Arabian Nights Entertainments (1706)/Volume 2/The Story of the Third Callender
ABOUT the latter end of the following Night, Dinarzade address’d her Speech to the Sultaness thus: Dear Sister, I pray, until Day appear, which will be very soon, be pleas’d to relate some of the fine Stories you have read: I would willingly, said Schahriar, hear the Story of the third Callender, Sir, replied Scheherazade, you shall be obey’d. The third Callender, perceiving it was his Turn to speak, address’d his Speech as the rest had done to Zobeide, and began in this manner.
- Most Honourable Lady.
THAT which I am going to tell you, very much differs from what you have heard already. The two Princes that spoke before me, have each lost an Eye by the pure Effects of their Destiny, but mine I lost through my own fault, and by hastning to seek my own Misfortune, as you shall hear by the Sequel of my Story.
My Name is Agib, and I am the Son of a King who was called Caffib: After his Death I took Possession of his Dominions, and resided in the same City where he had live’d before, This City is situated on the Sea-Coast, has one of the finest and safest Harbours in the World, an Arsenal large enough for fitting out 50 Men of War to Sea, that are always ready on Occasion, and also to fit out 50 Merchant Ships, with as many light Frigats, and Pleasure Boats for Recreation. My Kingdom is composed of several fine Provinces upon Terra firma, besides a number of spacious Islands, every one of which lie almost in sight of my Capital City.
The first thing I did was to visit the Provinces: I afterwards caus’d to fit out and man my whole Fleet, and went to my Islands to gain the Hearts of my Subjects by my Presence, and to confirm them in their Loyalty; and some time after I return’d, I went thither again, These Voyages giving me some Taste of Navigation, I took so much pleasure in it, that I resolv’d to make some Discoveries beyond my Islands; to which end I caused only ten Ships to be fitted out, embark’d on board them, and set Sail.
Our Voyage was very successful for 40 Days together, but on the 41st Night the Wind became contrary, and withal so boisterous, that we were like to have been lost in the Storm. About Break of Day the Wind grew calm and the clouds were dispers’d, and the Sun having brought back fair Weather, we came close to an Island, where we remain’d two Days to take in fresh Provisions; this being done, we put off again to Sea. After ten Days Sail we were in hopes of seeing Land, for the Tempests we had gone through had so much abated my Curiosity, that I gave Orders to steer back to my own Coasts; but I perceived at the same time that my Pilot knew not where we were. Upon the 10th Day, a Seaman being sent to look out for Land from the Main-mast-head, he gave notice, that on Starboard and Larboard he could see nothing but the Sky and the Sea, which bounded the Horizon; but just before us upon the Stem, he saw a great Blackness.
The Pilot chang’d Colour at this Relation, and throwing his Turban on the Deck with one Hand, and beating his Breast with t’other, cried, Oh, Sir, we are all lost, not one of us will escape; and with all my Skill it is not in my Power to prevent it! Having spoke thus, he fell a crying like a Man who foresaw unavoidable Ruin; his Despair put the whole Ship’s Crew into a Terror. I ask’d him what reason he had thus to despair? He told me, the Tempest, which he had out-liv’d, had brought us so for out of our Course, that to morrow about Noon we shall come near to that black Place, which is nothing else but the black Mountain that is a Mine of Adamant, which at this very Minute draws all your Fleet towards it, by virtue of the Iron and Nails that are in your Ships; and when we come to-morrow at a Certain Distance, the strength of the Adamant will have such a Force, that all the Nails will be drawn out of the Sides and Bottoms of the Ships, and fasten to the Mountain, so that your Vessel will fall to pieces, and sink to the bottom. And as the Adamant has a Virtue to draw all Iron to it, whereby its Attraction becomes stronger, this Mountain on the side of the Sea is all cover’d over with Nails, drawn out of an infinite Number of Vessels that have perish’d by it; and this preserves and augments it’s Virtue at the same time.
This Mountain, continues the Pilot, is very rugged, on the top of it, there’s a Dome of fine Brass, supported by Pillar, of the same, and upon the top of that Dome there stands a Horse of the same Metal, with a Rider on his Back, who has a Plate of Lead fix’d to his Breast, upon which some Talismanical Characters are engraven: Sir, the Tradition is, That this Statue is the chief Cause that so many Ships and Men have been lost and sunk in this Place, and that it will ever continue to be dismal to all those that have the Misfortune to come near it, until such time that it shall be thrown down.
The Pilot, having ended his Discourse, began to weep afresh, and this made all the rest of the Ship’s Company do the like. I my self had no other Thoughts, but that my Days were to have an end: In the mean time every one began to provide for his own Safety, and to that end took all imaginable Precautions, and, being uncertain of the Event, they all made one another their Heirs, by virtue of a Will for the Benefit of those that should happen to be saved.
The next Morning we perceived the black Mountain very plain, and the Idea we had conceived of it made it appear more frightful than it was. About Noon we were come so near, that we found what the Pilot had foretold to be true, for we saw all the Nails and Iron about the Ships fly towards the Mountain, where they fix’d, by the Violence of the Attraction, with a horrible Noise; the Ships split asunder, and sunk into the Sea which was so deep about that Place that we could not sound it. All my People were drown’d, but God had Mercy on me, and permitted me to spare my self by means of a Plank, which the Wind drove ashore just at the Foot of the Mountain: I did not receive the least Hurt, and my good Fortune brought me to a Landing-Place, where there were Steps that went up to the top of the Mountain.
Scheherazade would have gone on with her Story, but Day appearing she was oblig’d to keep silence The Sultan was convinc’d by this beginning, that the Sultaness had not deceived him, and therefore we are not to wonder that he did not order her to die that Day.
FOR the sake of Heay’n, cry’d Dinzrzade next Morning, If you benot asleep, Sister, go on with the Story of the third Callender, My dear Sitter, said Scheherazade, the Prince renewed his Discourse thus.
At the Sight of these Steps, said he, for there was not a bit of Ground either on the Right or Left whereon a Man could set his Foot, I gave thanks to God, and recommended my self to his holy Protection as I began to mount the Steps, which were so narrow, rugged and hard to get up, that had the Wind blown ever so little it would have thrown me down into the Sea. But at last I got up to the top without any Accident, I came into the Dome, and kneeling on the Ground, gave God thanks for his Mercies to me.
I pass’d the Night under the Dome, and in my Sleep an old grave Man appear’d to me, and said, Hearken Agib, as soon as thou art awake, dig up the Ground under thy Feet; thou shalt find a Bow of Brass, and three Arrows of Lead, that are made under certain Constellations, to deliver Mankind from so many Calamities that threaten them. Shoot the three Arrows at the Statue, and the Rider shall fall into the Sea, but the Horse will fall down by thy Side, which thou must bury in the same Place from whence you took the Bow and Arrows: This being done, the Sea will swell and rise up to the Foot of the Dome that stands upon the Top of the Mountain: When it is come up so high, thou shalt see a Boat with one Man, and an Oar in each Hand: this Man is also of Metal, but different from that thou hast thrown down; step on board to him, without mentioning the Name of God, and let him conduct thee. He will in ten Days time bring thee into another Sea, where thou shalt find an Opportunity to get home to thy Country safe and sound provided, as I have told thee, thou dost not mention the Name of God during the whole Voyage.
This was the Contents of the old Man’s Discourse. When I awak’d I was very much comforted by this Vision and did not fail to observe every thing that he had commanded me. I took the Bow and Arrows out of the Ground, shot ’em at the Horseman, and with the third Arrow I overthrew him, and he fell into the Sea, as the Horse fell by my side, which I buried in the Place whence took the Bow and Arrows; and in the mean time the Sea swell and rose up by Degrees: When it came as high as the Foot of the Dome that stood upon the Top of the Mountain, saw afar off a Boat rowing towards me, and I return’d God thanks that every thing succeeded according to my Dream.
At last the Boat came ashore, and I saw the Man was made of Metal. According as I had dreamt, I stept aboard, and took great heed not to pronounce the Name of God, neither spoke I one Word at all; I sat down, and the Man of Metal began to row off from the Mountain: He row’d without ceasing till the ninth Day, that I saw some Islands, which put me in hopes that I should be out of all the Danger that I was afraid of. The Excess of my Joy made me forget what I was forbidden todo: God’s Name be blest, said I, The Lord be praised.
I had no sooner spoke those Words, but the Boat sunk with the Man of Metal, and leaving me upon the Surface, I swam the remaining part of the Day towards that Land which appeared nearest to me. A very dark Night succeeded, and not knowing where-abouts I was, I swam a a venture; my Strength began at last to fail, and I despaired of being able to save my self; when the Wind began to blow hard, and a Wave as big as a Mountain threw me on a Flat, where it left me, and drew back. I made haste to get ashore, fearing another Wave might wash me back again: The first thing I did was to strip and wring the Water out of my Cloaths, and then laid them down to dry on the Sand, which was still pretty warm by the Heat of the Day.
Next Morning the Sun dried my Cloaths betimes, I put them on, and went forward to see where-abouts I. was; I had not walked very far, till I found I was got upon a little desart Island, though very pleasant, where there grew several sorts of Trees and wild Fruits; but perceived it was very far from the Continent, which much diminished the Joy I conceived for having escaped the Danger of the Seas. Notwithstanding, I recommended my self to God, and pray’d him to dispose of me according to his good Will and Pleasure; at the same time I saw a Vessel coming from the main Land, before the Wind, directly to the Island. I doubted not but they were coming to anchor there, and being uncertain what sort of People they might be, whether Friends or Foes, I thought it not safe for me to be seen, I got up into a very thick Tree, from whence I might safely view them. The Vessel came into a little Creek, where ten Slaves landed, carrying a Spade and other Instruments fit for digging up the Ground; they went towards the middle of the Island, where I saw them stop and dig the Ground a long while, after which I thought I saw them lift up a Trap-Door. They returned again to the Vessel and unladed several forts of Provision and Furniture, which they carried to that Place where they had broke Ground, and so went downward, which made me suppose it was a subterranean Being.
I saw them once more go to the Ship, and return soon after with an old Man, who led a very handsome young Lad in his Hand of about 14 or 15 Years of age; they all went down at the Trap-Door. And being come up aga’n, having let down the Trap-Door and cover’d it over with Earth, they return’d to the Creek where the Ship lay, but I saw not the young Man in their Company: this made me believe that he stay’d behind in that Place under-ground, at which I could not but be extreamly astonished.
The old Man and the Slaves went aboard again, and the Vessel having got under sail steer’d its Course towards the main Land, When I perceiv’d they were at such distance that they could not see me. I came down from the Tree, and went directly to the Place where I had seen the Ground broke; I removed the Earth by degrees, till I found a Stone that was two or three Foot square. I lifted it up and saw it cover’d the Head of the Stair, which was also of Stone, I went down and came into a large Room, where there was laid a Foot-Carpet, and a Couch cover’d with Tapistry, and Cushions of rich Stuff, upon which the young Man sat with a Fan in his Hand. I saw all this by the Light of two Tapers, together with the Fruits and Flower-Pots he had standing about him, The young Lad was startled at the sight of me. But to rid him of his Fear, I spoke to him as I came in, thus; Whoever you be, Sir, do not fear any thing, a King, and the Son of a King, as I am, is not capable of doing you any Prejudice. On the contrary, it’s probable, that your good Destiny has brought me hither, to deliver you out of this Tomb, where, it seems, they have buried you alive, for Reasons unknown to me. But that which makes me wonder, and what I cannot conceive (for you must know that I have been Witness to all that hath passed since your coming into this Island) is, that you suffered your self to be buried in this Place without any Resistance.
Scheherazade broke off here, and the Sultan arose very impatient to know why this young Lad was thus abandoned in a desart Island, as to which he promis’d himself Satisfaction next Night.
DInarzade perceiving it was time to call upon the Sultaness said, Sister, it you be not asleep, pray re-assume the Story of the third Callender, Scheherazade gave her no occasion to repeat her request, and went on in this manner:
The young Man, continued the third Callender, recovered himself these Words, and pray’d me, with a smiling Countenance, to sit down by him; which when I had done, he said, Prince, I am to acquaint you with a Matter so odd in it self, that it cannot but surprize you.
My Father is a Merchant-Jeweller, who has acquired thro’ his Ingenuity in his Calling, a great Estate; he hath a great many Slaves, and also Deputies, whom he employ’s to go as Super-Cargoes to Sea with his own Ships, on purpose to maintain the Correspondence he has at several Courts, which he furnishes with such precious Stones as they want.
He had been married a long while and without Issue, when he understood by a Dream that he should have a Son, though his Life would be but short, at which he was very much concern’d when he awak’d. Some Days after my Mother acquainted him that she was with Child, and the Time which she supposed to be that of her Conception agreed exactly with the Day of his Dream. She was brought to-Bed of me at the end of nine Months, which occasion’d great Joy in the Family.
My Father, who had observed the very Moment of my Birth, consulted Astrologers about my Nativity, who told him, Your Son shall live very happily till the Age of fifteen when he will be in danger of losing his Life, and hardly be able to escape it. But if his good Destiny preserve him beyond that Time, he will live to grow very old. ’Twill be then (said they) when the Statue of Brass, that stands upon the Top of the Mountain of Adamant, shall be thrown down into the Sea by Prince Agib, Son of King Cassib; and, as the Stars prognosticate your Son shall be kill’d 50 Days afterwards by that Prince.
As the Event of this Part of the Prediction about the Statue agrees exactly with my Father’s Dream, it afflicted him so much that he was struck to the very Heart with it. In the mean time he took all imaginable Care of my Education until this present Year, which is the 15th of my Age; and he had notice given him yesterday, that the Statue of Brass had been thrown into the Sea about 10 days ago, by that same Prince I told you of. This News has cost him so many Tears, and has alarm’d him so much, that he looks not like himself.
Upon these Predictions of the Astrologers, he has sought by all means possible to satisify my Horoscope, and to preserve my Life, ’Tis not long since he took this Precaution, to build me this subterranean Habitation to hide me in, till the Expiration of the 50 Days after the throwing down of the Statue, and therefore since it was that this had happened 10 Days ago, he came hastily hither to hide me, and promised at the end of 40 Days to come again and fetch me out. As for my own part, I am in good hopes, and cannot believe that Prince Agib will come to seek for me in a Place under Ground, in the midst of a desart Island. This, my Lord, is what I have to say to you.
Whilst the Jeweller’s Son was telling me this Story, I laugh’d in my self at those Astrologers who had foretold that I should take away his Life; for I thought my self so far from being likely to verify what they said, that he had scarce done speaking, when I told him with great Joy, Dear Sir, put your Confidence in the Goodness of God, and fear nothing, you may consider it is a Debt you was to Pay; but that you are acquitted of it from this very Hour: I am glad that after my Shipwreck I came so fortunately hither, to defend you again all those that would attempt your Death: I will not leave you till the 40 Days are expired, of which the foolish Astrologers have made you so apprehensive; and in the mean while I will do you all the Service that that lies in my Power: After which I shall have the Benefit of getting to the main Land in your Vessel, with leave of your Father and your self; and when I am return’d into my Kingdom, I shall remember the Obligations I owe you, and endeavour to demonstrate my Acknowledgments in a suitable manner.
This Discourse of mine encouraged the Jeweller’s Son, and made him have Confidence in me. I took care not to tell him I was the very Agib whom he dreaded, lest I should put him into a Fright, and took as much care not to give him any cause to suspect it. We passed the Time in several Discourses till Night came on, I found the young Lad of a ready Wit, and eat with him of his Provisions, of which he had enough to have lasted beyond the 40 Days, though he had had more Guests than my self. After Supper we continued some time in Discourse, at last we went to bed.
The next Day when we got up, I held the Bason and Water to him, I also provided Dinner, and set it on the Table in due time: After we had done, I invented a Play to divert our selves, not only for that Day, but for those that followed. I prepared Supper after the same manner as I had prepared Dinner; and having supp’d we went to bed as formerly. We had Time enough to contract Friendship: I found he loved me; and for my part, I had so great a Respect for him, that I have often said to my self, Those Astrologers who predicted to his Father, that his Son should die by my Hand, were Impostors; for it is not possible, that I could commit so base an Action. In short, Madam, we spent 39 Days in the pleasantest manner that could be, in a Place like that under Ground.
The 40th Day appear’d: And in the Morning when the young Man awaked, he says to me with a Transport of Joy that he could not restrain, Prince, this is the 40th Day, and I am not dead, Thanks to God and your good Company. My father will not fail to be here anon, to give you a Testimony of his Gratitude for it, and shall furnish you with all that’s necessary for your Return to your Kingdom, but in the mean time, said he, I beg of you to get ready some Water very warm, to wash my whole Body in that portable Bagnio, that I may clean my self, and change my Cloaths, to receive my Father more chearfully.
I set the Water on the Fire, and when it was hot put it into the moveable Bagnio: The Youth went in, and I my self wash’d and rubb’d him, At last he came out, and laid himself down in his B:d that I had prepared, and covered him with his Bed-cloaths. After he had slept a while he awak’d, and said, Dear Prince, pray do me the Favour to fetch me a Melon and some Sugar, that I may eat some and refresh me.
Out of several Melons that remain’d, I took the best and laid it on a Plate; and because I could not find a Knife to cut it with, I asked the young Man, If he knew where there was one? There is one, said he, upon this Cornish over my Head: I accordingly saw it there, and made so much haste to reach it, that while I had it in my Hand, my Foot being intangled in the Covering, I fell molt unhappily upon the young Man, and the Knife run into his Heart in a Minute.
Ar this Spectacle I cried out most hideously; I beat my Head, my Face and Breast; I tore my Cloaths; I threw my self on the Ground with unspeakable Sorrow and Grief: Alas! I cry’d, There was only some Hours wanting to have put him out of that Danger, from which he sought Sanctuary here. And when I my self thought the Danger past, then I became his Murtherer, and verified the Prediction. But, O Lord! said I, lifting up my Face and my Hands to Heaven, I beg thy Pardon, and, if I be guilty of his Death, let me not live any longer.
Scheherazade, perceiving Day, was obliged to break oft this doleful Story. The Sultan of the Indies was mov’d with it, and found himself very uneasy to think what would become of the Callender after this, and resolved that Scheherazade should not die that Day, because she was the only Person that cou’d resolve him.
DInarzade awak’d the Sultaness next Morning as usual. If you be not asleep, Sister, said she, pray tell us what passed after the Death of the young Man.
Madam, continued the third Callender, addressing himself to Zobeide, After this Misfortune, I would have embrac’d Death without any Reluctancy, had it presented it self to me. But what we wish to our selves, whether good or bad, will not always happen: Nevertheless, considering with my self, that all my Tears and Sorrows would not bring the young Man to life again, and the 40 Days being expir’d, I might be surpriz’d by his Father. I quitted that subterranean Dwelling, laid down the great stone upon the entry of it, and cover’d it with Earth.
I had scarce done, when, casting my Eyes upon the Sea towards the main Land, I perceiv’d the Vessel coming to fetch home the young Man. I began then to confider what I had best do; I said to my self, if I am seen by the old Man he will certainly lay hold on me, and perhaps cause me to be massacred by his Slaves. When he has seen his Son kill’d, all that I can alledge to justify my self will not be able to persuade him of my Innocence. It is better for me then to withdraw, since it is in my Power, than to expose my self to his Resentments.
There happened to be near that subterranean Habitation a large Tree with thick Leaves, which I thought fit for me to hide in. I got up to it, and was no sooner fix’d in a Place where I could not be seen, but I saw the Vessel come to the same Place where she lay the first time.
The old Man and his Slaves landed immediately, and advanced towards the subterranean Dwelling, with a Countenance that shewed some hope; but when they saw the Earth had been newly removed, they chang’d Colour, particularly the old Man. They lifted up the Stone and went down; they called the young Man by his Name, but he not answering, their Fears increased, they went down to seek him; and at length found him lying upon a Bed with the Knife in his Heart, for I had not power to take it out. At this Sight they cried out lamentably, which increased my Sorrow; the old Man fell down in a Swoon. The Slaves, to give him Air, brought him up in their Arms, and laid him at the Foot of the Tree where I was; but notwithstanding all the Pains they took to recover him, the unfortunate Father continued a long while in that Condition, and made them, oftener than once, despair of his Life; but at last he came to himself. Then the Slaves brought up his Son’s Corpse, drest in his best Apparel, and when they had made a Grave, they put him into it. The old Man supported by two Slaves, and his Face all covered with Tears, threw the first Earth upon him, after which the Slaves fill’d up the Grave.
This being done, all the Furniture was brought up from under Ground, and with the remaining Provisions, put on board he Vessel. The old Man overcome with Sorrow, and not being able to stand, was laid upon a sort of Litter and carry’d to the Ship, which put forth to Sea, and in a short time sail’d quite out of fight, The Day-light, which began to enter the Sultan’s Apartment, oblig’d Scheherazade to stop here. Schahriar arose at his usual Hour, and for the same Reason as before, he prolong’d the Sultaness’s Life, and left her with Dinarzade.
THE next Morning before Day, Dinarzade addressed her self to the Sultaness in these Words, My dear Sister, if you be not asleep, be pleased to continue the Adventures of the third Callender. You must know then, Sister, said Scheherazade, that the Prince went on with the Relation of this Story to Zobeide and the Company as follows:
After the old Man and his Slaves were gone with the Vessel, I was left alone upon the Island. I lay that Night in the subterranean Dwelling, which they had shut up, and when the Day came, I walk’d round the Isle, and stopt in such Places as I thought most proper to repose in, when I had need.
I led this wearisome Life for a Month together; after which I perceiv’d the Sea to be mightily fall’n, the Island to be much larger, and the main Land seem’d to be drawing nearer me. In effect, the Water grew so low, that there was but a small Stream between me and the Terra firma, I cross’d it, and the Water did not come above the middle of my Leg. It march’d so long upon the Slime and Sands that I was very weary; at last I got upon firm Ground, and when at a good distance from the Sea, I saw a good way before me somewhat like a great Fire, which gave me some Comfort, for I said to my self, I shall find some-body or other, it not being possible that this Fire should kindle of it self; but when I came nearer hand I found my Error, and saw that what I had taken to be Fire was a Castle of red Copper, which the Beams of the Sun made it look at a distance as if it had been in Flames.
I stopp’d near the Castle, and sat down to admire its admirable Structure, and to rest a while: I had not taken such a full View of this magnificent Building as it deserv’d, when I saw ten handsome young Men coming along, as if they bad been taking a Walk, but that which molt surpriz’d me was, that they were all blind of the Right-Eye; they accompany’d an old Man who was very tall, and of a venerable Aspect.
I could not but wonder at the Sight of so many half blind Men altogether, and everyone of the same Eye: As I was thinking in my Mind, by what adventure all these Men could come together, they came up to me, and seem’d to be mighty glad to see me; after the first Complements were pass’d, they enquired what had brought me thither? I told them my Story would be somewhat tedious, but if they would take the Trouble to fit down, I would satisfy their Request, They did so, and I related to them all that happen’d unto me since I left my Kingdom, which fill’d them with Astonishment.
After I had ended my Discourse, the young Gentlemen pray’d me to go with them into the Castle, I accepted the Proffer, and we pass’d through a great many Halls, Anti-Chambers, Bed-Chambers and Closets, very well furnish’d, and arriv’d at last into a spacious Hall, where there were ten small blue Sofa’s set round, and separate from one another, upon which they sat by Day, and slept by Night. In the middle of this round there stood an eleventh Sofa, not so high as the rest, but of the same Colour, upon which the old Man above mentioned sat down, and the young Gentlemen made use of the other ten; whereas each Sofa could only contain one Man, one of the young Men lays to me, Comrade, sit down upon that Carpet in the middle of the Room, and do not enquire into any thing that concerns us, nor the Reason why we are all blind of the Right-Eye, be content with what you see, and let not your Curiosity go any further.
The old Man having sat a little while, rose up and went out, but he return’d in a Minute or two, brought in Supper to those ten Gentlemen, distributed to each Man his Proportion by himself, and likewise brought me mine, which I eat my self, as the rest did; and when Supper was almost done, he presented to each of us a Cup of Wine.
They thought my Story so extraordinary, that they made me repeat it after Supper, and this gave occasion to Discourses that lasted a good part of the Night. One of the Gentlemen, observing that it was late, said to the old Man, you see it is time to go to-bed, and you don’t bring us that with which we may acquit our selves of our Duty: At these Words the old Man arose, and went into a Closet, from whence he brought out upon his Head ten Basons one after another, all cover’d with blue Stuff; he set one before every Gentleman, together with a Light.
They uncover’d their Basons, in which there was Ashes, Coul-Dust and Lamp-black; they mix’d altogether, and rubb’d and bedaub’d their Faces with it in such a Manner, that they look’d very frightful. After having thus black’d themselves, they fell a weeping and lamenting, beating their Heads and Breasts, and cry’d continually, this is the Fruit of our Idleness and Debauchies.
They continued thus almost the whole Night, and when they left off, the old Man brought them Water, with which they wash’d their Faces and Hands, they chang’d also their Cloaths which were spoil’d, and put on others; that they did not look in the least as if they had been doing so strange an Acton.
You may judge, Madam, how uneasy I was all the while, I had a mind a thousand times to break the Silence, which those young Gentlemen had imposed upon me, ask Questions, nor was it possible for me to sleep that Night.
After we got up next Day, we went out to walk, and then I told them, Gentlemen, I declare to you, that I must renounce that Law which you prescrib’d to me last Night, for I cannot observe it: You are Men of Sense, and all of you have Wit in abundance, you have convinc’d me of it, yet I have seen you do such Actions as none but Mad-men could be capable of. Whatever Misfortune befal me, I cannot forbear asking, why you bedaub’d your Faces with black, how it comes that each of you has but one Eye? some singular thing must certainly be the Cause of it, therefore conjure you to satisfy my Curiosity. To these pressing Instances they answer nothing, but that it was none of my Business to ask such Question, and that I should do well to hold my Peace.
We pass’d that Day in Discourses upon indifferent Subjects, and when Night was come, and every Man had supp’d, the old Man brought in the blue Basons, and the young Gentlemen bedaub’d their Faces, wept and beat themselves, crying, This is the Fruit of our Idleness and Debauchies, as before, and continued the same Actions the following Night. Ar last, not being able to resist my Curiosity, I earnestly pray’d them to satisty me, or to show me how to return to my own Kingdom ; for it was impossible for me to keep them company any longer, and to see every Night such an odd Spectacle, without being permitted to know the Reason.
One of the Gentlemen answer’d in behalf of the rest, do not wonder at our Conduct in regard to your self; and that hitherto we have not granted your Request, it’s out of meer Kindness, to prevent your Sorrow of being reduced to the same Condition with us. If you have a mind to try our unfortunate Destiny, you need but speak, and we will give you the Satisfaction you desire. I told them I was resolv’d on’t, let come what will. Once more, said the same Gentleman, we advise you to restrain your Curiosity, it will cost you the Loss of your Right-Eye. No matter, said I, I declare to you, that if such a Misfortune befal me, I will not impute it to you, but to my self.
He further represented unto me, that when I had lost an Eye, I must not hope to stay with them, if I were so minded, because their Number was compleat, and no Addition could be made to it. I told them that it would be a great Satisfaction to me never to part from such honest Gentlemen, but if there were necessity for it I am ready to submit; and let it cost me what it would, I begged them to grant my Request.
The ten Gentlemen, perceiving that I was so positive in my Resolution, took a Sheep and kill’d it, and after they had taken off the Skin presented me with the Knife, telling me it would be useful to me on a certain Occasion, which they should tell me of presently. We must sew you into this Skin, said they, and then leave you; upon which a Fowl of a monstrous Size, call’d a Roc, will appear in the Air, and taking you to be a Sheep, will come down upon you, and carry you up to the very Sky; but let not that frighten you, he will come down with you again, and lay you upon the Top of a Mountain: When you find your self upon the Ground, cut the Skin with the Knife, and throw it off, As soon as the Roc sees you, he will fly away for Fear, and leave you at Liberty: Do not stay, but walk on till you come to a prodigious large Cattle, all cover’d with Plates of Gold, large Emerals, and other precious Stones: Go up to the Gate, which always stands open, and walk in: We have been in the Castle as long as we have been here; we will tell you nothing of what we saw, or what befel us there, you will learn it of your self; all that we can inform you is, that it hath cost each of us our Right-Eye, and the Penance which you have been Witness to, is what weare obliged to do, because we have been there. The History of each of us in particular is so full of extraordinary Adventures, that a large Volume would not contain ’em. But we must explain our selves no further.
Here Scheherazade broke off her Discourse, and says to the Sultan of the Indies, Sir, my Sister call’d upon me this Morning sooner than ordinary, I fear I have wearied your Majesty’s Patience. But now Day appears in very good Season, and commands my Silence. Schahriar’s Curiosity prevail’d still upon him to dispense with his cruel Oath.
DInarzade did not call so early this Night as she did the last, yet she call’d upon the Sultaness before Day; If you be not asleep, Sister, pray continue the Story of the third Callender, Scheherazade resum’d it thus, personating the Callender in his Discourse to Zobeide.
Madam, when the Gentleman had ended this Discourse, I wrapt my self in the Sheep’s Skin, held fast the Knife which was given me; and after those young Gentlemen had been at the trouble to sew the Skin about me, they retir’d into the Hall, and left me on the Place. The Roc they had spoke of was not long a coming, he fell down upon me, took me up between his tallons like a Sheep, and carried me up to the top of the Mountain.
When I found my self upon the Ground, I made use of the Knife, cut the Skin, and throwing it off, the Roc at the Sight of me flew away, This Roc is a white Bird of a monstrous Size, his Strength is such that he can lift up Elephants from the Plains, and carry them to the top of Mountains, where he feeds upon them.
Being impatient till I reach’d the Castle, I loft no time, but made so much haste, that I got thither in half a Day’s Journey, and I must say, that I found it surpass the Description they had given me of it.
The Gate being open, I entred into a Court that was square, and so large, that there was round it 99 Gates of Wood Sanders and Aloes, with one of Gold, without counting those of several magnificent Stair-Cases, that led up to Apartments above, besides many more I could not see. The hundred Doors I spoke of open’d into Gardens, or Store-houses full of Riches, or into Places which contain’d Things wonderful to be seen.
I saw a Door standing open just before me, through which I entred into a large Hall, where I found 40 young Ladies of such perfect Beauty, that Imagination could not go beyond it; they were all most sumptuously apparel’d, and as soon as they saw me, rose up, and without expectation my Complements, said to me with demonstrations of Joy, noble Sir, you are very welcome. And one spoke to me in the Name of the rest thus, we have been in expectation a long while of such a Gentleman as you, your Mein assures us that you are Master of all the good Qualities we can wish for; and we hope you will not find our Company disagreeable or unworthy of yours.
They forced me notwithstanding all the opposition I could make, to sit down on a Seat that was higher than theirs, and tho’ I signified that I was uneasie: That’s your Place, said they, you are at present our Lord, Master, and Judge, and we are your Slaves, ready to obey your Commands.
Nothing in the World, Madam, did so much astonish me, as the Passion and Eagerness of those fair Ladies, to do me all possible Service. One brought hot Water to wash my Feet, a second pour’d sweet scented Water on my Hands, others brought me all sorts of Necessaries, and Change of Apparel; and others brought in a magnificent Collation; and the rest came with Glasses in their Hands, to fill me delicious Wines, and all in good Order, and in the most charming Manner that could be: I eat and drank; after which the Ladies plac’d themselves about me, and desir’d an Account of my Travels, I gave them a full Relation of my Adventures, which lasted till Night came on.
Scheherazade making a Stop here, her Sister ask’d her the Reason; do you not see ’tis Day, says the Sultaness, wherefore did you not call me sooner?
The Sultan expecting some pleasant Adventures from the Arrival of the third Callender at the Palace of the forty Ladies, would not deprive himself of the Pleasure to hear them, and therefore again put off the Death of the Sultaness.
DInarzade slept as long this Night as she did the last, and when it was almost Day she called to the Sultaness Dear Sister, if you be not asleep, pray tell us what pass’d in the fine Castle where you left us yesterday. I will, said Scheherazade, and addressing her Speech to the Sultan said, Sir, the Callender resum’d his Narrative after this Manner.
When I had made an end of my Story, which I related to the forty Ladies, some of them that sat nearest me, said to keep me Company, whilst the rest, seeing it was dark, rose up to fetch Tapers: They brought a prodigious Quantity, which made such a marvellous Light as if it had been Day, and they were so proportionably disposed, that nothing could be more beautiful.
Other Ladies cover’d a Table with dry Fruits, Sweetmeats, and every thing proper to make the Liquor relish: And a Side-board was set with several sorts of Wines, and other Liquors. Some of the Ladies came in with musical Instruments, and when every thing was prepared, they invited me to fit down to Supper. The Ladies sat down with me, and we continued a long while at Supper. They that were to play upon the Instruments, and sing, rose up and made a most charming Consort. The others began a sort of Ball, and danc’d by two and two, one after another, with a wonderful good Grace.
It was past Midnight ere those Divertisements ended: At length one of the Ladies says to me, You are doubtless wearied by the Journey you have made to-day; It is time for you to go to rest, your Lodging is prepared: But before you depart, make choice of any of us you like best, to be your Bedfellow. I answer’d, that I knew better things than to offer to make my own Choice, since they were all equally beautiful, witty and worthy of my Respects and Service, and that I would not be guilty of so much Incivility, as to prefer one before another.
The same Lady that spoke to me before answer’d, We are very well satisfied of your Civility, and find you are afraid to create a Jealousy among us, which occasions your Modesty; but let not this hinder you. We assure you, that the good Fortune of her whom you chuse, shall cause no Jealousy; for we are agreed among our selves, that every Day one of us shall have the same Honour, till it go round; and when forty Days are past, to begin again; therefor: make your free Choice, and lose no Time to go and take the Repose you stand in need of. I was oblig’d to yield to their Instances, and offer’d my Hand to the Lady that spoke, she, in return, gave me hers, and we were conducted to a sumptuous Apartment, where they left us; and then every one retir’d to their own Apartment. But Day appears, Sir, said Scheherazade to the Sultan, and your Majesty, I hope, will permit me to leave the Callender Prince with his Lady. Schahriar return’d no Answer: but said to himself, as he got up, I must allow that the Story is extraordinary fine, and that I should be very much in the wrong not to hear it out.
DInarzade did not fail about the latter end of the next Night to address the Sultaness thus: If you be nor alseep, Sister, pray relate to us the following part of the wonderful Story of the third Callender: Very willingly, said Scheherazade. That Prince continued it thus: I was scarce dress’d next Morning, till the other 39 Ladies came into my Chamber all in other Dresses than they had the Day before: They bid me Good-morrow, and enquir’d into my Health; after which they carried me to a Bagnio, where they wash’d me themselves, and whether I would or no, serv’d me in every thing I stood in need of; and when I came out of the Bath, they made me put on another Sute much richer than the Former.
We past the whole Day almost constantly at Table; and when it was Bed-time, they pray’d me again to make choice of one of them to keep me company. In short, Madam, not to weary you with Repetitions, I must tell you, that I continu’d a whole Year among those 40 Ladies, and receiv’d them into my Bed one after another; and during all the Time of this voluptuous Life, we met not with the least Kind of Trouble. When the Year was expir’d, I was strangely surpriz’d at those 40 Ladies, instead of appearing with their usual Cheerfulness, to ask how I did, enterd one Morning into my Chamber all in Tears: They embrac’d me with great Tendernef, one after another, saying, Adieu, dear Prince, adieu, for we must leave you. Their Tears affected me, I pray’d them to tell me the Reason of their Grief, and of the Separation they spoke of. For God’s Sake, fair Ladies, let me know, said I, if it be in my Power to comfort you, or if my Assistance can be any way useful to you. Instead of returning a direct Answer, wou’d to God, said they, we had never seen or known you. Several Gentlemen have honour’d us with their Company before you; but never one of them had that Comeliness, that Sweetness, that Pleasantness of Humour and Merit which you have; we know not how to live without you. After they had spoke these Words, they began to weep bitterly. My dear Ladies, said I, be so kind as not to keep me in suspence any more: Tell me the Cause of your Sorrow. Alas! said they, what other Thing could be capable of grieving us, but the necessity of parting from you. It may so happen, that we shall never see you again; but if you be so minded, and have Command enough over your self, it is not impossible for us to meet again. Ladies, said I, I do not understand your Meaning, pray explain your selves more clearly.
Oh then! said one of them, to satisfie you, we must acquaint you that we are all Princesses, Daughters of Kings, we live here together in such Manner as you have seen; but at the End of every Year we are oblig’d to be absent forty Days upon indispensible Duties, which we are not Permitted to reveal; and afterwards we return again to this Castle. Yesterday was the last of the Year, and we must leave you this Day, which is the Cause of our Grief. Before we depart, we will leave you the Keys to every thing, especially those belonging to the hundred Doors, where you will find enough to satisfy your Curiosity, and to sweeten your Solitude during our Absence: But for your own Welfare and our particular Concern in you, we recommend unto you to forbear opening the golden Door, for if you do, we shall never see you again; and the Fear of this augments our Grief. We hope, never the lefs, that you will follow the Advice we give you, as you tender you own Quiet and the Happiness of your Life; therefore take heed that you do not give way to indiscreet Curiosity, for you will do your self a considerable Prejudice. We conjure you therefore not to commit this Fault, but to let us have the Comfort of finding you here again after forty Days. We would willingly carry the Key of the golden Door along with us; but that wou’d be an Affront to a Prince like you, to question your Discretion and Modesty. Scheherazade had a mind to go on; but she saw Day appear, and stopped, the Sultan, being curious to know what the third Callender would do when the forty Ladies were gone, and had left him alone in the Castle, referred the hearing of it till next Day.
THE officious Dinarzade being awake long before Day, called to the Sultaness, If you be not asleep, Sister, consider that it is time to tell the remaining Part of the Story to our Lord the Sultan: Scheherazade addressing her self to the Sultan, said, Sir, Your Majesty may be pleas’d to know, that the Callender pursued his Story thus.
Madam, said he, this Discourse of the fair Princesses made me extrem sorrowful, I omitted not to make them sensible how much their Absence would afflict me; I thanked them for their good Advice, and assur’d ’em that I would follow it, and willingly do what was much more difficult, in order to be so happy as to pass the rest of my Days with Ladies of such rare Qualifications. We took leave of one another with a great deal of Tenderness; and having embraced them all, at last they departed, and I was left alone in the Castle.
Their agreeable Company, the good Cheer, the Conforts of Musick, and other Pleasures, had so much diverted me during the whole Year, that I neither had Time, nor the least Desire to see the wonderful things contain’d in this inchanted Palace. Nay, I did not so much as take notice of a thousand rare Objects that were every Day in my Sight; for I was so taken with the charming Beauty of those Ladies, and took so much Pleasure in seeing them wholly imploy’d to oblige me, that their Departure afflicted me very sensibly; and tho’ their Absence was to be only 40 Days, it seemed to me an Age to live without them.
I promis’d myself not to forget the important Advice they had given me, not to open the Golden Door; but as I was permitted to satisfy my Curiosity in every thing else, I took the first of the Keys of the other Doors, which were hung up in good Order.
I open’d the first Door, and came into an Orchard, which I believe the Universe could not equal: I could not imagine that any thing could surpass it, but that which our Religion promises us after Death; the Symmetry, the Neatness, the admirable Order of the Trees, the abundance and diversity of a thousand Sorts of unknown Fruits, their Freshness and Beauty, ravish’d my Sight.
I ought not to forget, Madam, to acquaint you, that this delicious Orchard was water’d after a very particular manner; there were Channels so artificially and proportionably digg’d, that they carried Water in abundance to the Roots of such Trees as wanted it, for making them produce their Leaves and Flowers. Others carried it to those that had their Fruit budded: Some carried it in lesser Quantities to those whose Fruit was growing big, and others carried only so much as was just requisite to water those who had their Fruit come to perfection and only wanted to be ripen’d. They exceeded the ordinary Fruits of our Gardens very much in bigness; and lastly, those Channels that watered the Trees whose Fruit was ripe, had no more Moisture than just what would preserve them from withering.
I could never be weary to look at and admire so sweet a Place; and I should never have left it, had I not conceived a greater Idea of the other Things which I had not seen. I went out at last with my Mind fill’d with those Wonders: I shut the Door and open’d the next.
Instead of an Orchard, I found a Flower-Garden, which was no less extraordinary in its kind: It contained a spacious Plot not water’d so profusely as the former, but with greater Niceness, furnishing no more Water than just what each Flower requir’d. The Roses, Jessemins, Violets, Dills, Hyacinths, Wind-Flowers, Tulips, Crow-Foots, Pinks, Lillies and an infinite number of other Flowers, which don’t grow in other Places but at certain times, were there flourishing all at once, and nothing could be more delicious than the fragrant Smell of this Garden.
I open’d the third Door, where I found a large Volary pav’d with Marble of several fine Colours that were not common. The Cage was made of Sanders and Wood of Aloes, it contain’d a vast number of Nightingales, Goldfinches, Canary-Birds, Larks, and other rare Singing-Birds, which I never heard of, and the Vessels that held their Seed and Water, were of the most precious Jaipis or Agat.
Besides, this Volary was so exceeding neat, that considering its Extent, one would think there could be no less than a hundred Persons to keep it so clean as it was; but all this while not one Soul appear’d either here or in the Gardens where I had been; and yet I could not perceive a Weed, or any superfluous thing there. The Sun was down, and I retir’d, being perfectly charm’d with the chirping Notes of the Multitude of Birds, who then began to perch upon such places as were convenient for them to repose enduring the Night; I went to my Chamber, resolving to open all the rest of the Doors the Day following, excepting that of Gold.
I fail’d not to open the fourth Door next Day, and if what I had seen before was capable of surprizing me, that which I saw then put me into a perfect Extasie, I went into a large Court surrounded with Buildings of an admirable Structure, the Description of which I will pass by to avoid Prolixity.
This Building had forty Doors wide open, and through each of them there was an Entrance into a Treasury, several of which were of greater Value than the largest Kingdoms. The first contain’d Heaps of Pearls; and what is almost incredible, the number of those Stones which are most precious, and as large as Pidgeons Eggs, exceeded the number of those of the ordinary Size. in the second Treasury there were Diamonds, Carbuncles and Rubies. In the third there were Emeralds. In the fourth there were Ingots of Gold, In the fifth Money. In the sixth Ingots of Silver. In the two following there was also Money. The rest contained Amethysts, Chrysoliss, Topazes, Opals, Turkoises and Hyacinths, with all other fine Stones unknown to us, without mentioning Agat, Jaspers, Cornelian and Coral, of which there was a Store-house fill’d not only with Branches, but whole Trees.
Being fill’d with Amazement and Admiration, I cry’d out to my self after having seen all these Riches. Now, if all the Treasure of the Kings of the Universe were gathered in one Place, they could not come near this: What good fortune have I to possess all this Wealth with so many admirable Princesses?
I shall not stay, Madam, to tell you the particulars of all the other rare and precious Things I saw the Days following, I shall only tell you that 39 Days afforded me but just as much time as was necessary to open 99 Doors, and to admire all that presented itself to my View, so that there was only the hundredth Door left, the opening of which I was forbid.
Day began to appear in the Apartments of the Sultan of the Indies, which imposed Silence upon Scheherazade: But Schahriar was too much taken with this pleasant Story, rot to hear the remainder of it next Day, and accordingly he got up with that Resolution.
DInarzade who had as ardent Desire as Schahriar, to hear what wonderful things were lock’d up by the Key belonging to the Golden Door, called the Sultaness very early. If you be not asleep, Sister, pray make an end of that amazing Story of the third Callender. He went on thus, says Scheherazade, I was come to the fortieth Day after the Departure of these charming Princesses, and had I but retained so much Power over myself as I ought to have had, I should have been this Day the happiest of all Mankind, whereas now I am the most unfortunate. They were to return next Day, and the Pleasure of seeing them again ought to have restrained my Curiosity: But through my Weakness, which I shall ever repent, I yielded to the Temptations of the Evil Spirit, who gave me no rest till I had thrown my self into those Misfortunes that I have since undergone.
I opened that fatal Door, which I promised not to meddle with, and had not moved my Foot to go in, till a Smell that was pleasant enough, but contrary to my Constitution, made me faint away: Nevertheless I came to my self again, and instead of taking notice of this Warning to shut the Door, and forbear satisfying my Curiosity, I went in, after I had stood some Time in the Air to carry off the Scent, which did not incommode me any more: I found a large Place very well vaulted; the Pavement was strew’d over with Saffron; several Candlesticks of massy Gold, with lighted Tapers that smell’d of Aloes and Ambergreese, lighted the Place; and this Light was augmented by Lamps of Gold and Silver, that burnt with Oil made of several Sorts of sweet scented Materials.
Amongst a great many Objects that engaged my Attention, I perceived a black Horse, of the handsomest and best Shape that ever was seen. I went nearer, the better to observe him, and found he had a Saddle and a Bridle of massy Gold, curiously wrought. The one side of his Trough was fill’d with clean Barley, and Sessems, and the other with Rose-Water: I took him by the Bridle, and led him forth to view him by the Light: I got on his Back, and would have had him move; but he not stirring, I whipt him with a Switch I had taken up in his magnificent Stable; and he had no sooner felt the Stroke, when he began to neigh with a horrible Noise, and extended his Wings, which I had not seen before: He flew up with me into the Air, quite out of sight. I thought on nothing, then, but to sit fast; and considering the Fear that had seized upon me, I sate very well: He afterwards flew down again towards the Earth, and lighting upon the Terrass of a Castle, without giving me any Time to get off, he shook me out of the Saddle with such Force, that he made me fall behind him, and with the End of his Tail struck out my Right-Eye.
Thus I became blind of one Eye, and then I began to remember the Predictions of the ten young Gentlemen. The Horse flew again out of sight. I got up very much troubled at the Misfortune I had brought upon my self. I walk’d upon the Terrass, covering my Eye with one of my Hands, for it pain’d me exceedingly, and then came down and enter’d into a Hall, which I knew presently by the 10 Sofa’s in a Circle, and the 11th in the middle, lower than the rest, to be the same Castle from whence I was taken away by the Roc.
The 10 half blind Gentlemen were not in the Hall when I came in, but soon after came with the old Man; they were not at all surpriz’d to see me again, nor at the loss of my Eye; but said, we are very sorry that we cannot congratulate you upon your Return, as we could have desired; but we are not the Cause of your Misfortune, I should be in the wrong to accuse you, said I, for I have drawn it upon my self, and I can charge the Fault upon no other Person. If it be a Consolation to the Unfortunate, said they, to have Fellows, this Example may afford us a Subject of rejoycing; all that has happened to you, we have also undergone; we tasted all forts of Pleasure, during a Year successively; and we had continued to enjoy the same Happiness still, had we not opened the Golden Door, when the Princesses were absent: You: have been no wiser than we, and you had likewise the same Punishment; we would gladly receive you among us, to do such Penance as we do, though we know not how long it may continue. But we have already declared the Reason that hinder us, therefore depart from hence and go to the Court of Bagdad, where you shall meet with him that can decide your Destiny: They told me the Way I was to travel, and so I left them.
On the Road I caused my Beard and Eye-brows to be shaven, and took on a Callender’s Habit, I have had a long Journey, but at last I arrived this Evening in this City, where I met these my Brother’s Callenders at the Gate, being Strangers as well as myself. We wonder’d much at one another, to see we were all three blind of the same Eye; but we had not leisure to discourse long of our common Calamities, we only had so much time as to come hither, to implore those Favours which you have been generously pleased to grant us.
The third Callender having finished this Relation of his Adventures, Zobeide addressed her Speech to him and his Fellow Callenders thus; Go where ever you think fit, you are all three at Liberty. But one of them answer’d, Madam, We beg you to pardon our Curiosity, and permit us to hear those Gentlemens Stories who have not yet spoke. Then the Lady turn’d to that side where the Caliph, the Visier Giafar, and Mesrour stood, whom she knew not; but said to them. ’Tis now your Turn to tell me your Adventures, therefore speak.
The Grand Visier Giafar, who had always been the the Spokesman, answer’d Zobeide, thus, Madam, In order to obey you, we need only to repeat what we have said already, before we enter’d your House: We are Merchants of Moussel, that came to Bagdad, to sell our Merchandize that lies in the Khan, where we lodge, We din’d to-day with several other Persons of our Profession, at a Merchant’s House of this City; who after he had treated us with up choice Dainties, and excellent Wines, sent for Men and Women Dancers, and Musicians. The great Noise we made brought in the Watch, who arrested some of the Company, and we had the good Fortune to escape: But it being already late, and the Door of our Khan shut up, we knew not whither to retire. It was our Hap as we passed along this Street, to hear Mirth at your House, which made us determine to knock at your Gate. This is all the Account that we can give you in Obedience to your Commands.
Zobeide having beard this Discourse, seem’d to hesitate upon what she should say, which the Callenders perceiving, pray’d her to grant the same Favour to the three Moussol Merchants, as she had done unto them. Well then, said she, I give my Consent, for you shall be equally oblig’d to me: I pardon you all, provided you depart immediately out of this House, and go whither you please.
Zobeide having given this Command in a Tone that signified she wou’d be obey’d, the Caliph, the Visier Mesrour, the three Callenders, and the Porter, departed without saying one Word: For the Presence of the seven Slaves with their Weapons, kept them in awe. When they were out of the House, and the Door shut, the Caliph said to the Callenders, without making himself known, You Gentlemen Strangers, that are newly come to Town, which way do you design to go, since it is not yet Day. ’Tis that which perplexes us, Sir, said they. Follow us, replies the Caliph, and we will bring you out of Danger. After saying these Words, he whisper’d to the Visier, Take them along with you, and tomorrow Morning bring them to me, I will cause their History to be put in Writing, for it deserves a Place in the Annals of my Reign.
The Visier Gisfar, took the three Callenders along with him; the Porter went to his Quarters, and the Caliph and Mesrour returned to the Palace: The Caliph went to Bed, but could not get a Wink of Sleep, his Spirits were so perplext by the extraordinary Things he had seen and heard: But above all, he was most concerned to know who Zobeide was; what Reason she could have to be so severe to the two black Bitches, and why Amine had her Bosom so mortified. Day began to appear whilst he was thinking upon these Things; he arose and went to his Council-Chamber, where he us’d to give Audience, and sat upon his Throne.
The Grand Visier came in a little after, and paid his Respects as usual. Visier, said the Caliph, the Affairs that we have to consider at present are not very pressing, that of the three Ladies and the two black Bitches, is much more so: My Mind cannot beat ease, till I be throughly satisfied in all those Matters that have surprized me so much. Go bring these Ladies, and the Callenders at the same time; make haste, and remember that I do impatiently expect your Return.
The Visier, that knew his Master’s quick and fiery Temper, made haste to obey, and went to the Ladies to whom he communicated, in a civil way, the Orders he had to bring them before the Caliph, without taking any Notice of what had passed the Night before at their House.
The Ladies put on their Veils, and went with the Visier; as he passed by his own House, he took the three Callenders along with him, and they, in the mean time, had got notice, that they had both seen and spoke with the Caliph, without knowing him. The Viser brought them to the Palace with so much Diligence, that the Caliph was mighty well pleas’d at it. This Prince, that he might keep a due Decorum, before all the Officers of his Court that were then present, made those Ladies be placed behind the Hanging of the Door of the Room that was next his Bed-Chamber, and kept the three Callenders by him; who, by their respectful Behaviour, gave sufficient Proof, that they were not ignorant before whom they had the Honour to appear.
When the Ladies were placed, the Caliph turned towards them, and said, Ladies, when I shall acquaint you that I came last Night disguis’d, m a Merchant’s Habit, into your House, it will certainly alarm you, and make you to fear that you have offended me; and, perhaps, you believe that I have sent for you to no other end, but to show some Marks of my Resentment: But be not afraid, you may rest assur’d, that I have forgot all that is past, and am very well satisfied with your Conduct, I wish that all the Ladies of Bagdad had as much Discretion as you have given proof of before me. I shall always remember the Moderation you make use of, after the Incivility that we had committed. I was then a Merchant of Moussol, but am at present Haroun Alraschid, the seventh Caliph of the Glorious House of Abbas, that holds the Place of our great Prophet, I have only sent for you, to know who you are, and to ask you for what Reason one of you, after severely whipping the two black Bitches, did weep with them. And I am no less curious to know, why another of you has her Bosom all full of Scars.
Tho’ the Caliph had pronounced these Words very distinctly, and that the three Ladies heard him well enough, yet the Visier Giafar did, out of Ceremony, repeat them over again.
Bur, Sir, said Scheherazade, ’tis Day, and if your Majesty thinks fit that I should go on with the rest of this Story, you will be pleased to prolong my Life until to Morrow. The Sultan agreed to it, knowing that Scheherazade would relate the History of Zobeide, which he had a mighty Desire to hear.