The seamen were taken up several days in unloading the merchandise I
brought with me, and embarking in its stead many of the precious
things in the palace, especially jewels, gold, and money. We left the
furniture and goods, which consisted of an infinite quantity of silver
vessels, because our vessel could not carry it, for it would have
required several vessels more to convey to Bagdad all the riches that
we might have taken with us.
After we had laden the vessel with what we thought most desirable, we
took such provisions and water aboard as were necessary for our
voyage. At last we set sail with a favorable wind.
The young prince, my sisters, and myself passed our time very
agreeably. But, alas! this good understanding did not last long, for
my sisters grew jealous of the friendship between the prince and
myself, and maliciously asked me, one day, what we should do with him
when we came to Bagdad. Resolving to put this question off with a
joke, I answered, "I will take him for my husband." Upon that, turning
myself to the prince, I said, "Sir, I humbly beg of you to give your
consent, for as soon as we come to Bagdad I design to offer you my
person to be your slave, to do you all the service that is in my
power, and to resign myself wholly to your commands."
The prince replied, "I know not, madam, whether you be in jest or no;
but for my part, I seriously declare before these ladies, your
sisters, that from this moment I heartily accept your offer, not with
any intention to have you as a slave, but as my lady and wife.
Pages:
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125