Page:Ali Baba, or, The forty thieves (2).pdf/20

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ally, than if you gave him a formal invitation. I will go and order Morgiana to provide a supper.

The next day, after dinner, Ali Baba’s son and Cogia Houssian met by appointment, and took their walk, and as they returned, Ali Baba’s son led Cogia Houssian through the street where his father lived; and when they came to the house, he stopped and knocked at the door. This, sir, said he, is my father’s house; who upon the account I have given him of your friendship, charged me to procure him the honour of your acquaintance: and I desire you to add this pleasure to those I am already indebted to you for.

The artful Cogia Houssian would not too hạstily accept this invitation, but pretended he was not fond of going into company, and that he had business which demanded his presence at home. These excuses only made Ali Baba’s son the more eager to take him to his father's house, and after repeated solicitations, the merchant consented to sup at Ali Baba’s the following evening.

A most excellent supper was provided, which Morgiana cooked in her best manner, as was her usual custom, she carried in the first dish herself. The moment she looked at Cogia Houssian, she knew him to be the pretended oil merchant. The prudent