In the mean time the prince of Persia, unwilling to let such an opportunity pass to show his good-breeding and courtly temper, beat up the cushion of gold cloth for the lady to lean on; upon which he retired speedily, that she might sit down; and having saluted her, by kissing the tapestry under her feet, he rose, and stood at the lower end of the sofa.  It being her custom to be free with Ebn Thaher, she lifted her veil, and discovered to the prince of Persia such extraordinary beauty, that he was struck with it to the heart.  On the other hand, the lady could not contain herself from looking on the prince, the sight of whom had made the same impression, upon her.  My lord, said she to him, with an obliging air, pray sit down.  The prince of Persia obeyed, and sat down upon the edge of the sofa.  He had his eyes constantly fixed upon her, and swallowed large draughts of the sweet poison of love.  She quickly perceived what worked in his heart, and this discovery inflamed her the more towards him.  She rose up, went to Ebn Thaher, and, after whispering to him the cause of her coming, asked the name and country of the prince.  Madam, answered Ebn Thaher, this young nobleman’s name is Aboulhassen Ali Ebn Becar, and he is a prince of the blood-royal.

The lady was overjoyed to hear that the person she already so passionately loved was of a quality so high.  You certainly mean, said she, that he is descended from the kings of Persia.  Yes, madam, replied Ebn Thaher; the last kings of Persia were his ancestors, and, since the conquest of that kingdom, the princes of his family have always made themselves acceptable at the court of the caliphs.  You will oblige me much, added she, in making me acquainted with this young nobleman.  When I send this woman, said she, pointing to one of her slaves, to give you notice to come and see me, pray bring him with you; I shall be very glad to display to him the magnificence of my house, that he may see that avarice does not reign at Bagdad among persons of quality.  You know what I mean; therefore do not fail, other, wise I will be very angry with you, and beg you will never come hither again while I live.

Ebn Thaher was a man of too much penetration not to perceive the lady’s mind by these words.  My princess! my queen! replied he; God preserve me from ever giving you any occasion of anger against me!  I shall always make it a law to obey your commands.  At this answer, the lady bowed to Ebn Thaher, and bid farewell; and, after giving a favourable look to the prince of Persia, remounted her mule, and went away.

The prince of Persia was so deeply smitten with the lady, that he looked after her as far as he could see; and, for a long time after she was out of sight, he still looked that way.  Ebn Thaher told him, that several persons were observing him, and were laughing to see him in this posture.  Alas! said the prince, the world and you would have compassion on me, if you knew that the fine lady who is just