One morning I desired an attendant to prepare some warm water in order that I might bathe. [169] The princess smiling, said, “Where is the necessity for the hot water?” I remained silent; but she was perplexed [to account] for my conduct; moreover, in her looks the signs of anger were visible; so much so, that she one day said to me, “Thou art indeed a strange man; at one time so warm before, and now so cold! what do people call this [conduct]?  If you had not manly vigour, then why did you form so foolish a wish?  I then having become fearless, replied, “O, my darling, justice is a positive duty; no person ought to deviate from the rules of justice.  She replied, “What further justice remains [to be done]? whatever was to happen has taken place.”  I answered, in truth, that which was my most earnest wish and desire I have gained; but, my heart is uneasy with doubts, and the man whose mind is filled with suspicions is ever perplexed; he can do nothing, and becomes different from other human creatures.  I had determined within myself that after this marriage, which is my soul’s entire delight, I would question your highness respecting sundry circumstances which I do not comprehend, and which I cannot unravel; that from your own blessed lips I might hear their explanation; then my heart would be at ease.”  The lovely lady frowning, said, “How pretty! you have already forgotten [what I told you]; recollect, many times I have desired you not to search into my concerns, or to oppose what I say; and is it proper in you to take, contrary to custom, such liberties?” I laughing replied, as you have pardoned me much greater liberties, forgive this also.  That angelic fair, changing her looks and getting warm, became a whirlwind of fire, and said; “You presume too much; go and mind your own affairs; what advantage can you derive from [the explanation of) these circumstances?” I answered, “the greatest shame in this world is the exposure of our person; but we are conversant with one another [in that respect], hence as you have thought it right to lay aside this repugnance with me, then why conceal any other secrets from me?”

Her good sense made her comprehend my hint, and she said, “This is true; but I am very apprehensive if I, wretched, should divulge my secrets; it may be the cause of great trouble.”  I answered, what strange apprehensions you form! do not conceive in your heart such an idea of me, and relate without restraint all the events of your life; never, never, shall they pass from my breast to my lips; what possibility, then, of their reaching the ear of another?” When she perceived that, without satisfying my curiosity she should have no rest, being without resource, she said, “Many evils attend the explanation of these matters, but you are obstinately bent upon it.  Well, I must please you; for which reason I am going to relate the events of my past life—­take care; it is equally necessary for you to conceal them [from the world]; my information is on this condition.”