leave thy home, fortune and country, and wander for nothing?” I gave for answer, “Cease, keep thy friendship to thyself; conceive me now thy enemy, and if life is dear to thee, tell me plainly [thy story].”  Perceiving there was no alternative, his eyes filled with tears, and he began to say, “The following is this miserable wretch’s story:—­This humble servant’s name is Ni’man Saiyah.  I was a great merchant; arrived to these years, I have traversed all parts of the world for the purpose of trade, and have been admitted to the presence of all kings.

“Once the fancy came into my mind that I had wandered over the regions of the four corners [of the world], but never went to the Island of the Franks, [368] and never saw its king, citizens and soldiers—­I knew nothing of its manners and customs—­so that I ought to go there also for once.  I took the advice of my acquaintances and friends, and resolved [on the voyage]; I took with me some rarities and presents from various places, such as were fit for that country, and collecting a kafila of merchants, we embarked on board a ship and set sail.  Having favourable winds, we reached the island in a few months and put up in the city.  I saw a magnificent city, to which no city could be compared for beauty.  In all the bazars and streets the roads were paved and watered; such was the cleanliness that a bit of straw could not be seen; why then make mention of dirt?  The buildings were of every variety, and at night the streets were lighted, at intervals, by two rows of lamps; without the city were delightful gardens, in which rare flowers and shrubs and fruits were seen [in rich profusion], such as no where else could be [seen] except in Paradise.  In short, whatever I may say in praise of this [magnificent city] would not exceed [the truth].

“The arrival of our merchants was much talked of.  A confidential eunuch [369] mounted on horseback, and attended by many servants, came to our kafila, and asked the merchants, “Who is your chief?” They all pointed to me; the eunuch came to my place; I rose up to receive him with respect, and we saluted each other; I seated him on the masnad, and offered him the pillow; after which I asked him to tell me what was the occasion which afforded me the honour of his visit; he replied, ’The princess has heard that some merchants are arrived, and have brought much merchandise, for which reason she has desired me to bring them to her presence; so come, and take along with you whatever merchandise may be fit for the courts of kings, and gain the happiness of kissing her threshold.’