"
The kind behavior of Prince Bahman made the dervish smile, and return
his compliment.
"Sir," said he, "whoever you are, I am obliged by the good office you
have performed, and am ready to show my gratitude by doing anything in
my power for you. Tell me wherein I may serve you."
"Good dervish," replied Prince Bahman, "I am in search of the
speaking-bird, the singing-tree, and the yellow-water. I know these
three rarities are not far from here, but cannot tell exactly the
place where they are to be found; if you know, I conjure you to show
me the way, that I may not lose my labor after so long a journey."
The prince, while he spoke, observed that the dervish changed
countenance, held down his eyes, looked very serious, and instead of
making any reply, remained silent: which obliged him to say to him
again, "Good father, tell me whether you know what I ask you, that I
may not lose my time, but inform myself somewhere else."
At last the dervish broke silence. "Sir," said he to Prince Bahman, "I
know the way you ask of me; but the danger you are going to expose
yourself to is greater than you may suppose. A number of gentlemen of
as much bravery and courage as yourself have passed this way, and
asked me the same question. I can assure you they have all perished,
for I have not seen one come back. Therefore, if you have any regard
for your life, take my advice, go no farther, but return home.
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