The princess, encouraged by the sight of the object of which she was
in search, redoubled her speed, and soon gained the summit of the
mountain, where the ground was level; then running directly to the
cage, and clapping her hand upon it, cried, "Bird, I have you, and you
shall not escape me."
At the same moment the voices ceased.
While Perie-zadeh was pulling the cotton out of her ears the bird said
to her, "Heroic princess, since I am destined to be a slave, I would
rather be yours than any other person's, since you have obtained me so
courageously. From this instant I pay an entire submission to all your
commands. I know who you are, for you are not what you seem, and I
will one day tell you more. In the meantime, say what you desire, and
I am ready to obey you."
"Bird," said Perie-zadeh, "I have been told that there is not far off
a golden-water, the property of which is very wonderful; before all
things, I ask you to tell me where it is."
The bird showed her the place, which was just by, and she went and
filled a little silver flagon which she had brought with her. She
returned to the bird, and said, "Bird, this is not enough; I want also
the singing-tree. Tell me where it is."
"Turn about," said the bird, "and you will see behind you a wood,
where you will find this tree. Break off a branch, and carry it to
plant in your garden; it will take root as soon as it is put into the
earth, and in a little time will grow to a fine tree.
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