gladdened by these premises addressed her husband, Prince Ahmad, “So
now, as soon as thy heart desireth, go thou and pay thy respects to thy
sire; but ere thou set out I would charge thee with one charge and look
that on no wise thou forget my rede and my counsel. Speak not to any a
single word of this thy marriage, nor of the strange sights thou hast
seen and the wonders thou hast witnessed; but keep them carefully
concealed from thy father and thy brethren and from thy kith and kin,
one and all. This only shalt thou tell thy sire, so his mind may be set
at ease, that thou art buxom and happy; also that thou hast returned
home for a while only with the object of seeing him and becoming assured
of his welfare.” Then she gave orders to her people, bidding them make
ready for the journey without delay; and when all things were prepared
she appointed twenty horsemen, armed cap-à-pie and fully accoutred, to
accompany her husband, and gave him a horse of perfect form and
proportions, swift as the blinding leven or the rushing wind; and its
housings and furniture were bedeckt with precious ores and studded with
jewels. Then she fell on his neck and they embraced with warmest love;
and as the twain bade adieu, Prince Ahmad, to set her mind at rest,
renewed his protestations and sware to her again his solemn oath. Then
mounting his horse and followed by his suite (all Jinn-born cavaliers)
he set forth with mighty pomp and circumstance, and riding diligently he
soon reached his father’s capital. Here he was received with loud
acclamations, the like of which had never been known in the land. The
Ministers and Officers of State, the citizens and the Ryots all rejoiced
with exceeding joy to see him once more, and the folk left their work
and with blessings and low obeisances joined the cavalcade; and,
crowding around him in every side, escorted him to the palace-gates.
When the Prince reached the threshold he dismounted and, entering the
audience-hall, fell at his father’s feet and kissed them in a transport
of filial affection. The Sultan, well nigh distraught for delight at the
unexpected sight of Prince Ahmad, rose from his throne and threw himself
upon his son’s neck weeping for very joy and kissed his forehead saying,
“O dear my child, in despair at the loss of the Lady Nur al-Nihar thou
didst suddenly fly from thy home, and, despite all research, nor trace
nor sign of thee was to be found however sedulously we sought thee; and
I, distracted at thy disappearance, am reduced to this condition in
which thou seest me. Where hast thou been this long while, and how hast
thou lived all this time?” Replied Prince Ahmad, “’Tis true, O my lord
the King, that I was downhearted and distressed to see Prince Ali gain
the hand of my cousin, but that is not the whole cause of my absence.
Thou mayest remember how, when we three brothers rode at thy command to
yonder plain for a trial of archery, my shaft, albeit the place was
large and flat, disappeared from sight and none could find where it had
fallen. Now so it fortuned that one day in sore heaviness of mind I
fared forth alone and unaccompanied to examine the ground thereabout and
try if haply I could find my arrow. But when I reached the spot where
the shafts of my brothers, Princes Husayn and Ali, had been picked up, I
made search in all directions, right and left, before and behind,
thinking that thereabouts mine also might come to hand; but all my
trouble was in vain: I found neither shaft nor aught else. So walking
onwards in obstinate research, I went a long way, and at last
despairing, I would have given up the quest, for full well I knew that
my bow could not have carried so far, and indeed that ’twere impossible
for any marksman to have driven bolt or pile to such distance, when
suddenly I espied it lying flat upon a rock some four parasangs[88]
distant from this place.” The Sultan marvelled with much marvel at his
words and the Prince presently resumed, “So when I picked up the arrow,
O my lord, and considered it closely I knew it for the very one I had
shot, but admired in my mind how it had come to fly so far, and I
doubted not but that there was a somewhat mysterious about the matter.
While I thus reflected I came upon the place where I have sojourned ever
since that day in perfect solace and happiness. I may not tell thee more
of my tale than this; for I came only to ease thy mind on my account,
and now I pray thee deign grant me thy supreme permission that I return
forthright to my home of delights. From time to time I will not cease to
wait upon thee and to enquire of thy welfare with all the affection of a
son.” Replied the King, “O my child, the sight of thee hath gladdened
mine eyes; and I am now satisfied; and not unwillingly I give thee leave
to go, since thou art happy in some place so near hand; but shouldst
thou at any time delay thy coming hither, say me, how shall I be able to
get tidings of thy good health and welfare?” And quoth Prince Ahmad, “O
my lord the King, that which thou requirest of me is part of my secret
and this must remain deep hidden in my breast: as I said before, I may
not discover it to thee nor say aught that might lead to its discovery.
However, be not uneasy in thy soul, for I will appear before thee full
many a time and haply I may irk thee with continual coming.” “O my son,”
rejoined the Sultan, “I would not learn thy secret an thou would keep it
from me, but there is one only thing I desire of thee, which is, that
ever and anon I may be assured of thine enduring health and happiness.
Thou hast my full permission to hie thee home, but forget not at least
once a month to come and see me even as now thou dost, lest such
forgetfulness cause me anxiety and trouble, cark and care.” So Prince
Ahmad tarried with his father three days full-told, but never for a
moment did the memory of the Lady Peri-Banu fade from his mind; and on
the fourth day he mounted horse and returned with the same pomp and
pageantry wherewith he came.——And as the morn began to dawn Shahrazad
held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Fifty-sixth Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that Peri-Banu joyed
with exceeding joy at the sight of Prince Ahmad as he returned to his
home; and it seemed to her as though they had been parted for three
hundred years: such is love that moments of separation are longsome and
weary as twelvemonths. The Prince offered much of excuses for his short
absence and his words delighted Peri-Banu yet the more. So these twain,
lover and beloved, passed the time in perfect happiness, taking their
pleasure one with other. Thus a month went by and Prince Ahmad never
once mentioned the name of his sire nor expressed a wish to go visit him
according to his promise. Noting this change, the Lady Peri-Banu said to
him one day, “Thou toldest me aforetime that once in the beginning of
each month thou wouldst fare forth and travel to thy father’s court and
learn news of his welfare: why then neglectest thou so to do, seeing
that he will be distressed and anxiously expecting thee?” Replied Prince
Ahmad, “’Tis even as thou sayest, but, awaiting thy command and thy
permission, I have forborne to propose the journey to thee.” And she
made answer, “Let thy faring and thy returning rest not on my giving
thee liberty of leave. At the beginning of each month as it cometh
round, do thou ride forth, and from this time forwards thou hast no need
to ask permission of me. Stay with thy sire three days full-told and on
the fourth come back to me without fail.” Accordingly, on the next day
betimes in the morning Prince Ahmad took his departure and as aforetime
rode forth with abundant pomp and parade and repaired to the palace of
the Sultan his sire, to whom he made his obeisance. On like manner
continued he to do each month with a suite of horsemen larger and more
brilliant than before, whilst he himself was more splendidly mounted and
equipped. And whenever the Crescent appeared in the Western sky he
fondly farewelled his wife and paid his visit to the King, with whom he
tarried three whole days, and on the fourth returned to dwell with
Peri-Banu. But, as each and every time he went, his equipage was greater
and grander than the last, at length one of the Wazirs, a favourite and
cup-companion of the King, was filled with wonderment and jealousy to
see Prince Ahmad appear at the palace with such opulence and
magnificence. So he said in himself, “None can tell whence cometh this
Prince, and by what means he hath obtained so splendid a suite.” Then of
his envy and malice that Wazir fell to plying the King with deceitful
words and said, “O my liege lord and mighty sovran, it ill becometh thee
to be thus heedless of Prince Ahmad’s proceedings. Seest thou not how
day after day his retinue increaseth in numbers and puissance? What an
he should plot against thee and cast thee into prison, and take from
thee the reins of the realm? Right well thou wottest that inasmuch as
thou didst wed Prince Ali to the Lady Nur al-Nihar thou provokedest the
wrath of Prince Husayn and Prince Ahmad; so that one of them in the
bitterness of his soul renounced the pomps and vanities of this world
and hath become a Fakir, whilst the other, to wit, Prince Ahmad,
appeareth before thy presence in such inordinate power and majesty.
Doubtless they both seek their revenge; and, having gotten thee into
their power, the twain will deal treacherously with thee. So I would
have thee beware, and again I say beware; and seize the forelock of
opportunity ere it be too late; for the wise have said:—
Thou canst bar a spring with a sod of clay ✿ But when grown ’twill bear
a big host away.”
Thus spake that malicious Wazir; and presently he resumed, “Thou knowest
also that when Prince Ahmad would end his three days’ visits he never
asketh thy leave nor farewelleth thee nor biddeth adieu to any one of
his family. Such conduct is the beginning of rebellion and proveth him
to be rancorous of heart. But ’tis for thee in thy wisdom to decide.”
These words sank deep in the heart of the simple-minded Sultan and grew
a crop of the direst suspicions. He presently thought within himself,
“Who knoweth the mind and designs of Prince Ahmad, whether they be
dutiful or undutiful towards me? Haply he may be plotting vengeance; so
it besitteth me to make enquiries concerning him, to discover where he
dwelleth and by what means he hath attained to such puissance and
opulence.” Filled with these jealous thoughts, he sent in private one
day, unbeknown to the Grand Wazir who would at all times befriend Prince
Ahmad, to summon the Witch; and, admitting her by a secret postern to
his private chamber, asked of her saying, “Thou didst aforetime learn by
thy magical art that Prince Ahmad was alive and didst bring me tidings
of him. I am beholden to thee for this good office, and now I would
desire of thee to make further quest into his case and ease my mind,
which is sore disturbed. Albeit my son still liveth and cometh to visit
me every month, yet am I clean ignorant of the place wherein he dwelleth
and whence he setteth out to see me; for that he keepeth the matter
close hidden from his sire. Go thou forthright and privily, without the
knowledge of any, my Wazirs and Nabobs, my courtiers and my household;
and make thou diligent research and with all haste bring me word
whereabouts he liveth. He now sojourneth here upon his wonted visit;
and, on the fourth day, without leave-taking or mention of departure to
me or to any of the Ministers and Officers, he will summon his suite and
mount his steed; then will he ride to some little distance hence and
suddenly disappear. Do thou without stay or delay forego him on the path
and lie perdue in some convenient hollow hard by the road whence thou
mayest learn where he hometh; then quickly bring me tidings thereof.”
Accordingly, the Sorceress departed the presence of the King; and, after
walking over the four parasangs, she hid herself within a hollow of the
rocks hard by the place where Prince Ahmad had found his arrow, and
there awaited his arrival. Early on the morrow the Prince, as was his
wont, set out upon his journey without taking leave of his sire or
farewelling any of the Ministers. So when they drew nigh, the Sorceress
caught sight of the Prince and of the retinue that rode before and
beside him; and she saw them enter a hollow way which forked into a many
of byways; and so steep and dangerous were the cliffs and boulders about
the track that hardly could a footman safely pace that path. Seeing this
the Sorceress bethought her that it must surely lead to some cavern or
haply to a subterraneous passage, or to a souterrain the abode of Jinns
and fairies; when suddenly the Prince and all his suite vanished from
her view. So she crept out of the hiding-place wherein she had ensconced
herself and wandered far and wide seeking, as diligently as she was
able, but never finding the subterraneous passage nor yet could she
discern the iron door which Prince Ahmad had espied, for none of human
flesh and blood had power to see this save he alone to whom it was made
visible by the Fairy Peri-Banu; furthermore it was ever concealed from
the prying eyes of woman-kind. Then said the Sorceress to herself, “This
toil and moil have I undertaken to no purpose; yea, verily, I have
failed to find out that wherefor I came.” So she went forthright back to
the Sultan and reported to him all that had betided her, how she had
lain in wait amid the cliffs and boulders and had seen the Prince and
suite ride up the most perilous of paths and, having entered a hollow
way, disappear in an eye-twinkling from her sight. And she ended by
saying, “Albeit I strove my utmost to find out the spot wherein the
Prince abideth, yet could I on no wise succeed; and I pray thy Highness
may grant me time to search further into the matter and to find out this
mystery which by skill and caution on my part shall not long abide
concealed.” Answered the Sultan, “Be it as thou wilt: I grant thee
leisure to make enquiry and after a time I shall await thy return
hither.”——And as the morn began to dawn Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Fifty-seventh Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that moreover the King
largessed the Witch with a diamond of large size and of great price,
saying, “Take this stone to guerdon for thy trouble and travail and in
earnest of future favours; so, when thou shalt return and bring me word
that thou hast searched and found out the secret, thou shalt have a
Bakhshish of far greater worth and I will make thy heart rejoice with
choicest joy and honour thee with highmost honour.” So the Sorceress
looked forwards to the coming of the Prince, for well she knew that at
the sight of each crescent he rode home to visit his sire and was bound
to abide with him three days, even as the Lady Peri-Banu had permitted
and had enjoined him. Now when the moon had waxed and waned, on the day
before the Prince would leave home upon his monthly visit, the Witch
betook her to the rocks and sat beside the place whence she imagined he
would issue forth; and next morning early he and his suite, composed of
many a mounted knight with his esquire afoot, who now always accompanied
him in increasing numbers, rode forth gallantly through the iron doorway
and passed hard by the place where she lay in wait for him. The
Sorceress crouched low upon the ground in her tattered rags; and, seeing
a heap by his way, the Prince at first supposed that a slice of stone
had fallen from the rocks across his path. But as he drew nigh she fell
to weeping and wailing with might and main as though in sore dolour and
distress, and she ceased not to crave his countenance and assistance
with increase of tears and lamentations. The Prince seeing her sore
sorrow had pity on her, and reining in his horse, asked her what she had
to require of him and what was the cause of her cries and lamentations.
At this the cunning crone but cried the more, and the Prince was
affected with compassion still livelier at seeing her tears and hearing
her broken, feeble words. So when the Sorceress perceived that Prince
Ahmad had ruth on her and would fain show favour to her, she heaved a
heavy sigh and in woeful tones, mingled with moans and groans, addressed
him in these false words, withal holding the hem of his garment and at
times stopping as if convulsed with pain, “O my lord and lord of all
loveliness, as I was journeying from my home in yonder city upon an
errand to such a place, behold, when I came thus far upon my way,
suddenly a hot fit of fever seized me and a shivering and a trembling,
so that I lost all strength and fell down helpless as thou seest me; and
still no power have I in hand or foot to rise from the ground and to
return to my place.” Replied the Prince, “Alas, O good woman, there is
no house at hand where thou mayest go and be fitly tended and tendered.
Howbeit I know a stead whither, an thou wilt, I can convey thee and
where by care and kindness thou shalt (Inshallah!) soon recover of thy
complaint. Come then with me as best thou canst.” With loud moans and
groans the Witch made answer, “So weak am I in every limb and helpless
that I can by no means rise off the ground or move save with the help of
some friendly hand.” The Prince then bade one of his horsemen lift up
the feeble and ailing old woman and set her upon his steed; and the
cavalier did his lord’s bidding forthright and mounted her astraddle
upon the crupper of his courser: then, Prince Ahmad rode back with her
and entering by the iron door carried her to his apartment and sent for
Peri-Banu. His wife hurriedly coming forth to the Prince asked him in
her flurry, “Is all well and wherefore hast thou come back and what
wouldst thou that thou hast sent for me?” Prince Ahmad then told her of
the old woman who was healthless and helpless, adding, “Scarce had I set
out on my journey when I espied this ancient dame lying hard by the
roadside, suffering and in sore distress. My heart felt pity for her to
see her in such case and constrained me to bring her hither as I could
not leave her to die among the rocks; and I pray thee of thy bounty take
her in and give her medicines that she may soon be made whole of this
her malady. An thou wilt show this favour I shall not cease to thank
thee and be beholden to thee.”——And as the morn began to dawn Shahrazad
held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Fifty-eighth Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that Peri-Banu looked
at the old woman and charged a twain of her handmaidens that they carry
her into a room apart and tend her with the tenderest care and the
uttermost of diligence. The attendants did as she bade them and
transported the Sorceress to the place she had designed. Then Peri-Banu
addressed Prince Ahmad saying, “O my lord, I am pleased to see thy
pitiful kindness towards this ancient dame, and I surely will look to
her case even as thou hast enjoined me; but my heart misgiveth me and
much I fear some evil will result from thy goodness. This woman is not
so ill as she doth make believe, but practiseth deceit upon thee and I
ween that some enemy or envier hath plotted a plot against me and thee.
Howbeit go now in peace upon thy journey.” The Prince, who on no wise
took to heart the words of his wife, presently replied to her, “O my
lady, Almighty Allah forfend thee from all offence! With thee to help
and guard me I fear naught of ill: I know of no foeman who would compass
my destruction, for I bear no grudge against any living being, and I
foresee no evil at the hands of man or Jann.” Thereupon the Prince again
took leave of Peri-Banu and repaired with his attendants to the palace
of his sire who, by reason of the malice of his crafty Minister, was
inwardly afraid to see his son; but not the less he welcomed him with
great outward show of love and affection. Meanwhile the two fairy
handmaidens, to whom Peri-Banu had given charge of the Witch, bore her
away to a spacious room splendidly furnished; and laid her on a bed
having a mattress of satin and a brocaded coverlet. Then one of them sat
by her side whilst the other with all speed fetched, in a cup of
porcelain, an essence which was a sovereign draught for ague and fever.
Presently they raised her up and seated her on the couch saying, “Drain
thou this drink. It is the water of the Lions’ Fount and whoso tasteth
of the same is forthwith made whole of what disease soever he hath.” The
Sorceress took the cup with great difficulty and after swallowing the
contents lay back on the bed; and the handmaidens spread the quilt over
her saying, “Now rest awhile and thou shalt soon feel the virtues of
this medicine.” Then they left her to sleep for an hour or so; but
presently the Witch, who had feigned sickness to the intent only that
she might learn where Prince Ahmad abode and might inform the Sultan
thereof, being assured that she had discovered all that she desired,
rose up and summoning the damsels said to them, “The drinking of that
draught hath restored to me all my health and strength: I now feel hale
and hearty once more and my limbs are filled with new life and vigour.
So at once acquaint your lady herewith, that I may kiss the hem of her
robe and return my thanks for her goodness me-wards, then depart and hie
me home again.” Accordingly, the two handmaidens took the Sorceress with
them and showed her as they went along the several apartments, each more
magnificent and kingly than the other; and at length they reached the
belvedere which was the noblest saloon of all, and fitted and filled
with furniture exceeding costly and curious. There sat Peri-Banu upon a
throne which was adorned with diamonds and rubies, emeralds, pearls and
other gems of unwonted size and water, whilst round about her stood
fairies of lovely form and features, robed in the richest raiments and
awaiting with folded hands her commandments. The Sorceress marvelled
with extreme marvel to see the splendour of the chambers and their
furniture, but chiefly when she beheld the Lady Peri-Banu seated upon
the jewelled throne; nor could she speak a word for confusion and awe,
but she bent down low and placed her head upon Peri-Banu’s feet. Quoth
the Princess in soft speech and reassuring tones, “O good woman, it
pleaseth me greatly to see thee a guest in this my palace, and I joy
even more to learn that thou be wholly quit of thy sickness. So now
solace thy spirits with walking all round about the place and my
servants will accompany thee and show thee what there is worthy of thine
inspection.” Hereat the Witch again louted low and kissed the carpet
under Peri-Banu’s feet, and took leave of her hostess in goodly phrase
and with great show of gratitude for her favours. The handmaids then led
her round the palace and displayed to her all the rooms, which dazed and
dazzled her sight so that she could not find words to praise them
sufficiently. Then she went her ways and the fairies escorted her past
the iron doorway whereby Prince Ahmad had brought her in, and left her,
bidding her God-speed and blessing her; and the foul crone with many
thanks took the road to her own home. But when she had walked to some
distance she was minded to see the iron door, so might she with ease
know it again; so she went back, but lo and behold! the entrance had
vanished and was invisible to her as to all other women. Accordingly,
after searching on all sides and pacing to and fro and finding nor sign
nor trace of palace or portal, she repaired in despair to the city and,
creeping along a deserted pathway, entered the palace, according to her
custom, by the private postern. When safely within she straightway sent
word by an eunuch to the Sultan, who ordered that she be brought before
him. She approached him with troubled countenance, whereat, perceiving
that she had failed to carry out her purpose, he asked, “What news? Hast
thou accomplished thy design or hast thou been baffled therein?”——And as
the morn began to dawn Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Fifty-ninth Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that the Sorceress, who
was a mere creature of the malicious Wazir, replied, “O King of kings,
this matter have I fully searched out even as thou gavest command, and I
am about to tell thee all that hath betided me. The signs of sorrow and
marks of melancholy thou notest upon my countenance are for other cause
which narrowly concerneth thy welfare.” Then she began to recount her
adventure in these terms, “Now when I had reached the rocks I sat me
down feigning sickness; and, as Prince Ahmad passed that way and heard
my complaining and saw my grievous condition, he had compassion on me.
After some ‘said and say’ he took me with him by a subterranean passage
and through an iron door to a magnificent palace and gave me in charge
of a fairy, Peri-Banu hight, of passing beauty and loveliness, such as
human eye hath never yet seen. Prince Ahmad bade her make me her guest
for some few days and bring me a medicine which would complete my cure,
and she to please him at once appointed handmaidens to attend upon me.
So I was certified that the twain were one flesh, husband and wife. I
feigned to be exceeding frail and feeble and made as though I had not
strength to walk or even to stand; whereat the two damsels supported me,
one on either side, and I was carried into a room where they gave me
somewhat to drink and put me upon a bed to rest and sleep. Then thought
I to myself:—Verily I have gained the object wherefor I had feigned
sickness; and I was assured that it availed no more to practise deceit.
Accordingly, after a short while I arose and said to the attendants that
the draught which they had given me to drink had cut short the fever and
had restored strength to my limbs and life to my frame. Then they led me
to the presence of the Lady Peri-Banu, who was exceeding pleased to see
me once more hale and hearty, and bade her handmaidens conduct me around
the palace and show each room in its beauty and splendour; after which I
craved leave to wend my ways and here am I again to work thy will.” When
thus she had made known to the King all that had betided her, she
resumed, “Perchance, on hearing of the might and majesty, opulence and
magnificence of the Lady Peri-Banu, thou wilt be gladdened and say
within thyself:—’Tis well that Prince Ahmad is wedded to this Fairy and
hath gotten for himself such wealth and power; but to the thinking of
this thy slave the matter is quite other. It is not well, I dare avouch,
that thy son should possess such puissance and treasures, for who
knoweth but that he may by good aid of Peri-Banu bring about division
and disturbance in the realm? Beware of the wiles and malice of women.
The Prince is bewitched with love of her, and peradventure at her
incitement he may act towards thee otherwise than right, and lay hands
on thy hoards and seduce thy subjects and become master of thy kingdom;
and albeit he would not of his own free will do aught to his father and
his forbears save what was pious and dutiful, yet the charms of his
Princess may work upon him little by little and end by making him a
rebel and what more I may not say. Now mayest thou see that the matter
is a weighty, so be not heedless but give it full consideration.” Then
the Sorceress made ready to gang her gait when spake the King, saying,
“I am beholden to thee in two things; the first, that thou tookest upon
thyself much toil and travail, and on my behalf riskedst thy life to
learn the truth anent my son Prince Ahmad. Secondly, I am thankful for
that thou hast given me a rede so sound and such wholesome counsel.” So
saying, he dismissed her with the highmost honour; but no sooner had she
left the palace than he, sore distraught, summoned his second Wazir, the
malicious Minister who had incited him against Prince Ahmad, and when he
and his friends appeared in the presence he laid before them the whole
matter and asked of them, saying, “What is your counsel, and what must I
do to protect myself and my kingdom against the wiles of this Fairy?”
Replied one of his councillors, “’Tis but a trifling matter and the
remedy is simple and nearhand. Command that Prince Ahmad, who is now
within the city if not in the palace, be detained as one taken prisoner.
Let him not be put to death, lest haply the deed may engender rebellion;
but at any rate place him under arrest and if he prove violent clap him
in irons.”——And as the morn began to dawn Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixtieth Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that this felon counsel
pleased the malicious Minister and all his fautors and flatterers highly
approved his rede. The Sultan kept silence and made no reply, but on the
morrow he sent and summoned the Sorceress and debated with her whether
he should or should not cast Prince Ahmad into prison. Quoth she, “O
King of kings, this counsel is clean contrary to sound sense and right
reason. An thou throw Prince Ahmad into gaol, so must thou also do with
all his knights and their esquires; and inasmuch as they are Jinns and
Márids, who can tell their power of reprisals? Nor prison-cells nor
gates of adamant can keep them in; they will forthwith escape and report
such violence to the Fairy who, wroth with extreme wrath to find her
husband doomed to durance vile like a common malefactor, and that too
for no default or crime but by a treacherous arrest, will assuredly deal
the direst of vengeance on thy head and do us a damage we shall not be
able to forfend. An thou wilt confide in me, I will advise thee how to
act, whereby thou mayest win thy wish and no evil will come nigh thee or
thy kingship. Thou knowest well that to Jinns and Fairies is power given
of doing in one short moment deeds marvellous and wondrous, which
mortals fail to effect after long years of toil and trouble. Now whenas
thou goest a-hunting or on other expedition, thou requirest pavilions
for thyself and many tents for thy retinue and attendants and soldiery;
and in making ready and transporting such store much time and wealth are
wastefully expended. I would advise, O King of kings, that thou try
Prince Ahmad by the following test: do thou bid him bring to thee a
Sháhmiyánah[89] so long and so broad that it will cover and lodge the
whole of thy court and men-at-arms and camp-followers, likewise the
beasts of burthen; and yet it must be so light that a man may hold it in
the hollow of his hand and carry it whithersoever he listeth.” Then,
after holding her peace for a while, she added, still addressing the
Sultan, “And as soon as Prince Ahmad shall acquit himself of this
commission, do thou demand of him a somewhat still greater and more
wondrous wherewith I will make thee ware, and which he will find
grievous of execution. On this wise shalt thou fill thy treasury with
rare inventions and strange, the handicraft of Jánn, nor will this cease
till such time in fine when thy son shall be at his wits’ end to carry
out thy requirements. Then, humbled and abashed, he will never dare to
enter thy capital or even thy presence; and thus shalt thou be saved
from fear of harm at his hands, and thou shalt not have need to put him
in gaol or, worse still, to do him dead.” Hearing these words of wisdom,
the Sultan made known the Witch’s device to his advisers and asked them
what they deemed thereof. They held their peace and answered not a word
of good or ill; while he himself highly approved it and said no more.
Next day Prince Ahmad came to visit the King, who welcomed him with
overflowing affection and clasping him to his bosom kissed him on eyes
and forehead. Long time they sat conversing on various subjects, till at
length the Sultan finding an occasion spake thus, “O dear my son, O
Ahmad, for many a day have I been sad at heart and sorrowful of soul
because of separation from thee, and when thou camest back I was
gladdened with great gladness at sight of thee, and albeit thou didst
and dost still withhold from me the knowledge of thy whereabouts, I
refrained from asking thee or seeking to find out thy secret, since it
was not according to thy mind to tell me of thine abode. Now, however, I
have heard say that thou art wedded to a mighty Jinníyah[90], of passing
beauty; and the tidings please me with the highmost possible pleasure. I
desire not to learn aught from thee concerning thy Fairy-wife save
whatso thou wouldst entrust to me of thine own free will; but, say me,
should I at any time, require somewhat of thee, canst thou obtain it
from her? Doth she regard thee with such favour that she will not deny
thee anything thou askest of her?” Quoth the Prince, “O my lord, what
dost thou demand of me? My wife is devoted to her husband in heart and
soul, so prithee let me learn what it is thou wouldst have of me and
her.” Replied the Sultan, “Thou knowest that ofttimes I fare a-hunting
or on some foray and fray, when I have great need of tents and pavilions
and Shahmiyanahs, with herds and troops of camels and mules and other
beasts of burden to carry the camp from place to place. I would,
therefore, that thou bring me a tent so light that a man may carry it in
the hollow of his hand, and yet so large that it may contain my court
and all my host and camp and suttlers and bât-animals. An thou wouldst
ask the Lady for this gift I know full well that she can give it; and
hereby shalt thou save me much of trouble in providing carriage for the
tentage and spare me much waste and loss of beasts and men.” The Prince
replied, “O my sire the Sultan, trouble not thy thought. I will at once
make known thy wish to my wife, the Lady Peri-Banu; and, albeit little I
wot an fairies have the faculty of making a pavilion such as thou
describest, or indeed (supposing that they have such power), an she will
grant me or not grant me her aidance; and, moreover, although I cannot
promise thee such present, yet whatsoever lieth in my ability to do,
that will I gladly do for thy service.”——And as the morn began to dawn
Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixty-first Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that quoth the King to
Prince Ahmad, “Shouldst thou perchance fail in this matter and bring me
not the gift required, O my son, I will never see thy face again. A
sorry husband thou, in good sooth, if thy wife refuse so mean a thing
and hasten not to do all thou biddest her do; giving thee to see that
thou art of small value and consequence in her eyes, and that her love
for thee is a quantity well-nigh to naught. But do thou, O my child, go
forth and straightway ask her for the tent. An she give it thee know
thou she desireth thee and thou art the dearest of all things to her;
and I have been informed that she loveth thee with all her heart and
soul and will by no means refuse thee aught thou requirest, were it even
the balls of her eyes.” Now Prince Ahmad was ever wont to tarry three
days each month with the Sultan his sire, and return to his spouse on
the fourth; but this time he stayed two days only and farewelled his
father on the third. As he passed into the palace Peri-Banu could not
but note that he was sad at heart and downcast of face; so she asked of
him, “Is all well with thee? Why has thou come to-day and not to-morrow
from the presence of the King thy father, and why carriest thou so
triste a countenance?” Whereupon, after kissing her brow and fondly
embracing her, he told her the whole matter, first to last, and she made
answer, “I will speedily set thy mind at rest, for I would not see thee
so saddened for a moment longer. Howbeit, O my love, from this petition
of the Sultan thy sire I am certified that his end draweth nigh, and he
will soon depart this world to the mercy of Allah the Almighty.[91] Some
enemy hath done this deed and much of mischief hath made for thee; and
the result is that thy father, all unmindful of his coming doom, doth
seek diligently his own destruction.” The Prince, anxious and alarmed,
thus answered his wife, “Almighty Allah be praised, the King my liege
lord is in the best of health and showeth no sign of disorder or
decrepitude: ’tis but this morning I left him hale and hearty, and in
very sooth I never saw him in better case. Strange, indeed, that thou
shouldst ken what shall betide him before I have told thee aught
concerning him, and especially how he hath come to learn of our marriage
and of our home.” Quoth Peri-Banu, “O my Prince, thou knowest what I
said to thee whenas I saw the old dame whom thou broughtest hither as
one afflicted with the ague and fever. That woman, who is a Witch of
Satan’s breed, hath disclosed to thy father all he sought to learn
concerning this our dwelling-place. And notwithstanding that I saw full
clearly she was nor sick nor sorry, but only feigning a fever, I gave
her medicine to drink which cureth complaints of all kinds, and she
falsely made believe that by its virtues she had recovered health and
strength. So when she came to take leave of me, I sent her with two of
my damsels and bid them display to her every apartment in the palace
together with its furniture and decorations, that she might better know
the condition of me and thee. Now all this did I on thy account only,
for thou badest me show compassion to the ancient woman and I was
rejoiced to see her departing safe and sound and in the best of spirits.
Save her alone, no human being had ever power to know aught of this
place, much less to come hither.” Prince Ahmad hearing these words
thanked and praised her and said, “O sun-faced beauty, I would beg of
thee to grant me a boon whereof my father hath made request of me; to
wit, a Shahmiyanah of such dimensions that it may shelter him and his
many, his camp and bât-cattle and withal may be carried in the hollow of
the hand. An such marvel exist I wot not, yet would I do my utmost to
procure it, and carry it to him right loyally.” Quoth she, “Why trouble
thyself for so small a matter? I will forthright send for it and give it
thee.” Then she summoned one of her handmaids who was treasurer to her
and said, “O Nur Jehán,[92] go thou at once and bring me a pavilion of
such and such a fashion.” So she fared forth without delay and as
quickly came back with the pavilion which, at her lady’s bidding, she
placed in the palm of Prince Ahmad’s hand.——And as the morn began to
dawn Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixty-second Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that Prince Ahmad hent
the pavilion in hand and thought to himself, “What is this Peri-Banu
giveth me? Surely she doth make a mock of me.” His wife, however,
reading his mind in his face, fell to laughing aloud, and asked, “What
is it, O my dearling Prince? Dost thou think that I am jesting and
jibing at thee?” Then she continued, addressing the treasurer Nur Jehan,
“Take now yon tent from Prince Ahmad and set it upon the plain that he
may see its vast size and know if it be such an one as required by the
Sultan his sire.” The handmaid took the pavilion and pitched it afar
from the Palace; and yet one end thereof reached thereto from the outer
limit of the plain; and so immense was its size that (as Prince Ahmad
perceived) there was room therein for all the King’s court; and, were
two armies ranged under it with their camp-followers and bât-animals,
one would on no wise crowd or inconvenience the other. He then begged
pardon of Peri-Banu saying, “I wot not that the Shahmiyanah was so
prodigious of extent and of so marvellous a nature; wherefore I
misdoubted when first I saw it.” The Treasurer presently struck the tent
and returned it to the palm of his hand; then, without stay or delay, he
took horse and followed by his retinue rode back to the royal presence,
where after obeisance and suit and service he presented the tent. The
Sultan also, at first sight of the gift, thought it a small matter, but
marvelled with extreme marvel to see its size when pitched, for it would
have shaded his capital and its suburbs. He was not, however, wholly
satisfied, for the size of the pavilion now appeared to him superfluous;
but his son assured him that it would always fit itself to its contents.
He thanked the Prince for bringing him so rare a present, saying, “O my
son, acquaint thy consort with my obligation to her and offer my
grateful thanks for this her bounteous gift. Now indeed know I of a
truth that she doth love thee with the whole of her heart and soul and
all my doubts and fears are well-nigh set at rest.” Then the King
commanded they should pack up the tent and store it with all care in the
royal treasury. Now strange it is but true, that when the Sultan
received this rare present from the Prince, the fear and doubt, the envy
and jealousy of his son, which the Witch and the malicious Wazir and his
other ill-advisers had bred in his breast, waxed greater and livelier
than before; because he was now certified that in very truth the
Jinniyah was gracious beyond measure to her mate and that,
notwithstanding the great wealth and power of the sovereign, she could
outvie him in mighty deeds for the aidance of her husband. Accordingly,
he feared with excessive fear lest haply she seek opportunity to slay
him in favour of the Prince whom she might enthrone in his stead. So he
bade bring the Witch who had counselled him aforetime, and upon whose
sleight and malice he now mainly relied. When he related to her the
result of her rede, she took thought for a while; then, raising her brow
said, “O King of kings, thou troublest thyself for naught: thou needest
only command Prince Ahmad to bring thee of the water of the Lions’
Spring. He must perforce for his honour’s sake fulfil thy wish, and if
he fail he will for very shame not dare to show his face again at court.
No better plan than this canst thou adopt; so look to it nor loiter on
thy way.” Next day at eventide, as the Sultan was seated in full Darbar
surrounded by his Wazirs and Ministers, Prince Ahmad came forwards and
making due obeisance took seat by his side and below him. Hereat, the
King addressed him, as was his wont, with great show of favour saying,
“It delighteth me mightily that thou hast brought me the tent I required
of thee; for surely in my Treasury there be naught so rare and strange.
Yet one other thing lack I, and couldst thou bring it me I shall rejoice
with joy exceeding. I have heard tell that the Jinniyah, thy consort,
maketh constant use of a water which floweth from the Lions’ Spring, the
drinking whereof doeth away with fevers and all other deadly diseases. I
know thou art anxious that I live in health; and thou wilt gladden me by
bringing somewhat of that water, so I may drink thereof when occasion
shall require, and well I wot that, as thou valuest my love and
affection thee-wards, thou wilt not refuse to grant me my request.”
Prince Ahmad on hearing this demand was struck with surprise that his
sire should so soon make a second demand. So he kept silence awhile,
thinking within himself, “I have managed by some means to obtain the
tent from the Lady Peri-Banu, but Allah only knoweth how she will now
act, and whether this fresh request will or will not rouse her wrath.
Howbeit I know that she will on no wise deny me any boon I may ask of
her.” So after much hesitation Prince Ahmad made reply, “O my lord the
King, I have no power to do aught in this matter, which resteth only
with my spouse the Princess; yet will I petition her to give the water;
and, if she vouchsafe consent I will bring it straight to thee. Indeed I
cannot promise thee such boon with all certainty: I would gladly do my
endeavour in all and everything that can benefit thee, but to ask her
for this water is a work more weighty than asking for the tent.” Next
day the Prince took his departure and returned to Peri-Banu; and after
loving embraces and greetings quoth he, “O my lady and light of my eyes,
the Sultan my sire sendeth thee his grateful thanks for the granting of
his wish; to wit, the pavilion; and now he adventureth himself once more
and, certified of thy bounty and beneficence, he would pray from thy
hand the boon of a little water from the Lions’ Spring. Withal I would
assure thee that an the giving of this water please thee not, let the
matter be clean forgotten; for to do all thou willest is my one and only
wish.” Peri-Banu made reply, “Methinks the Sultan, thy sire, would put
both me and thee to the test by requiring such boons as those suggested
to him by the Sorceress.”——And as the morn began to dawn Shahrazad held
her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixty-third Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that Peri-Banu said
further to Prince Ahmad, “Natheless I will grant this largesse also as
the Sultan hath set his mind upon it, and no harm shall come therefrom
to me or to thee, albe ’tis a matter of great risk and danger, and it is
prompted by not a little of malice and ungraciousness. But give careful
heed to my words, nor neglect thou aught of them, or thy destruction is
certain-sure. I now will tell thee what to do. In the hall of yonder
castle which riseth on that mountain is a fountain sentinelled by four
lions fierce and ravening; and they watch and ward the path that leadeth
thereto, a pair standing on guard whilst the other two take their turn
to rest, and thus no living thing hath power to pass by them. Yet will I
make known to thee the means whereby thou mayest win thy wish without
any hurt or harm befalling thee from the furious beasts.” Thus saying
she drew from an ivory box a clew of thread and, by means of a needle
one of those wherewith she had been plying her work, made thereof a
ball. This she placed in the hands of her husband, and said, “First, be
thou careful that thou keep about thee with all diligence this ball,
whose use I shall presently explain to thee. Secondly, choose for
thyself two horses of great speed, one for thine own riding, whilst on
the other thou shalt load the carcass of a freshly slaughtered sheep cut
into four quarters. In the third place, take with thee a phial wherewith
I will provide thee, and this is for carrying the water which thou,
Inshallah—God willing—shalt bring back. As soon as the morn shall morrow
do thou arise with the light and go forth riding thy chosen steed and
leading the other alongside of thee by the reins. When thou shalt reach
the iron portals which open upon the castle-court, at no great distance
from the gate, do thou cast the ball of thread upon the ground before
thee. Forthwith it will begin rolling onwards of its own will towards
the castle door; and do thou follow it through the open entrance until
such time as it stop its course. At this moment thou shalt see the four
lions; and the two that wake and watch will rouse the twain that sleep
and rest. All four will turn their jaws to the ground and growl and roar
with hideous howlings, and make as though about to fall upon thee and
tear thee limb from limb. However, fear not nor be dismayed, but ride
boldly on and throw to the ground from off the led-horse the sheep’s
quarters, one to each lion. See that thou alight not from thy steed, but
gore his ribs with thy shovel-stirrup[93] and ride with all thy might
and main up to the basin which gathereth the water. Here dismount and
fill the phial whilst the lions will be busied eating. Lastly, return
with all speed and the beasts will not prevent thy passing by them.”
Next day, at peep of morn, Prince Ahmad did according to all that
Peri-Banu had bidden him and rode forth to the castle. Then, having
passed through the iron portals and crossed the court and opened the
door, he entered the hall, where he threw the quarters of the sheep
before the lions, one to each, and speedily reached the Spring. He
filled his phial with water from the basin and hurried back with all
haste. But when he had ridden some little distance he turned about and
saw two of the guardian lions following upon his track; however, he was
on no wise daunted but drew his sabre from the sheath to prepare him for
self-protection. Hereat one of the twain seeing him bare his brand for
defence, retired a little way from the road and, standing at gaze,
nodded his head and wagged his tail, as though to pray the Prince to put
up his scimitar and to assure him that he might ride in peace and fear
no peril. The other lion then sprang forwards ahead of him and kept
close him, and the two never ceased to escort him until they reached the
city, nay even the gate of the Palace. The second twain also brought up
the rear till Prince Ahmad had entered the Palace-door; and, when they
were certified of this, all four went back by the way they came. Seeing
such wondrous spectacle, the townsfolk all fled in dire dismay, albeit
the enchanted beasts molested no man; and presently some mounted
horsemen espying their lord riding alone and unattended came up to him
and helped him alight. The Sultan was sitting in his audience-hall
conversing with his Wazirs and Ministers when his son appeared before
him; and Prince Ahmad, having greeted him and blessed him and, in
dutiful fashion, prayed for his permanence of existence and prosperity
and opulence, placed before his feet the phial full of the water from
the Lions’ Spring, saying, “Lo, I have brought thee the boon thou
desiredst of me. This water is most rare and hard to obtain; nor is
there in all thy Treasure-house aught so notable and of such value as
this. If ever thou fall ill of any malady (Almighty Allah forfend this
should be in thy Destiny!) then drink a draught thereof and forthwith
thou shalt be made whole of whatso distemper thou hast.” When Prince
Ahmad had made an end of speaking, the Sultan, with all love and
affection, grace and honour, embraced him and kissed his head; then,
seating him on his right said, “O my son, I am beholden to thee, beyond
count and measure, for that thou hast adventured thy life and brought
this water with great irk and risk from so perilous a place.” Now the
Witch had erewhile informed the King concerning the Lions’ Spring and of
the mortal dangers which beset the site; so that he knew right well how
gallant was his son’s derring-do; and presently he said, “Say me, O my
child, how couldst thou venture thither and escape from the lions and
broughtest back the water, thyself remaining safe and sound?”——And as
the morn began to dawn Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixty-fourth Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that the Prince
replied, “By thy favour, O my lord the Sultan, have I returned in safety
from that stead mainly because I did according to the bidding of my
spouse, the Lady Peri-Banu; and I have brought the water from the Lions’
Spring only by carrying out her commands.” Then he made known to his
father all that had befallen him in going and returning; and when the
Sultan noted the pre-eminent valiance and prowess of his son he only
feared the more, and the malice and the rancour, envy and jealousy which
filled his heart waxed tenfold greater than before. However, dissembling
his true sentiments he dismissed Prince Ahmad and betaking him to his
private chamber at once sent word to bid the Witch appear in the
presence; and when she came, he told her of the Prince’s visit and all
about the bringing of the water from the Lions’ Spring. She had already
heard somewhat thereof by reason of the hubbub in the city at the coming
of the lions; but, as soon as she had given ear to the whole account,
she marvelled with mighty marvel and, after whispering in the Sultan’s
ear her new device, said to him in triumph, “O King of kings, this time
thou shalt lay a charge on the Prince and such commandment methinks will
trouble him and it shall go hard with him to execute aught thereof.”
“Thou sayest well,” replied the Sovran, “now indeed will I try this plan
thou hast projected for me.” Wherefore, next day whenas Prince Ahmad
came to the presence of his sire, the King said to him, “O dear my
child, it delighteth me exceedingly to see thy virtue and valour and the
filial love wherewith thou art fulfilled, good gifts chiefly shown by
obtaining for me the two rarities I asked of thee. And now one other and
final requirement I have of thee; and, shouldst thou avail to satisfy my
desire, I shall be well pleased in my beloved son and render thanks to
him for the rest of my days.” Prince Ahmad answered, “What is the boon
thou requirest? I will for my part do thy bidding as far as in me
lieth.” Then quoth the King in reply to the Prince, “I would fain have
thee bring me a man of size and stature no more than three feet high,
with beard full twenty ells in length, who beareth on his shoulder a
quarter staff of steel, thirteen score pounds in weight, which he
wieldeth with ease and swingeth around his head without wrinkle on brow,
even as men wield cudgels of wood.” On this wise the Sultan, led astray
by the Doom of Destiny and heedless alike of good and evil, asked that
which should bring surest destruction upon himself. Prince Ahmad also,
with blind obedience out of pure affection to his parent, was ready to
supply him with all he required unknowing what was prepared for him in
the Secret Purpose. Accordingly he said, “O my sire the Sultan, I trow
me ’twill be hard to find, all the world over, a man such as thou
desirest, still I will work my best to do thy bidding.” Thereupon the
Prince retired from the presence and returned, as usual, to his palace
where he greeted Peri-Banu with love and gladness; but his face was
troubled and his heart was heavy at the thought of the King’s last
behest. Perceiving his pre-occupation the Princess asked him, saying, “O
dear my lord, what tidings bringest thou for me to-day?” Hereto replied
he, “The Sultan at each visit requireth of me some new thing and
burtheneth me with his requests; and to-day he purposeth to try me and,
in the hopes of putting me to shame, he asketh somewhat which ’twere
vain to hope I can find in all the world.” Thereupon Prince Ahmad told
her all the King had said to him.——And as the morn began to dawn
Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixty-fifth Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that Peri-Banu hearing
these words said to the Prince, “Trouble not thyself at all in this
matter. Thou didst venture at great risk to carry off for thy father
water from the Lions’ Spring and thou succeededst in winning thy wish.
Now this task is on no wise more difficult or dangerous than was that:
nay, ’tis the easier, for that he thou describest is none other than
Shabbar, my brother-german. Although we both have the same parents, yet
it pleased Almighty Allah to enform us in different figures and to make
him unlike his sister as being in mortal mould can be. Moreover he is
valiant and adventurous, always seeking some geste and exploit whereby
to further my interest, and right willingly doth he carry out whatso he
undertaketh. He is shaped and formed as the Sultan thy sire hath
described, nor useth he any weapons save the Nabbút[94] or quarter staff
of steel. And see now I will send for him, but be not thou dismayed at
sighting him.” Replied Prince Ahmad, “If he be in truth thine own
brother what matter how he looketh? I shall be pleased to see him as
when one welcometh a valued friend or a beloved kinsman. Wherefore
should I fear to look upon him?” Hearing these words Peri-Banu
despatched one of her attendants who brought to her from her private
treasury a chafing-dish of gold; then she bade a fire be lit therein,
and sending for a casket of noble metals studded with gems, the gift of
her kinsmen, she took therefrom some incense and cast it upon the
flames. Herewith issued a dense smoke spireing high in air and spreading
all about the palace; and a few moments after, Peri-Banu who had ceased
her conjurations cried, “Lookye my brother Shabbar cometh! canst thou
distinguish his form?” The Prince looked up and saw a mannikin in
stature dwarfish and no more than three feet high, and with a boss on
breast and a hump on back; withal he carried himself with stately mien
and majestic air. On his right shoulder was borne his quarter staff of
steel thirteen score pounds in weight. His beard was thick and twenty
cubits in length but arranged so skilfully that it stood clear off from
the ground; he wore also a twisted pair of long mustachios curling up to
his ears, and all his face was covered with long pile. His eyes were not
unlike unto pig’s eyes; and his head, on which was placed a crown-like
coiffure, was enormous of bulk, contrasting with the meanness of his
stature. Prince Ahmad sat calmly beside his wife, the Fairy, and felt no
fear as the figure approached; and presently Shabbar walked up and
glancing at him asked Peri-Banu saying, “Who be this mortal who sitteth
hard by thee?” Hereto she replied, “O my brother, this is my beloved
husband, Prince Ahmad, son of the Sultan of Hindostan. I sent thee not
an invitation to the wedding as thou wast then engaged on some great
expedition; now, however, by the grace of Almighty Allah thou hast
returned triumphant and victorious over thy foes, wherefore I have
summoned thee upon a matter which nearly concerneth me.” Hearing these
words Shabbar looked graciously at Prince Ahmad, saying, “O my beloved
sister, is there any service I can render to him?” and she replied, “The
Sultan his sire desireth ardently to see thee, and I pray thee go
forthright to him and take the Prince with thee by way of guide.” Said
he, “This instant I am ready to set forth;” but said she, “Not yet, O my
brother. Thou art fatigued with journeying; so defer until the morrow
thy visit to the King, and this evening I will make known to thee all
that concerneth Prince Ahmad.” Presently the time came; so Peri-Banu
informed her brother Shabbar concerning the King and his
ill-counsellors; but she dwelt mainly upon the misdeeds of the old
woman, the Witch; and how she had schemed to injure Prince Ahmad and
despitefully prevent his going to city or court, and she had gained such
influence over the Sultan that he had given up his will to hers and
ceased not doing whatso she bade him. Next day at dawn Shabbar the Jinn
and Prince Ahmad set out together upon a visit to the Sultan; and, when
they had reached the city gates, all the folk, nobles and commons, were
struck with consternation at the dwarf’s hideous form; and, flying on
every side in affright and running into shops and houses, barred the
doors and closed the casements and hid themselves therein. So
panic-stricken indeed was their flight that many feet lost shoes and
sandals in running, while from the heads of others their loosened
turbands fell to earth. And when they twain approached the palace
through streets and squares and market-places desolate as the Desert of
Samáwah,[95] all the keepers of the gates took to their heels at sight
of Shabbar and fled, so there was none to hinder their entering. They
walked straight on to the audience-chamber where the Sultan was holding
Darbar, and they found in attendance on him a host of Ministers and
Councillors, great and small, each standing in his proper rank and
station. They too on seeing Shabbar speedily took flight in dire dismay
and hid themselves; also the guards had deserted their posts nor cared
in any way to let or stay the twain. The Sovran still sat motionless on
his throne, where Shabbar went up to him with lordly mien and royal
dignity and cried, “O King, thou hast expressed a wish to see me; and
lo, I am here. Say now what wouldst thou have me do?”——And as the morn
began to dawn Shahrazad held her peace till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixty-sixth Night.
THEN said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that the King made no
reply to Shabbar, but held up his hands before his eyes that he might
not behold that frightful figure, and turning his head would fain have
fled in terror. Shabbar was filled with fury at this rudeness on the
part of the Sultan, and was wroth with exceeding wrath to think that he
had troubled himself to come at the bidding of such a craven, who now on
seeing him would fain run away. So the Jinn, without an instant’s delay,
raised his quarter staff of steel, and, swinging it twice in air, before
Prince Ahmad could reach the throne or on any wise interfere, struck the
Sultan so fiercely upon the poll that his skull was smashed and his
brains were scattered over the floor. And when Shabbar had made an end
of this offender, he savagely turned upon the Grand Wazir who stood on
the Sultan’s right, and incontinently would have slain him also, but the
Prince craved pardon for his life and said, “Kill him not: he is my
friend and hath at no time said one evil word against me. But such is
not the case with the others, his fellows.” Hearing these words the
infuriated Shabbar fell upon the Ministers and ill-counsellors on either
side, to wit, all who had devised evil devices against Prince Ahmad, and
slew them each and every and suffered none to escape save only those who
had taken flight and hidden themselves. Then, going from the hall of
justice to the courtyard, the Dwarf said to the Wazir whose life the
Prince had saved, “Harkye, there is a Witch who beareth enmity against
my brother, the husband of my sister. See that thou produce her
forthright; likewise the villain who filled his father’s mind with hate
and malice, envy and jealousy against him, so may I quite them in full
measure for their misdeeds.” The Grand Wazir produced them all, first
the Sorceress, and then the malicious minister with his rout of fautors
and flatterers, and Shabbar felled them one after the other with his
quarter staff of steel and killed them pitilessly, crying to the
Sorceress, “This is the end of all thy machinations with the King, and
this is the fruit of thy deceit and treachery; so learn not to feign
thyself sick.” And in the blindness of his passion he would have slain
all the inhabitants of the city, but Prince Ahmad prevented him and
pacified him with soft and flattering words. Hereupon Shabbar habited
his brother in the royal habit and seated him on the throne and
proclaimed him Sultan of Hindostan. The people all, both high and low,
rejoiced with exceeding joy to hear these tidings, for Prince Ahmad was
beloved by every one; so they crowded to swear fealty and bring presents
and Nazaránahs[96] and raised shouts of acclamation crying out, “Long
live King Ahmad!” When all this was done, Shabbar sent for his sister,
Peri-Banu, and made her Queen under the title of Shahr-Banu;[97] and in
due time taking leave of her and of King Ahmad, the Jinni returned to
his own home.——And as the morn began to dawn Shahrazad held her peace
till
The end of the Six Hundred and Sixty-seventh Night.
Then said she:——I have heard, O auspicious King, that after these things
King Ahmad summoned Prince Ali his brother and Nur al-Nihar and made him
governor of a large city hard by the capital, and dismissed him thither
in high state and splendour. Also he commissioned an official to wait
upon Prince Husayn and tell him all the tidings, and sent word saying,
“I will appoint thee ruler over any capital or country thy soul
desireth; and, if thou consent, I will forward thee letters of
appointment.” But inasmuch as the Prince was wholly content and entirely
happy in Darwaysh-hood, he cared naught for rule or government or aught
of worldly vanities; so he sent back the official with his duty and
grateful thanks, requesting that he might be left to live his life in
solitude and renunciation of matters mundane. Now when Queen Shahrazad
had made an end of telling her story and yet the night was not wholly
spent, King Shahryar spake saying, “This thy story, admirable and most
wonderful, hath given me extreme delight; and I pray thee do thou tell
us another tale till such time as the last hours of this our night be
passed.” She replied, “Be it as thou wilt, O auspicious King: I am thy
slave to do as thou shalt bid.” Then she began to relate the tale of