. In short, Abon Hassan dissembled so well, that the caliph,
+who did not in the least doubt of his sincerity, ordered his treasurer,
+who was then present, to give Abon Hassan a purse of a hundred pieces of
+gold, and a piece of brocade. Abon Hassan immediately cast himself at the
+caliph's feet, and thanked him for his present. Follow the treasurer,
+said that monarch; throw the brocade over the corpse, and with the money
+show the last testimony of thy love for thy wife.
+
+Abon Hassan made no reply to these obliging words of the caliph, but
+retired with a low bow, and followed the treasurer; and as soon as he had
+got the purse and piece of brocade, went home, very well pleased with
+having found out so quick and ready a way of supplying his necessity,
+which had given him some trouble.
+
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, weary with lying so long in that posture, never
+waited till Abon Hassan bade her rise; but as soon as she heard the door
+open, got up and ran to her husband, and asked him if he had cheated the
+caliph as well as she did Zobeide? You see, said he, showing her the
+stuff, and shaking the purse, that I can act a sorrowful husband as well
+as you can an afflicted wife. But for fear this trick of theirs should be
+attended with some ill consequences, he thought it would not be amiss to
+instruct his wife with what might happen, that they might act in concert.
+For, added he, the better we succeed in embarrassing the caliph and
+Zobeide, the more they will be pleased at last, and perhaps may show
+their satisfaction by a greater liberality. And this last consideration
+induced them to carry on this scene further.
+
+The caliph, though he had a great deal of business to transact in
+council, was nevertheless so impatient to go and condole with the
+princess upon the death of her slave, that he rose up as soon as Abon
+Hassan was gone, and put off the council to another day. Follow me, said
+he to Mesrour, who always attended him wherever he went, and let us go
+and share with the princess the grief which the death of her slave
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat causes her.
+
+Accordingly, they went to Zobeide's apartment, whom the caliph found
+seated on a sofa, very much afflicted, and all in tears. Madam, said the
+caliph, going up to her, it is necessary to tell you how much I partake
+with you in your affliction; since you are not insensible that what gives
+you pleasure or trouble, has the same effect on me. But we are all
+mortals, and must surrender up to God that life he gives us, when he
+requires it. Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, your faithful slave, was endued with
+qualifications that deserved all your esteem, and I do not disapprove
+your expressing it after her death; but consider, all your grief will not
+bring her to life again. Therefore, madam, if you love me, and would take
+my advice, be comforted for this loss, and take care of a life which you
+know is precious to me.
+
+If the princess was charmed with these tender sentiments which the caliph
+expressed in his compliments, she was much more amazed to hear of
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat's death. This news put her into so great a surprise,
+that she was not able to return an answer for some time. At last,
+recovering, she said, Commander of the Faithful, I am very sensible of
+all your tender sentiments; but cannot comprehend the news you tell me of
+the death of my slave, who is in perfect health. My affliction is for the
+death of Abon Hassan, her husband, your favourite, whom you was so kind
+to let me know, who often diverted me very agreeably, and for whom I have
+as great a value as you yourself. But, sir, the little concern you show
+for his death, and your so soon forgetting a man in whom you have often
+told me you took a great deal of pleasure, amazes and surprises me very
+much; and this insensibility seems the greater, by your changing his
+death for that of my slave.
+
+The caliph, who thought that he was perfectly well informed of the death
+of the slave, and had just reason to believe so, because he had both seen
+and heard Abon Hassan, fell a-laughing and shrugging up his shoulders, to
+hear Zobeide talk after this manner. Mesrour, said he, turning himself
+about to that eunuch, what dost thou think of the princess's discourse?
+Do not women sometimes lose their senses? for, in short, thou hast heard
+and seen all as well as myself. Then turning about to Zobeide, Madam,
+said he, do not shed any more tears for Abon Hassan, for I can assure you
+he is well; but rather bewail the death of your dear slave. It is not
+many moments since her husband came all in tears, and the most
+inexpressible affliction, to tell me of the death of his wife. I gave him
+a purse of a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of brocade, to comfort
+him, and bury her with; and Mesrour here, who was by, can tell you the
+same.
+
+The princess took this discourse of the caliph to be all a jest, and that
+he had a mind to impose upon her credulity. Commander of the Faithful,
+replied she, though you are used to banter, I must tell you this is not a
+proper time. What I tell you is very serious: I do not talk of my slave's
+death, but of Abon Hassan her husband's, whose fate I bewail, and so
+ought you too. Madam, said the caliph, putting on a grave countenance, I
+tell you, without raillery, that you are deceived; Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is
+dead, and Abon Hassan is alive, and in perfect health.
+
+Zobeide was very much piqued at this answer of the caliph. Commander of
+the Faithful, replied she smartly, surely you would make me think that
+you were mad; give me leave to repeat to you once more that it is Abon
+Hassan who is dead, and that my slave Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is living; it
+is not an hour ago since she went from hence; she came here in so
+disconsolate a state, that the sight of her was enough to have drawn
+tears from my eyes, if she had not told me her affliction. All my women,
+who cried with me, can bear me witness, and tell you also, that I made
+her a present of a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of brocade; and
+the grief which you found me in was upon the death of her husband; and
+just that instant that you came in, I was going to send you a compliment
+of condolence.
+
+At these words of Zobeide, the caliph cried out, in a fit of laughter,
+This, madam, is a strange piece of obstinacy; but, continued he
+seriously, you may depend upon Nouz-hatoul-aonadat's being dead. I tell
+you not, sir, replied Zobeide instantly; it is Abon Hassan that is dead,
+and you shall never make me believe otherwise.
+
+Upon this the caliph began to be angry, and set himself upon a sofa, some
+distance from the princess, and, speaking to Mesrour, said, Go
+immediately, and see which it is, and bring me word; for though I am
+certain that it is Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, I would rather take this way,
+than be any longer obstinately positive. For my part, replied Zobeide, I
+know very well that I am in the right, and you will find it to be Abon
+Hassan. And for mine, replied the caliph, I am so sure that it is
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, that I will lay you what wager you will that Abon
+Hassan is well.
+
+Do not think to come off there, said Zobeide: I accept of your wager, and
+I am so well persuaded of his death, that I would willingly lay the
+dearest thing in the world to me. You know what I have in my disposal,
+and what I value most; propose the bet, and I will stand to it.
+
+Since it is come to that, said the caliph, I will lay my garden of
+pleasures against your palace of paintings, though the one is worth much
+more than the other. It is no matter for that, replied Zobeide; if your
+garden is more valuable, you have made choice of what you thought fit,
+and what belonged to me, as an equivalent against what you lay; and I say
+done to the wager, and will not turn back. The caliph said the same, and
+both waited until Mesrour returned.
+
+While the caliph and Zobeide were disputing so earnestly, and with so
+much heat, Abon Hassan, who foresaw their difference, was very attentive
+to whatever might happen. As soon as he perceived Mesrour through a
+window, over against which he sat, talking with his wife, and observed
+that he was coming directly to their apartment, he presently guessed what
+he was coming about, and bade his wife make haste to act the dead part
+once more, as they had agreed on; and, in short, they were so pinched for
+time, that Abon Hassan had much ado to wrap up his wife, and lay the
+piece of brocade upon her, before Mesrour came. As soon as he had done
+that, he opened the door of his apartment, and with a melancholy dejected
+countenance, and his handkerchief before his eyes, went and sat down at
+the head of the pretended deceased.
+
+By that time he was seated Mesrour came into the room. The dismal sight
+that saluted his eyes gave him a secret joy, on account of the errand the
+caliph sent him on. As soon as Abon Hassan perceived him, he rose up to
+meet him, and kissing his hand out of respect, said, sighing and
+groaning, You see me, sir, in the greatest affliction that ever could
+befall me; the death of my wife Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, whom you honoured
+with your favours.
+
+Mesrour, softened by this discourse, could not refuse some tears to the
+memory of the deceased. He lifted up the pall a little at the head, which
+was uncovered, and peeping under it, let it down again, and said, with a
+deep sigh, There is no other god but God; we must all submit to his will,
+and return to him. Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, my good sister, added he, thy
+days have been very few: God have mercy on thee. Then turning to Abon
+Hassan, who was all the time in tears, We may well say, said he, that
+women sometimes have whims, and lose their senses; for Zobeide will
+maintain to the caliph, that you are dead, and not your wife; and
+whatever the caliph can say to the contrary, he cannot persuade her
+otherwise. He called me to witness the truth of what he affirms; for you
+know I was by when you came and told him the sorrowful news: but all
+signifies nothing; they are both positive; and the caliph, to convince
+Zobeide, has sent me to know the truth; but I fear I shall not be
+believed; for when women once take a thing, they are not to be beat out
+of it.
+
+God keep the commander of the faithful in the right use of his senses,
+replied Abon Hassan, still sighing and crying; you see how it is, and
+that I have not imposed upon his majesty; and I wish to heaven, continued
+he, to dissemble the better, that I had no occasion to tell him the
+melancholy and afflicting news. Alas! I cannot enough express my
+irreparable loss. That is true, replied Mesrour; and I can assure you, I
+have a great share in your affliction; but you must comfort, and not
+abandon yourself to your grief. I leave you against my will, to return to
+the caliph; but I beg the favour of you not to bury the corpse until I
+come again, for I will assist at the interment.
+
+Abon Hassan waited on him to the door, and told him that he did not
+deserve the honour that he did him; and for fear Mesrour should return to
+say something else to him, he followed him with his eyes for some time,
+and then returned to his wife, and unloosed her. This is already, said
+he, a new scene of mirth; but I fancy it will not be the last; for
+certainly the princess Zobeide will not believe Mesrour, but laugh at
+him, since she has too substantial a reason to the contrary; therefore we
+must expect some new event. Whilst Abon Hassan and Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+were talking thus, she had time enough to put on her clothes again; and
+both went and sat down on a sofa, opposite to the window, where they
+could see all that passed.
+
+In the mean time, Mesrour reached Zobeide's apartment, and going into her
+closet laughing, clapped his hands, like one who had something very
+agreeable to tell.
+
+The caliph, who was naturally impatient, would presently be informed of
+the truth of the matter; for he was piqued a little at the princess's
+diffidence: therefore, as soon as he saw Mesrour, Vile slave, said he, is
+this a time to laugh? Why do you not tell me which is dead, the wife or
+the husband?
+
+Commander of the Faithful, answered Mesrour, putting on a serious
+countenance, it is Nouz-hatoul-aonadat who is dead; for the loss of whom
+Abon Hassan is as much afflicted as when he appeared before your majesty.
+The caliph, not giving him time to pursue his story, interrupted him, and
+cried out, laughing heartily, Good news; Zobeide was a moment ago
+mistress of the palace of paintings, which she staked against my garden
+of pleasures, since you went, and now it is mine; therefore thou couldst
+not have done me a greater pleasure: but give me a true account of what
+thou sawest.
+
+Commander of the Faithful, said Mesrour, when I came to Abon Hassan's
+apartments, I found the door open, and he bewailing the death of his wife
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat. He was seated at the head of the deceased, who was
+laid out in the middle of the room, with her feet towards Mecca, and was
+covered with that piece of brocade which your majesty made a present of
+to Abon Hassan. After I had expressed the share I had in his grief, I
+went and lifted up the pall at the head, and knew Nouz-hatoul-aonadat,
+though her face was very much swelled. I exhorted Abon Hassan the best I
+could to comfort himself; and when I came away, I told him I would attend
+at his wife's funeral, and desired him not to stir the corpse till I
+came. This is all I can tell your majesty. I ask no more, said the
+caliph, laughing heartily; and I am very well satisfied with thy
+exactness. Then addressing himself to Zobeide, Well, madam, said he, have
+you yet any thing to say against so certain a truth? Will you always
+believe that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is alive, and that Abon Hassan is dead?
+And will you not own that you have lost your wager?
+
+How, sir, replied Zobeide, who would not believe one word Mesrour said,
+do you think that I regard that impertinent slave, who knows not what he
+says? I am not so blind or mad. With these eyes I saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat
+in the greatest affliction: I spoke to her myself, and she told me that
+her husband was dead.
+
+Madam, replied Mesrour, I swear to you by your own life, and that of the
+commander of the faithful, which are both dear to me, that
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is dead, and Abon Hassan is living.
+
+Thou art a base despicable slave, said Zobeide, in a rage, and I will
+confound thee immediately; and thereupon she called her women, by
+clapping her hands together, who all came in. Come hither, said the
+princess to them, and speak the truth: Who was that who came and spoke
+with me a little before the caliph came here? The women all answered,
+that it was poor afflicted Nouz-hatoul-aonadat. And what, added she,
+addressing herself to her that was treasurer, did I order you to give
+her? Madam, answered the treasurer, I gave Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, by your
+orders, a purse of a hundred pieces of gold, and a piece of brocade,
+which she carried along with her. Well then, sorry slave, said Zobeide to
+Mesrour, in a great passion, what hast thou to say to all this? What dost
+thou think now, that I ought to believe thee, or my treasurer, my other
+women, or myself?
+
+Mesrour did not want for arguments to contradict the princess; but, as he
+was afraid of provoking her too much, he chose rather to be silent,
+though he was satisfied within himself that the wife was dead, and not
+the husband.
+
+All the time of this dispute between Zobeide and Mesrour, the caliph, who
+heard what was said on both sides, and was against the princess, because
+he had seen and spoke to Abon Hassan himself, laughed heartily to see
+Zobeide so exasperated against Mesrour. Madam, said he to Zobeide, I know
+not indeed who was the author of that saying, That women sometimes lose
+their wits; but I am sure you make it good. Mesrour came just now from
+Abon Hassan's, and tells you that he saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat lying dead
+in the middle of the room, Abon Hassan alive, and sitting by her; and yet
+you will not believe this evidence, which nobody can reasonably refuse: I
+think it is very strange.
+
+Zobeide would not hear what the caliph represented. Pardon me, Commander
+of the Faithful, replied she, if I suspect you: I see very well that you
+have contrived with Mesrour to chagrin me, and try my patience. And as I
+perceive that this report was concerted between you, I beg leave to send
+a person to Abon Hassan's, to know whether or no I am in the wrong.
+
+The caliph consented, and the princess charged an old nurse, who had
+lived a long time with her, with that important commission. Hark ye,
+nurse, said she, you see the dispute between the caliph and me; therefore
+go to Abon Hassan's, or rather Nouz-hatoul-aonadat's, for he is dead, and
+clear up this matter. If thou bringest me good news, a handsome present
+is thy reward. Make haste and return quickly.
+
+The caliph was overjoyed to see Zobeide in this embarrassment; but
+Mesrour, extremely mortified to find the princess so angry with him, did
+all he could to appease her, insomuch that she and the caliph were both
+satisfied with him. He was overjoyed when Zobeide sent the nurse; because
+he was persuaded that the report she would make would agree with his, and
+would justify him, and restore him to her favour.
+
+In the mean time, Abon Hassan, who watched the window, perceived the
+nurse at a distance, and guessing that she was sent by Zobeide, called
+his wife, and told her that the princess's nurse was coming to know the
+truth; therefore, said he, make haste and lay me out. Accordingly
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat did so, and covered him with the piece of brocade
+Zobeide had given her, and put his turban upon his face. The nurse, eager
+to acquit herself of her commission, came a good round pace, and entering
+the room, perceived Nouz-hatoul-aonadat all in tears, her hair
+dishevelled, and seated at the head of her husband, beating her breast,
+and expressing a violent grief.
+
+The good old nurse went directly to the false widow. My dear
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, said she, with a sorrowful face, I come not to
+interrupt your grief and tears for a husband who loved you so tenderly.
+Ah! good mother, replied the counterfeit widow, you see my misfortune,
+and how unhappy I am by the loss of my beloved Abon Hassan. Abon Hassan,
+my dear husband! cried she, what have I done that you should leave me so
+soon? Have I not always rather obeyed your will than my own? Alas! what
+will become of poor Nouz-hatoul-aonadat?
+
+The nurse was in a great surprise to see every thing quite the reverse of
+what the chief of the eunuchs had told the caliph. This black-faced
+Mesrour, said she, lifting up her hands, deserves to be impaled for
+having made so great a difference between my good mistress and the
+commander of the faithful, by the notorious lie he told them. I will tell
+you daughter, said she, the wickedness of that villain Mesrour, who has
+asserted, with an inconceivable impudence, before my mistress's face,
+that you were dead, and Abon Hassan was alive.
+
+Alas! my good mother, cried Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, I wish to heaven that it
+was true! I should not be in this sorrowful state, nor bewail a husband
+so dear to me. At these words she burst out into tears, and feigned a
+most desperate trouble.
+
+The nurse was so much concerned for her tears, that she sat down by her,
+and cried too: then gently lifting up the turban and cloth, looked on the
+face of the corpse. Ah! poor Abon Hassan, cried she, covering the face
+again, God have mercy upon thee. Adieu, child, said she to
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat; if I could stay longer with you, I would, with all
+my heart: but I am obliged to return immediately, to free my mistress
+from the uneasiness that black villain has given her by his impudent lie,
+assuring her with an oath that you was dead.
+
+As soon as the nurse was gone, and had pulled the door after her, and
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat thought she would not come back again, she wiped her
+eyes, and went and unloosed Abon Hassan, and then both went and sat down
+on a sofa against the window, expecting what would be the end of this
+cheat, and to be ready to act according as things should offer.
+
+The nurse, in the mean time, made all the haste she could to Zobeide. The
+pleasure of carrying the princess good news, and hopes of a good reward,
+added wings to her feet; and running into the princess's closet, quite
+out of breath, there gave her a true account of all she had seen. Zobeide
+hearkened to the old woman's relation with a most sensible pleasure; and
+when she had done, she said, Repeat it once more before the caliph, who
+looked upon us all to be fools, and would make us believe we have no
+sense of religion, nor fear of God; and tell your story to that wicked
+black slave, who had the insolence to assert a falsity, and which I know
+to be one.
+
+Mesrour, who expected the nurse's report would prove favourable on his
+side, was very much mortified to find it so much the contrary. He was so
+vexed at the rage Zobeide expressed against him, for a thing he believed
+to be very true, that he was glad of having an opportunity of speaking
+his mind freely to the nurse, which he durst not do to the princess. Old
+toothless, said he to the nurse, thou tellest lies, and there is no truth
+in what thou sayest; for I saw Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, with these eyes, laid
+out in the midst of the room.
+
+Thou art a notorious liar thyself, replied the nurse, with an insulting
+air, to dare to maintain before my face so great a falsity, since I saw
+Abon Hassan dead, and laid out, and left his wife alive. Thou art an
+impostor, replied Mesrour, and endeavourest to put us all into confusion.
+
+There is impudence for you, said the nurse, to dare to tell me I lie, in
+the presence of their majesties, when I saw just now, with my own eyes,
+what I have had the honour to tell them. Indeed, nurse, answered Mesrour
+again, you had better hold your tongue, for you certainly dote.
+
+Zobeide, who could not support this want of respect in Mesrour, who,
+without any regard to her, treated her nurse injuriously, without giving
+the nurse time to reply to so gross an affront, said to the caliph,
+Commander of the Faithful, I demand justice for this insolence in our
+presence; and could say no more, she was so enraged, and burst out into
+tears.
+
+The caliph, who had heard all this dispute, thought it very intricate,
+and mused some time, and could not tell what to think of so many
+contradictions. The princess, for her part, as well as Mesrour, the
+nurse, and all the women slaves who were present, were as much puzzled,
+and remained silent. At last the caliph taking up the cudgels, and
+addressing himself to Zobeide, said, I see very well we are all liars;
+myself first, and then you, Mesrour, and your nurse; or at least it seems
+not one can be believed before the other: therefore, let us go ourselves
+to know the truth; for I can see no other way to clear up these doubts.
+
+After these words the caliph got up, the princess followed him, and
+Mesrour went before to open the doors. Commander of the Faithful, said
+he, I am overjoyed that your majesty has taken this course, and much
+more, when I shall make it plainly appear that the nurse dotes, though
+the expression is displeasing to my good mistress.
+
+The nurse, who wanted not to reply, said, Hold thy tongue, black face;
+thou dotest thyself.
+
+Zobeide, who was very much provoked at Mesrour, could not bear to hear
+him attack her nurse again without taking her part. Vile slave, said she,
+say what thou wilt, I maintain my nurse is in the right, and look upon
+thee as a liar. Madam, replied Mesrour, if the nurse is so very certain
+that Nouz-hatoul-aonadat is alive, and Abon Hassan is dead, I will lay
+her what she dare of it. The nurse was as ready as he; and, in short,
+they laid a piece of gold and silver stuff.
+
+The apartment the caliph and Zobeide came out of, though it was a great
+way from Abon Hassan's, was nevertheless just over against it, and Abon
+Hassan could perceive them coming, and told his wife, that the caliph and
+Zobeide, preceded by Mesrour, and followed by a great number of women,
+were coming to do them the honour of a visit. At this news she seemed
+frightened, and cried out, What shall we do? we are ruined! Fear nothing,
+replied Abon Hassan: What! have you forgot what we agreed on? We will
+both be dead, and you shall see all will go well. At the slow rate they
+come, we shall be ready before that time they get to the door.
+Accordingly Abon Hassan and his wife wrapped up and covered themselves
+with the piece of brocade, and waited patiently for their visitors.
+
+Mesrour, who came first, opened the door, and the caliph and Zobeide,
+followed by their attendants, entered the room; but were extremely
+surprised, and stood motionless, at the dismal sight which saluted their
+eyes. At last, Zobeide breaking silence, said to the caliph, Alas! they
+are both dead! You have done finely, continued she, looking at the caliph
+and Mesrour, to endeavour to make me believe that my slave was dead; and
+I find it true at last: it is dangerous jesting with edge-tools: the
+grief of losing her husband has certainly killed her. Say rather, madam,
+answered the caliph, prepossessed to the contrary, that
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat died first, and the afflicted Abon Hassan could not
+survive his dear wife: therefore you ought to agree that you have lost
+your wager, and your palace of paintings is mine.
+
+Hold there, answered Zobeide, animated with the same spirit of
+contradiction; I will maintain it, you have lost your garden of pleasures
+to me. Abon Hassan died first; since my nurse told you, as well as me,
+that she saw her alive, and crying for the death of her husband.
+
+The dispute of the caliph and Zobeide brought on another between Mesrour
+and the nurse, who had wagered as well as they; and each pretended to
+win, and came at last to abuse each other very grossly.
+
+After all, the caliph reflecting on what had passed, began to think that
+Zobeide had as much reason as himself to maintain that she had won. In
+the embarrassment he was, of not being able to find out the truth, he
+advanced towards the two corpses, and sat himself down at the head,
+searching after something that might gain him the victory over Zobeide.
+Well, cried he, presently after, I swear, by the holy name of God, that I
+will give a thousand pieces of gold to him that can tell me which of
+these two died first.
+
+No sooner were these words out of the caliph's mouth, but he heard a
+voice under Abon Hassan's pall, say, Commander of the Faithful, I died
+first, give me the thousand pieces of gold. At the same time he saw Abon
+Hassan throw off the piece of brocade, and come and prostrate himself at
+his feet, while his wife did the same to Zobeide, keeping on her pall of
+brocade, out of decency. The princess at first shrieked out, and
+frightened all about her; but recovering herself at last, expressed a
+great joy to see her slave rise again alive. Ah! wicked
+Nouz-hatoul-aonadat, cried she, what affliction have I been in for thy
+sake! However, I forgive thee from my heart, and am glad to see thee
+well.
+
+The caliph, for his part, was not so much surprised when he heard Abon
+Hassan's voice; but thought he should have died away with laughing at
+this unravelling of the mystery, and to hear Abon Hassan ask so seriously
+for the thousand pieces of gold. What, Abon Hassan, said he, hast thou
+conspired against my life, to kill me a second time with laughing? How
+came this thought into your head, to surprise Zobeide and me thus, when
+we least thought on such a trick?
+
+Commander of the Faithful, replied Abon Hassan, I will declare to your
+majesty the whole truth, without the least reserve. Your majesty knows
+very well, that I always loved to eat and drink well; and the wife you
+gave me rather increased than restrained that inclination. With these
+dispositions, your majesty may easily suppose we might spend a good
+estate; and, to make short of my story, we were not the least sparing of
+what your majesty so generously gave us. This morning, accounting with
+our caterer, who took care to provide every thing for us, and paying what
+we owed him, we found we had nothing left. Then reflections of what was
+past, and resolutions to manage better for the future, crowded into our
+thoughts apace, and after them a thousand projects, all which we refused.
+At last, the shame of being reduced to so low a condition, and not daring
+to tell your majesty, made us contrive this trick to relieve our
+necessities, and to divert your majesty, hoping that you would be pleased
+to pardon us.
+
+The caliph and Zobeide were very well satisfied with Abon Hassan's
+sincerity; and then Zobeide, who had all along been very serious, began
+to laugh, and could not help thinking of Abon Hassan's scheme; when the
+caliph, who had laughed his sides sore at the singularity of this
+adventure, rising up, said, Follow me both of you, and I will give you
+the thousand pieces of gold I promised you. Zobeide desired him to let
+her make her slave a present of that sum. By this means Abon Hassan and
+his dear wife Nouz-hatoul-aonadat preserved the favour of the caliph
+Haroun Alraschid and the princess Zobeide; and by their liberalities were
+made capable of pursuing their pleasures.
+
+
+
+
+                               Footnotes
+
+
+[1]A famous player on the lute, that lived at Bagdad at that time.
+
+[2]Giauhara, in Arabic, signifies a Precious Stone.
+
+
+                        END OF THE THIRD VOLUME.
+
+                                LONDON:
+                PRINTED BY THOMAS DAVISON, WHITEFRIARS.
+
+
+
+
+                          Transcriber's notes
+
+
+--Silently corrected several palpable typos.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Arabian Nights, Volume III (of 4), by Anonymous
+
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