He pronounced these words with such eager desire, that though I had not seen her, yet my heart longed for her.  I replied, your happiness is essential to me, what can be better [than what you propose]; send for her without delay; nothing, it is true, is agreeable without the presence of the beloved one.  The young merchant made a sign towards the chick and shortly a black woman, as ugly as an ogress, on seeing whom one would die without [the intervention of] fate, approached the young man and sat down.  I was frightened at her sight, and said within myself, is it possible this she-demon can be beloved by so beautiful a young man, and is this the creature he praised [142] so highly, and spoke of with such affection!  I muttered the form of exorcism, [143] and became silent.  In this same condition, the festive scene of wine and music continued for three days and nights; on the fourth night, intoxication and sleep gained the victory; I, in the sleep of forgetfulness, involuntarily slumbered; next morning the young merchant wakened me, and made me drink some cups of a cooling and sedative nature.  He said to his mistress, “To trouble our guest any longer would be improper.”

He then took hold of both my hands, and we stood up.  I begged leave to depart; well pleased [with my complaisance], he gave me permission [to return home].  I then quickly put on my former clothes, and bent my way homewards, waited on the angelic lady.  But it had never before occurred in my case, to leave her by herself and remain out all night.  I was quite ashamed of myself for being absent three days [and nights], and I made her many apologies, and related the whole circumstances of the entertainment, and his not permitting me [to come home sooner].  She was well acquainted with the manners of the world, and smiling said, “What does it signify, if you had to remain to oblige your friend; I cheerfully pardon you, where is the blame on your part; when a man goes on occasions of this sort to any person’s house, he returns when the other pleases to let him.  But you having eaten and drunk at his entertainments for nothing, will you remain silent, or give him a feast in return?  Now I think it proper you should go to the young merchant, and bring him with you, and feast him two-fold greater than he did you.  Give yourself no concern about the materials [for such an entertainment]; by the favour of God, all the requisites will soon be ready, and in an excellent style, the hospitable party will obtain splendour.”  According to her desire, I went to the jeweller, and said to him, “I have complied with your request most cheerfully, now do you also in the way of friendship, grant my request.”  He said, “I will obey you with heart and soul.”